The Magazine of Sigma Chi Spring 2021

WORKING ON CHANGE

Sigma Chi members discuss the importance of diversity in their chapter

THE ONLY BARRIER TO MEMBERSHIP IN SIGMA CHI MUST

BE A

PERSON’S CHARACTER AND HIS ABILITY TO ALIGN HIMSELF WITH OUR VALUES.

hope everyone is staying safe and continuing to face the challenges of the ongoing pandemic while working to advance Sigma Chi.

Our chapters and the International Fraternity have worked to advance the cause of diversity, equity and inclusion, and I applaud the progress they have made in recruiting and initiating men of varied backgrounds, ethnicities, religious beliefs and sexual identifications all seeking to align themselves with our values and ideals.

The unfortunate events of this past summer created and demanded a focus on how to take our existing efforts even further. Sigma Chi empaneled in June 2020 a Diversity and Equity Commission, whose members then created a list of recommendations to the Executive Committee, which included the creation of an ongoing committee to continue the work of the commission. I am pleased to have had the ability to create the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee with Order of Constantine Sigs Grand Tribune Mark Quiner, WYOMING 1978, as chairman and Grand Trustee Nathan Neal, GEORGE WASHINGTON 1983 , as vice chairman. They are hard at work with their efforts and will report to the Grand Chapter when it convenes in Scottsdale, Arizona, on June 24-27.

In this issue of The Magazine of Sigma Chi, you will see an emphasis on the subject of diversity, equity and inclusion. One of those articles, “Working

on Change,” is devoted to several of our undergraduate brothers sharing their experiences on what makes their own chapters diverse, their perception of the benefits of promoting diversity and some ways they see to promote it. It is important to note that the progress we will make as a Fraternity will develop and succeed through the efforts of young brothers in our undergraduate chapters.

It is not an issue of why we are upping our game in this area. It is how we will make that a reality. We must agree that we have a history that is not in alliance with our present efforts. It is critical for all of our members, let alone our external constituencies, to know that we are not trying to rewrite our history. Rewriting our history is something we cannot do. However, we have the opportunity and real desire to create a welcoming environment to both existing members as well as future members that reflects the makeup of the campuses where we have existing and future chapters. We must work to remove barriers, both real and perceived, that might not create that welcoming environment and deter men who would benefit our Fraternity. The only barrier to membership in Sigma Chi must be a person’s character and his ability to align himself with our values.

Correction:Onpage21of the winter 2020-2021 issue of The Magazine of Sigma Chi, wemistakenlyreferredtothe degreeearnedbydoctorsof osteopathicmedicine(DOs)as anODdegree,wheninfactthe properabbreviationforitisa DOdegree.Weregrettheerror.

SPRING 2021 / VOL. 140, #1

The Magazine of Sigma Chi, the official exoteric quarterly publication of the Sigma Chi Fraternity, has been published continuously since 1881. Its mission is to reflect through content the Sigma Chi experience; to instill and sustain pride in the International Fraternity; to educate and entertain its undergraduate members, alumni, parents and others interested in the Fraternity; to maintain a historical record of the activities of the Fraternity and its undergraduate and alumni chapters; and to present current issues affecting the Greek-letter system, the Fraternity and its members.

EDITOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR ADVERTISING SALES

Ryan Liskey Ashley Szatala Justin Hanen

CREATIVE DESIGN PRINTING CONTRIBUTORS

Shelle Design Royle Printing Amy Boyle David Jones Wes Holtsclaw

CONTACT

The Magazine, 1714 Hinman Ave., Evanston, IL 60201 editor@sigmachi.org sigmachi.org/magazine CALL: (847) 869-3655 FAX: (847) 869-4906

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View our media kit at sigmachi.org/files/mediakit.pdf. Contact Justin Hanen at (847) 425-4413, or email justin.hanen@sigmachi.org to place an ad.

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We must work to create opportunities so that men are not deterred from consideration by advancing our financial aid efforts; advancing our recruiting efforts to expose the benefits of membership in Sigma Chi to young men who might otherwise have failed to make contact with us due to the perception that we are not welcoming to a diverse membership; and working to be better brothers to our existing members who are culturally or ethnically underrepresented students.

I hope you will welcome the views expressed in this issue. Your opinions and your ability to share them respectfully are vital as we continue to create an environment and a Fraternity that we can all be proud of.

Sincerely,

Steven Schuyler

ARIZONA 1979

71st Grand Consul

HOW TO RECEIVE THE MAGAZINE | Undergraduates: Undergraduate members receive a digital copy of The Magazine through payment of semiannual dues through their chapter. Individual copies are emailed to each undergraduate, and five copies are sent via postal mail to the chapter editor or the chapter house. Recent graduates: The Sigma Chi Foundation gives each recent graduate a one-year complimentary membership in the Life Loyal Sig annual fund program, which includes four digital issues of The Magazine of SigmaChi. At the end of the year, recent graduates may continue to receive TheMagazine through the alumni options. Alumni: Alumni receive The Magazine by contributing to the Life Loyal Sig annual fund program. Persons contributing $1-99 annually receive a digital version of The Magazine via email, and those contributing $100+ annually receive one paper copy each quarter. For either of these, phone subscription sales at (847) 869-3655 or visit sigmachi.org/lifeloyal. A single copy of the current issue is $8.75 and can be purchased by contacting subscription sales. Past issues are $10.25 each.

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GENERAL DEADLINES FOR SUBMISSIONS

Summer issue: March 15 Fall issue: May 1 Winter issue: Sept. 1 Spring issue: Dec. 1

SIGMA CHI CAN MAKE IT SO THAT THE ONLY THING STANDING BETWEEN A MAN AND

HIS INITIATION IS THE CONTENT OF HIS CHARACTER.

Throughout our history, undergraduate Sigma Chi chapters have guided the Fraternity’s best efforts to make the organization a more inclusive one. In this issue of The Magazine of Sigma Chi, we are proud to highlight the work of several undergraduate chapters whose members since the summer of 2020 have taken it upon themselves to act in solidarity with those who have been affected by racism and racial injustice, to effect change in their chapters and communities, and to identify and remove barriers to membership in Sigma Chi at the chapter level.

Undergraduates like those at the Fraternity’s University of Chicago chapter have taken steps educate their members and partner with community organizations that are fighting inequality. Meanwhile, Sigs at the Washington (St. Louis) chapter have worked with their alumni to provide financial assistance to potential new members for whom the cost joining a Greek-letter organization might otherwise exclude. The work of these undergraduate men and others like them have helped to promote diversity and inclusion in Sigma Chi chapters, on their campuses and in their communities.

Their work has been a source of inspiration for the members the International Fraternity’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee since they were appointed

in October 2020 by 71st Grand Consul Steve Schuyler, ARIZONA 1979. Led by committee chairman, Order of Constantine Sig and Grand Tribune Mark Quiner, WYOMING 1978, members of the committee have been working to identify was Fraternity’s efforts in these areas and make recommendations for improvement.

The committee’s work to identify and remove barriers that have in the past excluded worthy men from membership in Sigma Chi is integral to making the Fraternity a more equitable organization. With the committee’s help and our members’ collective effort, Sigma Chi can make it so that the only thing standing between a man and his initiation is the content of his character.

We hope that you enjoy the issue.

Sincerely,

Ryan Liskey

MARQUETTE 2010 Editor

BY WES HOLTSCLAW, EAST TENNESSEE

Sigma Chi Leadership Institute Marks Major Milestones

SCLI begins accreditation candidacy, enters historic partnership with Purdue University and officially enrolls its first students

For more than 70 years, Sigma Chi has been at the forefront of the Greekletter world providing leadership training and opportunities to its members.

From the first Leadership Training Workshop in 1947 through the 1999 launch of the Horizons Huntsman Leadership Summit, the 2015 debut of the Preparation for Brotherhood pledge education program and much more, Fraternity leadership, employees and volunteers have devoted countless hours toward meetings, curriculum development and strategizing for the next big thing that will impact Fraternity members with values-based teachings that influence their lives beyond college.

On Dec. 22, 2020, Sigma Chi Leadership Institute (SCLI) received formal acceptance as a candidate for accreditation by the Middle States Association Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS), which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The milestone represents a game-changing moment for the Greek-letter world: All aspects of the Sigma Chi Leadership Institute, from its leadership to its faculty and staff to its curriculum and services, are on track to meet the MSA-CESS standards for accreditation. Sigma Chi also is the first Greek-letter organization in history to be accepted into candidacy by MSA-CESS.

Starting with the launches of SCLI’s Distance Leadership and Foundational Leadership certificate programs in February, Sigma Chi members became the first Greek-letter undergraduates to be eligible to earn accredited certificates,

credentials and micro-credentials through SCLI that display their character, values and ideals to future employers or chapter members.

This differentiator distinguishes the Sigma Chi experience from any other fraternity or sorority across campuses in North America.

“This status is one that Greek-letter leadership education has never before achieved, and it instantaneously places an added value and benefit to becoming a Sigma Chi,” says Sigma Chi Leadership Institute Chairman Mike Greenberg, ILLINOIS WESLEYAN 1982. “This added layer of third-party validation highlights that Sigma Chi is the preeminent leadership brotherhood aimed at changing the world for the better.”

The leadership certificate offerings from SCLI are slated to enhance, evolve and demonstrate a mastery of important leadership and social skills identified to be underdeveloped in today’s collegiate experience according to industry research from Gallup and the North American Interfraternity Conference.

“Sigma Chi continues in its goal to be the preeminent leadership development fraternity within the fraternal world,” says Grand Consul Steve Schuyler, ARIZONA 1979. “This accreditation candidacy milestone by SCLI comes after several years of a shared vision, investment of time and capital, and just plain hard work.

“This step is just the first of many as we seek to redefine fraternity membership and create value through the personal and professional development of our existing and future members and select third-party partners.”

Not only will Sigma Chi members benefit from SCLI programming during accreditation candidacy. The organization in February also began official expansion of its offerings as a learning service provider to valued partners beginning with Purdue University’s Department of Technology Leadership and Innovation (TLI) within its Polytechnic Institute located in West Lafayette, Indiana.

Purdue and SCLI will first launch a six-week online course this spring titled, “Ramp Up Your Resilience” utilizing master certified SCLI Tracom Resilience instructors Robert Rabe, LOYOLA (CHICAGO), and Abigaile VanHorn and the Clifton Strengths online talent assessment. The focus is using a strengths-based approach to personal development for enrolled students.

“This is another milestone for Sigma Chi and the impact of its transformational leadership values and for the Greek-letter landscape,” Greenberg adds. “We are thrilled to partner with such a forward-thinking, innovative collaborator in Purdue’s TLI team and department. The possibilities for this partnership grow by the day, and we are very excited to build a bright future together for undergraduate students.”

The leadership development arm of the Fraternity and a pioneer in Greekletter education, SCLI was formally unveiled in 2019 following decades of work in groundbreaking educational programming opportunities.

In 2020, Sigma Chi became the first Greek-letter organization to offer its own state-authorized education to its members for the development of transformational leadership following SCLI’s approval by the Illinois Board of Higher Education’s

Sigma Chi International Fraternity and the Sigma Chi Leadership Institute (SCLI) achieved a milestone moment on Feb. 9 as Ryan Jeffries, OKLAHOMA STATE 2023, placed ink to paper and became the first member to enroll in SCLI’s Distance Leadership Certificate during a virtual signing ceremony with SCLI and Fraternity leadership. Starting with the Distance Leadership pilot and the launch of the Foundational Leadership pilot in February 2021, Sigma Chi members were able to begin earning certificates, credentials and micro-credentials through SCLI leadership curriculum that is designed to help them develop and demonstrate a mastery of leadership and social skills.

Private Business and Vocational Schools Division.

The MSA-CESS candidacy also marked a landmark moment for alumni whose decades of generous funding and support for Fraternity programming through the Sigma Chi Foundation enabled the SCLI training courses and certifications.

“This is a groundbreaking moment for the Greek-letter world and further builds a case for the ongoing support from our alumni and donors, showing what Sigma Chi can and will become through hard work and support,” says Sigma Chi Foundation Chairman John Forst, GEORGE WASHINGTON 1984. “By no means is our work complete. This accreditation candidacy signifies that our support for this work and our members is as important today than at any moment in our Foundation’s history, and we must do everything to ensure its success.”

Following the pilot Distance Leadership and Foundational Leadership certificate programs this spring, SCLI will launch its Enduring Leadership certificate during Horizons and debut accredited certificate programs in Authentic Leadership, Values-Based Leadership, Recruitment (micro-certificate) and Resilience (microcertificate) at the 2021 Krach Transformational Leaders Workshop.

“Now is the time to continue our journey forward, transform the future of Sigma Chi and help redefine Greek-letter leadership,” Greenberg says. “We are transformational leaders. The world is hungry for men who are inspired to cultivate change for the betterment of their communities. The time is now to begin this quest.”

BY ASHLEY SZATALA

The Power of Changing One Life

Nitesh Patel, CAL. POLY.-POMONA 2001, helps support children and families in need and encourages a pathway to education through his nonprofit, Each One Teach One

Nitesh Patel, CAL. POLY.-POMOMA 2001, remembers learning many lessons from his parents while growing up, but one was always a defining factor in how he was raised.

“My parents immigrated from India, and they worked on the farms to start building their American dream,” Patel says. “One of the biggest things to them was to get an education that will allow you to get out of poverty, and that will set the stage where you’re earning an income where you can do more with it.”

That lesson in the power of an education was always in the back of Patel’s mind as he went through high school and started college. He eventually earned his Juris Doctor and a master’s in law and said to himself that if he ever became successful, there would be a charitable component that would go with his success. Patel’s family often went back to India and volunteered with children there, but it

was difficult for Patel to see so many intelligent and talented children missing out on an education due to being orphaned or their families lacking basic necessities due to poverty.

In 2008, Patel co-founded Each One Teach One, a nonprofit that helps pay for the health, education, housing and nourishment of orphans and poverty-stricken children in India, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Thanks to teams in India and Mexico that partner with local nonprofits, about 500 kids in India and 280 kids in Mexico are sponsored.

“At Each One Teach One, the concept is that if you get the basic necessities to help you obtain an education, then you’re going to get out of poverty,” Patel explains.

Domestically, Each One Teach One also holds about five events a year that benefit people in the Los Angeles area. In total, the nonprofit assists more than 5,000 families that are experiencing poverty locally and internationally. For his

work supporting families and children in need and encouraging a pathway to education, Patel has been named the spring quarter Mark V. Anderson Characterin-ActionTM Leadership Award recipient.

‘MY NAME FOR HIM IS SUPERMAN’

Mortimer Jones, executive director at the Salvation Army Siemon Family Youth and Community Center in South Los Angeles, first met Patel, who now serves on the Salvation Army’s advisory board, about 10 years ago during an event to help feed community members. Patel wanted to help with a back-to-school event, and together the Salvation Army and Each One Teach One provided backpacks and school supplies to about 250 children. The men’s partnership and community events have only grown since.

Today, the August back-to-school event, called Feed LA, provides 4,000 hot meals, 5,000 backpacks full of supplies, 10,000 pieces of brand-new clothing and 90,000 pounds of fresh and canned food to families. For the first time in September, Each One Teach One held a Kicks 4 Kids event at the Salvation Army and handed out 1,000 pairs of name-brand shoes to underprivileged children. In December, the nonprofit’s annual Christmas toy drive, in partnership with the Salvation Army and Boys and Girls Club of Greater Anaheim-Cypress, California, provides toys and a hot meal to take home for 500 children.

