The Emerald - Winter 2018

Page 1

08 Rebrand A new, fresh look for Sigma Pi Fraternity & Educational Foundation

12 Convocation A look at the award winners and events at the 54th Biennial Convocation

Winter 2018


From the CEO Brothers and Friends, Let me begin by thanking all of you for your patience this past year as we underwent a dramatic staffing transition. Like any organization that ventures into talent acquisition and development knows, it can be difficult, but thanks to your dedication and support we are moving forward with our efforts to improve upon our service delivery model. This past year we invested in numerous initiatives, including a partnership with a firm to improve our educational programs and online learning platforms, as well as a newly established partnership with legal counsel. These investments will allow us to enhance our training and consulting initiatives for both undergraduates and our volunteers. We are excited to announce that we will begin implementing some of these objectives beginning with the annual Mid-Year Leadership Conference. Here, we will have our new officers undergo a leadership personality assessment as part of the revamped program, in addition, providing our volunteers with training on mental health and addiction awareness. This is, unfortunately, a much-needed skill for our volunteers who work with today's college students. Another investment we have made is into an initiative centered on reimagining the visual identity of the organization. The key element of this initiative was the brand alignment of our Fraternity with our Educational Foundation, with an emphasis on paying homage to our history. I want to thank brothers Nelson Farris (Cal State Long Beach '63), Doug Gold (Santa Clara '88), Brian Szubinski (Ferris State '04), and Michael Fandel (Miami (OH) '96) for their time, collaboration, and support throughout this process. I would also like to take this time to ask you to seek ways to volunteer and mentor our undergraduate members. On page 48 of this issue, we address areas of need, one being comptrollers. We need advisors to help our young men understand how to file their form 990 and manage their budgets. This is one of many ways to engage and be a volunteer. With today's technology, mentoring is no longer limited to being in person. You can utilize Skype, Google Hangouts, and other video platforms that are of great use when working with our young men. Finally, thank you to everyone who joined us at the 54th Biennial Convocation in Niagara Falls, New York. It was an amazing sight to see over 300 brothers and guests join together for a ride on the Maid of the Mist. We look forward to seeing you and many more brothers and your families in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 2020. Fraternally,

ABOUT THE EMERALD VOLUME CIII, NUMBER 1 - WINTER 2018 (ISSN 1074-5289, USPS 011-013) The Emerald has been published since 1911 by Sigma Pi Fraternity, 106 North Castle Heights Ave, Lebanon, Tennessee, 37087 and additional mailing offices. SUBMISSION DEADLINES Summer - April 10 Winter - October 10 ABOUT SIGMA PI Sigma Pi Fraternity was founded at Vincennes University, Vincennes, Ind. on February 26, 1897. The Executive Office is located in Lebanon, Tenn. Sigma Pi has chartered more than 230 chapters in North America and has initiated over 100,000 members since 1897. The founding fathers of Sigma Pi Fraternity are: Rolin Rosco James (1879-1953) William Raper Kennedy (1877-1944) James Thompson Kingsbury (1877-1950) George Martin Patterson (1877-1960) SHARE YOUR STORY Send pictures and stories to: emerald@sigmapi.org or Sigma Pi Fraternity 106 N. Castle Heights Ave. Lebanon, TN 37087 UPDATE YOUR INFORMATION To update your contact information, please visit: sigmapi.org/updateinfo or send an email to: records@sigmapi.org CONTACT INFORMATION sigmapi.org @sigmapi linkedin.com/company/sigmapi

Jonathan M. Frost (UMSL '99) CEO & Executive Director

615.921.2300

FRATERNITY COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION

Copyright Š 2018 Sigma Pi Fraternity; Sigma Pi, ACE Project, and the crest are trademarks of Sigma Pi, all rights reserved.

Winter 2018


Contents

IN THIS ISSUE 08 Rebrand 12

Convocation Recap

16

The New Grand Council

20

Chapter Spotlights

42

Mental Health

48

Call to Action - Volunteering

52

Biking for Cancer

56

Licensed Products

IN EVERY ISSUE

8

02

International Digest

03

From the Grand Sage

04

Educational Foundation

06

In Your Own Words

24

Chapter & Colony Reports

40

Sigma Pi Pride

44 Volunteers 50

Alumni News

54

Adytum On High

58

Colony Updates

62 Archives 65

12

Photo Finish

42

CONTRIBUTORS

About The Cover

EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

In this issue, Sigma Pi is proud to announce a new visual identity, uniting the Fraternity and the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation under one recognizable mark.

Chris Carter (Middle Tennessee '08) ASSISTANT EDITOR

Emily Norton Kyle Heimbigner (Washington State '10) BUSINESS MANAGER

Jen Wyatt EMERALD COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN

Steven Haskell (Monmouth '12) CONTRIBUTORS

Eric Babbitt (Northern Arizona '17) Jack Kouzz-Seaman (Fitchburg State '18) Lanse Macke (Oregon State '11) GS Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth '00) Jeff Tottleben (Missouri S&T '88) Winter 2018

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From the Executive Office

International Digest

COLONIZATIONS

News from the World of Sigma Pi

AGE HIRED AS DIRECTOR OF CHAPTER MANAGEMENT The Executive Office of Sigma Pi is proud to announce that Sonny Age (Alabama '08) was hired as the Director of Chapter Management within the Undergraduate Member Services department. He officially began serving in the new role on September 17, 2018. In the role of Director of Chapter Management, Age will oversee the services and training offered to undergraduate chapters and develop and execute strategies for improvement, while also supervising the Chapter Management Associate team. For the past four years, Age held a lead role at Infosys-McCamish, particularly in retirement services. In this role, he oversaw a team of 12 and handled high profile clients and their investments. Age is an expert in managing high-stress situations while maintaining a calm and clear mind and professional image. With his many years of leadership experience, Age is the ideal candidate for the role and will lead the Chapter Management team to success.

Montana State Colonized on September 13, 2018

Plymouth State Colonized on October 16, 2018

Towson Colonized on November 16, 2018

“We are extremely excited to have Sonny in this role,” said Assistant Executive Director Joseph Drain (Florida State ’08). “His background in finance, analysis, and strategy, coupled by his time as a volunteer for Theta-Omicron will aid in leading his team to enhance the membership experience through our service model at the Executive Office.” While working at Infosys-McCamish, Age volunteered to be the Chapter Advisor for the Theta-Omicron Chapter at the University of Alabama. He gained valuable experience in chapter relations, business operations of the Chapter, networking, public relations, and operations management in his role. During his undergraduate experience, he served as the recruitment chair and the philanthropy chair. He gained an abundance of knowledge in working with nonprofit associations and how to host philanthropy events along with gaining experience in networking and recruiting. “I am very much looking forward to joining the Executive Office of Sigma Pi as the Director of Chapter Management,” said Age. “I believe my experience and skills will be beneficial in continuing to build and grow quality chapters around the nation. I am honored to be able to give back to the Fraternity that gave me so much during my undergraduate years and beyond.” Outside of career and his Fraternity experience, Age serves as the Parliamentarian Officer for his late brother’s nonprofit 501(c) 3 charity. It was started after he passed from fighting a stage IV Glioblastoma brain tumor, in an effort to help give back to others in the community that are dealing with the same or similar situations.

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Winter 2018


Grand Council

From the Grand Sage A Message from Grand Sage Joe Palazzolo Brothers, Everyday our undergraduates across North America define and redefine what it means to be a Sigma Pi Fraternity man. I am proud of these men because when they come to the critical points in the road, they choose to rise above ignorance and elevate the conversation. Our undergraduates are the ones who will make sure that the Fraternity stays strong tomorrow and far into the future. Their care, consideration, and love for Sigma Pi Fraternity is inspiring. This semester I had the great honor of visiting 39 chapters and colonies as well as four province GRAND SAGE workshops. In these visits, I witnessed firsthand the deep dedication of our alumni volunteers as they Joe Palazzolo planned their workshops, managed large-scale housing renovations, guided our undergraduates at (Monmouth '00) chapter meetings, and provided answers to our young men as they carried out the day-to-day work grandsage@sigmapi.org of the Fraternity. Along with having the honor of witnessing these volunteers build the future of the Fraternity, I was also humbled to meet with and talk to so many of our undergraduate leaders. It is awe-inspiring to listen to our young men talk about their wide array of programming, the Fraternity’s position on their campuses, and their upcoming plans for recruitment, community service, and philanthropy. The work of the Fraternity never ends and these young men live that fact everyday on their campuses. In addition, I want to thank the young men and alumni who welcomed me at Sigma Pi Society at Illinois College in early November. While in Jacksonville, Illinois, I was deeply moved by having the opportunity to stand in the same spot as William Jennings Bryan to deliver a lecture on leadership to these young men in their home at historic Beecher Hall, the oldest college building in Illinois. During the lecture, I recited the closing lines of Bryan’s famous Cross of Gold speech, just as Robert George Patterson did more than 100 years ago when he visited Beecher Hall, before he convinced Tau Phi Delta to change their name to Sigma Pi Fraternity. Be on the lookout for more coverage of this historic visit from our Communications Department in a future Emerald and across our social media channels. Last summer’s Convocation showed that our undergraduate leaders have the passion and conviction to speak with the furious eloquence of our forefathers. They embodied the spirit of our founders who, in their time, vigorously defended against those who sought to diminish the Fraternity and the entire fraternal movement. Inspired by our undergraduate leaders, I want to see that level of commitment to making real the Fraternity’s ideals in a powerful, obvious, and confident manner reborn in Sigma Pi. And that rebirth begins with each and every one of us. I ask that you join the tidal wave of success that Sigma Pi Fraternity has been experiencing for the last few years. To our valuable alumni volunteers, I ask you to redouble your efforts at mentoring our young men and ensuring that their undergraduate experience is the best that it can possibly be. To our inspiring undergraduate leaders, remember that our future really and truly is in your hands. I thank you for continuing to be the best examples of honesty and integrity that our Fraternity has to offer. The work of Sigma Pi Fraternity continues with all of us. The cause of preserving our Fraternity’s values and protecting the acceptability of fraternity membership must prevail not for us, but for the multitudes of young men who have yet to join our organization and experience the tremendous, lifelong benefits of membership in Sigma Pi. I hope that you join us in making Sigma Pi Fraternity stronger tomorrow than it is today. Fraternally,

GS Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth '00) Grand Sage #47 of Sigma Pi Fraternity

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Sigma Pi Educational Foundation

Letter from the Chairman Brothers, It’s an exciting time to be a Sigma Pi. The Sigma Pi Educational Foundation is traversing some of the most significant changes that we’ve ever been through. As we navigate the process of sharing our operations with the Fraternity, some big changes are happening that will allow us to provide more efficient processes and will ensure that our donors are proud to be a part of the Foundation. Sharing staff with the Fraternity will not only help reduce operating costs but also allow us to share a voice and a strategic path. The goal of the Foundation is to provide educational opportunities for students. Scholarships for our undergraduates and graduates, as well as, grants to our chapters through Chapter Educational Funds are important ways for us to directly help our student brothers. Providing educational opportunities to the students through the efforts of the Fraternity is another way that we provide support. The Foundation has the potential to create many additional opportunities. We can always do more, and we count on your support in order to increase those opportunities. Thank you to our donors. It cannot be said enough times. Through your support, the Foundation can conduct its mission. For those who have faithfully given for decades and for those who gave their first donation this year, your support is helping a brother attend a conference to learn a lifeskill, it’s allowing young men to participate in a workshop that will help to strengthen their local chapter, and it’s providing a scholarship that allows a Sigma Pi to attend a school semester without having to have a part-time job.

CHAIRMAN Ricky Marshall (Arkansas State '88) rmarshall@sigmapi.org

Thank you to our volunteers, who give their time and treasures to the Fraternity. Volunteer donors are very special to us. As volunteers ourselves, we know the selflessness with which you serve and the extra effort of funding the mission of the Foundation does not go unnoticed. Thank you to the undergraduates who became members of the Delta Society. As the Fraternity supports you and your chapter, you have recognized the opportunities that the Foundation provides and have started down the path of philanthropic support of the Fraternity and your fellow brothers and for those to come behind you. Thank you to the parents. We share the desire to give our young men the opportunities they need to succeed in life. Parent donors recognize that Sigma Pi Fraternity was a good decision for their son and we will do all we can to retain that trust you’ve instilled in us. There’s a lot of work to be done during this biennium. I am thankful for the trust that was placed in me to guide the Foundation. I look forward to our continued success with your support. Fraternally,

Ricky Marshall (Arkansas State '88) Chairman, Sigma Pi Educational Foundation

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Winter 2018


Sigma Pi Educational Foundation

Ways to Give

Monthly Donations

It's Simple to Begin the Process of Recurring Donations Online Giving with your debit or credit card online at sigmapi.org/donate is a quick and secure way to make a contribution, which accepts Visa, American Express, MasterCard, and Discover.

Mobile On your mobile device, you can quickly and easily visit sigmapiedfund.org/gift

Mail You can mail a check or credit card gift to the SPEF at the address below: Sigma Pi Educational Foundation 106 North Castle Heights Ave Lebanon, TN 37087

Phone To make a donation over the phone, or for more assistance, please give us a call at 615-921-2300.

Corporate Matching Numerous companies match an employee’s personal donation to a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization. Ask your employer for details.

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If you are like most individuals, you receive many solicitations in the mail asking for money, and most go in the trash. However, you might choose to make a gift to the organizations you are passionate about. For those organizations in which you strongly believe in, you might consider being a monthly supporter to take away the hassle of mail and phone solicitations. We all have to make some charitable donations each year to benefit from the tax deduction. When making a monthly gift to a nonprofit of your choosing, it does not have to be a large amount of money. Small amounts add-up and definitely help the organization. If you were to become a monthly donor in the amount of $18.97, that equals an annual donation of $227.64. Monthly gifts assist in the budgeting process, as an organization can depend on this money coming in on a regular basis. When the money is automatically deducted from your checking or savings account or even payroll, most times you do not miss it because it is gone before you even receive it. If you would like to become a monthly supporter of the Educational Foundation, visit the website at: sigmapiedfund.org/donate Once there, just select "Make a Recurring Donation to the Educational Foundation" on the donation page. If that doesn't work for you, contact Jen Wyatt at the Executive Office at 615-921-2300 or jwyatt@sigmapi.org.

Jen will be able to process your monthly gift through a recurring automatic deduction from your checking or savings account or a credit card. The Educational Foundation accepts Mastercard, Visa, Discover, or American Express. All gifts, large or small, are graciously accepted by the Educational Foundation, and they are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. The Educational Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service. The Educational Foundation truly hopes that you will consider being a monthly supporter of the educational pursuits of the Sigma Pi Fraternity and its members. From grants to the Fraternity’s leadership programs, such as the Mid Year Leadership Conference and Sigma Pi University, to scholarships awarded to undergraduate or graduate students of Sigma Pi, your contributions can go a long way in helping the future of the Fraternity.

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From Your Perspective

In Your Own Words

Social Media Thoughts from Around Sigma Pi @sigmapicsuf

To see your own words here, be sure to use the hashtag #sigmapi, tag @sigmapi, or email us at

emerald@sigmapi.org @mrteachwalker

In all honesty, #myFraternity @SigmaPi taught me about leadership, adversity, and what it means to look out for others. I could not or would not be the person I am without that group of men. @benjamin.bollinger

Our brotherhood is about having that close bond and connection. It's home away from home. It's guidance, reassurance, and protection. It's a lifetime relationship. @justlikeTB Weekend well spent with the Sigma Pi brothers. Sigma Pi makes school so much better. @sigmapiosu @mwaara99

When stuff gets you down, sometimes all you can do is smile. 6

Taking home everywhere you go... Winter 2018


Calendar of Events

Events & Anniversaries January 2019

April 2019

May 2019

January 3-6

April 4

May 6

2019 Mid-Year Leadership Conference

February 2019 February 4 35th Anniversary Zeta-Alpha Chapter West Chester February 14 50th Anniversary Gamma-Omega Chapter Wayne State February 16 50th Anniversary Delta-Alpha Chapter Central Michigan February 19 25th Anniversary Eta-Tau Chapter Fitchburg State

March 2019 March 14 55th Anniversary Gamma-Eta Chapter Rutgers

60 Anniversary Beta-Pi Chapter Virginia th

April 12 50th Anniversary Delta-Zeta Chapter UMSL April 15 30th Anniversary Eta-Eta Chapter Bridgewater State April 24 15th Anniversary Theta-Xi Chapter Salisbury April 28 35th Anniversary Zeta-Epsilon Chapter Michigan Tech April 28 35th Anniversary Zeta-Delta Chapter Colorado

40th Anniversary Epsilon-Xi Chapter FDU-Metropolitan May 10 95th Anniversary Omega Chapter Oregon State May 13 30th Anniversary Eta-Iota Chapter Cal State Dominguez Hills May 28 15th Anniversary Theta-Omicron Chapter Alabama May 31 95th Anniversary Beta Chapter Indiana

June 2019 June 10 70th Anniversary Beta-Gamma Chapter Eastern Illinois

March 22 50th Anniversary Delta-Beta Chapter Monmouth Is your chapter having a celebration for an upcoming anniversary? Email emerald@sigmapi.org with the details to be updated on the Sigma Pi website at

sigmapi.org/calendar

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Fraternity Visual Identity

Rebrand

A New Look for the Fraternity and Foundation As Sigma Pi moves into a new era, the visual identity of the Fraternity has been reimagined to align the Fraternity and the Educational Foundation, promoting a clean, modern united vision for the future.