“He uses his nonprofit [for organizing events], but this is Nitesh. He could easily put his name on things, but he hates the recognition,” Jones says. “[Patel] is a driving force and authentic. There’s no hidden agenda. He’s a gentleman who just wants to help others.”

Jones adds that Patel is hands-on with his volunteer work and often becomes one of the Salvation Army team members when he stops by the center.

“He shows up in his T-shirt and jeans and literally starts to lift boxes, pull pallet jacks and attempts to drive the forklift in the parking lot,” Jones says. “He rents a truck, drives downtown, goes to the market, buys pallets and pallets of fresh food and drives the truck over here just to give it all away.

“My name for him is Superman. He calls me up on the phone, and I’m like, ‘Hey, Superman.’ He just jumps right in and gets it done, and he doesn’t have to. If you’re looking for reassurance that good still exists in the world today, then that’s Nitesh Patel. Just look in his direction. He gives so much back.”

Patel insists that he has the easy job and that the true recognition goes to his nonprofit’s donors and volunteers. “I just connect the dots,” he says. And although thousands are helped by Each One Teach One every year, the goal is much smaller.

“You can’t change the world, but you can change one life,” Patel says. “That’s the concept we’ve always believed in. If you bring one smile, that’s good enough. It fills your soul for a lifetime.”

LESSONS THAT LAST

Patel credits the Fraternity for helping him achieve professional success and for helping shape his philanthropic spirit.

“Sigma Chi played a big role in who I am and how I do things. In college, everything we did was bonding and brotherhood. But an important aspect it taught was leadership and giving back,” he says. “I was Pro Consul. When you have 100 guys in a chapter who are diverse and using their different talents, temperaments and convictions and you bring them together, you can achieve great things. It’s similar to an Each One Teach One event. When we host one, we get about 500 volunteers.”

Patel adds that lessons learned in Sigma Chi are enduring.

“[The Fraternity] really does help you prepare you for the bigger world out there. It’s something you’re going to learn and acknowledge from and be able to use forever,” he says. “Fraternities and sororities do a lot of philanthropic work, and doing that and learning from that is a big deal when you’re starting it in college and [interested in] keeping it up throughout your lifetime.”

Patel, CAL. POLY.-POMOMA 2001, center, volunteers with children in India through his nonprofit, Each One Teach One. The organization helps pay for the health, education, housing and nourishment of orphans and poverty-stricken children in India, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Thanks to a team in India that partners with local nonprofits, about 500 kids are sponsored.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE AND THE LIVES OF OTHERS

A person with good character shows trustworthiness, respect and fairness to others, as well as responsibility and citizenship. Those members who go out of their way to help others and those who overcome obstacles and lead with integrity are good candidates for the Mark V. Anderson Character-in-Action™ Leadership Award.

Sigma Chi introduced the award to recognize the selfless acts of brothers. A formal recognition by the Fraternity allows non-members to appreciate the scope of the organization. For information about the award, see sigmachi.org/character

BOOKS BY SIGS

Straddling the Abyss: Creating Success Through Perseverance, Timing, and a Little Luck

By John Bader Jr., ALBION 1960 / ISBN: 978-1642377927 / GatekeeperPress;Oct.25,2019

The main theme in StraddlingtheAbyss is to not be afraid of failure: Setbacks are part of the learning process and the building blocks that form the foundation for all successful companies. Bader describes the numerous risks he took in building successful business platforms, why some promising ventures were failures and how to avoid similar pitfalls when starting or investing in a business. His stories are designed to encourage people of all ages to leave their comfort zone in order to achieve a rewarding career and life.

Construction Issues in Bankruptcy: Executory Contracts, Mechanics Liens and Other Matters That Arise During ConstructionRelated Bankruptcies

By James Bailey, FLORIDA 2006 / ISBN: 978-1944516628 / AmericanBankruptcyInstitute;Jan.1,2020

This book is designed for those who run construction companies and the bankruptcy professionals who represent them in bankruptcy proceedings to understand the unique aspects of these types of cases. Authors Jay Bender and James Bailey, FLORIDA 2006, detail the aspects of the bankruptcy code that apply in construction-related bankruptcies and detail specific strategies that can be applied to address common issues that arise in construction-related bankruptcies.

The

Deviant’s War: The Homosexual vs. The United States of America

By Eric Cervini, HARVARD 2014 / ISBN: 978-0374139797 / Farrar,StrausandGiroux;June2,2020

Cervini uses recently declassified FBI records, 40,000 personal documents and firsthand accounts to tell how the fight for gay rights began a generation before Stonewall. In 1957, U.S. Defense Department astronomer Frank Kameny was dismissed from his job after being suspected of being a homosexual. He fought back. Kameny founded the Mattachine Society of Washington, which became the first organization to protest the persecution of gay federal employees. The Deviant’s War is a story that traces the forgotten ties of the organization and describes America and Washington’s cultural crossroads, the shocking public battles with Congress and ultimate victory.

The Law of Innocence: A Lincoln Lawyer Novel

By Significant Sig Michael Connelley, FLORIDA 1979 / ISBN: 978-0316485623 / Little,BrownandCo.;Nov.10,2020

Defense attorney Mickey Haller is pulled over by police, who find the body of a client in his trunk. It’s apparent to Haller that he has been framed. He decides to defend himself, and while in jail after being unable to post his $5 million bail, Haller begins to build his defense. With the help of detective Harry Bosch and others, he needs to figure out who has set him up. Then, Haller must go before a judge and jury to prove his innocence.

Never Mind, We’ll Do It Ourselves: The Inside Story of How a Team of Renegades Broke Rules, Shattered Barriers, and Launched a Drone Warfare Revolution

By Alec Bierbauer and Significant Sig Col. Mark Cooter, EAST TENNESSEE 1985, with Michael Marks / ISBN: 978-15107209216 / SkyhorsePublishing;Jan.19,2021

This book, cleared for publication by the CIA, is a firsthand account of the origin of the Predator drone program and the dawn of unmanned warfare. The story takes readers inside places like the CIA’s counterterrorism center on 9/11 and secret governmental hangars to detail how an Air Force officer and a CIA officer teamed up to develop armed drones. The narrative reveals the often-conflicting perspectives between the defense and intelligence communities and takes readers on the hunt for Osama Bin Laden.

Seth: The Life and Journey of General Seth Jefferson McKee

By Jerry Ford, SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 1964, and Frank Nickell / ISBN: 978-0578739878 / KellermanFoundationforHistoricPreservation; Sept.30,2020

Four-star Gen. Seth McKee served for 37 years in the U.S. Air Force. In this book, the authors chronicle McKee’s career from the Army Air Corps into the Space Age. Some of McKee’s career highlights include being promoted to brigadier general at age 42 and commanding NORAD upon his retirement in 1973. At the time of his death at age 100 in 2016, he was the highest-ranking, longest-living survivor of the D-Day invasion of Normandy, France, in 1944.

Alien Presence: Declassified ET and Alien Intelligence

By Tom Grooms, TENNESSEE TECH 1970 / ISBN: 979-8653162879 / Self-published;July7,2020

Alien Presence takes readers on a cosmic journey of understanding contacts with extraterrestrials. This book is the first in a three-part series on outer space intelligence about the extraterrestrial future of earth. Forthcoming publications will explore spies and espionage in the space race and winning the space race through effective intelligence.

Solid Ground: A Foundation for Winning in Work

and Life

By Significant Sig Tom Lewis, KENTUCKY 1971 / ISBN: 978-0960095308 / T.W.LewisCompany;March30,2020

Solid Ground offers readers a road map for how to create a successful life and career. Lewis, an entrepreneur and philanthropist, shares advice and his journey of overcoming career setbacks and a life-threatening illness to achieve success and fulfillment. Each chapter covers an important building block, such as personal character and helping others, for building one’s life on solid ground. Lewis also discusses the real-world skills needed to reach one’s potential, and he explores the achievements of success, purpose, meaning, wisdom and happiness.

Prior Bad Acts

By Significant Sig Doug Lyle, M.D., ALABAMA 1968 / ISBN: 978-0578724799 / SuspensePublishing;Oct.20,2020

Drug dealer Dalton Southwell kills a dealer and his entire family to settle a score and send a message. But then, Southwell’s brother, Dennie, is shot, and his plans go wrong. Dr. Buck Buckner is kidnapped from the emergency room, and a pharmacy is robbed and the owner murdered. Afterward, the perpetrators disappear into the Tennessee hills. Buckner’s father calls in Bobby Cain and Harper McCoy to rescue his son from killers who will have little use for Buckner once Dennie recovers or dies. For Cain and Harper, it’s a race against time to find the missing man.

Travels with Hafa

By Nathan Pettijohn, TULSA 2011 / ISBN: 978-1544515755 / Cordurouy;Sept.15,2020

On the heels of a breakup, author Nathan Pettijohn rents an RV and takes off on the road with his dog to explore the Pacific Northwest for the month of October. Along their journey, Pettijohn and his dog Raphael, or “Hafa,” meet with locals in small towns and stay at sites ranging from national parks, trailer parks and campgrounds, to parking lots and open spaces. While going to several bucket-list road trip stops, Pettijohn shares his views on everything from dog training to dating apps in a modern exploration of life on the road.

Fly Into the Wind: How to Harness Faith and Fearlessness on Your Ascent to Greatness

By Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, KANSAS 1995 / ISBN: 978-0062966070 / DeyStreetBooks;Nov.17,2020

Part spiritual guide and part call-to-action, Fly Into the Wind combines Lt. Col. Rooney’s fighter pilot stories with his discovery of faith and purpose to help readers achieve a philosophy he calls, “CAVU,” after the Air Force acronym that stands for “ceiling and visibility unrestricted.” CAVU describes the perfect conditions for flying a fighter jet. In today’s world of identity politics and division, Rooney’s book aims to show how people are connected by God in more ways than they realize, and that the path to fulfillment begins with changing ourselves in order to better one another.

Outstanding Youth!

By Cooper Rumrill, GEORGETOWN 2022 / ISBN: 978-1636765297 / NewDegreePress;Dec.7,2020

Outstanding Youth! is a collection of vignettes about a group of students throughout their junior year of high school at St Dominic’s, which is a fictitious boarding school located in western Massachusetts. Through his characters, Rumrill explores the essential and unique elements of growing up in the 2010s — and along the way addresses such questions as, “How much do we change after we graduate high school?” and “Is youth wasted on the young?”

Understanding National Wealth: The Triumph of the Most Successful Political Economy in History

By Richard Smith, ILLINOIS WESLEYAN 1979 / ISBN: 978-1645599647 / CovenantBooks;Nov.14,2019

UnderstandingNationalWealth helps readers have a fact-based and objective conversation with others about the United States’ economy and financial health. The author recognizes that information on those two topics is found in several places and shown in different forms. So, Smith has combined and consolidated available data into a national balance sheet containing all private and public sector assets and liabilities to provide readers with a succinct summary of where the nation stands financially.

Criminal

Procedure: A Free Law School Casebook

By Ben Trachtenberg, YALE 2001, and Anne Alexander / eLangdellPress;July22,2020

This casebook is meant to be used for the investigations criminal procedure class taught in law schools and focuses on the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth amendments in the U.S. Constitution. Topics covered in the book include probable cause, warrants, arrests, the Miranda rule, Massiah doctrine, exclusionary rule, the right to counsel and electronic surveillance. Criminal Procedure takes most of its words from U.S. Supreme Court decisions interpreting the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth amendments. The book also covers black-letter law that is tested on the bar exam and explores the practical effects of Supreme Court doctrine on people.

How to Persuade People the Winston Church Hill Way

By Tim Wass Jr., PITTSBURG STATE 2006 / ASIN: B08BFSY5XR / TolenCreekPublishing;June17,2020

Winston Churchill is considered by some to be the best British prime minister of all time. His skills in the art and science of public speaking are legendary, according to Wass. If you want to learn the secrets to success on how to persuade people with words that work, neuro-linguistic programming and evolutionary psychology, then Wass claims that his strategy guide is for you. The guide is infused with Churchill’s wit and wisdom and is designed to help people be more persuasive in their speaking and writing.

History of Heartbreak: 100 Events That Tortured Minnesota Sports Fans

By Dan Whenesota, MINNESOTA and NORTH DAKOTA STATE 1996 / ISBN: 978-1940647418 / Lake7Creative;Oct.6,2020

Minnesota sports fans are no stranger to heartbreak. Twin Cities filmmaker Dan Gaisbauer, who writes under the pen name Dan Whenesota, turned to many of them to help him compile a list of the most devastating moments in history. Featured moments in the book include the Lakers leaving and the original “Hail Mary.” However, History of Heartbreak is more than just a collection of unforgettable moments. It’s a tribute to Minnesota sports fans’ spirit and unwavering loyalty, and it’s a reminder that those who experience the worst learn to truly cherish the best.

The Damnedest Set of Fellows: A History of Georgia's Cherokee Artillery

By Garry Fisher, CAL. STATE-LONG BEACH 1978 and Zack Waters / ISBN: 978-0881467390 / MercerUniversityPress;Feb.4,2020

This is the story of Georgia’s Cherokee artillery battery during the American Civil War. Fighting in almost every major battle in the war's Western theater, their baptism by fire occurred in east Tennessee. They later fought in battles at Vicksburg, Mississippi, Missionary Ridge and Tunnel Hill near Chattanooga, Tennessee, throughout the Atlanta campaign and on the snowy fields of Nashville. Known for their disdain for army regulations and fighting spirit, The Damnedest Set of Fellows tells the story of a Civil War-era band of brothers.

BY ASHLEY SZATALA

Working on Change

Sigma Chi members discuss the importance of diversity in their chapter

As conversations worldwide during the summer of 2020 turned to fighting racial injustice and the systems that support it, undergraduate Sigma Chis also began having conversations at the chapter level about the ways in which they might tackle the issue in their own communities and make the Fraternity a more equitable one.

In this issue of TheMagazineofSigmaChi,we talk with undergraduate Sigs at chapters throughout North America who looked inward for ways to do their part in standing against racial injustice.

Sigs like University of Chicago chapter members Ishaan Patel, 2022; Luke Teasley, 2023; and Jake Fauske, 2021; brought their brothers together to discuss areas where they’ve witnessed inequality and racism on campus and in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, and then they got involved with community organizations that are making a difference.

Others, like RJ Hullum, SAN DIEGO STATE 2022, pursued a campus leadership role that would allow him to examine and influence Greek-letter life through the lenses of diversity, equity and inclusion. Hullum was elected as the San Diego State University Interfraternity Council’s first vice president of diversity and inclusion in July 2020 and has since guided Interfraternity Council chapters in creating chapter development plans.

Likewise, 71st Grand Consul Steve Schuyler, ARIZONA 1979, appointed the members of Sigma Chi’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee to examine the organization’s efforts in these areas and make recommendations for improvement. In this issue, we also talk with Schuyler and Grand Tribune, Order of Constantine Sig and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee Chairman Mark Quiner, WYOMING 1978, about the committee’s work so far and the ways in which its members are working to identify and remove barriers to membership in Sigma Chi, so that the only thing standing between a man and his initiation is the content of his character.

We hope that you enjoy learning about the Fraternity’s diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in this Magazine issue.

“With diversity, both ethnic and intellectual, comes different ideas and you get to meet a bunch of new people, so that was important to me when [joining] that I wasn’t joining a homogenous group of people. It was diverse in every sense of the word.”

- Ishaan Patel, CHICAGO 2022

The act wasn’t new, but the response was new in its sense of breadth and reckoning. Demonstrations across the United States quickly sprung in May 2020 and sparked similiar movements worldwide amid civic and social unrest. A renewed urgency was made to confront systemic racism, the processes keeping it in place, the impact it has on people and how to dismantle it.

Conversations regarding diversity and inclusion occurred in nearly every group of people, whether it be a professional, educational or social one. It was certainly a conversation that Fraternity chapters throughout North America were having, and they acted immediately to show their solidarity with those affected by racism.

Brothers at the University of Chicago posted on social media and outlined educational literature, books and Netflix documentaries for those who didn’t know much about the subject to learn more about the history of racial prejudice in the United States. Afterward, they had a large Zoom videoconference call where brothers talked about the different ways they have seen racism in their communities and ways everyone could help make their communities better.

“The chapter came together on its own volition right away and started a big funding campaign between our brothers in support of the [Black Lives Matter] movement as a whole but more specifically on a community level to foster change in our Chicago community,” Consul Jake Fauske, 2021, says.

The chapter donated to the My Block, My Hood, My City organization, which provides underprivileged youth with an awareness of the world and opportunities beyond their neighborhood, and it also has helped local small businesses damaged by summer protests or struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’re in the south side of Chicago. We want to make sure we contribute to the place where we’re living.”

Around the same time, Pepperdine Consul Antonio Gutierrez, 2021, put out a statement addressed to brothers and friends: “I take great pride in the diversity of my chapter’s membership and I refuse to be a bystander to an injustice so blatant and cruel,” he wrote before listing ways those with privilege can begin to enact change in their community.

The Spirit of Sigma Chi states that “friendship among members, sharing a common belief in an ideal and possessing different temperaments, talents and convictions, is superior to friendship among members having the same temperaments, talents and convictions and that genuine friendship can be maintained without surrendering the principle of individuality or sacrificing one’s personal judgement.” It’s a theory that started with the Fraternity’s Founders more than 160 years ago and still rings true today.

Although the Fraternity can offer guidance on what men to recruit, how to run the chapter and what philanthropic activities to undertake, it’s ultimately up to the men of the chapter and the chapter itself to decide. On their own, many chapters and their members actively work to promote diversity and inclusion in their brotherhood, on campus and in their communities. Below, members share

what makes their chapter diverse, the benefits of diversity and how they promote it around them.

FOSTERING INTELLECTUAL DIVERSITY

Ishaan Patel, 2022, remembers having a stereotypical idea of what a fraternity is and the types of members it attracts when he arrived on the University of Chicago campus. It wasn’t until an older student on the school’s squash team and member of Sigma Chi explained what it was like living in the chapter house that Patel considered joining the Fraternity.

“When I saw all of the brothers together at [recruitment] events, I could see that this Fraternity was not like [others],” he says. “With diversity, both ethnic and intellectual, comes different ideas and you get to meet a bunch of new people, so that was important to me when [joining] that I wasn’t joining a homogenous group of people. It was diverse in every sense of the word.”

Luke Teasley, 2023, agrees and says the diversity of the chapter was immediately apparent.

“When you look around, it’s not only diverse by race, but it’s also diverse in what people are interested in and the type of people they are,” he says. “When you talk to all these different guys and get them all in the same room together, then you create a really good environment.”

The brothers say the chapter seeks out diverse men of character, but the true diversity lies in the chapter’s recruitment of different types of people with different types of interests and ideas. Through maintaining a respectful and comfortable environment for dialogue, ethnic, racial and intellectual diversity can flourish. They cite their experiences growing up as helping inform their thought processes. Patel grew up in an Indian household and says the sharing of values between different households can be beneficial. Teasley grew up in a half-Korean household and remembers how valuable it was to see his parents interact with each other’s cultures.

“Expanding your horizons in diversity of thought and the things you’re exposed to is the only way to grow. If you’re just surrounded by like-minded people, it’s impossible to reach new boundaries socially and intellectually, etc.,” Patel says. “That’s one of the main reasons diversity is so important, as [Teasley] said, both ethnically and intellectually. Because without that, there’s not a way to expand your horizons, and there’s not really a point in attending college. I think diversity is a cornerstone for that.”

Teasley agrees.

“The way I see it, we all are in our own little bubble, and when you only talk to people who are like you, that bubble just gets reinforced thicker and thicker, and it stops you from being able to interact with people who are very different than you,” he explains. “When you have diversity in a chapter like ours, basically what happens is that bubble breaks, and you get to interact with everyone and kind of form a bubble over the chapter where everybody’s positive energy can reinforce each other, and it’s just a really great environment.”

“When you look around, it’s not only diverse by race, but it’s also diverse in what people are interested in and the type of people they are. When you talk to all these different guys and get them all in the same room together, then you create a really good environment.”

- Luke Teasley, CHICAGO

2023

LEADING OTHERS IN DIVERSITY, INCLUSION

In July 2020, San Diego State University’s Interfraternity Council added the position of vice president of diversity and inclusion to its executive board. RJ Hullum, 2022, knew immediately that he wanted to apply for the role.

“I saw it, and I was like, ‘Oh wow, this is perfect. I can definitely do this role. Nobody’s going to do it as well as I am,’” he says. “I had to challenge for it and pretty much say I’m the best man for the job. I’ve been rocking with it ever since.”

Hullum is biracial and attended a diverse high school just outside of San Diego.

“To me, diversity is a simple thing. But I had to relearn it and refit it toward today and how it applies to the school,” he explains. “It’s important to celebrate [diversity in Greek-letter life] because in the differences is where we draw strength. I think that has been lost in a lot of things.”

The goal of Hullum’s role is to analyze the IFC through the lens of diversity and inclusion and make recommendations for improvements. One of his first acts in the role was for each member organization to create a chapter development plan that outlines how each chapter is going to contribute to conversations on diversity and inclusion.

“For our chapter development plan, we want to focus on the now while still taking into account the past. To do that we’re using the [Fraternity’s] ValuesBased Decision Making model to correct our actions. We understand that chapter education is key, and our chapter has to have that individual initiative to promote diversity, equity and inclusion,” Hullum says. “We have to show that our actions are reflecting that. That really starts by owning up to past actions that have happened, whether it was in our chapter, on campus or in the community. Just own up to it and try to make a difference. That’s really important.”

The chapter also is interested in establishing a scholarship to aid those in underserved and underprivileged communities. The intention is that it would benefit freshmen, potential new members who can’t afford dues or a student who needs help purchasing books for classes.

“This is a personal passion project of mine. It will provide them that level of access that a lot of us take for granted. I’m one of those kids who didn’t have access to a ton of wealth growing up, and coming to college, just having that kind of support structure that Sigma Chi gave me was incredibly instrumental in my development as a man and my growth as a student,” he says. “Giving that opportunity to kids who just want that opportunity to go out and do great things, having somebody who believes in them, is the goal of it all.”

Hullum also is interested in organizing a diversity summit among colleges and universities in the area so that change can happen in the greater San Diego community.

“It’s a role that has been created for the first time, so I’ve just been seeing what exactly I can do with it. I’ve also been trying to do my best to educate myself about these topics,” he says. “Diversity, equity and inclusion have an important role in just about everything that we do. They’re where we’re able to truly develop. It’s just up to the individual and the individual’s initiative as to whether they’d like to embrace it and start changing themselves for the better.”

SUPPORTING ALL MEMBERS

Growing up, Franck Pirchiner, FLORIDA ATLANTIC 2023, feared that he wouldn’t be able to obtain a driver’s license at age 16, go to college or find meaningful employment.

His family was living in Brazil, and before Pirchiner was 2, they illegally entered the United States through Mexico to start a new life. Through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy, or DACA, he has been able to receive work authorization and temporary protection from deportation, thus allowing him to experience the same milestone opportunities as his peers.

In June 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court, which had heard arguments for DACA’s termination, upheld the program.

“It’s a tricky situation. From one side, you could see [DACA’s potential termination] as counterintuitive, but then you could see it as they’re trying to get rid of it to create a program that will actually give a pathway to citizenship because DACA doesn’t offer that,” he says. “It’s like a limbo. You don’t know if anything’s going to get done for you or what’s going to happen.”

Pirchiner’s chapter brothers rallied around him after the ruling, and when he did an interview with a local television station, the chapter watched it together.

“They know about my situation. Regardless of political opinion, regardless of anything, they all pretty much agree that people like me should have citizenship or should have a pathway to citizenship. They’re very supportive of everybody [in the chapter],” he says. “They all say, ‘It would be unfair for you to go back. Yeah, you’re a Brazilian citizen and you know how to speak the language, but you’re not Brazilian like that.’ I’m way more American than I’m Brazilian.”

Pirchiner says his story is exemplative of how the Florida Atlantic University chapter approaches recruitment. At the chapter, recruitment of people with diverse backgrounds is an unconscious culture, and each member is supported.

“We don’t look for, ‘Oh, this guy’s from this place and this guy’s from that place. We look for whether they fit The Jordan Standard, and we see if we like them as a person,” he explains. “That’s obviously going to bring people from all walks of life because those virtues and liking someone is bound to produce unique people. I think that’s what helps us be so diverse. It kind of happens naturally.”

“I know that making sure all brothers feel comfortable regardless of their background has been an important focus of ours, historically. I feel like overall we’ve been very successful with that and will continue to make that a priority.” - Simon Dawson, WASHINGTON (ST. LOUIS) 2023

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MAKING A MORE EQUITABLE CHAPTER

The Washington University chapter in St. Louis has been working the past few years to make joining the Fraternity an equitable process and crafting a safe space within the chapter for both members and guests. Realizing those goals has taken on new meaning after an Abolish Greek Life movement took root on campus in summer 2020 and criticized fraternities and sororities for perpetuating a culture of exclusion.

In response, the chapter’s newly formed diversity and inclusion committee has been working on implementing ways that would make Fraternity life more accessible, Consul Simon Dawson, 2023, says. One way is through the chapter setting up a scholarship program through its alumni network that would allow anybody, regardless of their socio-economic background, to join. Already, the chapter has a transparent recruitment process and gains funds throughout the Fraternity so that nobody has to pay to participate in recruitment and anyone from any background can experience the process.

“We’re trying to break up the elitist culture that is sometimes associated with fraternities in general. Obviously, conflict is never easy, but I think good things come from a disagreement in opinions,” Dawson says. “I think overall it was a good thing in the sense that the [Abolish Greek Life] movement got a lot of fraternities on campus to reflect on the state of Greek[-letter] life in general, and it led to the [executive] board to start putting concrete plans in action that would improve the stigma that people have toward fraternities and break that stereotype.”

The chapter deferred on recruitment in the fall 2020 semester partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic but also because it wanted to have those plans solidified on how it would address diversity and inclusion and could share those plans with recruits and the student body as a whole. The intention is to deeply instill the values of diversity into new members while they’re going through the pledge-education process and to also get feedback from peers outside of the Fraternity.

“We wanted to make clear to the student population that we weren’t trying to bypass what was going on on campus,” Dawson says. “We wanted to show that this is something we take very seriously and something we’re going to continue to work on in years to come because I think as a consensus our whole chapter is very much on the same page that we want to see a better version of our chapter in the future.”

He adds that the entire chapter and alumni mentors, not just the executive board, had a say in the plans being made.

“When I was contacting the entirety of the chapter, we were having a lot of engagement and a lot of great discussions about these topics,” Dawson says. “I know that making sure all brothers feel comfortable regardless of their background has been an important focus of ours, historically. I feel like overall we’ve been very successful with that and will continue to make that a priority.”

ADDRESSING ALLEGATIONS

Reading what was posted on the Black at Pepperdine Instagram page during the 2020 summer came as a gut punch to Gutierrez, the chapter’s Consul. The Sigma Chi chapter was mentioned several times for racist behavior or remarks both recently and in the past, and Gutierrez had no idea about these incidents.

“I’ve only been a member for four semesters, and a lot of these events were coming from things that had happened before I became part of the chapter,” Gutierrez says. “I was absolutely taken aback by the things that I read, and I was super confused. I didn’t really know what was going on. I was like, ‘Are these really the men that I pledged myself to?’”

The posts prompted the chapter to hold serious conversations with individual members and hold internal investigations into what happened. Prior to that summer, there was nothing in the chapter’s bylaws on how to address allegations of racism. Chapter leadership added a zero-tolerance policy regarding allegations, and any member implicated is subject to judicial review and possible removal. The chapter also created an empowerment committee to address diversity and inclusion and how the chapter stands up for underrepresented communities.

One of the chapter’s priorities is to start mixing more with other campus organizations, Gutierrez says. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity held a feminist book club for men that touched on intersectional identities like gender, sexuality, race and class and the discrimination of people based on these identities, and members of the chapter sat in on some of these talks. Through the empowerment committee, the chapter set a goal to create a similar internal book club. The chapter also wants to interact with more communities of color and participate in educational workshops and events. In addition, Gutierrez says, chapter leadership has encouraged members to publicly show what causes they stand for on social media and to make sure that what they post is reflective of what the chapter stands for.

“Our chapter is easily the most diverse chapter on campus, and we have brothers from all over the world. That’s something we pride ourselves on,” Gutierrez says. “We felt the pressure on ourselves to hold ourselves and brothers accountable for their actions and moving forward how we can be better as a chapter.”

Gutierrez says the purpose and intention of the committee will shift throughout the year, and right now it is focused on recruitment and how the chapter will engage potential new members.

“Even if they aren’t a person of color, joining a chapter that stands for promoting diversity and inclusion of different cultures and racial and ethnic backgrounds says a lot,” Gutierrez says. “We didn’t take a pledge class [fall] semester, so it will be really visible in this upcoming recruitment in showing what our chapter stands for, who our chapter stands for and what it’s going to look like to be a Sigma Chi.”

BY RYAN LISKEY, MARQUETTE 2010

Working Toward a More Equitable Future

LFraternity leaders discuss the formation of Sigma Chi’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee

ike many organizations, the Sigma Chi International Fraternity during the summer of 2020 renewed its focus on seeking ways to make the Fraternity a more diverse, equitable and inclusive organization. Seventy-first Grand Consul Steve Schuyler, ARIZONA 1979, empaneled in June a commission to gather feedback from undergraduates and alumni in these areas and then make recommendations to the Executive Committee (EC) on steps the Fraternity should take to that end.

That commission, led by Chairman Taayo Simmonds, DALHOUSIE-ST. MARY’S 2009, recommended Sigma Chi form a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee and that, pending a vote at the 83rd Grand Chapter, it become a permanent standing committee and be represented on the EC by a diversity and inclusion officer. Schuyler appointed Order of Constantine Sig and Grand Tribune Mark Quiner, WYOMING 1978, to chair the committee in the interim and guide its members’ efforts.

Below, Schuyler and Quiner answer The Magazine’s questions on the committee’s work so far and the road that lies ahead:

When did it become apparent to you that the Fraternity needed to renew its focus on work related to diversity and inclusion and to form a committee devoted to those efforts?

Schuyler: Sigma Chi has had efforts to improve diversity and inclusion within the organization for some time. With the events of 2020 and the groundswell of attention to diversity and inclusion in the Greek-letter community overall, it was clear to us that we needed to expect more in this important area.

Why did you pick Grand Tribune Quiner to lead the Fraternity’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee?

Schuyler: One of the recommendations of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission was to create a standing committee within Sigma Chi and give it representation on the Fraternity’s Executive Committee. The Grand Tribune is already a non-voting member of the EC, and I thought that Brother Quiner was well suited to this task thanks to his fraternal and professional skillsets.