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Winter 2018


Fraternity Visual Identity

Radiant Triangle, consisting of ten stars, an important symbol for the Fraternity

The typeface used for the logo is Gotham, which has become the standard typeface for the Fraternity since 2012. The Typeface was originally d eveloped to be “masculine, new, and fresh�

Greek Cross, symbolizing the Badge of the Fraternity The two lines on either side of the Greek Cross symbolize the unity of the Fraternity and Foundation, while also paying homage to Tau Phi Delta and Delta Kappa

O

n January 6, 2018, the Grand Council of Sigma Pi Fraternity and the Board of Trustees for the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation signed a staff sharing agreement under Executive Director Jonathan Frost (UMSL ’99), where the organizations agreed to share the services, time, and efforts of the Executive Office. Once the agreement was established, ED Frost directed the Executive Office's communications team to begin the process of reimagining the Fraternity and Foundation's branding to align the two entities under one visual identity. The team sought out many proposals from design groups with a strong knowledge and understanding of the fraternity and sorority industry, though the conversations never led to a fruitful outcome. After much deliberation between the communications team, it was determined that this was pertinent to do in-house, where the team already had the proficiency and understanding of the Fraternity's history to handle the project and create a visual identity that

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paid homage to the past while moving into the future. After much discussion, and with extensive research and historical knowledge, the project was completed, and a new visual identity for the Fraternity was born. One of the most important changes lies in the new color scheme. While the previous colors of the Fraternity served us well, a reimagined color palette was necessary. The bright purple was altered to a sleeker, darker shade that will allow for a finer contrast with the other colors within the palette. The light gray offsets the darker purple while gold serves as the auxiliary. The secondary colors are as follows: lavender, alt black, emerald, and oval blue. The newly redesigned Sigma Pi logomark is made up of two core components: the emblem and the wordmark. The emblem takes key elements of the organization and creates a strong statement. The primary element of the emblem is the Radiant Triangle. 9


Fraternity Visual Identity

Color Palette

Logo Package STANDARD LOGOMARK

PURPLE

GRAY

GOLD

LAVENDER

ALT BLACK

EMERALD

OVAL BLUE

PMS 5265 C

PMS Cool Gray 1

PMS 7502 C

PMS 5285 C

PMS Black 6 C

PMS 356 C

PMS 7688 C

The Greek Cross is situated below the Radiant Triangle, with a line on either side. The two lines symbolize the unity of the Fraternity and Foundation in a contemporary sense while paying homage to our founding organization Tau Phi Delta, as well as Delta Kappa, a fraternity that merged with Sigma Pi in 1964. The main wordmark of Sigma Pi represents the strength and boldness of the Fraternity by using the Gotham typeface. The wordmark no longer includes “Fraternity, International” as a prominent element, allowing the Fraternity’s recognizable name to stand on its own. Additionally, dropping the secondary elements of the name allow this new logomark to represent both the Fraternity and the Foundation through the established shared direction for the advancement of the organization. As Sigma Pi makes it a continued effort to facilitate better brand recognition, the logomark or wordmark with Sigma Pi spelled out will be the primary identifier used throughout marketing efforts. However, the Greek letters may be used as a secondary mark, or on apparel items specific to Sigma Pi. Additionally, as the rebrand of the Fraternity institutes a modernization of the imagery of Sigma Pi, the Coat of Arms, or the Crest, is no exception. Just as other Greek letter organizations have done, Sigma Pi has taken a modernized and clean approach to the Crest by making certain borderlines

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more distinct. This will help the visual character of the image standout in a printed format. Along with the Fraternity's visual identity changes, the style guidelines for efficiently maintaining a standard text style have been updated. The most notable change is in reference to an individual's chapter designation, whereas previously the brother's graduation year was listed with their chapter designation, now, the initiate year will be listed. This alleviates the issue surrounding the lack of graduate dates for a number of brothers, as well as aligns the proper date with alumni initiates. These changes can be found as part of the Style Guidelines on page 11.

STANDARD HORIZONTAL WORDMARK

ALTERNATIVE VERTICAL WORDMARK

STANDARD ICON

Lastly, the logo can be modified for use with the chapter or colony’s designation. Alumni clubs and provinces may also use the logo with modification of their association name. When adding a designation, the wordmark aspect of the logo will shift upward, offsetting the icon to allow space for the designation. Each chapter, colony, alumni club, and province will be provided a version of the logo custom to their group.

ICON WITH GREEK LETTERS

A "Brand Guidelines" document has been developed, and is available on the Sigma Pi website at sigmapi.org/brand. This guide has been developed to aid in the use and proper recognition of the brand and visual identity of Sigma Pi.

COAT OF ARMS

GREEK LETTERS

We look forward to the future with our new brand identity as we continue on our quest for excellence.

Winter 2018


Fraternity Visual Identity

Style Guidelines 1. Executive Office should always be used as opposed to Headquarters, HQ, home office, nationals, and internationals.

11. Chapter designation and references should use the full four-digit year if before 1930 and the two-digit year with an apostrophe for 1930 and after.

2. The Fraternity name should always be stylized as: • Sigma Pi or Sigma Pi Fraternity

12. When a chapter has been referenced prior to the inclusion of an individual brother’s name, the following style should be used: • Example: Alpha-Alpha Chapter has one brother on staff at the Executive Office, John Doe ('03).

3. The Foundation name should always be stylized as: • Sigma Pi Educational Foundation or SPEF 4. Chapter names are always hyphenated unless designated by a singular Greek letter • Example: Alpha, Beta-Beta, Gamma-Gamma 5. Do not put the word “the” in front of any chapter name unless referencing a specific chapter item. • Example: Wrong - The Alpha-Alpha Chapter received 50 efficiency points this year. • Example: Right - Alpha-Alpha Chapter received 50 efficiency points this year. • Example: Right - The Alpha-Alpha Chapter house renovations are completed. 6. Capitalize the word “chapter” when it follows the chapter name or references a specific chapter.

13. University and college are never capitalized unless it is part of a proper name or referencing a previously named university or college. • Example: Right - Michigan State University is a Big 10 campus. The University is a part of the Big 10. • Example: Wrong - Ursinus College is host to Theta-Sigma Chapter. The college is located in Pennsylvania. 14. Always put the title of any Past Grand Officers in front of their names. • Example: PGS Louis L. Moore (Temple 1909) served as the first editor of The Emerald.

• Example: Alpha-Alpha Chapter received 50 efficiency points this year. • Example: Alpha-Alpha chartered in 1967. The Chapter has received numerous awards since.

15. The term “Sigma Pi’s” should not be used. Instead, use “the Sigma Pi” or “of Sigma Pi” when applicable. • Wrong: Sigma Pi’s members were on the quad for their philanthropy event. • Right: The Sigma Pi members were on the quad for their philanthropy event.

7. Officer positions are not capitalized unless they are followed by a proper name giving the individual title recognition or in reference to a specific individual.

16. Facebook Pages for chapters should always be structured as follows: • Example: Sigma Pi at Vincennes University

• Example: Sage James Miller and the second counselor, third counselor, and herald worked hard on the event. 8. Instead of saying Greek or Greek Life, say Fraternity or Fraternity and Sorority Life. 9. Members are either undergraduate or alumni. Never actives – this implies that the alumni are not active in Sigma Pi when many alumni are actively involved. 10. Individual brothers should be listed in the following style. The year is listed as the initiate year of the brother: • Example: John Doe (Vincennes ’01)

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17. Social media handles should properly indicate “Sigma Pi” in some way, but should not be presented in a way that appears to represent the entire organization. Chapter extension or university name may be included. The description should properly indicated that the chapter is a part of Sigma Pi Fraternity, as well as indicate the university name. • Examples: • @SigmaPi_MTSU (Theta-Omega, Middle Tennessee) • @UMSL_SigmaPi (Delta-Zeta, UMSL) • @sigmapietarho (Eta-Rho, Carleton) • @SigmaPiUofL (Iota-Omicron, Louisville)

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Conferences and Programming

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Winter 2018


Conferences and Programming

th 54 Biennial Convocation A Look Back at the 2018 Event in Niagara Falls, New York by Emily Norton, Assistant Editor

F

rom August 1-5, 2018, Sigma Pi brothers and guests gathered in Niagara Falls, New York to celebrate the Fraternity at the 54th Biennial Convocation. The celebration began on Wednesday with the opening session, featuring the procession of previous Grand Sage Cup-winning chapters, Past and Honorary Grand Sages, Chapter Directors, Province Archons, Educational Foundation board members, and the Grand Council. The 54th Biennial Convocation officially opened for business following the ritual of the Grand Chapter. Following this, attendees mingled and networked during a cocktail reception. Thursday began with the first business session in which the Grand Council and Chairmen of Committees, and Executive Director Jonathan Frost (UMSL '99) gave their reports. This was followed by the Grand Chapter Awards Luncheon which presented the award winners listed on the following page. Later in the afternoon, the Grand Council candidates hosted a public forum in which any questions could be answered followed by the second business session. The busy day was finished with a trip to the Canadian side to enjoy the amenities and the beautiful views of the Falls. On Friday morning, Grand Sage Lawler (Iowa '78) invited the representatives from the Top 12 Chapters to an invite-only breakfast. Afterward, business sessions continued as usual and various motions passed and amendments were made. The Educational Foundation Luncheon followed, with many scholarships presented as they also honored donors and Delta Society members. Following the luncheon, the fourth business session was held and

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Grand Council candidates gave their speeches and the 2018-2020 Grand Council was elected. After a long day, the brothers and guests were able to unwind during the outdoor block party, which featured corn hole, live music, and great food. Saturday had an exciting start with a brotherhood event at the Maid of the Mist, which is a two-deck boat in which participants ride to view the Falls from the water. As we grew closer to the Falls, mist drenched our ponchos with a bit of the 28 million liters of water that travel down the Falls every second. Witnessing the Falls up close was an incredible experience that will be remembered for years to come. After an exhilarating morning, the day concluded with the final business session in which the Housing Committee and Ritual Committees gave their reports and the new Grand Council was installed. On Saturday night, PGS Steve Lawler gave the traditional farewell speech as his last official obligation from his term as Grand Sage. Afterward, PGS Lawler symbolically “passed the gavel” onto new Grand Sage Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth '00). Following, the Founders’ Award recipient John Williams (Widener '85) was introduced and gave a fantastic speech honoring his affinity for the Fraternity. GS Palazzolo then shared his story with the attendees, promising a successful biennium. Lastly, the winners of the Grand Sage’s Awards were presented, making four well-deserved chapters very excited! As a longtime tradition continued, all brothers circled the ballroom, locked arms, and joyously joined in singing “The Fireside Song,” bringing the 54th Biennial Convocation to a close.

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Conferences and Programming Grand Sage’s Award Tier 1 - Oregon (Omega) Tier 2 - St. John's (Iota-Tau) Tier 3 - Grand Valley State (Theta-Rho) Tier 4 - Bridgewater State (Eta-Eta)

Grand Sage's Award Tier 1 - Oregon (Omega)

Grand Sage's Award Tier 2 - St. John's (Iota-Tau)

Grand Sage's Award Tier 3 - Grand Valley State (Theta-Rho)

Grand Sage's Award Tier 4 - Bridgewater State (Eta-Eta)

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Grand Council Award Oregon State (Omega) Florida State (Eta-Epsilon) Ohio State (Gamma) St. John’s (Iota-Tau) Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota) NJIT (Alpha-Mu) Arkansas Tech (Iota-Lambda) Stockton (Iota-Upsilon) Grand Valley State (Theta-Rho) Bridgewater State (Eta-Eta) Drury (Epsilon-Rho) West Alabama (Theta-Gamma) Grand Chapter Award Arkansas Tech (Iota-Lambda) Bridgewater State (Eta-Eta) Cal Poly (Eta-Delta) Central Michigan (Delta-Alpha) Central Missouri (Gamma-Gamma) Drury (Epsilon-Rho) Grand Valley State (Theta-Rho) Michigan Tech (Zeta-Epsilon) Missouri S&T (Alpha-Iota) Missouri State (Alpha-Rho) Monmouth (Delta-Beta) Montclair State (Iota-Iota) NJIT (Alpha-Mu) Oregon State (Omega) Penn College (Theta-Phi) Saginaw Valley State (Theta-Beta) Santa Clara (Zeta-Eta) St. Johns University (Iota-Tau) Stockton (Iota-Upsilon) Ursinus (Theta-Sigma) Wake Forest (Alpha-Nu) Wayne State (Gamma-Omega) West Alabama (Theta-Gamma) Wisconsin-Platteville (Delta-Iota) Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota)

Winter 2018


Conferences and Programming Standards of Excellence Bronze NJIT (Alpha-Mu) Fitchburg State (Eta-Tau) Wake Forest (Alpha-Nu) Ohio Northern (Zeta) Michigan Tech (Zeta-Epsilon) Saginaw Valley State (Theta-Beta) Penn College (Theta-Phi) Missouri S&T (Alpha-Iota) Valparaiso (Beta-Tau) Silver Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota) Bridgewater State (Eta-Eta) Montclair State (Iota-Iota) Stockton University (Iota-Upsilon) West Alabama (Theta-Gamma) Arkansas Tech (Iota-Lambda) Santa Clara (Zeta-Eta) Cal Poly (Eta-Delta) Gold St. John’s (Iota-Tau) Drury (Epsilon-Rho)

Membership Recruitment Award Indiana (Beta) Colorado (Zeta-Delta) Florida State (Eta-Epsilon) Auburn (Alpha-Delta) Illinois State (Epsilon-Eta) Cal State Fullerton (Epsilon-Nu) Mississippi (Beta-Mu) Michigan State (Zeta-Mu) Alabama (Theta-Omicron) Colorado State (Eta-Sigma)

Young Alumni Volunteer Daniel Ward (Arkansas State ’09) Igor Mihatov (NJIT ’09) Louis DeGeorge (TCNJ ’04) Nicholas Amster (St. John’s ’15)

William J. Cutbirth Award (Community Service Hours) Saginaw Valley (Theta-Beta)

Young Alumni Professional Adam Dibble (Ferris State ’03) The Beyer/Fryburg Award St. John’s (Iota-Tau) Louis Foley Alumni Newsletter Award Iota-Tau Alumni Club - “The Hoot” Louis Foley Undergraduate Newsletter Award Florida State (Eta-Epsilon) “Sigma Pi TRIBEunal”

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Increased Membership Award San Diego State (Epsilon-Chi) Kennesaw State (Epsilon-Alpha) Lawrence Tech (Zeta-Omicron) Radford (Theta-Lambda) Southern Indiana (Theta-Psi) ACE Awards North Carolina State (Rho) Missouri S&T (Alpha-Iota) Grand Valley State (Theta-Rho) Bridgewater State (Eta-Eta)

William J. Cutbirth Award (Philanthropy Dollars Raised) St. John’s (Iota-Tau)

Dr. Robert L. Burns Award Robert Vandal (Worcester Polytechnic '13) Outstanding Campus Professional Emily Perlow - Worcester Polytechnic Merino-Tash Award Indiana (Beta) Auburn (Alpha-Delta) UC Santa Barbara (Alpha-Omicron) Mississippi (Beta-Mu) Santa Clara (Zeta-Eta) California-Santa Cruz (Iota-Eta) Michael P. Carey Award John McGowan (Bridgewater State '15) John Thomas (Ursinus '15) Harold Jacobsen Award Joshua Borjas (Cal State Fullerton '17) John McGowan (Bridgewater State '15) Orie Hemme (Central Missouri '15) Lyle H. Smith Award Derick Rheaume (Bridgewater State '99) Curtis G. Shake Award Brent Smith (Indiana of Pennsylvania '01) Staff Member of the Year Award Emily Norton

Bryon R. Lewis Academic Cup Cornell (Mu) Most Improved Chapter Award Arizona State (Beta-Kappa) Cletus A. Broecker Award Benji Creel (Mississippi '16) John Venturini (St. John’s '16)

For more information on the 54th Biennial Convocation held in Niagara Falls, as well as future Convocations, visit us online at

sigmapi.org/convocation

Most Outstanding Alumni Club Orange County Alumni Association

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Conferences and Programming

The 2018-2020 Grand Council A Look at the Newly Elected Board for the Next Biennium

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t the 54th Biennial Convocation of Sigma Pi Fraternity held in Niagara Falls, New York, the 2018-2020 Grand Council was elected and is as follows: Grand Sage Joseph Palazzolo (Monmouth ’00) Grand Second Counselor Rhett LaRose (UTSA ’08) Grand Third Counselor Tim Quick (Iowa State ’98) Grand Fourth Counselor Brian Kurisky (Ferris State ’07) Grand First Counselor Will Wojcik (Minnesota ’08) Grand Herald Neil Thorsbakken (Middle Tennessee ’07) Past Grand Sage Steve Lawler (Iowa ’78)

Grand Sage Joseph Palazzolo (Monmouth ’00) Dr. Joseph V. Palazzolo was re-elected to serve on the Grand Council of Sigma Pi as the Grand Sage after previously serving on the Grand Council during the 2016-2018 biennium as the Grand Second Counselor. As an undergraduate, Palazzolo served as the Sage of Delta-Beta Chapter at Monmouth University. After graduating, he served as Delta-Beta Chapter Director and New Jersey Province Archon. Today, in addition to his service on the Grand Council, Palazzolo is a member of the Local Advisory Committees for the Delta-Beta CEF and the Iota-Upsilon CEF. In 2004, he helped found the Jersey Shore Alumni Club of Sigma Pi Fraternity and in 2008, he was elected to serve on the Board of Trustees for the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation. During his term on the Foundation's board, Palazzolo served as Treasurer and Chairman of the Strategic Plan Study Group. He currently serves on the Fraternity's Communications Committee and previously served on the Nominating Committee. "I am excited to lead Sigma Pi Fraternity at a critical time in our history. The

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mentoring and leadership programs that are offered by organizations like ours are a critical element in the development of today's young men," said Palazzolo. "Learning about - and living - the core values that have defined Sigma Pi Fraternity for over 120 years is an important part of our training. When fraternities focus on making their ideals real, then they empower their members to be the best versions of themselves." Palazzolo currently works in the nonprofit sector and as an adjunct professor, where he teaches business ethics, corporate governance, and strategic management. In his day job, he works to improve educational facilities for students of all ages from pre-Kindergarten through college. Also, he administers a multi-million dollar loan and lease guaranty program for educational facilities across the country. In addition to these professional obligations, Palazzolo owns and operates several small businesses. Grand Second Counselor Rhett LaRose (UTSA ’08) Rhett LaRose was elected to serve on the Grand Council of Sigma Pi as the Grand Second Counselor for the 2018-2020 biennium.

Palazzolo

LaRose

As an undergraduate, LaRose served as the Sage for Iota-Delta Chapter at UTSA, which prepared him for his numerous roles within the Grand Chapter. He founded the Lone Star Alumni Club, created the Master of Ritual program, and worked for the Executive Office as a Regional Director. He most recently served as the Chapter Director for Iota-Delta Chapter.

Winter 2018


Conferences and Programming “Words cannot express the emotions I felt when my Sigma Pi brothers trusted me to serve on the Grand Council of our Fraternity for the next biennium,” said LaRose. “Dreams do come true! I solemnly swear to serve our brotherhood with everything I have.” LaRose currently serves as the Director of Community Outreach and Marketing for Richard Milburn Academy, Texas Public Schools. Quick

Grand Third Counselor Tim Quick (Iowa State ’98) Tim Quick was elected to serve on the Grand Council of Sigma Pi as the Grand Third Counselor. Quick has served as a Chapter Director of Sigma Chapter at Iota State for nearly 12 years. His dedication was recognized in 2014 when he was awarded Chapter Director of the Biennium. Quick also served as the Treasurer of the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation from 20142018 where he used his talents to lead a financial restructure and achieve a positive budget.

Kurisky

Wojcik

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According to Quick, “Being elected on the Grand Council is a wonderful opportunity for me to continue to serve all of our members. We have a wonderful team put together and we have so much to accomplish this biennium. Higher ethical standards, improved brotherhood, and improving the undergraduate experience as a Sigma Pi are areas of focus for myself during this biennium.” Quick currently serves as a Commercial Banker – Vice President at Two Rivers Bank & Trust in West Des Moines, IA. He works with small and large size corporations to become more profitable through leveraging the services and solutions of his bank.

Grand Fourth Counselor Brian Kurisky (Ferris State ’07) Brian Kurisky was re-elected to serve on the Grand Council of Sigma Pi as the Grand Fourth Counselor after previously serving on the Grand Council during the 2016-2018 biennium in the same role. Kurisky has dedicated nearly 18 years to serving Sigma Pi as a member and as a volunteer. He has served on the Title IX committee, Educational Coalition, Scholarship Committee, Awards Committee, and guided numerous chapters as a Chapter Director for Ferris State, Old Dominion, and Western Michigan. “Being able to continue serving all the members of Sigma Pi is the greatest honor for me as being elected means that the members have entrusted me with guiding this organization over the next two years,” Kurisky stated. “For me, serving on the Grand Council means that I have a big responsibility to all members to continue working to make Sigma Pi stronger for all current and future members and also aiding members to be successful by helping them understand the resources that can help them.” Kurisky currently serves as the Inaugural Director of Wesleyan Engaged: Center for Civic Leadership and Service Learning at Virginia Wesleyan. Here, he researches, develops, and assesses academic programs that are aimed at aiding in the retention, academic success, and, ultimately, graduation of students from the institution. Grand First Counselor Will Wojcik (Minnesota ’08) Will Wojcik was re-elected to serve on the Grand Council of Sigma Pi as the Grand First Counselor after previously serving on the Grand Council during the 2016-2018 biennium as the Grand Third Counselor. 17


Conferences and Programming A Founding Father of the Iota-Zeta Chapter at Minnesota, Wojcik has dedicated his time to expanding and advancing the Fraternity. He began working as an Expansion and Recruitment Consultant for the Executive Office in 2008 was soon promoted to Director of Expansion and Recruitment where he developed and oversaw a dynamic and aggressive expansion program targeting universities all over the country. Aside from his time of staff, Wojcik served on Alumni Advisory Boards for Iota-Zeta Chapter at Minnesota and Theta-Omega Chapter at Middle Tennessee. “It’s an honor to be re-elected to the Grand Council for a second term,” said Wojcik. “The continued support of my brothers helps drive my passion to make this Fraternity the best it can be.” Wojcik currently serves as an Attorney at Kay Griffin Law Firm in Nashville, Tennessee. His practice primarily focuses on construction and real estate litigation. Mr. Wojcik currently serves on the board of directors for Autism Tennessee. Grand Herald Neil Thorsbakken (Middle Tennessee ’08) Neil Thorsbakken was elected to serve on the Grand Council of Sigma Pi as the Grand Herald for the 2018-2020 biennium. As an undergraduate, Thorsbakken served as the Vice President for ThetaOmega Chapter at Middle Tennessee, which prepared him for his numerous roles at the Executive Office. He began as a Senior Midwest Educational Leadership Consultant and then served as a Senior Expansion Consultant in which he expanded and recruited for Beta-Nu Colony at Southern Illinois

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University at Carbondale. In July 2013, he began his work as a Regional Director where he provided organizational training on financial management, leadership development, community, and philanthropic relations. “I’m honored and humbled to serve a great organization that not only provided me with lifetime friends and memories but one that is dedicated to developing young men into true leaders in our everchanging world,” said Thorsbakken. “I hope to use my years of experience both as a past staff member and volunteer to continue in our quest for excellence and serve the Grand Chapter of Sigma Pi to the best of my abilities.”

Thorsbakken

Thorsbakken currently serves as an Account Manager for Otis Elevator, the world’s largest elevator, and escalator company. He services over 150 customers in the state of Tennessee cultivating relationships with various property management firms and construction companies, educating customers on elevator upgrades as well as planning ahead for modernizing old equipment. Past Grand Sage Steve Lawler (Iowa ’78) Steve Lawler was re-elected to serve on the Grand Council of Sigma Pi as the Past Grand Sage after previously serving on the Grand Council during the 20162018 biennium as the Grand Sage. Lawler has been a Sigma Pi brother for 40 years and has served the Fraternity for 23 years as a volunteer. He has been a Chapter Director, Alumni Club President, Province Archon, and spent the past biennium as Grand Sage traveling the country meeting brothers and creating positive change within the Fraternity.

Lawler

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve Sigma Pi Fraternity as the Grand Sage and I look forward to continued organizational progress in my new role as Past Grand Sage,” Lawler stated. Lawler is the owner and manager of Lawler Farms, a century farm located in Iowa. In his role, he manages the risk, capital, operations, and human resources.

Winter 2018


For more information, please visit sigmapi.org/convocation


Chapter Spotlight

30th Anniversary Celebration

Eta-Delta Chapter at Cal Poly

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n Saturday, May 26, 2018, Eta-Delta Chapter brothers, family, and friends gathered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Chapter's founding.

Eta-Delta officially became a Chapter of Sigma Pi on May 21, 1988, at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California. On that date, Sigma Pi installed its 18th Chapter in the state of California and 168th Chapter overall. The anniversary celebration took place at the clubhouse at the beautiful Dairy Creek Golf Course in San Luis Obispo, where brothers from the past and present joined together to honor the Chapter and it's accomplishments. Chapter Sage Todd Altshuler ('16) said "it's exciting to be the Sage on this night. Each year we make incremental progress. When I came into this position in a few months ago, it was standing on the shoulders of all of the sages before me, and I know that each one of the brothers in this Chapter has done things to make this Fraternity better."

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The event consisted of a dinner celebration followed by an awards ceremony, which featured many noteworthy awards, including the renaming of the Eta-Delta Alumni Volunteer Award on behalf of Central California Province Archon and Eta-Delta Chapter Director Scott Tucker ('08) to honor his continued service to the Chapter. It was not only a celebration of brotherhood but also a celebration of love, as Michael Turovskiy ('11) proposed to his beloved, Grace Morrow, where she happily said 'yes’ with applause roaring through the room. "Sigma Pi, to me, means a huge family that is always here for me,� said senior Sam Suri ('17). "At Eta-Delta, as we've become bigger, we all know each other very well, even as a 100 man Chapter. Our whole Chapter, it seems like everyone is good friends with everyone. That means a lot to us here." Overall, the event showcased exactly why Eta-Delta has been successful at Cal Poly: a great group of young men who are driven, with dedicated alumni who are willing to help.

Winter 2018


Chapter Spotlight

40th Anniversary Celebration

Epsilon-Nu Chapter at Cal State Fullerton

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n November 9th and 10th, 2018, Sigma Pi alumni, family, and friends flocked to Southern California to celebrate Epsilon-Nu Chapter’s 40th Anniversary during the annual alumni and parents weekend at Cal State Fullerton. “With over 100 alumni participating in the weekend’s events, our Chapter could not be happier to carry on the legacy that they established and relive some of the good ol’ days with them,” said Chapter Sage Andrew Tisdale (’17), “it’s a great opportunity for the undergraduates to bond and connect with our strong alumni network.” Throughout the busy weekend, the Chapter raised over $15,000 to be distributed to the campus Center for Autism and Student Scholarships. The celebration kicked off with a best ball tournament at the Fullerton Golf Course. A competitive day on the course came to an end and the activities continued with a cocktail reception. Attendees were treated to a taco bar and refreshments while they reminisced on memories made and traditions established while a basket auction began with items ranging from Fullerton baseball gear to a police ride-along. Mothers in attendance were recognized for their contributions to the Chapter and their sons presented them with gifts.

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During the reception, Tisdale’s father, Jeff Tisdale, was honored for his help with updating and maintaining the Chapter house. The elder Tisdale installed an air-conditioning unit in the house as well as a new heater and removed asbestos from the property. After spending so much time with the brothers, they asked him to become an official member as an alumni initiate earlier in the semester and he enthusiastically agreed and was initiated later in the weekend. Founding Father Paul Mosbrucker (’78) praised the undergraduates for their hard work and dedication since rechartering on April 17, 2017. He is proud of their drive to be successful in everything they do. “I’m very prideful in the organization that I was in and the chapter that I was in. That’s why I give back to the organization,” Past Grand Sage Larry Rovira (Cal State Fullerton '80) said, “I want it to be around another 125 years.” Epsilon-Nu has followed in the footsteps of their predecessors and have quickly established themselves as leaders on campus. Brothers consistently hold positions on the Interfraternity Council and the Associated Students Board of Directors. The Chapter has earned the IFC’s Highest GPA award each year since rechartering and their intramural program is a championship contender in every sport they participate in and are on track for future success. 21


Chapter Spotlight

Alpha-Iota at Missouri S&T A New House for the Chapter is Currently Under Construction by Jeff Tottleben (Missouri S&T '88), contributing writer

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lpha-Iota Chapter at Missouri University of Science and Technology started construction on a new 18,000+ square foot home in June of 2018. The modern house will be home to 65 brothers and completed in time for the fall 2019 semester. The project cost of $4.3 million includes a major capital campaign, dubbed “Honoring our Past, Securing our Future,” with a goal of raising $1.8 million from alumni. To date, 159 brothers have pledged over $1.75 million towards the campaign. Alpha-Iota Chapter was chartered in 1933, and through the years has been consistently recognized as a Grand Chapter award winner. The Chapter has resided at 206 E 12th Street in Rolla, Missouri since 1945, where the new house will replace the old one. During the past 50 years, there have been several campaigns to add-on to or modernize the original Chapter house, which is owned and operated by the alumni-controlled Alpha-Iota Building Association (AIBA). There have also been some strategic acquisitions of adjacent land parcels by AIBA throughout the years to allow a larger footprint for the new home. The new two-story home with a walkout lower level features both two and three-man rooms in a modern, open floor plan with plenty of common spaces for studying, meeting, and conducting Fraternity business. AIBA President Kurt Steinmann (Missouri S&T ’93) and the rest of the committee members wanted a new home that distinguished itself from the standard Greek housing fare. “It was important to us that the architectural design be a modern design with impressive curb appeal, and an intentional departure from the traditional Greek brick and white columns look. The open floor plan is intended to promote collaborative study areas and brotherhood activities,

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rather than having our brothers isolated in sleeping and study suites.” AIBA hired Pennington & Company of Lawrence, Kansas in March of 2016 to survey over 700 living alumni regarding the feasibility of a capital campaign to support either a large-scale remodel or a completely new home for the Chapter. The response was overwhelming in favor of demolishing the old home and starting fresh. AIBA moved forward with Pennington to start the capital campaign for a new home in September of 2016. After getting commitments from several key donors behind the scenes during a “quiet phase”, the campaign publicly kicked off with a running start of over $900,000 in pledges. From that point, individual “Era Leaders” and “Class Leaders” volunteered to make personal solicitations to men around the same age who shared their Sigma Pi experience at AlphaIota Chapter. Capital Campaign Chairman Jeff Tottleben ('88) has been impressed with the participation from all eras of living alumni. “The best part of this process has been seeing brothers who graduated in the 1960s through this past year reconnect and get each other energized about the project. The campaign itself has made our alumni relations much stronger - not only reconnecting past bonds with brothers who went to school at the same time, but also bridging the gaps between decades to make strong alumni connections between men of different eras. To me, this campaign has truly embodied the ideals of Sigma Pi and helped Alpha-Iota Chapter come together in a way that will sustain us for the next 100 years.” The members of Alpha-Iota are very excited to see their long-awaited dream become reality, and eagerly looking forward to bringing alumni of all eras together for a grand-opening event on Saturday, August 3rd, 2019 to christen the new home.

Winter 2018


Chapter Spotlight

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1-2) Renders of the new house and its anticipated design. The new house will replace the house that has stood at 206 E. 12th Street in Rolla, Missouri, since 1945. 3) Alumni from Alpha-Iota Chapter gather together for a groundbreaking ceremony.

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Chapter and Colony Reports Arizona State

Beta-Kappa Chapter

EDITOR’S NOTE: Reports are submitted by undergraduate

ø

members of each Chapter and Colony. Along with updating and correcting basic guidelines, reports have been edited to only provide the

103 26

most important content. All reports are accurate as of October 1, 2018.

969

LEGEND

238

Ø

$

Zero Balance

Owe Money

Number of Undergraduate Members

2

Beta-Kappa has kicked off the new school year with heartfelt enthusiasm and a goal-oriented mentality, knowing well that they must nourish the seed they’ve planted at ASU. After a great last semester of winning IFC’s Chapter of the Year and growing to over 100 members, they knew they had their work cut out for them. They recently finished going through their new recruitment process, welcoming in about 30 quality men who were eager to learn about Sigma Pi and develop their skills as leaders and scholars.

1

1

Pledges

Arkansas

Lost Brothers (Missing Contact Information)

$

Donors to SPEF this fiscal year (undergraduate & alumni)

54

PHOTO REFERENCE

32 813

NO REPORT SUBMITTED Alabama

Minnesota

Auburn

Mississippi

Buffalo

North Carolina State

Cal Poly

Oakland

California-Irvine

Oregon State

California-Santa Cruz

Pittsburgh

Central Michigan

Purdue

Cornell

San Diego

Franklin & Marshall

South Florida

Fresno State

UCF

Houston

UCLA

Indiana

UMSL

Iowa

UTSA

Kentucky

West Chester

Lawrence Tech

Western Illinois

Miami (OH)

William Paterson

Michigan State

Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Arkansas State

Alpha-Sigma Chapter

Lost Brothers (Missing Total Brothers Contact Information)

310 8

Alpha-Sigma Chapter, at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville members received 30 new members this past recruitment (Rho Class). Spotlight, Eric Woelke (’17) recruitment chair and his committee did an excellent job of getting the Chapter prepared for this year’s recruitment. The semester at a glance - brotherhood camp out was on September 22nd, and the social function, Sigma Pirates, was on September 27. In the month of October, Alpha-Sigma Chapter hosted a Moms day tailgate October 6th, alumni Tailgate October 20th, and veterans park clean up on October 27th.

Alpha-Pi Chapter

$ 13 7 1337 528 8 2

Alpha-Pi Chapter is still celebrating their 70th anniversary year at ASU but want to remind you that you are invited to their 71st Founder’s Day Celebrations on March 2nd, 2019. Congratulations to their graduates, Jordan Shourd (’16), Tristan Horne (’16) and Grant Charlton (’16). They were well represented at Sigma Pi Convocation in Niagara Falls, New York this summer by Jesse Paslay (’18) and Jacob Murry (’18) and alumni Alex Roofe (’08) and Ricky Marshall (’88). If you are interested in volunteering with the Chapter, please contact Ricky Marshall by emailing alphapicd@sigmapi.org.

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Winter 2018


Arkansas Tech

$ 51 18 263

Iota-Lambda Chapter at Arkansas Tech University had a very good end to spring. Iota-Lambda earned a GPA of 3.36 which ranked first among fraternities on campus. Iota-Lambda Chapter helped raise over $13,000 in an Out of Darkness Walk on campus. Iota-Lambda averaged 14 service hours per undergraduate member.

$ 68 11 362 50

0

1

Bentley

51 5 189 15 0

Chico State University, Theta-Mu has achieved beyond expected in multiple areas. After the most recent spring class they have a group of brothers who are unselfish, and strive towards success. Theta-Mu competed in Chico’s annual fall “Greek week” to help their community this fall semester. They are drafting more philanthropic service events with groups on campus in an attempt to alter the stigma that surrounds fraternity and sorority life. Recruiting is one of the Theta-Mu strengths, they found great new men who will improve the already set foundation. Theta-Mu is eager to see what is in store for the 2018-2019 academic year!

ø 116 29 1123 496 6 3

Beta-Omicron Chapter

Eta-Iota Chapter

$ 21 1 397 126 1

Over the summer of 2018, EtaIota Chapter hosted their annual TNT Firework Stand, and had a successful summer retreat in which an Executive Council Meeting was held. Not only that, but they had their first ever Summer Process in which one member was initiated into the Fraternity. Eta-Iota hosted their 2nd annual dodgeball tournament “Dodge For A Cure” in which all the proceeds went towards research in finding a cure for breast cancer. The brothers of Eta-Iota are eager to continue their Quest for Excellence by maintaining their status as the best and largest Fraternity on campus.

Epsilon-Nu finished a dominant spring by maintaining the highest cumulative GPA among all the fraternities on campus for the sixth consecutive semester, as well as winning the intramural basketball championship. Epsilon-Nu moved brothers into the new Chapter house and hosted many successful brotherhood events there throughout the summer months, continuing to build upon the strong bond their brothers already share. Epsilon-Nu was excited to celebrate its 40th Anniversary this fall with a Golf Tournament and Pancake Breakfast, punctuating a semester with a tribute to their strong legacy.