Mark, why did you agree to serve as the commission’s chairman? Why do you feel as though the committee’s work is important?

Quiner: I viewed it as an opportunity to assist and guide the Fraternity through some challenging issues in some challenging times. And in my role as Grand Tribune, I think it is important that we commit ourselves to being a Fraternity that is committed to its values and living those values.

What qualities and sorts of qualifications did you look for when selecting the other members of the committee?

Schuyler: I hand-selected committee members who have particular experiences and skills in the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion. I also sought individuals with particular life experiences that can aid the committee in its work. I also sought individuals who, in addition to possessing such skills and experiences, also represent diverse segments of our brotherhood.

What does the International Fraternity hope to accomplish by establishing a standing committee on diversity and inclusion?

Schuyler: The Fraternity hopes to make improvements in our ability to attract a more diverse individual within our ranks that reflects the overall diversity at our host institutions. The only barriers to becoming a member in Sigma Chi should be about a person’s character and their ability to live by our values.

How will the Fraternity measure its successes as they relate to diversity and inclusion?

Schuyler: These measures will evolve as our work progresses. What I can tell everyone is that we will not measure progress by how many members of certain ethnic or religious groups are represented at a specific chapter. Our success will be measured by our ability to remove barriers that may have contributed to men being excluded for consideration in past years.

What sorts of barriers to membership in Sigma Chi have the committee identified?

Quiner: The committee has engaged in several discussions regarding barriers to membership. And although the committee is still in the initial stages of formulating its thoughts, we have discussed the hope that one day membership in Sigma Chi will be viewed as available to all. This availability would be without barriers. We are solely focused on finding men of character who not only meet the qualities found in TheJordan Standard, but are also committed to living our values for the rest of their lives.

Schuyler: Some barriers to membership in the past have included race, religion and socio-economic status. Although we have made great strides in these areas over the past decade, there continues to be a perception that fraternal life is limited to a narrow band of the general student population. We must up our game operationally and in our recruitment so that over time our chapter populations will mirror the general student populations at our host institutions. I wish to emphasize the great work of our chapters to reduce barriers to recruitment by Sigma Chi across the International Fraternity. Some challenges will be easier to identify and remove. Others are more subtle and will take a collective effort to remove. Regardless, I know our undergraduate brothers are up to the task.

What have the committee’s members been charged with?

Schuyler: The committee has been charged with collecting opinions throughout the spectrum of undergrad and alumni brothers on identifying where our brotherhood feels we need to make progress in these vital areas and develop recommendations to the EC on how to make tangible and measurable improvements.

What have been the committee’s initial areas of focus?

Quiner: The committee began its work focusing on the recommendations from the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission chaired by Brother Simmonds. The charge to the committee from Grand Consul Schuyler was to consider those recommendations and report back to the Executive Committee.

How do Sigma Chi’s efforts to increase diversity and inclusion compare to those of its interfraternal peers?

Schuyler: The North American Interfraternity Conference, as well as individual fraternal peers, are actively engaged in this area as Sigma Chi is. This is being developed and practiced at the Interfraternity Council level across campuses, and Sigma Chi will be an active, engaged partner with our fraternal partners in this area.

In your view, what can chapters do to make sure their recruiting efforts are supporting a diverse chapter culture?

Schuyler: First, I want to commend our chapters for the progress they have made during recent years. We have many chapters where their membership represents a diverse and multicultural makeup. We need to look at where we are making real effort in this area and then look to expand those efforts across our chapter landscape. Educational offerings from the Sigma Chi Leadership Institute will play a huge role in this area.

Quiner: I think merely being aware of the issue, and also focusing on keeping Sigma Chi an organization of members who are committed to our values. The rest will resolve itself.

What else should readers know about Sigma Chi’s diversity, equity and inclusion efforts?

Schuyler: We cannot change our past, but we can certainly change our future so that when we are talking about men of different talents, temperaments and convictions, that the phrase includes in its broader statement that Sigma Chis are diverse individuals who are not defined by ethnicity, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual orientations. We want those aspects of diversity to be folded into the statement when someone says, “He is a Sigma Chi.”

Diversity and Inclusion Committee Members

Chairman and Order of Constantine Sig Mark Quiner, WYOMING 1978

Vice chairman and Order of Constantine Sig Nathan Neal, GEORGE WASHINGTON 1983

Yousuf Al Khan, NORTH TEXAS 2012

Adam Carrillo, SAN DIEGO STATE 2021

Order of Constantine Sig Victor Felts, AUSTIN PEAY 1991

Jeremy Fernandes, CINCINNATI 2017

Brandon Gross, MIAMI (FLORIDA) 2009

Asad Jalib, BROCK 2019

Adam Joiner, TARLETON STATE 2014

Jared Kuykendall, OKLAHOMA STATE 2021

Robin Pelayo, KETTERING A 2022

Ethan Pickering, CASE WESTERN 2015

Order of Constantine Sig Cory Rigler, MONTANA 1998

Kimberly Kuspa, Fraternity accountability coordinator

Sharing Brotherhood IN A NEW WAY

In Hoc Napa Valley, Sigma Chi’s first official wine brand, celebrates the Fraternity’s history and ideals

Brandon Chaney, INDIANA 1993, was sharing a glass of wine with Jim Cunnane, INDIANA 1993, when the conversation turned to discussing how cool it would be if Sigma Chi had its own wine. Not just the kind where the words “Sigma Chi” or the coat of arms are on the label, the pair said, but where the Fraternity’s history and ideals are celebrated.

“Sigma Chi has such an amazing history, and there’s a lot of things about Sigma Chi where as you go on with life you kind of forget about,” Chaney says. “What if we created a wine brand that celebrated the history and was almost like a secret handshake with Sigma Chis?”

Chaney, proprietor and CEO of Fairwinds Estate Winery in California’s historic Napa Valley, pushed the idea to the back of his mind until COVID-19 shut down traditional business operations in March 2020. Chaney began promoting his winery and direct-to-consumer sales on Sigma Chi Facebook groups, which caught the attention of Sigma Chi Foundation Director of Development Jim Lawson, SAN DIEGO STATE 1985.

Lawson was looking to hold a wine tasting fundraiser in Napa Valley and reached out to Chaney. Eventually, Chaney brought up his idea about a Sigma Chi wine, to which Lawson responded that another Napa Valley Sig had bottled a custom Sigma Chi wine in 2005 for the Fraternity’s 150th anniversary celebration at the 75th Grand Chapter in Cincinnati.

“It’s been done before, and it can be done again,” Lawson recalls saying.

“The idea was we can make a series of amazing, limited-production wines, and we can tell the stories of Sigma Chi and unpack those stories in a very elegant way,” Chaney adds.

The two started pitching a Sigma Chi wine brand to Fraternity leadership, and in July, In Hoc Napa Valley was launched. Twice a year, two types of handcrafted wine made exclusively for the brotherhood by Fairwinds Estate Winery are shipped to wine club members, and 20 percent of the proceeds benefit Sigma Chi’s International Balfour Award winner and finalists. The inaugural 1,000-member limit was met for the first shipment in October, and the expanded membership of 1,855 was quickly filling up at the time of this writing for the March shipment.

REALIZING A PASSION PROJECT

Chaney views the wine industry as an artistic passion, and it’s been an interest of his since childhood.

His father is a retired professor of tree physiology at Purdue University, and his mother, an artist, ran the overseas study programs for the university’s continuing education department. Often growing up, the family traveled to Europe for sabbatical leaves and the overseas study program. The European wine culture intrigued Chaney, and he was fascinated by the years on the wine bottles.

“I started collecting wine as an 8-year-old thinking I would save it for when I was 30,” he says. “Of course, that wine tasted [terrible] because I didn’t save it properly. But that’s kind of where the seed was planted for the wine industry.”

In college Chaney studied finance and art history, and after graduation he started working for General Electric. At 25, Chaney and his college roommate founded a telecommunications public utilities company in California after the state deregulated the industry. Chaney recently had the opportunity to sell the business,

The inaugural shipment of In Hoc Napa Valley and its contents are pictured. Wine club members received bottles of Founders Red – Courage and The Sweetheart Chardonnay, a note to members and a wine key burned in the Glass Fire. The shipping box is meant to be a keepsake that uses traditional methods of wood fire branding and requires the lid to be screwed off.

and that left him free to pursue other interests. In 2015, Chaney and his college roommate purchased Fairwinds Estate Winery.

“You don’t necessarily get into the wine business to make money. It’s more of a passion project. It’s creating something special in an artistic way,” Chaney explains. “I wasn’t necessarily an expert in producing wine, but when I bought the winery, what came along with it was an amazing team. I brought what I love and leveraged a lot of their expertise, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. I didn’t know anything about telecom when I started a public utility, but I quickly came up to speed and maybe brought a different perspective by doing some innovative things. Now I feel like this is an opportunity to bring some innovative ideas to the wine industry.”

Unbeknownst to him at the time, he would also bring an innovative alumni engagement and fundraising method to Sigma Chi and bring the brotherhood its first official brand of wine.

A SPECIAL EXPERIENCE FOR RECIPIENTS

In the beginning, neither Chaney nor Lawson thought Sigma Chi would be interested in partnering for a wine brand.

“The challenge is you don’t want to associate alcohol with undergrads. Sigma Chi obviously is an undergraduate experience, and it’s an amazing part of the college experience, but it’s also a lifelong membership,” Chaney explains. “This wine brand isn’t designed for the undergraduate community. It’s designed to bring brothers together post-graduation and is a way for them to celebrate the amazing history of what Sigma Chi is all about, its ideals, and if there’s a way we could

Firefighters present the American flag they rescued from Fairwinds Estate Winery on Sept. 28, 2020, to CEO and Proprietor Brandon Chaney, INDIANA 1993. The fire department had attempted to save the Calistoga, California, winery as the Glass Fire burned around the property, but when the blaze began closing in, firefighters had to give up and leave.

also leverage that to raise money for a specific cause within Sigma Chi to help out undergraduate brothers, then that’s a win-win.”

Sigma Chi Executive Director Mike Church, ILLINOIS 2005, was both excited and hesitant at first.

“My primary focus was to ensure that connecting our brand with an alcohol product was done in a way that was a value-add to the premier nature of Sigma Chi without detracting from it in any way. Quite simply, Brandon’s business plan and product blew me away,” Church says. “It eliminated all doubt that this would enhance Sigma Chi and provide an offering to our members that they really wanted. The attention to detail, quality of the product and connection to our history and heritage has been way more than I ever imagined.”

Sigma Chi’s Executive Committee approved the idea, and Chaney and Lawson began to plan out the brand, its name, what wines would be included, how it would benefit the Foundation, who would purchase it and how it would be shipped.

“When we thought about the brand name, we wanted to think of something that would resonate with the brotherhood but wouldn’t be in-your-face Sigma Chi,” Chaney says. “In hoc signo vinces, obviously, is our motto, and it’s a salutation. We thought In Hoc Napa Valley is just a great brand name for it.”

Lawson looked at what scholarships weren’t endowed, and he discovered that no one has ever endowed the $10,000 scholarship associated with the International Balfour Award [IBA]. Chaney and Lawson promptly determined that would be the scholarship In Hoc Napa Valley would benefit, and for the first time a $2,000 monetary award was added for the two runners-up if they are pursuing post-graduate education. The pair discussed wine themes and names, and Lawson helped bring in notable Sigma Chi members and figures to accurately detail Sigma Chi history on the backs of the bottles and to also sign certain labels. For example, 22nd Grand Historian and Order of Constantine Sig Dr. Michael Codina, CALIFORNIASAN DIEGO 1993, has signed the back of the Founders series of red wine, and 1997 to 1999 International Sweetheart Metta Krach is the first to autograph The Sweetheart chardonnay. Lawson also helped Chaney launch the wine club membership, where core club wines and special releases are allocated to club members with the lowest seniority numbers first.

“It was really a team effort [to pull it all together],” Lawson says. “To do something creative like this and help the Fraternity has been a dream. I had no idea it would turn into this. I was going to be happy just doing a wine tasting.”

In Hoc Napa Valley launched on July 2, 2020, just days after Sigma Chi’s birthday on June 28.

“Sigma Chi is a leader in the Greek[-letter] community. It’s really cool that they have that vision and are willing to look outside the box at things differently to engage the brotherhood,” Chaney says. “It’s amazing wine, it elevates both brands, and it gives that kind of bond between the two folks in the room [who are Sigs].

A Sigma Chi can bring this to a social event, and only the Sigma Chis would really know what it’s about. Everyone else would just celebrate the wine.”

Chaney intends for the wine shipments to be a special experience for the recipients. He wanted to ship the wine in a keepsake box that uses traditional methods of wood fire branding and requires the lid to be screwed off, and he eventually found a company in Australia that could make vintage-looking boxes. Inside of the first shipment of boxes were three bottles of Founders red wine featuring Benjamin Piatt Runkle, MIAMI (OHIO) 1857, and three bottles of The Sweetheart chardonnay, a letter to the wine club member and an engraved wine key.

However, disaster altered the appearance of one of the included items.

A SYMBOL OF BROTHERHOOD

The Glass Fire, which the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has listed as the 10th most destructive wildfire in state history, began burning on Sept. 27 in northern California and engulfed Fairwinds Estate Winery the following day. The fire department attempted to save the winery, but when the blaze began closing in, firefighters had to give up and leave.

“The day after the fire, I got a call from the fire department. As they were driving off, these guys looked back and see there’s two flag poles. One has the American flag on it, the other has the Sigma Chi flag. They’re like, ‘We have to save the American flag,’” Chaney says. “So they drove back into the forest fire, got out and saved the American flag but left the Sigma Chi one. They were like, ‘We’d really like to present this back to you.’ It was unbelievable. When I went [to the winery] the next day, everything was destroyed, but the Sigma Chi flag was still there. So that’s some cool symbolism.”

Although news of the winery burning down was difficult initially, Chaney says he looks at it as an opportunity to grow the business bigger and stronger. The wine was kept in an underground wine cave, and the In Hoc Napa Valley boxes were kept in an offsite warehouse. The only thing that was in the building were the wine keys.

“[After the fire,] I took a shovel and started walking through the building, thinking of what it looked like before it burned down. There was probably 2 feet of ash. It was still smoldering. I dug and found the wine keys. All of the wood was burned off, but they were stainless steel, so they were still there,” Chaney says. “I took a couple 5-pound buckets from Home Depot and basically rescued the wine keys out of the ash. I laid them out on my driveway and sprayed them off.

“Everyone who got the first shipment got one of the burned wine keys. Even though they weren’t what they were supposed to be, in some ways, they were even more special. It kind of symbolizes the brotherhood and courage, perseverance and coming together. I think in any tragedy you can learn from it, and you can come back stronger.”

Reception to the wine has been overwhelmingly positive. Brothers have taken to social media to share their excitement and show how they are sharing the wine with other brothers, family and friends.

“My hope was the wine brand would bring brothers together and not only have them enjoy the branding and all of that but also reach out to folks in their pledge class who maybe they haven’t talked to in a long time or have people meet up on social media, and that phenomenon has happened,” Chaney says.

Church adds that it has been fun to watch the excitement about the partnership and the product.

“There is essentially unanimity from [wine club members] that this is well worth the investment they made. Other than our Ritual, I can’t think of another thing that so many members have so widely supported – and that should tell us something,” he says. “The fact that the proceeds benefit the Fraternity and build scholarship support for our IBA winner is really a bonus to us, but the principal goal of this partnership is that it is a value-add to our members, and I’m so proud that we’re delivering on that."