Cal State Long Beach

Cal State Dominguez Hills

Iota-Theta Chapter

$

Epsilon-Nu Chapter

Theta-Mu Chapter

8

The brothers of Iota-Theta had a great summer filled with brotherhood events. They were excited to have begun their fall recruitment process and increase their strong presence on Bentley’s campus after reaching over 50 brothers last spring. The brothers also had one of the highest overall GPA averages among all chapters of Bentley’s Interfraternity Council and are looking to continue achieving in the classroom this school year. Best wishes to all brothers this year!

Cal State Fullerton

Cal State Chico

Iota-Lambda Chapter

$ 89 45 1851 950 23

Beta-Omicron has successfully gotten rid of their debt with the help of Alumni. They are so very thankful for them. Another example of their dedication to Beta-Omicron: over summer they recently donated their time and money to remodel the house. They put new sound proof windows in every room, installed new garage doors, repainted the outside in the back yard and are currently revamping the electrical system throughout the house. There are plans to remodel the upstairs soon and they are so thankful. Recruitment was September 10th and looked to establish a 100+ man Chapter this fall.

Bridgewater State Eta-Eta Chapter

ø 46 6 491 82 15

In fall semester 2018 for the first time in its history Eta-Eta Chapter at Bridgewater State University won the Tier 4 Grand Sage Cup. Eta-Eta Chapter also won Silver Standards of Excellence, Grand Council, Grand Chapter Awards, Outstanding ACE Project for their work with students enrolled in Bridgewater State University ICE program. Notable individual awards include Br. John McGowan (’15) Harold Jacobsen Award and Michael Carey Award. Br. John McGowan has been instrumental in the success of Eta-Eta. Recently Eta-Eta had a new Chapter Director appointed Br. Alex Khoury (’12).

sigmapi.org

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Chapter and Colony Reports Detroit-Mercy

Gamma-Alpha Chapter

ø 28 0 613 289

Gamma-Alpha Chapter is starting off the year strong by fundraising at Little Caesars Arena by volunteering at 20 of the home games. Also, the Chapter successfully pulled off the ACE project at the beginning of summer by working with student life at a campus event. The Chapter is looking to be involved in more philanthropy and fundraising events throughout the next semester so that they have funds to work towards a new house.

10 5

4

Colorado

Carleton

Zeta-Delta Chapter

Eta-Rho Chapter

$ 31 0 476 206 0 4

Following a great summer, the brothers of Eta-Rho were thrilled to get back to work on a new school year; and thus, a new recruitment season. As per usual, September saw brothers putting in countless hours of hard work to organize and execute philanthropies, park clean-ups, and recruitment mixers. Next on the agenda was the annual Greek Olympics. The driving force for the event is its annual bottle drive in partnership with CHEO, a local children’s hospital. Last year’s installation saw the Ottawa Greek Community raise over $25,000.

$ 115 0 1014 280 0

5

73 22 884 439 8

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Epsilon-Rho Chapter

Eta-Sigma Chapter

Gamma-Gamma Chapter

ø

Drury

Colorado State

Central Missouri

To begin the fall 2018 semester, Gamma-Gamma Chapter was proud to initiate eight new brothers: Jeffery Burgess, Mario Chavez, Danny Dingman, Bo Kennedy, Drew Neuerberg, Charlie Nunez, Eric Palmer, and Chase Webb. In addition, they welcomed 21 potential new members to participate in their pledge ship for the fall. They continue to put in many community service hours into their trail as well as schedule many brotherhoods for members. Overall, the Gamma-Gamma Chapter of Sigma Pi looks forward to continuing their Ouest for Excellence in not only the next semester, but many years to come.

Zeta-Delta Chapter had an excellent spring semester at the University of Colorado at Boulder. They are continuing to expand as a Chapter and are very excited for a new year with over 40 active brothers living in the Chapter house! The brothers are more motivated than ever to continue their dominance of philanthropic events and to welcome a new class of freshman into the Fraternity. Sko Buffs & Roll Pi!

$ 51 11 364

Eta-Sigma Chapter of Sigma Pi at Colorado State University had a very eventful and successful Convocation at Niagara Falls this past summer. The Chapter won the award for largest initiated class and they look forward to increasing their presence at Colorado State University and within the greater Sigma Pi as a whole.

$ 25 8 604

180

263

1

1

Epsilon-Rho Chapter is hard at work trying to improve their numbers and strengthen the brotherhood this academic year. After working hard through a tough two-week recruitment system, they successfully pinned seven new members who are very excited to get involved. This fall they planned to improve relations with other student organizations on campus, grow their service hours, and become more involved with the surrounding community. They are excited to push boundaries and see where this year takes them.

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Winter 2018


Eastern Kentucky

Epsilon-Lambda Chapter

$ 60 22 759 218 3 7

6

Epsilon-Lambda Chapter at Eastern Kentucky University initiated six new brothers into the Fraternity to start the semester and added 23 new members. One of their goals for this semester was to continue to increase their on and off campus relations. Brotherhood is also very important to them and they want to continue to increase the bond between brothers. They are also coming off of a basketball championship last year and want to continue to excel in intramurals. They are excited to continue to grow as a Chapter and of men of Sigma Pi Fraternity.

East Carolina

Eta-Kappa Chapter

$ 60 16 387 108 0

Since their last report a lot of work has been done. They finished recruitment with 17 new members. Also, throughout this school year they have planned many socials, brotherhood events (camping weekend, cookouts, etc.), and philanthropy events. At the beginning of the school year they did a grid clean up with IFC. This included brothers going around Greenville and cleaning up cigarettes, trash, etc. They are excited for this year and ready to work hard to better themselves, the Chapter, and the community. 7

East Stroudsburg

Eastern Illinois

Beta-Psi Chapter

$ 26 0 877 483 1

Beta-Psi Chapter is pushing through very strong thus far this semester. They have been well organized with planning as well as within their individual roles. Whether it is partaking in community service, social events, or university-sponsored events, they have been tremendously involved. Their most recent event, a Fraternity and Sorority leadership workshop, has enlightened their members more than they could’ve imagined. At the workshop, they were educated on how to make their organization as optimal as possible. They will now take this newfound knowledge and apply it to their dayto-day tasks.

sigmapi.org

Emporia State

Beta-Gamma Chapter

$ 24 0 2226 1079 18

A year from now Beta-Gamma Chapter will celebrate its 70th year on Eastern’s campus. Leading up to that big event they are proudly experiencing a reorganization of the Chapter. In the spring, they completed a Chapter Membership Review that realigned their membership. They are smaller but mightier! This academic year their 128 year old historical Chapter House is closed for a top to bottom renovation. The alumni are acknowledged for their commitment to the undergraduates for raising the necessary funds and steering the massive project. After they completed fall recruitment they moved into homecoming activities.

Epsilon-Epsilon Chapter

ø 14 7 636 333 2

Epsilon-Epsilon has had a stellar summer and fall semester. During the recruitment period, they have been able to more than double the membership in the Chapter, allowing them to gain the largest percentage increase of new members out of any IFC chapter on campus. Along with a successful recruitment season, they have continued to stay competitive in IFC sports, scholarship, and brotherhood. Epsilon-Epsilon looks forward to continuing with progress, and looks forward to seeing everyone at MYLC ’19 in KC!

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Chapter and Colony Reports

8

FDU-Florham

FDU-Metropolitan

Iota-Phi Chapter

$ 19 2 31 0 0 8

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Iota-Phi Chapter is excited for the new academic school year. They participated in several events on campus. One major event was Meet the Greeks, which is hosted every semester by the FDU Greek Senate. They met a lot of potential brothers and were able to introduce themselves while informing them about their events. One of the recruitment events was a basketball match in the Rec Center gym. It was a great turnout and a lot of fun. Outside of recruitment, they held a carnival with FDU’s Alpha Kappa Chapter of Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority. Together they played different games and gave out items like cotton candy and popcorn.

Ferris State

Epsilon-Xi Chapter

ø 17 1 274 118 2

This past few months have been productive for Epsilon-Xi. The highlight of the year has been the initiation of their new members Brother Zaire Bryant (’18), Brother Robert Caride (’18), and Brother Theodore Evans (’18). These new members along with Second Counselor Brother John Fruhmann (’16) and Third Counselor Brother Justin Walcott (’17) attended Convocation 2018 in Niagara Falls, NY.

Theta-Theta Chapter

$ 29 10 290 37 9

Theta-Theta Chapter started the fall semester with the goal of raising $1,000 towards their annual Teeter-Totter-Athon philanthropy. Funds raised during this semester were raised by working at Ceder Point amusement park for the 2018 Halloween weekend. Theta-Theta Chapter hoped to double their numbers by bringing in a minimum of 20 new members for the fall semester. They are thankful for Alumni by creating a housing committee and working towards making Sigma Pi a permanent part of Ferris State.

Winter 2018


Fitchburg State Eta-Tau Chapter

$ 37 7 376

Eta-Tau started the new biennium of strong by working diligently to improve on their Standards of Excellence after achieving Bronze last year. They are also working with their new Greek Life advisor to not only improve relations with the school as well as improve the overall perception of Greek Life as a whole.

75 1 9

Florida State

Grand Valley State

Eta-Epsilon Chapter

$ 121 40

On August 23rd, Eta-Epsilon moved into the fourth largest fraternity house in the nation, welcoming 61 brothers into the new house. Since moving in, the brothers have grown closer and had a productive fall with date functions, social events, and a philanthropy event.

Illinois State

Theta-Rho Chapter

$ 94 27

952

405

275

26

1

1

9

10

Theta-Rho teamed up with Delta Zeta for this semester’s homecoming events with hopes of taking first place in Lip Sync. Theta-Rho Executive Board spent four days in July at their annual Executive Board retreat, sharing ideas and goals for the 20182019 year. Brothers continue to find new ways to improve their house and maintain the strong brotherhood they deeply cherish.

Epsilon-Eta Chapter

ø 85 31 609 323 2

This was a great summer for the men of Epsilon-Eta. Three of their officers went to Convocation in Niagara Falls and voted for the new Grand Council. At Convocation, the men networked with other chapters and plan on visiting Iowa State’s Sigma Chapter in the near future. Ten men have officially moved into their first house on campus. They are excited to call 603 Broadway Avenue their home. The yearly barn dance took place in the outskirts of rural Normal. EpsilonEta is continuing to grow and they are looking forward to a great year.

Georgia

Alpha-Phi Chapter

ø 86 23 1116 518 12

Alpha-Phi Chapter had busy summer this year. Brothers spent their time working on internships for companies such as Textron, participating in University of Georgia summer study abroad programs, working on service projects in Uganda, and even vacationing in China. Co-Rush chairs Max Withers (’17) and Clayton Thayer (’17) did an outstanding job with both summer and fall recruitment. Their combined effort lead to a signing of a 29 man fall pledge-class. Alpha-Phi Chapter is looking forward to a fun and safe school year. 10

sigmapi.org

29


Chapter and Colony Reports Indiana of Pennsylvania

Keene State

Theta-Epsilon Chapter

ø 19 0 256 10 0

Over the past year, their chapter has grown and re-shaped itself in many crucial ways. The brothers have achieved a GPA higher than the all male average! Recruitment was great. At the end of the year they will be hosting an Alumni Reunion. This reunion is intended to celebrate what it means to be a Sigma Pi. The event will take place at the Luckenbach Pavilion located on 842 5 Points Rd, Indiana, PA 15701. They wish to congratulate Mr. Alexander Pettigrew (’15) for becoming a member of the Executive Office staff! The Brothers of the Theta-Epsilon Chapter are looking forward to a great year, with many to follow.

Kennesaw State

Iota-Rho Chapter

$ 19 5 139 8 0

The men of Sigma Pi at Keene State College welcomed five new brothers to their ranks last semester. They were welcomed by the brothers and have made the switch to full brothers. They had a very successful “ Sigma Puppies” event on campus that they have become known for. Although they graduated a large number of seniors, recruitment this year is looking up. They have a solid list of potential new members that have shown interest in Sigma Pi.

Epsilon-Alpha Chapter

ø 8 0 601 279

Epsilon-Alpha Chapter is excited about the current fall semester and its outcome. Sigma Pi members are working very hard and are using 365 recruitment to its full extent and potential. They were looking forward to football season and intramural sports in the fall. They are in the works of putting on an event for the Amazing Day foundation and can not wait to advocate for the cause.

4 12

Iowa State

Sigma Chapter

$ 80 0 1069 284

Sigma is off to another great year. Sigma ended summer recruitment with 50 men for the new member class, the largest class for Iowa State. This semester, Sigma paired with the Student Wellness Center to help spread awareness for mental health services provided at Iowa State. Over the summer, GTC Tim Quick (Sigma, ’98) was elected to the Grand Council. Sigma wishes him well and looks forward to having another strong semester!

9 11

Kansas

Beta-Delta Chapter

$ 26 5 320 66

The beginning of the semester started off on the right foot with another successful recruitment week. BetaDelta Chapter had fun meeting new possible members and reuniting after a long summer break. Beta-Delta Chapter was pleased to add some of those possible new members to its Chapter as new pledge members. Beta-Delta Chapter believes that the new pledge members will exemplify what it means to be a member of BetaDelta Chapter of Sigma Pi.

4 11

30

12

Winter 2018


Missouri S&T

Louisville

$ 21 3 158 10 1

Iota-Omicron Chapter welcomed in three new members through fall recruitment. They are continuing to recruit throughout this semester and planning to add more members to this semester’s pledge class. They are currently working on planning philanthropy/community service events, socials, and brotherhoods events for the rest of the year to help strengthen their brotherhood and sorority relations while showcasing the positive things the Chapter does in the community.

Missouri State

Alpha-Iota Chapter

Iota-Omicron Chapter

$ 51 16 1174 468 10

The members of Alpha-Iota Chapter are transitioning well into temporary housing. That did not let that stop them from recruiting; Alpha-Iota Chapter brought in 16 new members for the fall semester. This was a team effort that was spearheaded by their great Rush Chairman. The construction of the new home for Alpha-Iota Chapter is on track to be finished by part way through this coming spring.

Alpha-Rho Chapter

ø 105 26 1602 653 12

14

Alpha-Rho Chapter is excited to see what the school year brings. They started the year off right with a great recruitment process. Each individual brother worked hard and had great participation through the journey. They have a 26 man pledge class and look forward to teaching them how to live by the creed and become men of Sigma Pi Fraternity. They participated in FSL events and a special homecoming in which they welcomed back many past alumni of Alpha-Rho Chapter. Alpha-Rho continues to be a strong force on Missouri State University campus, as well as a strong representation of Sigma Pi.

Michigan Tech

Zeta-Epsilon Chapter

$ 30 4 408 181 0

This summer the Zeta-Epsilon Chapter saw much activity having 12 brothers in town, nine of which lived in the Chapter house. The brothers who were up this summer volunteered with helping with damage created by the severe local floods, spent a lot of time camping and spending time outside in the beautiful Keweenaw Peninsula, and collaborated together on house projects. Also following the third floor renovations from last year, this summer the outside of the house got a much needed touching up including all new paint. 14

Middle Tennessee

Monmouth

Theta-Omega Chapter

ø 36 0 273 25 6 13

Coming out of a relaxing summer break, Theta Omega Chapter had a phenomenal start to the fall 2018 semester. Following the completion of the spring semester, three brothers graduated. Brothers David Gravitt (’15), Garrett Sumner-Jones (’16) and Jonathan Gandy (’13) graduated with degrees aviation, law and business administration. The Chapter hosted five successful events. Six bids have been extended to potential new members, two of which were accepted and signed. Theta-Omega Chapter is looking forward to reporting the rest of their successful year.

sigmapi.org

Delta-Beta Chapter

$ 34 0 445

Delta-Beta has been going through suspension because of Monmouth University’s Greek life suspension. However, under our suspension, we have been able to remain a brotherhood and continue our brother interactions like camping and outside activities while the weather is still nice.

107 7 13

31


Chapter and Colony Reports Montclair State

Northern Arizona

Iota-Iota Chapter

$ 24 0 167 0 1

After a successful Convocation, Iota-Iota looks to have yet another awesome year. The Chapter worked on a successful recruitment and hoped to get as many new members as possible. They also worked on their Donate Life event, which is big on Montclair State University campus. Iota-Iota holds, yet again the highest GPA within the IFC from last semester and they will continue to hold scholarship as a top priority. They hope to continue their dominance on the campus in philanthropic dollars raised and community service hours obtained. Iota-Iota is looking to have yet another successful year.

Beta-Iota Chapter

$ 47 12 646 330 0 15

Morehead State

ø 13 3 640 291 13 15

Ohio

NJIT

Delta-Rho Chapter

Delta-Rho started the fall semester strong. The Chapter had a wellplanned and thought out recruitment week that allowed them to secure a 33% increase to their brotherhood. The Chapter has decided to implement a rolling recruitment which means one recruitment event will be held every other week to meet their goal before the semester ends. Their goal is to have at least 20 total brothers at the end of this semester. A rolling recruitment will allow the Chapter to continue to grow at a steady pace all semester. To fund the Chapter’s plans they will continue their partnership with Kentucky athletics and Aramark Food Service.

Beta-Iota had a great time at Convocation and are motivated to do well this year. Beta-Iota Chapter also received a visit from CEO/ Executive Director Johnathon Frost, who came out to sit down at dinner with the Chapter’s Executive Council to learn more specific details about Beta-Iota Chapter and Northern Arizona University as a whole before addressing the whole Chapter, concerning recruitment, the following morning.

Epsilon Chapter

Alpha-Mu Chapter

ø 45 0 1159 440 21

Brothers over at Alpha-Mu Chapter are excited for the upcoming semester. Having had a large number of undergraduates graduate last spring, they looked forward towards recruitment this semester. Brothers at Alpha-Mu looked forward to many of the brotherhood events planned for this year, including the Chapter’s Thanksgiving dinner and 3rd annual philanthropic gold outing.