The next shipment of wines will go out in late March and contain the White Rose rosé and Norman Shield pinot noir, with the option to add on the Constantine brut. For more information, visit inhocvino.com.

In Hoc Napa Valley Wines

FOUNDERS RED – COURAGE; FALL RELEASE

The Founders red wine commemorates Sigma Chi’s Founders and will be a seven-year series to highlight each one. The “Courage” blend honors Founder Benjamin Piatt Runkle, MIAMI (OHIO) 1857. Twentysecond Grand Historian Dr. Michael Codina, CALIFORNIA-SAN DIEGO 1993, and 20th Grand Historian Eric Hansen, CINCINNATI 1989, are collaborating with Chaney to tell the history of the Founders, and Codina has signed the back of the bottle.

THE SWEETHEART CHARDONNAY; FALL RELEASE

The Sweetheart chardonnay honors the women of Sigma Chi and will feature the signature of a different International Sweetheart each year. The first bottle was signed by 1997 to 1999 International Sweetheart Metta Krach, who is married to 64th Grand Consul Keith Krach, PURDUE 1979. The bottle’s label tells the history of the Sweetheart of Sigma Chi song and what the Sweetheart means to the brotherhood.

NORMAN SHIELD PINOT NOIR; SPRING RELEASE

The Norman Shield pinot noir hails from the Russian River Valley in California.

THE WHITE ROSE ROSÉ; SPRING RELEASE

The White Rose rosé is made in the French style and is a nod to the Fraternity’s official flower and to the White Rose Ceremony that is performed when a member enters the Chapter Eternal.

CONSTANTINE BRUT; SPRING RELEASE

The Constantine brut is a sparkling wine made using the traditional Champagne method. It was an optional add-on to the spring shipment of wine.

ALUMNI CHAPTER NEWS

ALUMNI CHAPTER NEWS

BATON ROUGE

Significant Sig Congressman Garret Graves, LOUISIANA STATE 1994, gave a fantastic talk on friendship, justice and learning at our October meeting. Alumni President John Cadwallader, LOUISIANA STATE 1970, house corporation President Judson Sanders, LOUISIANA STATE 2003, and Chapter Advisor Tommy Bell, LOUISIANA STATE 1984, will lead the alumni chapter in 2021.

~ Order of Constantine Sig Jim Bollinger, LOUISIANA STATE 1976

CENTRAL NEW YORK

Our chapter has been more active than ever in 2020. Syracuse Sigs John Honis, 1983; Ted Collins, 1984; Scott Ward, 1983; Greg Sozek, 1981; Jim Fini, 1983; and Geoff Geruso, 1986; formed the first alumni advisory board to support the active chapter at Syracuse University. Their support has helped the undergraduates resolve financial issues, rewrite their bylaws and complete the fall semester successfully under behavioral and health restrictions.

~ Bill Gerbig, SYRACUSE 1984

CENTRAL OHIO

The Central Ohio Alumni Chapter Sigs have maintained our regular gatherings via Zoom. Our first Thursday gatherings are open to all alumni in the central Ohio area, regardless of undergraduate chapter. Check us out on Facebook or at centralohsigs. com. In December we collected funds for our annual giving campaign where we sponsored two families for Christmas.

~ Rick Mallow, EASTERN KENTUCKY 1985

CHARLOTTE

The Charlotte, North Carolina, Alumni Chapter has not been meeting in person due to the COVID-19 restrictions, and that is the right thing to do. But we have launched alumni Zoom meetings. We held a virtual meeting and shared stories of how we have been holding up during these challenging times. It was good to reconnect with the brothers and set plans to have a consistent meeting schedule.

~ Mike Beroth, AUSTIN PEAY 1985

COLLEGE PARK

We hope to have our annual Sigma Chi Golf Classic and Reception back on this summer. And, the following summer will mark the University of Maryland undergraduate chapter’s 80th anniversary. In the meantime, please reach out to your brothers and make sure they are both physically and mentally healthy.

~Order of Constantine Sig Scott Weber, MARYLAND 1986

DALLAS

We were fortunate to have guest speakers on Zoom each month, which included San Francisco Alumni Chapter President Don Copeland, STEPHEN F. AUSTIN 1989; Sigma Chi Archivist Noah Phelps, NORTHWESTERN 2008; 22nd Grand Historian and Order of Constantine Sig Michael Codina, CALIFORNIA-SAN DIEGO 1993; and Fairwinds Estate Winery owner Brandon Chaney, INDIANA 1993. Our annual golf tournament for 2020 was cancelled, but we will plan another in 2021.

~ Don Knudsen, TEXAS TECH 1971

FRESNO

To date we have hosted the 1950s, ’60s, ’70s and ’80s pledge classes for Zoom meetings. The California State University, Fresno undergraduate chapter housing corporation also has added Greek letters to the south side of the house thanks to a generous donation from Brother George Matoian, CAL. STATE-FRESNO 1982. In 2021, the Fresno State undergraduate chapter will celebrate 100 years.

~ Brad Fischer, CAL. STATE-FRESNO 1981

GREATER MINNESOTA

We have worked to maintain a cadence of online meetings in lieu of our standard social hours. We are always looking for new brothers interested in expanding their network, supporting undergrads or just keeping the spirit of brotherhood alive. Find us on Facebook, or email Tim Sullivan, ST. THOMAS 2010, at tim.sullivan@sigmachi. org for more information.

~ Sullivan

HOUSTON

During the lockdown, we had virtual social hours, a virtual Ritual social hour and a virtual meeting with a report on the new Sigma Chi Leadership Institute, provided by Order of Constantine Sig Bob Shortle, RENSSELAER 1974. With the reopening of Sigma Chi-owned restaurants, leisure and entertainment businesses, we have held a couple of in-person social hours, as well as our monthly luncheon.

~ Eric Arnold, HOUSTON 2010

INDIANAPOLIS

Indianapolis-area Sigma Chis continue to look out for each other during this time of pandemic and quarantines. Though there’s no replacement for a handshake or an arm around a shoulder, we stay in touch via calls, texts, emails and social media updates. We look to meet for lunch at noon on Fridays at Daddy Jack's, 9419 Meridian St. Keep checking indysig.org for updates.

~ Curt Franke, BUTLER 1988

LOS ANGELES COUNTY

The Los Angeles County Alumni Chapter has continued to stay connected to alumni and undergrads in our area primarily by phone calls and Zoom meetings. We had a great Zoom meeting on Dec. 17 with Sigs from Los Angeles, New York and the 1855 Wine Club. Our speaker was Fairwinds Winery Proprietor and CEO Brandon Chaney, INDIANA 1993. We are looking forward to meeting in person in 2021.

~ Kevin Bidenkap, ARIZONA STATE 1990

MORGANTOWN

Our alumni association received official recognition by the Executive Committee on Feb. 13, 2020, that we are now a recognized alumni chapter. Our group was founded by 20 members that included 13 Life Loyal Sigs. We have been meeting regularly at Crosley’s Catering. All Sigma Chis, regardless of chapter initiation, are welcome to attend our meetings. For more information, contact us at mumualumnimorgantown@ gmail.com.

~ Todd Ware, WEST VIRGINIA 1971

NASHVILLE

The Nashville, Tennessee, Alumni Chapter has been busy updating and approving new bylaws for our chapter. Great thanks go to Chris Schildknecht, OHIO STATE 2010, for spearheading this effort. We also have conducted frequent calls to check in with one another. Our chapter is poised to move ahead when better times present themselves in 2021.

~ Significant Sig Dan Ryan, MURRAY STATE 1981

NEW YORK CITY

During the COVID-19 lockdown, the New York City Alumni Chapter held weekly chapter Zoom meetings and Zoom brothers’ nights. They included social and NYC Sig talks on job hunting and switching and negotiating college costs, along with sessions on the Sigma Chi Foundation, Sigma Chi Leadership Institute and Huntsman Cancer Institute. The NYC and Los Angeles alumni chapters held a joint Zoom holiday party.

~ Philip Oldham, SYRACUSE 1966

OAKLAND EAST BAY

The Oakland East Bay Alumni Chapter in California has maintained brotherhood during the pandemic by meeting in small groups when possible and on Zoom at other times. Some of our brothers have had the opportunity to play golf while social distancing and on occasion meet for meals, mitigating risks with masks and proper physical spacing.

~ Paul Stella, CALIFORNIA-DAVIS 1997

OTTAWA

The Ottawa, Ontario, Alumni Chapter has maintained its brotherhood during the COVID-19 pandemic by hosting outdoor events, including the Ottawa Sigma Chi Classic golf tournament. This year, the chapter honored Robert Tyre, BRITISH COLUMBIA-SIMON FRASER 1973, by naming the tournament’s new prestigious trophy after him.

~ Nick Ludin, OTTAWA 2012

SALT LAKE CITY

The Salt Lake City Alumni Chapter, in conjunction with the University of Utah undergraduate chapter, recently conducted a White Rose Ceremony for Significant Sig Phil Horsley, UTAH 1960, and for Order of Constantine Sig and Significant Sig Leon Peterson, UTAH 1961

~ Daniel Rondeau, UTAH 2001

SANTA CLARA COUNTY

The alumni chapter has been able to successfully transition to virtual meetings.

~ Winston Yu, SANTA CLARA 2011

SARASOTA

The Sarasota, Florida, Alumni Chapter began virtual luncheons in September 2020. That month, one of our own members, Perse Paxton, MURRAY STATE 1964, described his experience being stuck on a cruise ship when the pandemic hit and then recovering from COVID-19. In October the program director from Sarasota Habitat for Humanity described changes in volunteer activities. Habitat for Humanity is our chapter's philanthropy.

~ Significant Sig Bill Morrow, IDAHO 1967

SPACE COAST

The Space Coast Alumni Chapter in Florida has been able to still hold small monthly meetings and continues to foster brotherhood in the community and with its members. We are, unfortunately, not able to hold a big gathering that includes spouses and significant others for the holidays but will still meet and celebrate our brotherhood and blessings together on a smaller scale.

~ Connor Lynch, BROWN 2017

The Flagstaff Alumni Chapter initiated "The Sigma Chi Trail in Arizona," shown here, with a bronze plaque commemorating 20th Grand Consul Stephen Mather, CALIFORNIA-BERKELEY 1887, who was the founding director of the National Park Service. There are seven such plaques displayed at national monuments in Arizona.

Pictured in the center is Order of Constantine Sig Del Tacconi, UTAH STATE 1962, attending his last initiation in fall 2019. Tacconi entered the Chapter Eternal on Nov. 14, 2020. He will be missed by the Oakland East Bay Alumni Chapter.

Sigma Chi brothers celebrate the informal opening of the Bull and Butterfly restaurant on Sept. 17 in Los Angeles. From left is Order of Constantine Sig and Foundation Board of Governors member Loren Butler, IDAHO 1963; consulting chef Ben Ford, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 1989; and Trevor Johns, LOYOLA MARYMOUNT 2011, who is an investor in the restaurant. Ford developed the menu for the restaurant, which is an ode to Baja, California, ranch cooking, according to bullandbutterfly.com.

In 1967, Capt. Charles “Bo” Haywood left his role guarding Nazi war criminals at Spandau prison in Berlin to serve as an American advisor embedded in Dat Do, South Vietnam. That Christmas, his wife, Diane, faced a LittleDrummerBoy predicament: She needed a special gift for her deployed husband.

She settled on the coveted white gold 1963 Ole Miss class ring crested by the White Cross of Sigma Chi. A meager lieutenant’s salary now supplemented by combat pay made the purchase possible. Thanks in part to a friendly mailman, Diane sent the package out on time.

The recipient – Capt. Haywood – served as the lone American soldier with his South Vietnamese division. Supposedly, both governments had agreed to a 72-hour “no fire, no move” truce for the holiday period. Despite the peace, Capt. Haywood and 30 Vietnamese soldiers helicoptered into War Zone D on Dec. 23. His unit tracked the North Vietnamese Army 4th Regiment of about 3,000 soldiers on Dec. 24 and set up a defensive position on Christmas Eve.

The forward air controller for the mission, a personal friend, checked Division Headquarters to see if anything had arrived for Capt. Haywood. Late afternoon on Christmas Day, “Santa,” flying in his single engine recon plane, air-dropped a very special delivery into the jungle, including a few letters, a six-pack and a small jewelry box.

Capt. Haywood wore that ring as a reminder of the Eta chapter until the end of his life on Oct. 6, 2020.

~ Jennings Hughes, GEORGIA 2015

Hilton Head, South Carolina, Alumni Association Sigs convene at an outdoor picnic to reunite again and share the bonds of brotherhood. Pictured, from left, are Steve Jones, EAST TENNESSEE 1971; Bill Coker, BRADLEY 1966; Dale Gordon, KETTERING 1980; Frank Roach, WILLIAM & MARY 1972; Paul Boes, OHIO STATE 2006; Significant Sig Chuck Duvall, CORNELL 1958; and Ron Bradley, GEORGIA TECH 1960.

Robert Tyre, BRITISH COLUMBIA-SIMON FRASER 1973, presents for the first time the Tyre Cup to the winners of the 2020 Ottawa Sigma Chi Classic golf tournament in Ottawa, Ontario.

ALUMNI CHAPTER ANNIVERSARIES

APRIL

4/6/1911 Tacoma, Washington, alumni chapter, 110 years

MAY

5/15/1916 Central New York alumni chapter, 105 years

Anniversaries are listed every five years.

, who is also a Significant Sig, participate in a University of

We are all Sigma Chis. We choose to be Life Loyal.

The new Life Loyal Sig program provides members with an opportunity to provide additional monthly and annual support to the growth and success of our Fraternity. Combined with the Sigma Chi Foundation’s existing White Cross Trust donor society, eight levels of annual giving provide alumni greater access to Sigma Chi.

Becoming a Life Loyal Sig is as simple as contributing monthly or annually to support Sigma Chi. Giving at any level qualifies because we can all chose to be

Life Loyal. All annual members receive Sigma Chi’s full slate of communications, including The Magazine of Sigma Chi, and supporting at higher levels provides even more exclusive opportunities.

As of Jan. 31 and since the new program’s inception on July 1, 960 brothers have chosen to become Life Loyal Sigs. Learn more and become a Life Loyal Sig today at sigmachi.org/lifeloyal.

CAMPUS CHRONICLES UPDATE

CHAPTER STATS KEY

Our chapters, by the numbers: Fall 2020 initiates Current Undergraduates All-time Chapter Initiates *AsofJan.25,2021

ALABAMA Iota Iota 55 213 2,722

The chapter had a great fall term where we successfully brought in and initiated 55 new brothers into our chapter. Despite being set back from events due to COVID-19, our chapter remains close and hopes are high for the coming semesters after recent elections.

~Jacob Limbocker, 2023

ALBION Alpha Pi 9 24 1,953

The chapter is looking forward to reconnecting with its brothers for the spring 2021 semester. Last fall, we did a great job initiating nine new members despite all the COVID-19 restrictions. However, because of those restrictions, the brothers were able to get very close with one another, and we are eager to continue building those relationships.

~Carter Peek, 2023

ALMA Theta Nu 6 37 516

The chapter is excited to announce the initiation of our new pledge class after their long wait throughout the summer. We had a successful fall recruitment and at the time of this writing were excited to have six men within our pledge class. We had a good Derby Days philanthropic event while abiding by the COVID-19 policies that are being enforced.

~Merrick Bay, 2023

AMERICAN Kappa Rho 9 34 405

The chapter had a very strong semester in the fall of 2020. The members of our chapter kept up academically very well by using virtual study sessions to do better. We also initiated nine new members who uphold and go beyond

The Jordan Standard. They will lead this chapter in a great direction for years to come.

~Matt Liebowitz, 2021

ARIZONA Beta Phi 88 2,694

Our fall theme was overcoming adversity on various fronts. From the obviousness of COVID-19 to internal issues, we had setbacks. But we were able to face it head-on and become better from it. On the other hand, we had two brothers elected to the Interfraternity Council and four chosen to join the Wall Street Scholar Program out of six total program members.

~Moss Avelluto, 2022

ARKANSAS STATE Theta Chi 28 683

We experienced a major setback due to the hazing incident we found ourselves in, but the chapter made major advancements in reformation of chapter values and standards. We are on the doorstep of our restorative justice program, which we all look forward to in order to change the culture here at Arkansas State.

~Robert Mohr, 2022

AUBURN Gamma Sigma 42 64 2,445

The chapter has stayed diligent in our response to COVID-19. Despite this, we managed to get a great new pledge class of 42 guys. We are looking forward to initiating them as soon as the circumstances allow. We are all excited to reopen our house to alumni and friends as soon as it is safe.

~John Stone, 2022

AUSTIN PEAY Eta Xi 5 13 801

During the fall semester, the chapter put together our annual Suicide Prevention Walk with Alpha Delta Pi while also participating in our Anti-Hazing Week and Sigma Chi Apple Pie. We also found a way to do two initiations this semester by doing them outside, and we are looking forward to the spring semester.

~Jonathan Glasgow, 2022

BALL STATE Epsilon Omega 24 69 1,836

The chapter has had a tremendous fall semester. Our chapter has raised nearly $30,000 this semester, making this number an all-time record for our chapter. On top of that, we achieved great recruitment success by initiating 20 new members.

~Jonathon McCoy, 2023

BAYLOR Eta Omega 24 85 1136

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, our chapter has stayed busy by focusing on philanthropy and getting a head start in spring recruitment. During the weeks leading up to school, we managed to raise over $11,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute through our annual move-in fundraiser. In addition, our chapter received the Peterson Significant Chapter Award for the first time in over 30 years.

~Liam Stevenson, 2022

BELOIT Alpha Zeta 1 27 1,631

The chapter completed a safe oncampus semester despite the challenges posed by COVID-19. The brothers were enabled to be actively involved on campus thanks to the work done by Consul Jacob Baltierrez, 2020, and Chapter Advisor Bert Lindstrom, BELOIT 1984. Brotherhood is at an all-time high.

~Benjamin Jensen, 2020

BINGHAMTON Mu Gamma 18 68 141

We initiated 18 new members and continued our outreach in community service with the TechWorks Center for Technology and Innovation located in our area.

~Andrew Mattiello, 2022

BIRMINGHAM-SOUTHERN Chi Chi 21 58 506

Despite COVID-19 restrictions, the brothers pursued excellence. Brother Matt Reid, 2021, coordinated a philanthropic CallofDuty tournament that all fraternities enjoyed. The money raised was donated to the winning fraternity’s charity, enabling us to maintain our mark of philanthropic excellence. In a world needing financial and physical relief, Matt exemplifies our passion for serving others.

~Cole Kirkpatrick, 2021

BOISE STATE Lambda Xi 27 124 261

The chapter’s most significant accomplishments this previous semester were being able to find a way to not only do community service via roadside cleanup, but also to raise nearly $3,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute via shirt sales while following all COVID-19 guidelines.

~Danny Wing, 2021

BOWLING GREEN Delta Kappa

8 52 1,610

The chapter has done a great job in adapting to the new norm caused by COVID-19. Utilizing virtual events and following safety guidelines resulted in no COVID cases for any active members this past semester. Our chapter leadership has been quick to problem-solve and adapt and has inspired many brothers to take up leadership roles, big and small.

~Michael Rodgers, 2022

BRADLEY Delta Rho

0 39 1,557

We spent the fall semester improving ties with our chapter’s alumni, as stronger communication between undergraduates and alumni will benefit our chapter greatly. We’ve begun to form specific committees consisting of both undergrads and alumni; one is to begin publishing a monthly newsletter with chapter updates, and another is to create a mentorship program between current chapter members and alumni in similar fields.

~Austin Moca, 2022

BRIDGEWATER STATE Theta Zeta

18 33 445

The chapter was headstrong in recruitment at Bridgewater State University through initiating pledges from both the spring 2020 and fall 2020 semesters to gain 19 new members, thus doubling the chapter’s size. The chapter also participated in blood donation and furniture moving to continue performing community service while increasing fraternity and sorority life connections through Ramses Riviere, 2021, and Austin Ocampo, 2020, becoming the sweethearts of Alpha Sigma Tau and Delta Phi Epsilon.

~Nick Collins, 2022

BRITISH COLUMBIA-SIMON

FRASER Delta Omicron

11 59 1,195

During the month of November, our chapter collectively raised over $2,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute by having various brothers participate in No-Shave November, an initiative where brothers do not shave their facial hair during November. Additionally, brothers

have been participating in our community service initiative every week, which is where we help elderly individuals clean and repair their homes.

~Vasko Bjeljac, 2021

BROCK Mu Zeta

0 24 60

During the fall 2020 academic term we accomplished many great things, such as the installation of LED light strips that surround the basement ceiling perimeter, and we also started a new project that will be detailed in our next Campus Chronicles update. Our Mission 365 recruitment training program has also been successful; we recruited 10 potential new members who exceeded our goal.

~Seth Adamson, 2022

BRYANT Lambda Eta

10 49 221

The chapter’s most significant accomplishment from the fall 2020 academic semester would be our perseverance despite the unfortunate circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. We were proud to be one of the first chapters to host a Founders’ Initiation since its creation at the beginning of our brotherhood. During unfortunate times we were able to turn obstacles into opportunities.

~Timothy O’Brien, 2022

BUCKNELL Kappa

38 106 2,680

The chapter is excited to announce the welcoming of 38 new brothers into our family. At 106 active members, we are thrilled to boast the highest member count in recent memory. Additionally, even in the difficult times brought by COVID-19, we virtually raised over $500 for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation. We look forward to great post-pandemic strides.

~Mike Ritardi, 2022

BUTLER Rho

0 80 2,083

Throughout the fall semester the chapter has continued recruitment efforts by holding both socially distanced in-person events and virtual events. Rho has maintained zero positive cases of

COVID-19 inside the chapter house all semester through new guidelines. Additionally, we held a successful tie-dye event where sororities were able to come to the house and tie-dye shirts.

~Michael Carroll, 2023

CAL. POLY.-POMONA Theta Sigma

10 47 698

The chapter continues to safely recruit new brothers with a fantastic and successful virtual recruitment. Despite many obstacles that stand in our chapter’s way due to the virus, we placed first and second in two virtual philanthropy weeks and continue to grow our sense of brotherhood due to our strong bonds and immense effort.

~Brian Chonos, 2022

CAL. STATE-LONG BEACH

Eta Beta

0 31 865

We were able to perform the Founders’ Initiation to welcome both our spring and fall pledge classes into our brotherhood. Further, we just finished our executive officer elections via Zoom and are excited to welcome the new executive board.

~Blake Tripp, 2021

CAL. STATE-NORTHRIDGE Zeta Xi

5 49 1,111

The brothers of the chapter are continuing to uphold the values of Sigma Chi in these troubling times. Brothers have adapted to the new conditions present during this pandemic by participating in online social events as well as continuing to achieve academic excellence.

~Aidan McCarty, 2021

CAL. STATE-SAN MARCOS

Mu Beta

14 41 156

During the fall of 2020, the chapter was faced with the challenge of being entirely virtual. Despite this great challenge we were able to complete a successful virtual recruitment. The brothers have also successfully started our fundraising early for Derby Days in the spring and have raised over $5,0000 for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation.

~Trevor Abel, 2021

CALIFORNIA-BERKELEY

Alpha Beta

6 50 1,737

The chapter has welcomed seven new members as part of our fall pledge class. We are excited to continue recruitment in the spring, even amid the pandemic. Our house has organized an efficient testing protocol, resulting in zero cases of COVID-19. Consul Alex Okita, 2023, and Pro Consul Jaysan Shah, 2023, will be taking over in the spring.

~Connery O’Neal, 2023

CALIFORNIA-LOS ANGELES

Delta Eta

40 120 1,916

Fall 2020 has been a great term for the chapter. First, we hosted a successful virtual recruitment and currently have 40 pledges that demonstrate Sigma Chi’s values. In addition, we have not had any positive COVID-19 cases in our house. We have been working diligently to improve our house in our chapter strategic planning sessions.

~Nick Darrow, 2023

CALIFORNIA-MERCED

Lambda Delta

5 23 207

The chapter initiated five new brothers by utilizing the online resources provided to us by the university and Sigma Chi. Despite the challenges we face through online schooling, we strive to expand and recruit more students we see exceptional leadership in.

~Romson Abat, 2020

CALIFORNIA-SAN DIEGO Iota Chi

3 33 780

The chapter has pledged to end the year with a renewed set of goals and ambitions. We continue to fully adhere to the COVID-19 regulations and are pleased to welcome our new brothers initiated through our first online recruitment. We are also exploring ways to innovate our community service efforts to provide help for those in need during this pandemic.

~Tim Hornyak, 2020

CALIFORNIA-SANTA BARBARA Zeta Kappa 16 58 1,205

Despite facing many COVID-19-related obstacles, during our fall quarter we were able to initiate 16 new members into our chapter, which continues to grow. We look forward to seeing what each and every one of them will achieve in the future as well as the positive impact they will have on the chapter.

~Alan Thomas, 2022

CARNEGIE MELLON Lambda Pi 0 35 175

The chapter, in the face of great adversity, had a fantastic fall semester. We had zero COVID-19 cases, and our brotherhood maintained good health and high spirits. Through our Ritual, the bonds of our brotherhood remain strong, and we look forward to welcoming many more new members this spring.

~Maxwell Plottel, 2023

CENTRE Zeta Zeta 0 34 1,497

The chapter navigated through the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic by adapting well to consolidate brotherhood in a manner that was safe and precautionary. Over the past semester the brothers found ways to fundraise through online resources and continued to recruit new members in the same manner. Hopeful for the return of normalcy, we look forward to Derby Days.

~Alexander Hazel, 2023

CHARLESTON Iota Epsilon 17 62 578

Our most significant accomplishment was our 100-percent bid acceptance. We were worried about 100-percent acceptance because of the modified COVID-19 recruitment.

~Connor Ledwith, 2023

CINCINNATI Zeta Psi 27 100 2,608

The chapter had a very successful fall semester. Our chapter has been recognized by the university as a model example for how to deal with COVID-19, our GPA has risen, and our brotherhood is tremendous. We are looking forward to the spring semester with our newly

elected executive board.

~Matt Peterson, 2022

CLARKSON Iota Zeta 10 39 563

The chapter prides itself on recruiting and pledging 10 new members in the fall of 2020. Given the current recruitment restrictions due to COVID-19, 10 new members is a large success.

~Jacob Laraway, 2021

COLLEGE OF IDAHO Kappa Lambda 3 10 261

Despite the challenges that COVID-19 took on the college and our chapter, the brothers managed to participate in Rake Up Caldwell and help rake leaves for the elderly and disabled.

~Andrew Ippolito, 2023

COLUMBIA Nu Nu 0 34 1,637

The chapter has adapted to the new realities of the pandemic by holding virtual chapter meetings in an effort to maintain a sense of brotherhood as Columbia University remains online. We have taken action to preserve our values despite the inconveniences created by COVID-19 and now turn our focus toward fielding a virtual pledge class in the coming semester.

~Sam Antona, 2023

CONNECTICUT Gamma Omega 15 64 1,233

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic and all ensuing lifestyle changes, the chapter facilitated a successful virtual Derby Days. Online apparel sales, raffles and games highlighted the fundraising efforts, as the brothers were able to donate $3,319 to the Huntsman Cancer Foundation.

~Garrett Noonan, 2020

CUMBERLAND Nu

5 11 128

The chapter prioritized the safety of our brothers and pledges this semester and made sure that every event we had followed university and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for COVID-19. We were able to hold pledge classes and initiation without sacrificing the safety of our

brothers, as we are the only Greek-letter organization on campus to not have a single member test positive for COVID.

~Abe Gibson, 2021

DALHOUSIE-ST. MARY’S Gamma Rho 6 23 1,153

This fall semester showed a high level of promise for the chapter. We ran a successful Movember campaign to raise awareness of men’s health issues and launched an online challenge to fellow Sigma Chi chapters as a means of raising money for the Huntsman Cancer Institute in an online world. Despite the restrictions of COVID-19, the brothers kept the spirit of Sigma Chi high by initiating six brothers into the order.

~Nolan White, 2022

DENISON Mu 0 21 1,855

The chapter's most significant accomplishment during the fall 2020 academic term is paying off all of our debt. For the first time in a while, we are completely debt-free and are committed to staying out of debt in the following semesters.

~Reed Owens, 2023

DENVER Delta Iota

0 68 1,263

As the fall quarter ends at the University of Denver, the chapter is proud of the past 10 weeks filled with philanthropy, pledgeship and initiation. The chapter initiated 10 new brothers in October who we feel share the same values as us. The chapter hopes to further aid the Denver community as a whole in the winter.

~Steven Weese, 2022

DEPAUL Lambda Omega 9 47 167

We had another outstanding recruitment cycle last quarter and were able to get a normal-sized pledge class regardless of the semi-virtual format. We added many quality brothers and had another consecutive quarter with the biggest class on campus. We also were able to host an additional philanthropy event to help raise money for disadvantaged children in Chicago.

~Trenton Hailey, 2020

DEPAUW Xi 1 53 2,051

The greatest success our chapter had this fall was maintaining and even strengthening our brotherhood despite the difficult circumstances. About half of our brothers were not able to be on campus this fall, but we stayed connected, and chapter operations ran smoothly. As a result, almost all of our brothers plan to return to living in the house next semester.

~Townsend Driggs, 2021

DRAKE Theta Gamma 4 15 578

The chapter has initiated four new members and conducted a successful election for the spring semester positions, including Consul and Pro Consul. We were also able to conduct a very successful philanthropy livestream event on Twitch to raise money for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation.

~Michael Leider, 2023

EAST TENNESSEE Zeta Omega 19 69 875

The chapter this semester conducted a successful and safe semester online. We are proud of the many actives and alumni who are working on the frontlines of the pandemic. We have developed new ways to raise money for the Huntsman Cancer Institute in an online world. We initiated 13 new brothers this semester as well.

~Culton Hensley, 2022

EASTERN KENTUCKY Eta Alpha 10 43 947

The fall 2020 semester has been different yet exciting because we initiated 10 new brothers into the chapter. In addition, we gave out letters to a new chapter sweetheart. With COVID-19 restricting a lot of on-campus events, we fundraised money for our local philanthropy, Rae of Sunshine, through social media.

~Mason Thacker, 2022

ELON Theta Omega

12 47 650

The chapter has worked to battle against COVID-19 during this unique time by social distancing and wearing masks. This November, brothers have been growing out their mustaches to help fundraise money through the Movember Foundation for men’s health.