ø 67 9 868

Epsilon Chapter has had a very good start to the year. They have had numerous brotherhood events and are excited for the rest of the year. Epsilon signed up for intramural basketball and dodgeball and had a good season. The undergraduate members are putting an emphasis on helping out the Athens community through various community service events.

195 1

Murray State

Gamma-Upsilon Chapter

$ 40 9 828 354 15 16

32

Gamma-Upsilon looks to continue its community and on-campus success by setting and achieving their goals, expecting excellence and never accepting anything less. Thus far in the semester they have donated to multiple sorority charity events and pushed on campus involvement by making sure applications to external organizations are easily assessable. They are fortunate to say that 100% of the bids that they handed out were accepted. Those that were chosen are men of excellent quality, high potential, and people who they feel can represent the value of Sigma Pi well now, and in the future.

16

Winter 2018


Ohio Northern Zeta Chapter

$ 39 11 1497 706

Since rechartering in the spring, Zeta Chapter has had its eyes set on reinhabiting the on-campus Sigma Pi house that has been vacant since the Chapter was inactivated five years ago. After sending a petition, administration of the school recently agreed to further discussions. They held the 2018 Sigma Pi Roast during Ohio Northern’s Homecoming on October 27th at the old Sigma Pi house (mentioned above) on Fraternity Circle.

42 17

17

Ohio State

Gamma Chapter

$ 35 4 1323 490 9

The Ohio State University has drastically decreased the number of active fraternities on campus. Gamma Chapter is still one of the chapters on campus registered for both recruiting and social purposes. Philanthropy chairman Fei Zhutang (’17) planned the annual haunted house fundraiser. The proceeds from this event are donated to the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer research. Gamma Chapter is still actively recruiting members to add to their growing numbers.

Old Dominion

Theta-Eta Chapter

ø 39 3 354 46 6 18

Theta-Eta Chapter had a fantastic summer & fall semester, highlighted by one of their biggest recruitment classes in recent semesters. Many brothers enjoyed traveling to various corners of the globe before coming back to take on the upcoming semester. They also brought back their Homecoming Dream Team for this years Homecoming and had a blast. Also, Semi-Formal was a great time and they look forward to seeing the alumni at the upcoming formal! Finally as the year comes towards the close, Theta-Eta wishes everyone happy holidays and safe travels!

sigmapi.org

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Chapter and Colony Reports

19

20

Oregon State

$ 86 23 1230 357 5 19

Omega is excited for a busy fall term and will be focusing largely on recruitment. Last year was a big year for us and we are looking forward to building on that momentum this year and coming out bigger and better than ever. This year at Convocation Omega Chapter took home the Grand Sage cup for Tier 1 as the top chapter across North America, and also took home the Grand Council award and the Grand Chapter award. Omega Chapter is eager to start the new school year on a very positive note coming off these achievements and awards. Omega Chapter would also like to congratulate the new Grand Council and wish them good luck.

ø 77 5 1960 713 7 20

15 0 180 15 0

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Theta Chapter is excited for the rest of the year. With the election of a new executive board, the goals and vision for the Chapter are high. They had a very successful THON season in 2018 and are looking forward to furthering that success in 2019. The Chapter looked forward to their Homecoming and Parents Weekend events in the fall and had a fantastic start with their fall New Member recruitment process. The Chapter is working closely with their Advisory Board and the Housing Corporation to improve operations. If you are interested in helping either group as a volunteer please visit their website sigmapipsu.org to send a message.

$ 57

313 34 5

Rowan

Theta-Iota Chapter

ø 18 10 257

Theta-Iota had a great recruitment event in the fall and hosted a toco night at Champs bar in which over 25 people came out to check out what the Fraternity is about. Also, they had a big cookout where they grilled up some dogs and burgers. A lot of people came out for this event and it was the best one they have had.

Theta-Lambda celebrated their 15th anniversary of chartering at the of end September. They are looking to maintain their goal of being the largest social fraternity on campus.

13

Penn State-Altoona

Theta-Phi Chapter

ø

Theta-Lambda Chapter

Theta Chapter

Penn College

Theta-Phi Chapter at Penn College is proud to announce their operations are running smoother than ever! The Executive Board has formed quite the strong bond and both morale as well as brotherhood have never been higher throughout the Chapter. Recruitment week went over well, involving events like football, pool, and bowling. With quite a bit of interest being shown from students, they are excited to see how the rest of the year goes! Every day they continue striving for excellence, and don’t plan on stopping here. They would also like to thank all the alumni for their continual support, and hope that all is going well in your lives!

Radford

Penn State

Omega Chapter

Zeta-Chi Chapter

ø 64 0 528

25

164

2

2

This fall semester, Zeta-Chi Chapter had numerous events and activities to look forward to. The Chapter competed in homecoming events with the amazing ladies of Alpha Epsilon Phi. They hosted their 2nd annual SGT. Shawn Farrell Memorial fundraiser. SGT. Farrell was killed in action in defense of the countries freedoms overseas in 2014. In addition, they looked forward to keeping high recruitment numbers and dominating intramural sports.

Winter 2018


Rutgers

Santa Clara

Gamma-Eta Chapter

ø 47 0

Gamma-Eta had an amazing summer. After a very successful spring semester, the brothers of GammaEta enjoyed trips down the shore with recently graduated alumni. The brothers of Gamma-Eta are very excited for the rest of the year!

Zeta-Eta Chapter

ø 82 0

790

881

362

391

17

6 22

The brothers of Zeta-Eta Chapter kicked off the summer in fashion during their annual Memorial Day formal event, the Orchid Ball! This year’s Oball was truly one for the books with glorious San Diego weather and fun under the sun. They are very proud of and grateful for their wonderful senior class, and cannot wait to see all of the great things that they will accomplish in the coming years. The undergraduate brothers kept busy this summer with summer classes, internships and work programs, and of course, some vacation time! They were beyond excited to get back to school and are hoping for a great year!

22

Saginaw Valley State Theta-Beta Chapter

$ 39 15 387 74 1

Theta-Beta has been continuing to strive for excellence this year in acquiring the most community service hours of all chapters in the country. Theta-Beta also won the Top 25 Chapter Award this year, this is a great honor for the Chapter and will continue to push to move up in the future. Their brother Jacob Camilleri (’14) started working at the Executive Office and is having a great time visiting all the Sigma Pi chapters around the country, he is even hoping to make it back to his home Chapter at some point during his travels.

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21

Salisbury

SIU-Carbondale

Theta-Xi Chapter

$ 42 0 290 36 1

To reflect on the end of last semester, the Chapter had formal in Norfolk, Virginia on a yacht, and it was a great time as it has been in the past. Though the Brothers of Theta-Xi were not all together during the summer, they were still able to remain close over the break, and were excited to return to school. Five or six brothers lived and worked together at a jet-ski rental shop in Ocean City, Maryland, about 35 minutes from Salisbury. Many other brothers were able to stay connected and together, which displays the presence of brotherhood in the Chapter.

sigmapi.org

Southern Arkansas

Beta-Nu Chapter

ø 40 20 1268 609 7

Since their last submission, Beta-Nu Chapter has enjoyed several changes to their work structure, which enabled them to realize one of the highest Interfraternity Council GPAs on their campus for spring of 2018. In addition to this, they had eight brothers graduate, and pinned 15 new members this semester. They were also able to give back to the Carbondale community through community service, their ACE project and Donate Life participation. They are excited to see such a large amount of dedication put forth by their members, and they look forward to seeing what the coming months will bring.

Epsilon-Kappa Chapter

$ 11 2 512 218

Epsilon-Kappa Chapter had a philanthropy event to benefit the Children’s Hospital. One fundraiser was planned for the fall, the Chapter worked with the sorority SigmaSigma-Sigma. The Chapter allowed students to buy pies and throw them at the members. On September 15th, the Chapter assisted Southern Arkansas University by helping clean around campus.

2

35


Chapter and Colony Reports Southern Indiana Theta-Psi Chapter

$ 38 7 179

Theta-Psi has been hard at work trying to progress the Chapter to the best of their ability. The fall class was smaller than last year. However, they are quality individuals, and will become great brothers. Theta-Psi has a couple new philanthropy and fundraiser events taking place this year, and the Chapter is extremely excited about how they will turn out.

7 2

St. John’s

Iota-Tau Chapter

$ 57 12 153 1 0

At the 54th Biennial Convocation Iota-Tau Chapter was awarded the Grand Sage Cup for Tier 2. Along with the Grand Sage Cup Iota-Tau Chapter was also awarded: Grand Chapter Award, Grand Council Award, as well as numerous other awards. Iota-Tau Chapter is very grateful for the recognition. However, Iota-Tau Chapter fully understands the pressures that come with the task of keeping up the excellence. Iota-Tau plans on continuing to work hard and grow from their success. The brothers of Iota-Tau Chapter do not plan on taking a single day off from their hard work and plan to continue to strive for excellence.

23

St. Joseph’s

Stockton

Theta-Chi Chapter

ø 52 0 263 4 0 23

36

Theta-Chi has set many goals to achieve this year. Some of the most important goals included having a successful fall recruitment of new members as well as holding multiple charitable events on Saint Joseph’s University’s campus and through out the city of Philadelphia. Collecting and donating money, clothes, and goods for the local community has been an ongoing commitment of the Fraternity and Sorority Life at Saint Joseph’s University, and the Chapter looks forward to being a leader of its ongoing efforts. ThetaChi Chapter will continue to share its accomplishments and events on its social media platforms.

TCNJ

Iota-Upsilon Chapter

$ 29 0 74 0 4

Iota-Upsilon Chapter had a great summer and the brothers were excited to start the new semester. They had a lot of fun this summer; in July they had their second annual fishing trip, which was a great time for all the brothers that were there. In August, they did a canoe trip, that was also a lot of fun. Both events were great for getting both undergraduate brothers and graduated alumni together. This summer, they also had brothers Tyler Kohlhaas (’16) and Nick Fulton (’17) attend Convocation at Niagara Falls to represent the Chapter. They accepted several awards on behalf of the chapter, and very rewarding experience.

Theta-Delta Chapter

ø 67 0 419 78

The Chapter declared its independence from TCNJ, supported by Sigma Pi in March, 2016 and the morale and leadership was great. They have continued to pursue success and excellence. They had 15 Pledges in the fall of 2017 and nine in the spring. They continued to maintain their excellence in giving service and helping the community. They won 1st place in Relay for Life raising $8,500 for cancer.

0

Winter 2018


$ 8 1 466

Beta-Tau Chapter

Theta-Sigma Chapter

Gamma-Theta Chapter After a hot summer the brothers of the Gamma-Theta Chapter looked forward to the fall semester. Football games against USC and OU were the centerpieces of the fall along with fall recruitment. They hope to continue strengthening the bonds of brotherhood between their current brothers while bringing in a healthy crop of new members.

Valparaiso

Ursinus

Texas

ø 24 0 162

175

9

3

0 24

Over this past summer, ThetaSigma Chapter at Ursinus College maintained and strengthened alumni relations. Brothers and alums were brought together over a night out in Manayunk. As for the summer convocation for Sigma Pi, ThetaSigma Chapter received the Grand Chapter Award. In addition, fellow brother and now alum, John Thomas (’15), was awarded the John Carey award for his leadership within the Fraternity and on the Ursinus College campus. Their Chapter is optimistic for this year’s class to strengthen their Fraternity’s values.

ø 16 0 680 310 18 25

Beta-Tau is looking forward to having a great year. They want to build off of their efforts last year that earned them a Bronze ranking in the Standards of Excellence at Convocation. While attending Convocation, the brothers gained insight into the international organization and received new resources to help build momentum aimed at improving scholarship, recruitment, and their campus image. Thus far, the Chapter is off to a strong start, trying something new by having a bags tournament for The Amazing Day Foundation. The event attracted 20 teams, doubling last years turn out and the total amount of money raised.

UC Berkeley Iota Chapter

$ 34 13 1056 464

Starting off the new semester strong, Iota Chapter began renovations on their house. The project includes a repainting of the exterior, a complete remodeling of the kitchen, and a revamping of the rooms. On top of that, the Chapter ran a successful fall recruitment campaign, recruiting 13 new potential members. Iota Chapter continues to work vigorously to ensure that the semester ends as well as it began.

2 24

UC Santa Barbara

Vincennes

Alpha-Omicron Chapter

$ 176 39 857 224 2

With fall quarter beginning, AlphaOmicron was excited to pursue the opportunities that come with a new school year. Starting by coming together for their annual brotherhood retreat, they laid out their goals for the year and enjoyed having most of the Chapter together. Alpha-Omicron has had great fortune in housing once again, in addition to the Chapter house, brothers have signed leases at four different spectacular homes on the street Del Playa in Isla Vista. This year they look forward to developing their Chapter and bettering the community through their philanthropy bubble soccer event.

sigmapi.org

Alpha Chapter

ø 27 15 1529 491

Alpha Chapter had a great fall semester. They are starting to renew ties with the city and the university by doing community service and participating or helping run university organized events. They attended sporting events, creating good ties with the university sports teams. They have already made great ties with the Vincennes University volleyball team and plan to continue cheering them on while representing Vincennes University and Sigma Pi in great ways.

7 25

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Chapter and Colony Reports Virginia

$ 47 0 1030 515 12

In 2018, Beta-Pi Chapter is thriving at the University of Virginia. After a strong spring recruitment, the Chapter added 14 new brothers. Beta-Pi continues to be a leader in the Charlottesville community with it’s “Hoos Standing Up” campaign against discrimination and its 13th annual Surf n’ Turf philanthropy event, which this year benefitted the Alzheimers Association. The Virginia Chapter was proud to be represented at Convocation by esteemed brother William Brayshaw (’16).

West Alabama

Wayne State

Beta-Pi Chapter

Theta-Gamma Chapter

Gamma-Omega Chapter

$ 49 12 625 236 1 26

Gamma-Omega Chapter continues to grow and progress every semester at Wayne State University, and has been for almost 50 years now! The 50th anniversary (February 14th), is rapidly approaching and their Orchid Ball is in the works and almost fully finalized! To all alumni, please do not hesitate to contact anyone in the Gamma-Omega Chapter for more details and tickets! Their ACE project for this semester involved helping incoming freshmen move into their new home at Wayne State, and also assisting them with getting around campus for the first week of school, which was a great way to help on campus and meet the new students!

$ 29 6 324 38 0

Theta-Gamma Chapter at the University of West Alabama had a very successful summer. They met during the summer to discuss recruitment, as well as other plans for the upcoming semester. Their annual Halloween party raised a significant amount of money for their Chapter. At Convocation over the summer, ThetaGamma Chapter received numerous awards, including the Grand Council Award. They also celebrated their 20th anniversary on campus this fall with many alumni in attendance.

27

Wake Forest

Alpha-Nu Chapter

$ 55 8 1379 717 16

Alpha-Nu is off to an energetic start to the 2018-2019 year after an eventful summer which included internships, jobs, study abroad, and Convocation. During Convo, the Chapter won the Grand Chapter award and the Bronze Standards for Excellence award. The Chapter was excited to continue their positive momentum through recruitment in the fall. The Chapter participated in the Winston-Salem Walk to End Alzheimer’s in honor of PGS Gary Tash. They are thrilled to announce their Lounge Grand Opening, which brothers have been working tirelessly towards, and on January 26, 2019, they will celebrate their newly renovated lounge.

26

Washington State Iota-Nu Chapter

ø 69 25 344 16 0

38

Iota-Nu Chapter worked tirelessly over summer 2018 to improve their new Chapter facility in preparation for fall semester and recruitment. The Chapter is proud to announce the pinning of 24 new members who are expected to be one of the strongest groups of leaders that the Chapter has ever seen. In the wake of WSU Quarterback Tyler Hilinski taking his own life last winter, the Chapter partnered with both the Hilinski’s Hope Foundation and the Amazing Day Foundation for its “Summer Slam” Philanthropy 3v3 Basketball tournament, and had a tremendous turnout across campus to promote suicide prevention.

27

Winter 2018


West Virginia Tech Gamma-Xi Chapter

$ 5

Gamma-Xi Chapter have been busy this semester. They initiated new members and all of the members had a great time with everything that they have planned this semester and school year.

0 557 237 4 28

William & Mary

Worcester Polytechnic

Alpha-Eta Chapter

$ 37 0

Another prodigious semester for the Sigma Pi brothers at the College of William and Mary. With the semester’s conclusion, they are eager to take on the next semester. Recruitment was a great start and they cant wait for the rest of the year.

Wisconsin-Platteville

Gamma-Iota Chapter

ø 61 0

1054

854

509

256

9

10

The brothers of Gamma-Iota Chapter are gearing up for another big year! On August 19th the brothers helped move in the freshmen, and on August 21st the brotherhood helped stimulate interest in Fraternity and Sorority Life hosting lawn games with other Fraternities and Sororities on the Quad! On September 1st Gamma-Iota Chapter helped clean up the city of Worcester in the annual Work on Worcester event! The brothers were excited to host the annual Amazing Day event!

Delta-Iota Chapter

$ 34 13 627 280 4

Delta-Iota made some repairs to their house over the summer which included repainting their garage and outdoor crest. They held two events this summer between undergraduates and alumni. The first, being their annual Pork n’ Putt Golf outing held in Milwaukee, WI. Second, a Milwaukee Brewers baseball game also held in Milwaukee, WI. They look forward to a great year ahead focusing on improving their Chapter as a whole through the goals set recently at their Chapter retreat.

28

Wisconsin Tau Chapter

ø 37 0 353 16 1

The members of Tau Chapter spent a few days cleaning and preparing the house to welcome potential new members into their home. Since IFC made recruitment much more formalized this year, Tau Chapter was excited to lead tours of the house for new students looking to join Sigma Pi. Along with the house tour, Tau Chapter had plenty of events to offer, including a meet and greet at Buffalo Wild Wings, pickup football, a NFL Sunday Watch Party, a Poker Night, a Wisconsin vs. BYU tailgate, a video games night, and a steak night. Tau Chapter is looking forward to a fruitful year.

sigmapi.org

Help Us Locate Lost Brothers! Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: Step 4: Step 5:

Go to sigmapi.org/lost Above the "Name" field, click on "Click here to search by university." Choose your university Choose the name of the "lost" brother Follow the prompts, and input the "lost" brother's information so that we can update our records!

Or you can visit sigmapi.org/updateinfo to complete the simple form!

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Winter 2018


5

4

As Sigma Pi men, we share a sense of affinity and dedication to our Fraternity. These recent photos showcase some of the best examples of Sigma Pi Pride. To show your Sigma Pi Pride, share your photos with us at photos@sigmapi.org. 1

Cesar Monterroso (Monmouth '17)

2

Brothers from Iota-Upsilon at Stockton

3

Garrett Greer (Middle Tennessee '18)

4

Evan Canizares (Oregon State '17)

5

Shane Gibson (Arkansas '17)

6

Kendrick Frost (Old Dominion '18)

6

sigmapi.org

41


Mental Health

Do You Know the Warning Signs? by Emily Norton, Assistant Editor

S

uicide. A pretty daunting word, right? A word that holds a different meaning for everyone. For some, it might trigger heartbreak and loss, while for others, it may bring their mind back to a time they contemplated taking their own life. Suicide has such a devastating impact and is preventable, so at Sigma Pi, we want to help prevent it by teaching you the signs of mental illnesses and how to help someone struggling. On August 15th, 2018, the Executive Office staff underwent extensive training in which we gained an understanding of the current mental health issues affecting college campuses and the proper tools to assist struggling brothers. Daniel A. Reinke MA, CSC, LAADC presented on the matter and is equipped with 13 years in high school education and 11 years in mental health training. He currently serves as a Clinical and Program Development Consultant where he provides mental health programming development for college programs, clubs, and Greek societies. Mental health is defined as our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps us determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, approximately one in five adults in the U.S. experience mental illness in a given year. Think about that. One in five people. Your friend, child, sibling, or neighbor could be suffering and you might not even know it. Want to know some even scarier statistics? Almost one-third of college students report having felt so depressed that they have trouble functioning, but only 25% of students seek help; 56% of American adults living with a mental illness do not receive treatment. Why aren’t people seeking the help they need? Well, there are many reasons: limited time, worrying about what others think, perceiving treatment as not urgent or essential, etc. But the thing is, none of these reasons excuse not getting help when it’s needed.

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Winter 2018


Mental Health Many of us know firsthand, college is an extremely stressful time in one’s life. It’s a time of change, added responsibilities, and independence. Feelings of depression, loneliness, and homesickness are normal to experience, but the problem occurs when the student doesn’t get treatment and it escalates into substance abuse or self-harm. It’s also important to remember that once someone graduates, their mental health issues don’t automatically dissolve. Life, in general, is full of heartbreak and stress, and at any age, one can experience mental health issues.

problems. Encourage them to get help whether it’s through a counseling center, a local support group, or by seeking medical attention.

The danger of this issue is that many people don’t know the signs of a mental illness. The American Association of Suicidology reminds people that “saving the life of someone from suicide depends on our ability to recognize those people who are in distress and may be at risk.” Remember, it is not your duty to fix someone's problems or calm their demons but instead, it’s your duty to watch for the signs that they might want to hurt themselves.

Mental health comes in all different shapes and sizes, from ADHD to depression all the way to suicide, it also doesn’t discriminate with age, people suffering can be young or they can be old. All mental health issues deserve to be taken seriously and deserve to be talked about.

Lastly, know how to prevent it. Know the signs, and create an open line of communication. You can create posters with a counseling center’s contact information and the signs of mental illness and put them in plain sight. Check in with your family, brothers, and friends, ask them how they are doing and be aware of their actions if you think they are struggling. Remind them that their life is valued and you care about them.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK

So what can you do? Know the signs and know how to help. There are three essential “knows”: know how to identify it, know how to address it, and know how to prevent it. First, know how to identify it. Was there a stressful life circumstance (breakups, physical or emotional abuse, etc.)? Are there academic/work indicators (repeated absences, missed work, late papers, etc.)? Are there physical signs (a dramatic change in energy level, frequent intoxication, etc.)? Are there emotional implications (inappropriate outbursts, expressions of fear or hopelessness, themes of suicide, death, worthlessness, etc.)? Keep in mind that if your friend is showing the signs of distress mentioned above, it doesn’t automatically mean that person is suicidal; if you’re concerned, say something. You’ll never regret asking but you might regret not asking. Second, know how to address it. Having a conversation about mental health isn’t easy; it can be emotional and exhausting but it’s essential. Keep a calm demeanor and be empathetic to their issues. It’s important to never disregard their feelings or minimize their

sigmapi.org

Along with continued support for the Amazing Day Foundation, which raises awareness for suicide prevention, Chapter Management Associates and Growth Specialists will be presenting on mental health during select visits with chapters and colonies in the hope that someone might recognize a brother who is struggling and guide him to get the help he needs. Reinke will host a mental health training session at the 2019 Mid-Year Leadership Conference for alumni and volunteers to ensure that they can recognize and understand the warning signs of struggling brothers. If you suspect you are struggling with a mental health issue, know that you are not alone. When it comes down to it, your life is important, it is valued, and we know for a fact that there are thousands of brothers in this Fraternity that want you alive, because life is amazing, and it’s worth living.

Learn more about the Fraternity's national partnership with the Amazing Day Foundation and find additional resources at

sigmapi.org/amazingday

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Volunteers

Volunteer Spotlight - Province Archon Paul Ke (Purdue '88) Missouri Province Archon

"I'm a first generation Chinese-American, so being a Fraternity member, much less in a volunteer role of Province Archon, was never on my radar growing up. I was born in Manhattan, Kansas, home of Kansas State and lived in Seattle, Chicago, Indianapolis, Maryland, New York, and New Jersey before landing in St. Louis, Missouri in the 8th grade, which I returned to after graduating from Purdue. A few years into my role as Chapter Director, I learned that my paternal Grandfather was a Chinese Freemason which explained all the 'uncles' and 'students' that attended his funeral. I hope to honor him with my service to Sigma Pi." Why do you volunteer for Sigma Pi? My reasons have changed over the years as there are times I ask myself this question on occasion. The simple answer is because I was asked by Paul Wydra (UMSL '96) and Jon Frost (UMSL '99) to assist as a Chapter Director after meeting them at the first MYLC in 2002. I also felt volunteering would help me better understand the younger generation and in turn, my own children, but the honest answer is that around that same year, I had lost a Chapter brother who was only 36 years old with two young sons. I saw our brotherhood pull together to support him, his family and each other. To use a trending Purdue chant "Cancer Sucks." As a young father myself, I felt the obligation to assist so that our young brothers could experience the same bonds of brotherhood that I was able to.

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How long have you volunteered for Sigma Pi? I started as a Chapter Director for DeltaZeta at UMSL in 2002 but took about four years off in 2009 to focus on my son's Boy Scout Troop as Scoutmaster, which we saw grow from 45 to 120 members. I still volunteer on the Council Training Staff, Shooting Sports Staff, and serve as my District's Advancement Chairman. What is your biggest accomplishment in your role as a Volunteer? Besides seeing the success of my chapters, serving in the Ritual Committee as Training & Education sub-chair has been the most rewarding experience as we were able to establish the first M. Atlee Ermold Ritual Institute last year at Sigma Pi University and launch the Master of Ritual program. To me, our ritual defines for us what our organizational values are and without those, we are just another club. Where do you see yourself and your role in the next two years? Having just completed my first year as Province Archon, I feel as though I'm still learning the ropes. There have certainly been challenges in the Missouri Province and I am working towards better contact and communication with my chapter directors and chapters to not only focus on chapter operations but to set the example for other fraternities on their campuses by being outstanding Sigma Pi brothers.

What do you think is in the future for Sigma Pi? I believe we, as a fraternal organization, will continue to be challenged by public opinion and our host institutions. My hope is that our alumni members will continue to support the active chapters in providing education, support, and guidance to our young brothers. What is your biggest struggle in your role as a Volunteer? My biggest struggle is finding enough alumni support for all my chapters so that we not only have a chapter director in place, but a full advisory board to assist them.

Want to assist Paul within the Missouri Province as a volunteer? Email him at

mopa@sigmapi.org

Winter 2018


Volunteers

Volunteer Spotlight - Chapter Director Jeremy Lessman (Franklin & Marshall '88) Washington State (Iota-Nu) Chapter Director I was born and raised in Narragansett, RI. I went away to Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA where I initiated into Nu Chapter in April 1988. I received my Bachelors in Chemistry in 1993 and went to graduate school at Penn State and received my Ph.D. in Chemistry in May of 1999. That summer I finally joined my wife Lisa in Pullman, WA where she had begun her tenure track faculty position at Washington State University as a Biochemist. I began my teaching position in the Chemistry Department at Washington State University in August of 2001 and have been teaching ever since. Why do you volunteer for Sigma Pi? One of the main roles I have as a faculty member is to be an academic advisor for all chemistry majors. That was not a skill set I thought I had after coming out of graduate school but I found I have kind of a knack for it (and teaching for that matter). I see my volunteering for the Fraternity as an extension of using those talents for an organization that had such a positive effect on my life. How long have you volunteered for Sigma Pi? I began as Colony Director for Iota-Nu in November 2007. So as I am writing this, it is almost 11 years since I reconnected with the Fraternity. What is your biggest accomplishment in your role as a Volunteer? The biggest accomplishment I've had is helping keep the Chapter moving forward over the last eight years. IotaNu is in a unique place being the "new

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kid in town" on campus with no longterm housing and being pretty isolated from the rest of the Fraternity. But through it all, we have managed to have consistent recruitment and an overall positive experience for the members. What is your biggest struggle in your role as a Volunteer? One of my biggest struggles has been to avoid burnout. 11 years is a significant amount of time for anyone to be in a single type of volunteer role. To add to that, I have largely tried to keep a lot of the advisement/management roles with the Chapter on me, since I am practically the only alumni in town. Fortunately, I now have a cadre of alumni who have been graduated long enough, are secure enough at this stage of their lives and want to build better connections with the undergraduates. We are beginning to delegate a number of management tasks, allowing me to refocus on some key growth areas for the Chapter. In what ways have your chapters challenged you? The constant change of dynamic between the members as each new member class is integrated into the Chapter is one of the most challenging aspects of being the Chapter Director. Trying to find the time to connect with the current members the way I did with the Chapter's Founding Fathers and keep the history of the Chapter alive in the new members has become harder. We have several generations of turnover and now there are no current members

who interacted with any of the Founding Fathers when they were undergraduates. Trying to get everyone reconnected has been difficult. Who do you model your volunteer experience after? I don't think I have a particular person I try and model myself after in my role as Chapter Director. If anything, it might be a mish-mash of people I have interacted with over the years in various roles. I see myself as something of a coach in a lot of what I do, even in my role as a faculty member, and so I probably channel some of my coaches from when I played sports. I know I am trying to be that mentor figure that was really important in my life back as an undergraduate. Ron Musselman was my research mentor for four years. He took me into his lab as a freshman and I can see reflections of how he mentored me in life, not just in managing the lab, but also in how I interact with the men of Iota-Nu and my academic advisees.

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Volunteers

Volunteer Appointments Chapter/Colony Directors IOTA-LAMBDA AT ARKANSAS TECH

Drake Brainerd Arkansas Tech '11

Province Archons

Province Realignment in California

EPSILON-ZETA AT WESTERN ILLINOIS

Dakota Fields Murray State '11 ETA-KAPPA AT EAST CAROLINA Nick Hilliard East Carolina '17 ETA-ETA AT BRIDGEWATER STATE

Alex Khoury Bridgewater State '12 IOTA-DELTA AT UTSA

Christopher Merryman UTSA '11 EPSILON-KAPPA AT SOUTHERN ARKANSAS

Tyler Pennington Southern Arkansas '11 EPSILON-BETA AT KENTUCKY

Alec Prew Kentucky '17 ETA-TAU AT FITCHBURG STATE

Benjamin Robinson Fitchburg State '14 GAMMA-IOTA AT WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC

James Roumeliotis Worcester Polytechnic '05 DELTA-ZETA AT UMSL

Chris Ruth UMSL '07 THETA-ETA AT OLD DOMINION

Jonathan Shepheard Old Dominion '03 TAU AT WISCONSIN

Eric Stellpflug Wisconsin '11

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Devot

Tucker

Lorenzini

Sigma Pi Fraternity is proud to announce the realignment of Provinces in California and appointment of three California Province Archons. Brian Devot (Cal State Long Beach '95) as the Southern California Province Archon, Scott Tucker (Cal Poly ’08) as the Central California Province Archon, and Nick Lorenzini (Oregon '09) will serve as the Northern California Province Archon. Devot works at Union Bank since college in various positions over the last 17 years. For the last 14, he has been a Vice President in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Currently, he works as part of a team of wealth management professionals in Union Bank’s Private Bank serving their most affluent clientele. Devot is a member of Beta-Omicron Chapter at Cal State Long Beach and an honorary member of Alpha-Delta Chapter at Auburn. Devot served as Southern California Province Archon from 2006-2010 and as the Grand Third Counselor from 2010-2016 and currently serves as a Chapter Advisor for Beta-Omicron and Epsilon-Nu at Cal State Fullerton. Tucker works as an Application Administrator & Programmer for Administration & Finance at Cal Poly. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. Tucker was initiated in 2008 as a Founding Father of the Eta-Delta Chapter at Cal Poly. Tucker has also held numerous volunteer positions within Sigma Pi since 2015 has served as the Southern California Province Archon, which previously consisted of nine total chapters. Additionally, from 2013-2018 he served as Chairman of the Technology Committee and has held the position of Chapter Director for Eta-Delta since 2011. Lorenzini works as an Account Executive at Front, an online collaborative technology company based in the San Francisco Bay area. Previously, he was an Enterprise Business Development Representative at Salesforce, and from 2012 to 2014, served as an Educational Leadership Consultant and Senior Expansion Consultant for Sigma Pi. Lorenzini is a 2012 graduate of the Oregon with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government. As a sophomore, he held the position of Sage for Iota-Epsilon Chapter.

Winter 2018


Volunteers

1

2

3

4

Province Workshops A Look at the Province Workshops that have taken place this semester 1

New Jersey

2

New England

3

Illiana

4

Keystone

Province Archon

Province Archon

Province Archon

Province Archon

Ian Wolf

David Magnano

Kevin Carey

Brent Smith

Date Held

Date Held

Date Held

Date Held

September 15, 2018

September 22, 2018

October 27, 2018

November 3, 2018

Location

Location

Location

Location

NJIT

Bentley

Southern Indiana

Penn State-Altoona

Number Of Attendees

Number Of Attendees

Number Of Attendees

Number Of Attendees

226

130

44

49

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47


Volunteers

There Are More Ways to Be a Volunteer Being a Volunteer Doesn't Just Mean Being a Chapter Director or Province Archon

S

igma Pi Fraternity is a leadership organization, and thus has a vested interest in developing our members to be the very best they can be in all aspects of their lives. It's important to know that there are more ways to volunteer for your Fraternity other than just serving in a position such as Chapter Director or Province Archon.

Comptroller Properly administered and accounted for finances are an extremely important part of each Chapter/Colony's success. The Comptroller works closely with their Chapter Third Counselor/Colony Treasurer to assist him in maintaining financial records for the Chapter/Colony. Perhaps most importantly, the Comptroller oversees the Chapter/Colony's annual filing of its IRS Form 990 to ensure that its tax-exempt status is not revoked. Through this effort alone, an involved Comptroller can make an immediate impact on each Chapter/ Colony's long-term organizational sustainability. The Chapter Third Counselor/Colony Treasurer reports regularly to the Comptroller and at the end of the academic year, the Comptroller prepares and submits an annual report to the Chapter/Colony Director, Alumni Advisory Board, and Chapter Third Counselor/Colony Treasurer. In addition, the Comptroller files a copy of this report with the Executive Office. Learn more about the role by emailing Sonny Age at sgage@sigmapi.org.

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Advisory Boards In an effort to further membership development, we believe that it is important to provide each of our Chapters/Colonies with an established Advisory Board. The bottom line is this: a successful Chapter/Colony has strong alumni support. Advisory Boards exist for one reason—to support the efforts of the undergraduate Chapter/Colony. This team, made up of committed and dedicated alumni, university staff or friends of Sigma Pi serves as mentors to our undergraduate men as they pursue their quest for excellence. This team is pivotal to a successful organization because of its ability to assist and guide the undergraduates in various aspects of Chapter/Colony operations. Want to become an advisor? Contact your local chapter for more information, or reach out to Director of Chapter Management Sonny Age at sgage@sigmapi.org.

The Emerald The Emerald is a great way to contribute to the written work of the Fraternity that will live on forever. Want to contribute to The Emerald? From event coverage to recognition of a member or chapter accomplishment, there are many great articles to feature. High resolution photos are also welcome to be shared as well! Just send us an email at emerald@sigmapi.org.

Winter 2018


Volunteers

Joe Allen Mattingly

Murray State '87 "I volunteer with my chapter's alumni club because I value the friendships that were made during college and I believe that a strong alumni club helps it's members maintain those friendships past college."

Volunteer Opportunities Check Out the Open Chapter Director and Province Archon Roles

Chapter/Colony Directors Buffalo (Epsilon-Omicron) Cal State Chico (Theta-Mu) Carleton (Eta-Rho) Ferris State (Theta-Theta) Lawrence Tech (Zeta-Omicron) Mississippi (Beta-Mu)

Matt Smith

Valparaiso '01 "A lot of times guys overthink volunteering for the Fraternity and assume it's always a major commitment when in reality the smallest alumni interactions with our undergraduate brothers often make the biggest impact. Whether you give a one-off presentation at a chapter meeting, mentor a younger brother in your field, or just provide some ad-hoc advice, you're making an impact."