~Carter Horan, 2023

EMBRY-RIDDLE (DAYTONA BEACH) Eta Iota

7 44 936

A new virtual chapter environment has allowed us to keep the bonds of brotherhood alive and to continue to have Ritualistic chapter meetings. The virtual environment has allowed us to continue to be an active chapter and be able to initiate new brothers.

~Gary Wegener, 2020

FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON Iota Kappa

11 40 395

The chapter has now concluded its fully online semester. With all on-campus activities closing, we have found alternate ways to raise money through our social media accounts. Our fall 2020 recruitment was put on hold until the spring semester; however, we have held Zoom meetings to gain interest for potential new members.

~Erik Simonsen, 2022

FLORIDA Gamma Theta

36 142 3,465

The chapter overcame many challenges in the fall semester related to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Despite these obstacles, we were able to initiate 36 new brothers. We are tremendously excited to welcome these new brothers and continue our Sigma Chi tradition in this upcoming spring semester.

~Jack Ward, 2021

FLORIDA ATLANTIC Lambda Tau

42 64 265

Our recruitment team went above and beyond this semester spending countless hours on Zoom with potential new members. The successful fall recruitment allowed us to initiate our largest pledge class of 27 men. Our initiation went beautifully and was a sign

we won’t let this pandemic hurt us. We ended the semester by donating 100 toys to a local school.

~Kyle Duke, 2023

FLORIDA GULF COAST

Lambda Zeta

0 43 306

The chapter had a very eventful semester. Knowing we reside in an area with an elevated elderly population, we made sure to dedicate a large amount of our time to putting into place, then enforcing, guidelines and precautions that will help not only keep those in our chapter healthy, but also all of those in our community.

~Alec Adamy, 2023

FLORIDA SOUTHERN

Epsilon Sigma

8 31 808

Like many others, the chapter has had to deal with the effects of the pandemic: online recruitment, online mixers and distant brothers. I believe our greatest achievement has been our recruitment success, the ability to put on mixers and above all else staying united as brothers.

~Andrew Roman, 2020

FORT HAYS Zeta Tau

9 33 639

We held a handful of recruitment events that allowed us to initiate nine new brothers into our Fraternity. We are delighted with the men that joined us and believe each one upholds The Jordan Standard. Throughout the semester, we were allowed to have in-person as well as Zoom meetings with COVID-19 safety protocols to assure the safety of every member.

~James Foster, 2023

FURMAN Iota Nu

0 43 700

Our chapter has been upholding a cycle of success and improvement. Service has continued to be a largely integral part of this semester. We supported a local organization in Greenville, South Carolina, called United Ministries. We’re excited to continue another great year with our fantastic brothers.

~Justin Perez, 2023

GEORGE MASON Iota Xi

3 25 488

The chapter is proud to welcome the newest pledge class into our ranks. This is especially noteworthy for us because of the added difficulties present due to COVID-19. We’re using this experience to expand our records for future generations to be better equipped to keep Sigma Chi strong.

~Warren Penn, 2021

GEORGE WASHINGTON Epsilon

28 79 1,927

The brothers have maintained high spirits throughout these times and continue to exemplify the Fraternity’s principles. Our members have been keeping in touch and checking in on one another to foster the sense of community we kept on campus.

~Jorgealberto Partida, 2022

GEORGETOWN Mu Theta

9 40 48

During this semester, the chapter successfully initiated nine new brothers in a virtual Founders’ Initiation. Though we are studying remotely, we are staying connected through virtual chapter meetings and small brotherhood gatherings for those in the Washington, D.C., area. We have done our best given the circumstances, and we will continue our effort into the next semester.

~John O’Connor, 2023

GEORGIA SOUTHWESTERN

Eta Theta

31 22 726

The chapter initiated six new brothers for fall 2020. Our semester has consisted of fundraisers, including our annual Boston butt pulled pork sale, participating in on-campus events, campus and city food drives, and volunteering with our Grand Praetor.

~John Williams, 2022

GEORGIA TECH Beta Psi

16 80 2,307

We navigated the unique challenge of virtual recruitment and welcomed 16 new members to our chapter, thus preparing us well for another round in the spring. Our adaptations to ever-changing COVID-19 regulations also proved successful, as we did not have a new

case amongst brothers from early September to the end of the semester.

~Alex Zamora, 2022

GETTYSBURG Theta

4 47 1,701

Despite the difficulty and disruption of a remote semester, the chapter continues to push forward. After many months of waiting, we have initiated our spring pledge class. Alongside Alpha Delta Pi, the chapter organized a workshop for Hazing Prevention Week in September and have created a “Virtual Fall Cookbook” to continue our joint philanthropic efforts.

~Justin Letizia, 2021

HAMPDEN-SYDNEY Sigma Sigma

5 19 1,002

The chapter is doing the best we can to maintain positivity during these difficult times. We have maintained a great standing with Hampden-Sydney College. We completed a successful temporary initiation and are excited to welcome our new brothers.

~Samuel Taylor, 2021

HANOVER Chi

1 38 1,455

Despite the difficulties of COVID-19, the chapter was able to have a successful fall recruitment. More than welcoming this new class, the chapter has been able to safely hold in-person chapter meetings when deemed safe by local and school officials as well as develop a platform for hosting virtual business-only meetings with remote brothers.

~Louis Holbrook, 2022

HILLSDALE Alpha Kappa

5 36 670

The chapter had an incredible fall semester by accepting the Scholarship Cup for the spring semester with a GPA of 3.47 and followed it up with an incredible pledge class that we welcomed into the brotherhood. We look forward to finishing the semester and getting ready for the spring semester.

~Blake Hawkins, 2022

IDAHO Gamma Eta

16 60 1,669

At our most recent scholarship dinner we gave out 20 scholarships to members with above a 3.4 GPA, and we are happy to say our in-house GPA is at a 3.33 and rising. We are also proud to announce this fall that two in-house members were elected to the Interfraternity Council for the 2020-2021 term here at the University of Idaho.

~Kyler Skinner, 2023

ILLINOIS Kappa Kappa

22 118 2,893

During these unprecedented times, the chapter has gone above and beyond to ensure the safety of all our brothers and our community. We successfully organized over 50 people to donate blood to the Central Illinois Blood Center to help those in need.

~Charlie Gainer, 2023

ILLINOIS WESLEYAN Alpha Iota

13 73 2,298

During these tough times we were able to exceed the national average number for new initiate brothers. We took pride in this as we are a small chapter. We had the highest GPA on campus out of all the other fraternities with a number close to 3.5.

~Chase Viehman, 2022

INDIANA Lambda

24 151 3,527

The chapter has recently been working to improve our philanthropic activities. During the last Indiana University Dance Marathon, which raises money for the Riley Children’s Hospital, the chapter raised $28,824. This was the highest amount raised by any Greek-letter house on campus, which earned us the Miracle Maker Award.

~Nick Foos, 2022

INDIANA (PENNSYLVANIA)

Eta Omicron 25 55 734

The chapter has been making strides to improve throughout this unordinary semester. While maintaining safety and adapting to new university regulations, we were able to initiate our recent fall 2020 pledge class. In addition to adding brothers, the chapter improved upon

philanthropy by raising money for a local animal shelter.

~Jay Thomas, 2023

JACKSONVILLE Iota Gamma 24 51 463

The chapter had another successful semester in fall 2020. Despite the challenges associated with this semester, the chapter was blessed to initiate 17 new brothers. We are looking forward to spring recruitment and Derby Days. We are eager to raise awareness and support for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation.

~Christian Cornella-Carlson, 2023

KANSAS Alpha Xi 23 95 3,016

Throughout the fall 2020 semester, our active members have achieved many accomplishments. For starters, 19 new brothers were initiated into the chapter. We also attended multiple philanthropy events throughout this semester, including volunteering at Harvesters and raising money at Fuzzy’s, a local restaurant in Lawrence. Our brothers totaled over 600 hours of community service.

~Eddie Cubit, 2022

KANSAS STATE Delta Upsilon 24 87 1,520

The chapter was excited to bring back members to its 65-person chapter house this semester. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the house sat vacant from March until August. Chapter leadership adapted to follow health guidelines to keep our chapter safe and compliant, ensuring the success of Sigma Chi at Kansas State continues during the pandemic.

~Matthew Kuckelman, 2022

KENT STATE Zeta Lambda 18 70 963

The chapter is still adapting to the new guidelines that have been placed upon us due to the ongoing pandemic. Although things may be different, the chapter has still found much success in initiating 18 new brothers during this time. Despite the restrictions, a strong brotherhood has been formed between the new members in our biggest class of the decade.

~Richard Criss, 2023

Members of the Florida Atlantic University undergraduate chapter in Boca Raton purchased and donated 70 toys for children of the Kirby’s Year Round Project, which is a nonprofit that collects and distributes various items to underserved students in the Miami-Dade County community.

KENTUCKY Lambda Lambda 28 115 2,706

This past semester our chapter’s intramural teams have won two championships. On October 22, our volleyball team prevailed against all other Interfraternity Council fraternities. Kappa Kappa Gamma hosted a philanthropy kickball tournament where our team placed first. We are very glad to participate in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-friendly intramurals and thank the university for the opportunity to play.

~Bharath Pugalenthi, 2022

KETTERING Zeta Theta A 0 31 135

The brothers are back to work this fall after an odd summer term. We were able to raise over $5,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute via live stream events. We had events like crazy poker, a 24-hour gaming live stream and a brotherhood auction. This term, we had two brothers graduate, and we plan to pledge five gentlemen.

~Nathan Miller, 2024

KETTERING Zeta Theta B 15 45 168

Our chapter has accomplished many great things this term. First, we have navigated through the pandemic successfully with zero COVID-19 cases within the house. We have run another successful term of recruitment and completed a project weekend that

greatly benefited our house. In addition, many brothers have used the quarantine isolation to better themselves and grow collectively as a brotherhood.

~Nicholas Wever, 2023

LOUISVILLE Iota Lambda 24 105 847

The chapter was able to successfully initiate a 24-person pledge class in the midst of COVID-19. Following all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, we spearheaded the virtual recruitment movement at the University of Louisville and were the face of a successful recruitment. The chapter was also able to hold a successful initiation and adapted to these unusual times.

~Rolandson Le, 2020

MAINE Rho Rho 1 9 1,741

As with most chapters, 2020 has been very cruel. The most significant accomplishment of our chapter would be our perseverance through a dark time. We tragically lost one of our brothers early in the semester. It took some time, but it brought many of us closer together, allowing us to have much-needed fun in an otherwise exhausting semester.

~Roger Holt, 2021

MARQUETTE Iota Pi 0 64 630

The chapter met virtually throughout the semester for chapter updates and camaraderie. Our executive board met

weekly to plan opportunities for brothers to spend time together virtually due to the severity of the pandemic. We spearheaded and advocated for Marquette Interfraternity Council to add a vice president of diversity and inclusion, which was officially added in the fall elections.

~Brendan Vazquez, 2022

MARYLAND Gamma Chi

22 85 2,131

After a long wait, we initiated our newest pledge class. We were excited to welcome them into the brotherhood, and we couldn’t be prouder of them. We also kicked off our semester with an anti-hazing presentation during our joint anti-hazing week with Alpha Delta Pi.

~Solomon Sonenshine, 2023

MASSACHUSETTS-AMHERST

Mu Epsilon

0 46 99

The chapter has continued virtual operations this fall, keeping the connection between brothers strong, regardless of location. We have used this time to develop virtual recruitment efforts and participate in philanthropy events. Our chapter is eager to continue its successful trajectory into the spring and hopes to be awarded the J. Dwight Peterson Significant Chapter Gold Award.

~Alex Skourtis, 2022

MCGILL Gamma Lambda

6 51 1,129

Our chapter has undergone a successful virtual migration within one of the most stringent lockdowns on the continent. Our meetings and recruitment have both been

successfully adapted to a virtual format to meet local lockdown requirements. Additionally, our chapter created a Movember Team fundraising page to raise funds and awareness for cancer research and men’s mental health.

~Nathaniel Waddell, 2023

MEMPHIS Epsilon Kappa

20 55 1,166

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to curb chapter efforts, the chapter continues to operate successfully in the face of adversity. After initiating 20 new brothers into our brotherhood during the fall 2020 academic term, the chapter is eager to build more leaders of men in the upcoming spring 2021 semester.

~Keyarash Hatamzadeh, 2022

MIAMI (OHIO) Alpha 0 93 2,794

The chapter did everything it could to make the most out of the fall semester.

From COVID-19-friendly philanthropy events to a heavy emphasis on brotherhood, our actives banded together and enjoyed a wonderful fall. We are looking forward to continuing to adapt to the ever-changing situation and bringing in a strong new pledge class in the spring.

~Patrick Nolan, 2021

MIDDLE TENNESSEE Eta Gamma

25 58 1,011

Despite the surrounding uncertainty on college campuses, the men were still able to reoccupy our newly renovated house on Greek Row this fall and were able to initiate two men in August and 22 men in October.

~Steven Perry, 2020

MINNESOTA Alpha Sigma

14 109 2 065

The chapter has responded to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis with integrity and self-control. The safety of our chapter and those involved have been our top priority and will continue to be throughout this pandemic. However, we were still able to initiate an awesome fall pledge class, and we already have a solid list of potential new members for spring recruitment.

~Cooper Falteisek, 2023

MISSISSIPPI STATE

Gamma Upsilon 60 233 3,163

We initiated 60 new members thanks to a great recruitment led by Jace Correro, 2022. Even amongst the craziness of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mississippi State guidelines allowed us to have three date parties with 50 brothers each. We could not be prouder of our social chair, Thomas Guest, 2020, for making this possible.

~Noah Methvin, 2022

MISSOURI S & T Theta Eta

0 30 479

The chapter is proud to announce that through the hardships of the pandemic, we were able to keep our academics in good standing, support brotherhood within the Fraternity and keep our recruitment numbers up. While the pandemic has been hard on everyone, we were able to stand strong together under the letters of Sigma Chi.

~Michael Maue, 2022

MISSOURI STATE Eta Kappa 16 50 987

We were able to successfully recruit 18 potential new members and initiated 16 of them while adjusting to new requirements during a pandemic. We believe these young men will one day lead our chapter to great heights of success.

~Brayden Venatta, 2022

MIT Alpha Theta 0 25 1,405

With the challenge of MIT not allowing us to live in our house, we managed to stay together by living in pods in different parts of the country. All of our brothers

have stepped up to the challenge of remote school, and now we will see more brothers graduate a semester early than any other year.

~Peyton Greve, 2022

MONTANA STATE Beta Rho 17 80 2,376

This past fall, we were pleased to initiate 17 men to our chapter. Thus far, we have raised over $4,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Following our mission to better our community, our brothers accumulated 182 community service hours and provided 32 donations at our fall American Red Cross blood drive, which potentially saved 96 lives.

~Brandon Baier, 2021

MURRAY STATE Epsilon Tau 16 48 1,659

We initiated 16 members while maintaining the best-possible safety practices during these unpredictable and unprecedented times.

~Drew Sullivan, 2023

NEBRASKA Alpha Epsilon 25 111 2,291

During the fall of 2020, we initiated a 25-man pledge class into our chapter on Sept. 26. We also improved our academic program by creating seven teams named after our Founders designed to increase competition among our brothers and further academic excellence in our chapter. We are excited about what the future holds for us in 2021.

~Garrett Sanders, 2022

NEW HAVEN Lambda Epsilon 8 46 298

Our chapter during the fall 2020 semester was able to initiate eight new brothers despite recruitment taking place during the pandemic. While following the guidelines set by both the state and university, the chapter was able to conduct and teach the eight new brothers of the pledge class.