Montana State (New) Ohio (Epsilon) Pfeiffer (Colony) Plymouth State (Colony) South Florida (Iota-Sigma) Towson (Eta-Nu) UC Santa Barbara (Alpha-Omicron) West Virginia Tech (Gamma-Xi)

Province Archons Arkansas Arkansas (Alpha-Sigma) Arkansas State (Alpha-Pi) Arkansas Tech (Iota-Lambda) Southern Arkansas (Epsilon-Kappa)

Alumni Clubs

Great Plains

Many alumni live and work far from their chapters and alumni clubs are a great way to reconnect with the brotherhood. Through the alumni clubs, members meet brothers from other chapters and continue the lifelong membership of Sigma Pi even after departure from campus life. You can find a list of alumni clubs and their contact email at sigmapi.org/alumni-club.

Kansas (Beta-Delta)

Committees and Task Forces

Wisconsin

Another opportunity is within a national-level committee or task force. These groups help guide the Grand Council and Executive Office in various aspects of the Fraternity, including conferences, educational curriculum, and much more.

Emporia State (Epsilon-Epsilon) North Carolina East Carolina (Eta-Kappa) North Carolina State (Rho) Wake Forest (Alpha-Nu) Michigan Tech (Zeta-Epsilon) Wisconsin (Tau) Wisconsin-Oshkosh (Gamma-Mu) Wisconsin-Platteville (Delta-Iota)

Other Ways There are plenty of other ways to volunteer for the Fraternity, including conference facilitation, or even presenting at province workshops. Just reach out to info@sigmapi.org and we’ll point you in the right direction.

sigmapi.org

For information on the roles and responsibilities of chapters directors and province archons, please visit

sigmapi.org/volunteer

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Alumni News, Events, And Accomplishments

Alumni Club Report

Kentucky Thoroughbred Alumni Club The alumni of Gamma-Upsilon Chapter were happy to celebrate their 50th anniversary at Murray State. They enjoyed seeing old friends at the Summer Reunion and meeting the undergraduates. In other news, they finally have their Chapter’s website up at sigmapi1968.com. Please take a few minutes to check it out. At Convocation this year they were represented by Joe Allen Mattingly (Murray State '87) and Wyatt Alverson (Murray State '08). They are very proud of brothers Andy Morris (Murray State '68) and Les Wright (Murray State '68) who have served the Fraternity on the Grand Council. They are also proud of David Presson (Murray State '77) and James Jennings (Murray State '90) for their work with the Educational Foundation and Greg Sexton (Murray State '82) for his work with the international housing committee.

Gamma-Omicron Chapter at Findlay For their 50th anniversary as a Chapter of Sigma Pi, original members from the 1967-68 class from Gamma-Omicron Chapter at the University of Findlay gathered together in celebration. Dennis Brandt (Findlay '67) shared this quote from a historical document for the Chapter: "During the past year, the Chapter has completed its first full year as Sigma Pi and has participated extensively in many school activities. For the second consecutive year, Sigma Pi captured the Best Fraternity Homecoming Float. The Best Sportsmanship Trophy also went to Sigma Pi." On July 28, 1999, the Chapter closed, marking an end to Sigma Pi Fraternity's tenure at the University.

Alumni Club Report

TriStar Alumni Club On, Saturday August 11, 2018 the TriStar Alumni Club hosted a private tasting and tour at Jack Daniels Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee, which included members and their families. The tasting was led by brother and Master Distiller Jeff Arnett (UT-Martin '87) . The Club also hosted an event at Middle Tennessee's homecoming, where members tailgated together and then attended the game, a 21-13 win over UNC-Charlotte. If you would like to become a member of the TriStar Alumni Club, send an email to tristaralumni@sigmapi.org.

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Winter 2018


Hussar Elected to Serve as President of Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission On July 10, 2018, Eric C. Hussar (Widener '85), was elected President of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. The PFBC is a 152 year old agency, and is the second oldest Fish & Wildlife Agency in the country.

Fitzpatrick to Receive Outstanding Mechanical Engineer Award The Purdue University School of Mechanical Engineering faculty has voted unanimously for Mark Fitzpatrick (Purdue '69) to receive the 2018 Outstanding Mechanical Engineer Award. This award is given to those who have “demonstrated exemplary accomplishments and leadership in industry, academia, governmental service, or other endeavors related to mechanical engineering or an affiliated profession.” Mark graduated from Purdue in 1972 with a BSME degree and again in 1973 with a MSME degree. He is the Founder and Executive Director of Aldwych International, a London, England, based company active in the growing economies of Africa with the goal of supporting sustainable development and economic progress in developing countries of Africa through the supply of reliable and affordable electricity in an environmentally responsible manner.

sigmapi.org

Hoffberger Places Second in Vintage Car Competition Bruce Hoffberger (Maryland '68) recently placed second at the inaugural Greenbrier Concours d'Elegance, a multi-day event showcasing some of the finest automobiles in the world for owners and collectors in May 2018. Hoffberger's car, a fully-restored 1967 Camaro Indy 500 Pace Car, has been owned by him for more than 50 years, and was restored in 2012, after Hoffberger finally heeded the advice from his wife, Caren, to pursue the restoration. They have now named the Camaro “Phoenix." After more than 40 years as in the finance industry, Hoffberger retired in 2016. His career included many years within the public accounting field with an emphasis on insurance, not-for-profit, and commercial clients. 51


Alumni News, Events, And Accomplishments

Biking for Cancer Texas Alumnus Shares His Story

N

icholas Spalding (Texas ’14) took the adventure of a lifetime, biking 4,000 miles from Austin, Texas to Anchorage Alaska honoring those who have suffered from cancer. Spalding–along with 70 other University of Texas students– trained for 18 months, volunteered in the community, and raised thousands of dollars in preparation for this 70-day cancer-fighting journey. Tell us a little bit about the experience and why you decided to do it. Texas 4000 for Cancer is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, founded by childhood cancer survivor and UT Austin Alum Chris Conduit in 2004. Every summer, Texas 4000 sends around 70 UT students who have trained for 18 months on a 4000-mile, 70-day cancer-fighting journey from Austin, Texas to Anchorage, Alaska. Our mission is to spread Hope, Knowledge, and Charity through our ride. The organization is now in its 15th year, and while we are still tallying up this years total amount raised, we should be sitting around $9 million raised in total over the course of the T4K. Every year we grant out a majority of the funds raised (there are some operational expenses to get 70 kids to Alaska) to grant applicants, hand-picked by the board and alumni of the program.

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It was a life-changing and eye-opening experience from the start. I overcame “the hardest day of my life” more times than I can count throughout the course of the ride. I realized how capable I am, how to be truly vulnerable and even more empathetic than I already am, became a better leader, and sadly got to witness firsthand just how widespread the horrific disease was. This journey allows me to have such heartfelt and meaningful conversations within minutes of meeting total strangers and that’s totally changed my perception of people in the best way. I love and hate how the number of people I ride for grows, because while it means we get to spread and inspire more influence and hope in others, it means there are that many more who have been afflicted with one of the worst things to hit mankind.

Winter 2018


I suffer from social anxiety and depression, which spanned a good majority of my life - including all of middle school and high school. As a result, I always found myself clinging to the friendliest, most outgoing peoplethat person who’s just so approachable and personable, and doesn’t let awkward moments (basically me for a good while) hinder conversation. This was Brian Kerr and Kathy Flynn. Brian was a father of two, a husband, a teacher, my uncle, and beloved by all. In our short time together, he taught me how to properly balance life and live it to the fullest. He taught me how to shoot a gun, fillet a fish, and fostered within me a love and appreciation for nature. He taught me how to interact with people, and showed me what love can do and how far it can go. Even when fibrosarcoma had limited him to a hospital bed, he still comforted me and reminded me to remember him for who he was, the old BK, and that everything would be okay. That was the last time I saw him. He passed away two years later, after a long and hard fought battle with cancer. He was 49 years old. I ride for Kathy Flynn, who had a knack for brightening any room she entered, and always sought me out to try to push me out of my comfort zone. I hated it at the time, but couldn’t be more thankful now. She passed away two years ago from Myelofibrosis and Glioblastoma. She was 50 years old. I ride for Sharon Samples, who passed away from breast cancer. She was 43 years old. I ride for my Aunt Theresa, who had beat a hard-fought breast cancer, and was unfortunately rediagnosed after 15 years of being cancer free. I also ride for my Granddad “Bad” Wayne Kasbee, who went into a checkup and later discovered a tumor on his kidney. In the surgery to remove it, which took place on Day 34 of the ride, they discovered that the tumor had metastasized throughout his body, and was terminal. They gave him 4-6 months; he passed away last Monday. What was the best or most rewarding part of this journey? The most rewarding part without a doubt was realizing the impact we had on communities, with the views and locations we got to see coming in at second. In Denver, Colorado, we visited Brent’s Place, who is an ongoing

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recipient of grants from Texas 4000. It’s operates much like the Ronald McDonald House, housing primarily pediatric cancer patients and their families for extended periods of time while they recieve treatment, for free. There I met Colton, an incredible sassy, reserved, hilarious 6-year-old kid receiving treatment for spinal cancer. After making ridiculously sugary cookies together and making portraits of one another on paper plates, his mom came up and talked to me. Colton would be going home in 2 weeks, where he’d finally get a to swim and celebrate his 6th birthday. He didn’t get a chance back in May due to his surgery. She thanked us for what we do, and then me and Colton got some ice cream. Thinking about them, how they are forced to suffer without a choice but choose to stay strong and live their best life through it all, enabled me to push through all those miles and mountain passes, extreme challenges made trivial when shadowed by the monster that is cancer. Did your time as an undergraduate in Sigma Pi help shape who you are today? Absolutely, and definitely helped fine tune me for this trip. College developed me as a person, and from semester one Sigma Pi was there helping me along. They introduced me to a NASA internship hiring business students called Pathways, which I got, thanks to them. They believed in me first, and encouraged me to go out of my comfort zone more and more often and to push my limits. They elected me to president the second semester of my sophomore year. During this time, I was a server downtown 25-30 hours a week, a full time student with two known weedout business courses, was an Accounting 312 student and tutor, and volunteered at an elementary school downtown, while carrying out at a minimum two weekly meetings. It helped with time management, giving and receiving constructive criticism, adjust to conflict and speaking my mind, and built my toolkit as a leader, all of which came in handy this summer. If I hadn’t joined Sigma Pi, I would have never gotten out of the house on the weekends, never would have worked for NASA, and probably would not have gotten into Texas 4000. Sigma Pi has definitely helped make me the man I am today.

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Adytum On High "Our Ancient Sage firmly believed in the persistence of the soul beyond the grave, and although we mourn our brother’s passing from this world, we take comfort in sharing this belief that life is not ended, but changed, and that he now enjoys the reward for a life well-lived and guided by the ideals of our Fraternity." Accurate as of October 1, 2018. To report a brother’s death, visit sigmapi.org/adytum-on-high to let us know.

James Keene III (Cornell '54)

AKRON

FRANKLIN & MARSHALL

Christopher Paskvan ('89)

John Gehr ('31)

It is with great sadness that

ALABAMA

Howard Robb ('32)

we honor the life of Brother

Brian Connelly ('14)

FRESNO STATE

ARKANSAS

Robert Comegys ('57)

James Keene (Cornell '53), who passed to the Adytum on High

Allen Deislinger ('50)

GEORGIA

on October 17th, 2018. Keene

Harper Oates Jr. ('60)

Alfred Kalahati Jr. ('83)

ARKANSAS STATE

Edward Walker ('14)

spent over 60 years of his life as a supporter of both Mu Chapter at Cornell and as a civic leader in his community. After pledging the Fraternity

As a civic leader, Keene served

in the fall of 1953, James served

unselfishly while continuously

with dedication, devotion, and

giving back to his community

passion in order to establish

and the theatre arts.

Mu Chapter as not only a

He was the Founder of both

strong organization but also

the Opera Omaha Council

to complement its stability in

and of the Brownville Concert

both housing and scholarship

Series. He served as President

funding.

and Chairman of Opera

Kenne was awarded the

Omaha; Chairman of the

Founders’ Award at the

Omaha Symphony Foundation,

52nd Biennial Convocation

President of the Omaha

in Orlando, Florida. The

Symphony Men’s Council; as

Founders’ Award is the highest

a Trustee of the Joslyn Art

individual honor within Sigma

Museum in Omaha, Nebraska;

Pi. It is strictly reserved for

Advisory Board for the Johnson

the most exemplary members

Art Museum in Ithaca, New

of our organization for their

York; and finally as former

contributions within their profession, their community, the Fraternity, or other field of

Our thoughts are with his wife

endeavor, including “service to God and Man.”

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James Dawson ('62)

GRAND VALLEY STATE

AUBURN

Chintan Patel ('05)

Luman Pritchett Jr. (1929)

ILLINOIS

Walter Reinking ('30)

Robert Golembiewski ('61)

BALL STATE

INDIANA

Eugene Goss II ('70)

Howard Busching ('31)

CAL STATE LONG BEACH

Clarence Elliot ('42)

Steven Dohara ('77)

INDIANA-SOUTH BEND

CENTRAL MICHIGAN

Paul Straughn ('79)

James Ruth ('89) CORNELL

IOWA STATE Walter Max ('39)

Earle Elmer Jr. ('34)

Frank Arney ('55)

James Keene III ('54)

Donald Lantow DVM ('55)

Paul Woolley III ('58)

LOYOLA-CHICAGO

Mark Hausknecht ('72)

John Roll ('61)

DREXEL

LSU

David Crawford ('53)

Vernon Merriman ('47)

EASTERN ILLINOIS

LYCOMING

Noel Boatz ('53)

Donald Brobst ('53)

Terry Deischer ('82)

MICHIGAN

Trustee for Doane College in

EASTERN MICHIGAN

Paul Van Cleve ('50)

Crete, Nebraska.

Richard Turnquist ('62)

MILLERSVILLE

Ruth and their family as we mourn the life of a great man.

EMORY James Coleman ('32) Thomas Simmons ('32)

Thomas Woodward ('90) MISSISSIPPI James Abston ('49)

Winter 2018


Adytum on High MISSISSIPPI STATE

William Hazen ('48) Ralston Nelson ('48)

OHIO

ST. LAWRENCE

Harold Middleton ('57)

Brinton Flick ('30)

Robert Bloomer ('49)

MISSOURI

John Nile ('48)

Harold Pierce ('30)

Donald Turno ('52)

Edward Roos ('48)

Eugene Almy ('31)

Charles Covey Jr. ('49)

Richard Curtis ('31)

George Matthews Jr. ('49)

James Mallia ('16)

Newell Harvey ('31)

Glode Requa Jr. ('49)

William Thompson ('31)

TEMPLE

David Schmidt ('49)

OHIO NORTHERN

Mark Zigrang ('72) MISSOURI S&T John Settles Jr. ('33) MISSOURI STATE Richard Street ('71) MURRAY STATE

Richard Troeger ('49) Edward Heft ('50)

Phillip O`Neal ('68)

Gordon Missimer ('50)

James Barnett ('70)

Martin Netzler Jr. ('50)

James Stout ('77)

Robert Van Ess ('50)

Robert Meyer ('83)

Harry Hilsinger ('51)

NJIT

Raymond Koehler ('51)

Frederic Schwieg Jr. ('41)

Nicholas Peckovich ('51)

Bradford Underhill ('41)

Lawrence Block ('52)

Walter West ('41)

Kenneth Possien ('52)

Eric Beckhusen ('42)

Richard Streeter ('52)

Howard Boswell ('42)

Roger Moberg ('53)

Alfred Harter ('42)

Walter Papanek ('53)

William Dunkin ('46)

Phillip Emich (1916)

Darwin Rannels ('46)

Archibald Rogers (1916)

William Klugh ('52)

George Snyder ('53) Leonard Luzenski ('56) OHIO STATE John Wilson ('62) PENN STATE William Heilman (1929) George Mannings ('32) Leonard Reese Jr. ('34) William Garrison ('48) John Whittle ('56)

Joseph Silber ('53)

Charles Johnston ('42)

Bernard Connors ('56)

Gordon Kempton ('42)

Johann Kunst ('56)

PENNSYLVANIA

Lowell Andersen ('43)

Robert Baron ('57)

Leland Bond (1916)

Samuel Carswell ('43)

William Bischoff Jr. ('57)

Max Dickey ('30)

Donald Conine ('43)

George Bogdan ('59)

Harry Naylor Jr. ('30)

Frederick Meeder Jr. ('43)

George Williams ('59)

PITTSBURGH

Donald Wallace ('43)

Edward Cruz ('60)

George Schindehutte ('30)

James Youlios ('43)

Douglas Washburn ('61)

PURDUE

David Strickler ('61)

Robert Campbell ('44)

James Bolger ('62)

William Fall ('36)

George Chamberlin ('44)

Daniel Bandura ('64)

Stephen Jennings ('54)

Robert Sprague ('44)

Thomas Rawley ('64)

Frederick Bender ('45)

Arthur Rittweger ('64)

RUTGERS

Warren Vosseler ('45)

John Chomiak ('71)

Wallace Banta ('46)

Robert Stahl ('73) George Rafferty ('74)

Robert Kinzler ('46)

Philip Ryan ('89)

Robert Rawding ('46) George Danald ('47) James Nile ('47) Theodore Tideman ('47) Edwin Wells ('47) Henry Emker ('48)

sigmapi.org sigmapi.org/adytum-on-high

NORTHERN ARIZONA Daniel Liberante ('63) OAKLAND Kyle McCormick ('15)

Alfred Hirzel (1909) W. Leigh Smith (1911)

Ned Woodward (1912)

Daniel Hartley ('42)

Donald Bastedo ('46)

STOCKTON

Jong-David Lee ('01) SAN DIEGO STATE Frank Langdon ('54) SAN JOSE STATE

UC BERKELEY Cecil Lathrop (1914) Robert Rhein ('53) UC SANTA BARBARA Walter Stone ('48) Richard Love ('54) UCLA Alonzo Minjares ('47) Everett Rea ('47) Gerald Peterson ('54) UTAH George Carmen ('30) Wilford Johnson ('35) VINCENNES William Kennedy Jr. ('97) WAKE FOREST Henry Hester ('52) John Albaugh ('58) WASHINGTON James Bryant ('31) Arnold Trescott ('49) Robert Ryan ('51) WILLIAM & MARY Clarence Wooldridge ('46) Ralph Nary ('50)

Leland Dedo ('50)

Marshall Gates ('63)

SHIPPENSBURG

WISCONSIN

Jacob Brown Jr. ('61)

Gilbert Maudry ('31)

Charles Kauffman ('61)

WISCONSIN-MILWAUKEE

SIU-CARBONDALE Stuart Cappellin ('58)

John Maniscalco ('64) Lawrence Norton ('64)

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Vendors

Licensed Products Sigma Pi has partnerships in place with a number of licensed vendors who offer unique products for purchase. We've selected a few of our favorites at the Executive Office, and shared those with you here! Want to see more? Visit sigmapi.org/vendors to find a full list of vendors and partners. Save 15% on the item below at sigmapistore.com now through January 31st!

Black and Gold Hoodie Deluxe Purple Captains Chair Perfect for any outdoor activity, you can watch the game or take a breather in this oversized folding chair that's designed for comfort with arms, full length back fabric, and a pillow. $35 online at sigmapistore.com

These Greek letters are embroidered, not heat pressed, on a premium 8 ounce, preshrunk hooded sweatshirt. The sweatshirt features air jet yarn, which eliminates piling and creates a softer fabric. The front of the sweatshirt also has a pocket pouch to keep your hands warm! $35 online at greekstateofmind.com

Sigma Pi Greek Letter Anoraks These Sigma Pi Greek Letter Anoraks feature simple, classic sewn letters that make this jacket an instant must have. This wind and water resistant nylon jacket comes in a variety of colors, and you get to pick your favorite thread color & a line of personalization for your school, chapter or nickname. Order more and save. $46 online at greekgear.com

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Winter 2018


Vendors Sigma Pi Dress Shirt This white dress shirt features embroidered Greek letters over the heart, given a simple, classic look for any business meeting or function. $30 online at spirit.cc

New Rebranded Items Want to get your hands on the shirt or hat used in the rebranding announcement? Our partners at Everything Ink can you hook you up! Inventory is limited, and all items must be ordered by January 30, 2019.

Sigma Pi Needlepoint Hat This six panel cotton twill hat is adorned with Smathers and Branson signature 100% hand stitched needlepoint. The size is adjustable by a nickel slide on the back of the hat.

to get these items, please visit shopsigmapi.com

$35 online at smathersandbranson.com

Partner Spotlight Exec Socks Sigma Pi has partnered with ExecSocks to offer a 40% discount to members of the Fraternity. ExecSocks provides sophisticated guys like yourself with a monthly sock subscription to a selection of distinctive, eye-catching socks. As a member of Sigma Pi, for just $6/month you get a pair of distinctive eye-catching socks delivered to your doorsteps with ease each month for as long as you want to subscribe. for more information, visit

execsocks.com/affiliates/sp

sigmapi.org

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Road Warriors

Colony Updates

An Update on Our Current Expansion Efforts Updates provided by members of the Growth Team, including Director of Strategic Growth Lanse Macke (Oregon State '11), Growth Specialist Jason Artrip (Stockton '16), and Growth Specialist Russell Kizior (Northern Arizona '17)

Fresno State

Plymouth State

Alpha-Xi Colony

New Colony

Alpha-Xi Colony is continuing to develop on the Fresno State campus through their increased brotherhood activities, member involvement, and 3-6-5 recruitment efforts. The Colony is attempting to triple their membership size by the end of the fall semester to hit their targeted chartering date of April 2019. We hope to have Alpha-Xi as a full Chapter of Sigma Pi in the spring!

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Montana State New Colony 1

On September 13th the Montana State interest group of 22 men officially became the Montana State Colony of Sigma Pi Fraternity. They are working to gain IFC recognition on campus right now, as well as familiarize themselves more with the Greek community. This Colony is the first Sigma Pi in the state of Montana. The interest group came together by a brother transferring from Fitchburg State to Montana and wanting to continue the brotherhood at his new campus. This group is looking to help the changing IFC community at Montana State and become a strong chapter on campus.

Pfeiffer

New Colony 3

The first fraternity in the history of Pfeiffer University has continued to develop as a Colony over the past semester and has made a great name for themselves on campus and in the community. The Pfeiffer Colony colonized with 12 Founding Fathers in April 2018 and is currently sitting at 25 men, with many prospective members looking to join Sigma Pi every day. The Colony is a wellrounded group of Sigma Pi gentlemen, that strives for excellence in all that they do. The Colony is made up of many different student leaders from all over the country; from athletes of many different sports, such as golf, lacrosse, soccer, and track to orientation leaders, to resident advisors, to campus ministry. The Pfeiffer Colony is a strong group of Founding Fathers who are ready to make a difference on campus and in the world! The Colony has a great chance to charter within a year of Colonization in spring 2019.

The former interest group became the newest Colony of Sigma Pi on October 16th, 2018, colonizing with 18 Founding Fathers. This outstanding group of men became interested in starting a Sigma Pi chapter on their campus last spring, with the help of PGS Ed Levesque (Bridgewater State '89) and the New England alumni base. Plymouth State University is located in a beautiful little town in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. In 2018, the campus has reintroduced Greek life to the Plymouth State community, after a 15-year hiatus. Sigma Pi is playing a huge role in changing campus life at Plymouth State for the better and becomes the first NIC fraternity back on campus. Although these men are just getting started as a Colony, they have already taken large strides to become excellent Sigma Pi men. We look forward to seeing what these Founding Fathers can do on their campus and in their community!

Towson

Eta-Nu Colony

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Eta-Nu is officially re-colonizing at Towson University on November 16th, 2018. The men who have been recruited are showing initiative and have begun planning out brotherhood events, as well as socials with the sororities on campus and showing support at the fall semester Dance The Madness Competition that features fellow Greek life on campus. The future Colony is working diligently to form relationships with all Greek life on campus, this includes NPHC fraternities and sororities as well as MGC organizations. They have also formed strong bonds with the Greek Life Office, which has allowed them to get to know the campus and to ensure that the Colony begins with the proper foundation at Towson University. Also, there are still available positions in their Alumni Advisory Board to assist them in re-establishing Eta-Nu Chapter and to work towards breaking the barriers and becoming one of the most successful fraternities at Towson University!

Upcoming Expansion Efforts Elon

Epsilon-Theta Colony The Growth Team will be headed to Elon in North Carolina for our next expansion project. We are currently developing our timeline and schedule for this project and are working with our highly active Epsilon-Theta alumni, to better prepare for our mid-February arrival to campus. If you would like to get involved with the Colonization process or advisory board, please reach out to the Director of Strategic Growth, Lanse Macke at lmacke@sigmapi.org.

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Winter 2018


Road Warriors

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photo by Jack Kouzz-Seaman (Fitchburg State '18)

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4

3

sigmapi.org

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Road Warriors

Southern Nights

A Look at Life on the Road Visiting Chapters by CMA Eric Babbitt (Northern Arizona '17), contributing writer

T

o many, the title of a Chapter Management Associate (CMA) is often interchangeable with Road Warrior. A CMA understands that he may be traveling across the country almost three weeks per month; driving over hills and through cornfields, flying above mountains and oceans. The 'Land of Sigma Pi’ stretches far and wide. I’m fortunate enough to work primarily with our chapters at some of the largest universities nationwide, and my experiences traveling have been incredible. Recently, I had the opportunity to escape the long lines at the TSA security checkpoints, and instead, really become that 'Road Warrior.’ I packed some belongings and prepared to leave Nashville, Tennessee, ready for a 1,000-mile road trip through the South, and during peak football season in October. cue "Southern Nights" by Glen Campbell First I set off for Ole Miss, to visit Beta-Mu Chapter in Oxford, MS. It was Homecoming weekend, and I refused to miss the chance to see my first SEC football game. I arrived on campus just as the Rebel began to play LA Monroe. Immediately I was greeted by that good ol’ southern heat and humidity, which is unlike anything I’ve felt during my 18 years living in southern California. As the sun went down, the game went on and I was certainly received my money’s worth as Ole Miss won 70-21. I had the opportunity to work with one of our largest Chapters and help Beta-Mu become a top-tier fraternity on campus. Next, I drove to Tuscaloosa, Alabama to visit Theta-Omicron at the University of Alabama. Coincidently, I was visiting during the campus’ Homecoming week as well! Here I met with the officers of a young Chapter, at only 15 years old. We focused on developing stronger connections to our young alumni, and to increase support for the Chapter. The weather was perfect and I was able to attend my first SEC tailgate with Fraternity brothers at Alabama’s homecoming game v. Mizzou. This was an amazing experience. I had so much fun meeting parents along with many Sigma Pi alumni of both Theta-Omicron, and Missouri. The highlight of this visit was seeing the Crimson Tide play that Saturday night. I finished my southern tour with Alpha-Delta at Auburn University. The brothers treated me with that famous southern 60

hospitality. I was able to stay a few nights in their enormous house that was built for our men a few decades ago. It’s been great to travel and become immersed in the Sigma Pi experience in so many different ways. Every chapter has its own traditions, legacy, and unique history at its campus. In contrast to my previous visit to Alabama, the Chapter at Auburn is nearly 100 years old! The campuses in the south have been some of the most stunning I’ve visited. Many buildings at these schools are historical to the campus, and the city in it's in, and upwards of hundreds of years old. The intersection of old brick residence halls and state of the art engineering labs make these universities the most unique. I certainly enjoyed my travels to all 13 chapters I’ve visited, but my southern road trip has been my favorite travel experience thus far. The Road Warrior life ain’t bad at all. Winter 2018


Road Warriors

Snapshot Photos from the CMAs 1

Jacob Camilleri

(Saginaw Valley State '14) "This photo shows a lot about why I love my home state, Michigan. Surrounded by the Great Lakes, Michigan is a great place to visit the outdoors and explore which is what I love to do

1

in my free time." 2

Benjamin Sorteberg (Salisbury '14)

"Over the past few months, I've had an opportunity to visit many chapters that are all unique in their own ways. I also had a chance to present at my first Province Workshop for the Illiana Province, where I spoke with GS Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth '00), about my travels and heard feedback of how I can be the best CMA possible." 3

Alexander Pettigrew

(Indiana of Pennsylvania '15) "Alpha-Iota Chapter at Missouri

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S&T was able to win an award for their ACE Project at the 2018 Convocation. I enjoyed meeting with their members as they discussed how they were planning to continue making a big impact with a focus in the area of service. The chapter is working on new and fresh ideas that will continue to separate them from the rest of the pack."

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sigmapi.org

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Archives The Emerald Recovered

The Treatment of our Pledges In this series, The Emerald committee finds past articles from the archives that are still relevant in today’s fraternal world. The following excerpt is from an article titled "Treatment of our Pledges" in Volume VI, Issue IV from January 1920.

"T

hat the so-called 'horse-play' or 'rough-house' at initiations be prohibited throughout the Fraternity; that Sigma Pi shall prohibit and forbid the maltreatment of any candidate, or the holding up to public ridicule of any man, either before or after initiation," constitutes the substance of a motion carried at the 1916 Convocation of the Sigma Pi Fraternity held at Ada, Ohio. Those Sigma Pis, recognizing that culture within our Fraternity must not be endangered, deemed it proper procedure by recognizing our pledges as Sigma Pi material, that pledges be accorded whatever respect is due to them as our pledges if we are expecting them to become strong and loyal Sigma Pis. Then, too, the public often maintains an erroneous conception of fraternities, and those members desiring that public opinion of Sigma Pi should always be in accord with our ideals determined that no pledge of Sigma Pi shall be the subject of public ridicule. The 16th issue of The Emerald was published in January 1920, with Robert B. Fall (Purdue 1912) serving as acting Editor-in-Chief and Phillip Timberlake (Kenyon 1917) serving as Associate Editor

We, as Sigma Pis, realize that by treating our pledge with that respect due to an "active" Sigma Pi we enhance the value of our pledges to Sigma Pi as well as in the opinion of the public.

and Business Manager.

The full article is available in Volume VI, Issue IV (January 1920) online within the newly updated digital archives available at

theemerald.org/archives

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Winter 2018


Archives The Emerald Recovered

Commentary on the Topic Andy Kuper (Southern Indiana '12)

F

irst off, we can discuss treatment of pledges during their pledgeship into Sigma Pi. This can be answered by the question of “what do we need our pledges to know to become good undergraduate members and active alumni down the road?” As I always tell my Chapter when discussing new member education, we are working to build good members, not good pledges. Many pledges that join the ranks are fresh into college and have no idea what the world of Greek Life entails, especially since it changes from campus to campus. The vast majority of them have never had the opportunity to host a philanthropy event, coordinate efforts for community service, or have been in a meeting that uses parliamentary procedure. The inner workings of each Chapter have many moving parts that are not common knowledge to outsiders. There are positive and negative ways of teaching your pledges all the above, and the best ways usually include getting them to put on their own events, bring up items in meetings, and getting them to be active members of the Chapter before they go through our initiation rituals. A lot of what a pledge learns is also through watching what the older members do; if they see members not putting in good work, or treating someone poorly, they are likely to do the same. This creates a vicious cycle that can destroy any organization. Especially with an organization such as Sigma Pi that boasts ideals of establishing a brotherhood and raising the standards of morality and developing character, the worst way of communicating this is by not showing respect to the newest of the members. This develops the Chapter poorly by not instilling cohesiveness and trust, and can potentially damage external representation of the Fraternity and individual chapters that see such behavior. Now let’s consider actions and attitudes concerning our rituals. First, we need to put ourselves in the shoes of our pledges about to be initiated. What was that feeling like, knowing that you are about to finally be placed into an organization that you worked with for weeks or months, where you feel it fitting to call these other members ‘brothers’? Getting ready for initiation is nerveracking, and you are unsure what is to come in the next few hours, but you are also full of excitement to be accepted into the fold of Sigma Pi. Now, look back and think of going through sigmapi.org

your initiation experience yourself. Hopefully, you were blown away by going through the secrets and mysteries of Sigma Pi, and the ceremony went great. On the other hand, as stated by Brother Bowen, there are some brothers that see this as the last time they can give a certain pledge class a hard time. If this is done, the initiation becomes an event that these brand-new brothers will not look back on as a time of excitement, but rather a time they would like to forget. Having a bad initiation experience takes away a very special moment of being a Sigma Pi brother and can even lead people to not participating as much for their Chapter, dropping their letters, or never coming back as alumni. One major reason for this is the simple fact that this ceremony is what really makes us all Sigma Pi brothers. Being a guy from Southern Indiana myself, and seeing someone with a Salisbury University Sigma Pi shirt in an airport, I really don’t know much of the guy at first. Our experiences at our separate schools may have been completely different, but the one thing I know for certain is that we went through the same exact initiation ritual, and we both have been taught how to be an exemplary Sigma Pi and citizen. If the one thing that keeps us, all the same, is thought of in a negative light, then the entire bond of brotherhood can be broken for members that had a bad experience. Last, but not least, we get to talk about the public’s conception of fraternities in this day and age. This goes back to what you need your pledges to learn when joining an organization such as ours. There are people out there that are constantly waiting to see when we slip up, post something stupid, or make bad decisions. Let us remember as we discuss this point that these are a bunch of 18-22-year-old college males that have this spotlight. Since this is the reality of it all, during pledgeship, these men need to understand the risk management of joining such an organization. The worst thing pledges could learn is being disrespectful, especially towards new members the next year. They instead need to be given respect and have the Chapter believe and trust them to do well. A positive environment to learn and grow is very valuable, as well as being a part of a well ran organization. Every member should give full respect at all times to both their brothers and the organization of Sigma Pi as a whole. No member ought to tarnish the good name of either one. 63


Archives From the Museum Archives

Memories of Tau Phi Delta 1

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This section of the Sigma Pi Museum at the Executive Office in Lebanon, Tennessee, consists of original items relating to the founding of the Fraternity under the name Tau Phi Delta. 1

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A photo of Miss Charlotte N. Mallotte, who on January 26, 1897, spoke to a student group on the subject of “College Fraternities” which sparked the interest of several students to create a literary society, unnamed at the time. A photo from the first National Congress (later to be renamed Convocation), which took place on May 6, 7, and 8, 1908, and was held in Vincennes. At this meeting were representatives of the Sphinx Club at the University of Illinois and of Phi Kappa Phi at Ohio State University.

The petitions to charter submitted by these two organizations were approved by the meeting’s delegates. On May 21, 1908, Lewis officially installed the Fraternity’s second chapter at Illinois as Phi Chapter. Two weeks later, on June 6, the Ohio State local became Gamma Chapter. 3

The original letter from Robert George Patterson to the president of the "Men's Greek Letter Fraternity at the University of Vincennes," which kick-started "The Patterson Episode" and led the organization on a path to officially become Sigma Pi Fraternity.

Winter 2018


Photo Finish This photo was submitted by Omega Chapter at Oregon State and was taken during a recruitment event for the Chapter. To submit your own photos for consideration as the Photo Finish, please email them to emerald@sigmapi.org or use #sigmapi on your social media accounts.

sigmapi.org

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Sigma Pi Fraternity 106 North Castle Heights Ave. Lebanon, TN 37087

ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED

Ian Wolf (Rutgers '12)

“The generosity of the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation, more specifically the Iverson family allowed me to pursue my educational desires of obtaining a Masters in Education. This scholarship made it possible for me to purchase necessary supplies such as text books, computer programs, and pay a portion of my tuition and student fees during Graduate School. For this, I am forever grateful to the Educational Foundation. Now, as the New Jersey Province Archon, I encourage chapter leaders to expose new members to the concept of paying it forward. One tangible way of doing this is by making a $20 contribution to the Delta Society. Small donations over the course of time lead to big dreams for younger Sigma Pi!� To learn more about the Educational Foundation or to contribute to the future of the Fraternity, please visit

sigmapiedfund.org

As a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the United States Internal Revenue Code, gifts to the Educational Foundation are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.


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