~Cam Hailey, 2021

NEW MEXICO Beta Xi 7 46 2,116

Our chapter GPA this past spring semester was 3.45, and we aim to surpass it this fall. Our first-ever virtual

recruitment went well, as we welcomed seven new members. We had a Cans for Cancer Research philanthropy in which we collected over 280 cans for a local food bank and raised close to $2,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute.

~Harry Jamharian, 2023

NEW MEXICO STATE Zeta Phi 7 56 529

This semester our chapter focused on brotherhood and philanthropy. We held a draft night to make brotherhood teams and held weekly challenges and events to participate in activities in a COVID-19safe environment. Along with this, we were able to host philanthropy events by turning our house into a drive-in restaurant and a car wash for the Huntsman Cancer Institute.

~Mario Martinez, 2021

NORTH DAKOTA Beta Zeta 18 78 2,128

The chapter has remained strong in academics after having the top Greek-letter GPA last spring. It has been a difficult year for everyone, but we are confident in our abilities to adapt and overcome these new challenges. We are also preparing for a new philanthropy event, Huntsman Heroes, which will feature various virtual fundraising events to raise money for the Huntsman Cancer Institute.

~Alex Anderson, 2021

NORTH FLORIDA Kappa Beta 0 43 605

In the fall 2020 semester, our brothers have been working through the depths of adversity by spotlighting why we are true leaders. While our brothers who are first responders step up, we all have been working hard to contribute to the Jacksonville, Florida, community in various ways. As of this writing, we were home for the holidays and wished everyone a great holiday season.

~Kevin Booker, 2023

NORTH GEORGIA Theta Epsilon 18 49 861

During the fall semester of 2020 we initiated five new brothers into our chapter, all of whom have already brought great things to Sigma Chi.

We also focused on our philanthropy efforts and raised over $4,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute. We are looking forward to a promising spring semester.

~Nicholas Langford, 2021

NORTHERN ARIZONA

Zeta Omicron

10 67 1,087

The chapter has had another great semester despite these tough times with COVID-19. The pledge class was initiated this semester, and all of them have very bright futures in Sigma Chi and for the rest of their lives. This semester we also won Alpha Phi Heartthrob and Tri Delta’s St. Jude Soldier.

~Hayden Grako, 2024

NORTHWESTERN Omega

0 87 2,451

The chapter has continued to keep our brotherhood connected this fall despite the challenges of virtual learning. We are proud to announce the distribution of the Omega Leadership Scholarships to junior Tyler Turk, 2022, and senior Alex Moore, 2021. As we continue into the year, we will look at creative and socially distanced methods to gather as a chapter.

~Conor Hunt, 2022

OHIO Delta Pi

9 67 1,594

The chapter welcomed the brothers of the recent pledge class this fall. We ran a successful community service event, led by Trevor Johnson, 2022, raising school supplies and over $3,000 for local Athens schools. We also started a newsletter that alumni can access through our Facebook.

~Sam Halloran, 2022

OHIO STATE Alpha Gamma 10 115 2,945

The chapter is proud to announce that we have initiated nine new brothers. These men have exemplified honor and responsibility amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The chapter has honored the restrictions that the school has placed upon students. We have done philanthropic work by raising money for Bukeyethon and Gift of Life.

~Nolan Armbruster, 2022

OKLAHOMA STATE Gamma Delta 35 120 2,698

The chapter’s most significant accomplishment of the fall 2020 semester was hosting a car wash philanthropy event along with the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity on campus. Despite navigating the challenges of COVID-19 protocols, the chapter was able to wash 250 cars, raise $625 and collect 472 cans of food in less than three hours.

~Jack Palla, 2022

OREGON Beta Iota 0 79 2,450

The most significant accomplishment from the fall 2020 term was having zero COVID-19 cases in the chapter house. While every other chapter on campus, including sororities, had an outbreak, we were able to prevent the spread.

~Adam Saleh, 2021

OTTAWA Lambda Theta 8 30 216

The brothers of the chapter have initiated eight brothers while maintaining the new guidelines for social distancing and offering virtual pledge classes. Our weekly volunteering at the Ottawa Mission was another success despite the obstacles pertaining to the pandemic. A few of our brothers shaved their heads to raise awareness for men’s health as part of Movember.

~Mahmoud Adi, 2022

PITTSBURG STATE Zeta Iota 0 21 1,102

During this new age of the pandemic, we were challenged with finding not only young men who were interested in joining, but also young men who were worthy of becoming Sigma Chis. It was a challenge, but our whole chapter dove in, and numbers this fall were not as much of a drop as expected. We welcomed seven new brothers this fall.

~Andrew Heathman, 2021

PRINCETON Sigma 0 25 210

Even with a fully remote semester, the chapter had one of its largest and most successful recruitments. We look

forward to continuing to foster brotherhood in innovative ways using the power of technology.

~Abe Waserstein, 2021

PUGET SOUND Delta Phi 0 48 1,372

This fall, despite many unforeseen circumstances, the chapter rallied around the Tacoma, Washington, community. We donated money to the Tacoma Urban League and families who have been affected by COVID-19 while also finding time to donate blood in our local communities. The brotherhood has remained strong and is looking forward to spring recruitment and welcoming new brothers.

~Pablo Simon, 2022

PURDUE Delta Delta 0 103 2,616

As it was for every chapter, the fall 2020 semester was a unique time for the chapter. One highlight from our semester included partnering with Purdue’s Tri Delta Sorority to fundraise for Black Visions Collective following the death of George Floyd. We were also challenged by virtual recruitment and classes but made it a great semester.

~Samuel Spears, 2023

R.I.T. Lambda Kappa 9 46 174

The chapter enjoyed an excellent fall philanthropy by raising more than $2,400 for the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Furthermore, the chapter welcomed eight new members into the chapter after initiating new members from both spring 2020 and fall 2020.

~Ryan Kent, 2021

RADFORD Kappa Zeta 0 24 591

The chapter has been able to maintain a good relationship with the Interfraternal Council at Radford University. While we may not all be able to be in contact the way we used to, as an organization we are now closer than ever because of the strong relationships that Sigma Chi has brought us.

~Nick Gomez, 2022

RENSSELAER Delta Psi

0 27 1,123

The chapter developed and implemented a comprehensive COVID-19 response plan that resulted in zero COVID cases in the Pomeroy chapter house. Recruitment was also a success this semester, yielding unique and engaging ways to encourage new undergraduate membership during the revitalization of the chapter.

~Brandyn Sigouin, 2022

RHODE ISLAND Delta Sigma

25 70 1,397

We raised nearly $5,000 with our pairing for our philanthropy week, putting us in third place among pairings for the fundraising competition. We also recorded the highest term GPA average our chapter has seen in years.

~Justin Green, 2021

RIPON Epsilon Lambda

0 20 755

This semester of fall 2020 has been a difficult one for all of our brothers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, we adjusted our routines and were able to rally to make the most of it. We ended up hosting more virtual events to ensure the safety of our brothers and the rest of our fellow students on campus.

~Jamie DeRose, 2020

ROCHESTER Gamma Pi

14 45 1,458

Although many brothers of the chapter found this semester particularly difficult because of COVID-19 restrictions, the attitude they expressed was that we became closer than any other semester before. After the initiation of 11 new brothers, they integrated perfectly into our brotherhood and have begun taking leadership roles.

~Sam Raczek-Hoffmann, 2022

SAINT LOUIS Theta Iota

0 29 662

Our chapter successfully navigated virtual recruitment, as we welcomed 15 new members to our fall pledge class. Chapter operations remained online throughout the semester with active members engaging in virtual chapter meetings and

brotherhood events. Overall, our chapter made the most out of our virtual experience, and we are prepared to do the same in the coming semester.

~Ryan Wilks, 2021

SAM HOUSTON Epsilon Psi

30 52 1,475

The chapter is very proud of how we kept the chapter and brotherhood alive under these unforeseen circumstances. Although we could not have in-person meetings, we still accomplished our business through virtual Zoom meetings.

~Harrison Yancey, 2022

SAN DIEGO STATE Delta Xi

22 80 2,454

The chapter was able to maintain a successful brotherhood through a pandemic-influenced fall semester. We were proud to recruit and initiate a group of 21 value-driven men. In a time where recruitment was more difficult than semesters prior, we were determined to find high-quality young men to help run our chapter at a high level.

~Hayden Sosa, 2024

SAN JOSE STATE Epsilon Theta

7 0 0

On Nov. 7, the chapter was at long last able to welcome into the brotherhood our spring 2020 pledges whose initiation was postponed due to state COVID-19 regulations. As we look forward, we are preparing for virtual Derby Days programming and are continuing to adapt to increasingly online chapter operations.

~Levi Coveau, 2021

SANTA CLARA Lambda Gamma

0 44 1,353

We have successfully navigated our fall term during the pandemic. Virtual recruitment is off to a great start and will position us well for our winter schedule. Brotherhood events have gone well, and our chapter continues to produce strong academic results.

~Grady Olson, 2021

SOUTH ALABAMA Eta Epsilon

7 55 989

While going through all the COVID-19 protocols and guidelines given to us by the university, we were able to safely

conduct an in-person initiation of seven new members into the chapter. With the given free time, members of our executive committee have amended our chapter’s by-laws.

~Connor Bradford, 2021

SOUTH FLORIDA Theta Beta

8 46 840

The chapter experienced an insane fall semester. The chapter had a successful fall recruitment. Despite recruitment being all online, our chapter was still able to have a 100-percent bid acceptance. Brothers have continued to get more involved on and off campus.

~Alex Armeli, 2022

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Epsilon Phi 10 74 1,232

The chapter’s most significant accomplishment of the fall 2020 semester was not allowing the hardships of the pandemic to stop us when it came to having a successful recruitment, Preparation for Brotherhood pledge education process, initiation and other chapter-related events approved by Southeast Missouri State as well as the Sigma Chi International Fraternity Headquarters.

~Daniel Dobbs, 2021

SOUTHERN ILLINOISCARBONDALE Lambda Omicron 16 36 152

Through the great adversity posed by COVID-19, the chapter initiated 16 new brothers. We were also able to raise over $650 in our first Derby Days event, with more to come. As one year ends, we look forward to the next with excitement for our continued success.

~Ricky Waldron, 2020

SOUTHERN METHODIST Delta Mu 0 133 1,724

The chapter is proud of not just a single accomplishment during the fall 2020 term, but also commends its members for their successful efforts to keep our Ritual and the spirit of our brotherhood alive during such a trying time. We enter the spring 2021 term with vigor and with a stronger appreciation for each other.

~Nicholas Barrett, 2022

SPRING HILL Theta Mu 10 30 428

The chapter had an outstanding fall semester. Two brothers participated in the Phi Mu “Mangeant,” raising $2,500 for the Children’s Miracle Network. On Nov. 18, we initiated 10 new brothers into our chapter. We can’t wait for spring 2021 recruitment and anticipate a great class of new pledges.

~Sebastian Nail, 2022

ST. THOMAS Iota Tau 4 18 340

Despite our chapter being challenged by the pandemic, we were able to successfully initiate four brothers via the Founders’ Initiation. These brothers were part of our spring 2020 pledge class that was suspended due to a lockdown.

~Matthew Karel, 2021

STEPHEN F. AUSTIN Eta Tau 18 36 1,027

During the fall 2020 semester, the chapter raised more money for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation than we have in quite some time. Employing help from brothers, friends, family and Greek-letter organizations, we raised over $1,100 in 48 hours. The chapter has truly excelled during the pandemic and shown that we can adapt and thrive no matter what.

~Aidan Britton, 2023

TAMPA Kappa Omega 27 65 306

The chapter has shown great resiliency throughout 2020 and Ritually initiated both the spring 2020 class of 16 brothers and a new class of 12 brothers in the fall. Despite COVID-19 regulations we have managed to hold in-person chapter meetings on campus and volunteer by completing a beach cleanup and Habitat for Humanity door donation event.

~Jon Kaback, 2020

TENNESSEE TECH Eta Delta 20 53 857

Our chapter recently initiated 20 new gentlemen into the bonds of Sigma Chi on top of receiving the Mark V. Anderson Character-In-Action Leadership Award this semester for our assistance in our hometown tornado cleanup. We also

hope to have one of the largest Derby Days turnouts our chapter has seen and hope to make this a huge event for our community.

~Andrew Crouch, 2022

TENNESSEE-CHATTANOOGA

Delta Theta

25 68 1,407

We were able to initiate two different classes for a total of 25 men.

~Joseph Bagwell, 2022

TEXAS A&M-COLLEGE STATION

Eta Upsilon

39 173 1,627

Our chapter’s most significant accomplishment this semester was the completion of our new basketball court. Building this court has been a dream of ours for years, and because of COVID-19, we were able to redirect funds and complete the project. We are excited to use it for tournaments, recruitment and alumni weekends.

~Michael Johnson, 2021

TEXAS A&M-COMMERCE Zeta Eta

11 0 0

The brothers are proud of our philanthropy and community service participation this semester. From our philanthropy events at local restaurants and donations from our alumni, $1,560 will directly benefit the Huntsman Cancer Foundation. Through the Sigma Chi and Chi Omega second annual Owloween, the chapter earned 150 community service hours and boasts an overall 250 hours.

~Caleb Jenkins, 2023

TEXAS A&M-KINGSVILLE Zeta Pi

5 39 1,236

The chapter welcomed five new brothers in the fall 2020 semester. In accordance with that, we have kicked off our first year-round Derby Days philanthropy fundraising campaign events. As we look ahead into next year, our Derby Days events will continue to expand and produce donations through softball tournaments, penny wars and much more.

~JC Mendoza, 2023

TEXAS CHRISTIAN Epsilon Mu 34 119 1,487

We initiated our fall 2020 pledge class during a pandemic while adhering to all of our university’s safety guidelines. We found it necessary to do everything in our power to initiate this pledge class in order to solidify them in the brotherhood during these trying times.

~Peter Gottlieb, 2022

TEXAS TECH Epsilon Nu

0 35 1,941

During the fall 2020 academic term, our brothers took full advantage of the dire situation at hand. We not only grew closer to each other through increased communication, but also the chapter set out solid groundwork for plans to execute once life returns to normal.

~Jacob Yandell, 2020

TEXAS-AUSTIN Alpha Nu

29 107 2,923

This semester was unlike any other for the chapter. Even with COVID-19 restrictions limiting our opportunities, we were still able to initiate a new pledge class in October. House construction is wrapping up soon; we will have a newly renovated chapter house come spring. We are looking forward to moving in and seeing what we can accomplish this upcoming semester.

~Ryan Shirley, 2020

TORONTO-RYERSON Beta Omega

7 32 1,250

The fall 2020 academic term has been different, to say the least. Classes here have transitioned to being fully online, and while that has posed a challenge, our brothers have been working very hard on their studies. We have found that implementing study hours in our chapter library has worked out very well.

~Zakyr Rhemtulla, 2023

UNION Gamma Zeta

26 77 1,544

Although COVID-19 restrictions made recruitment hard, our fall 2020 recruitment class was one of the biggest in the chapter’s history. After 42 potential new brothers came out for recruitment, we narrowed the new pledge class down

to 26. We were not able to do initiation in the fall; however, we were still able to do the Founders’ Initiation.

~Jamie Rice, 2022

UTAH STATE Gamma Kappa 13 42 2,128

The chapter has worked hard during these unprecedented times to work to better our chapter. This semester we have been able to initiate 13 new brothers to our chapter, as well as participate in our highway cleanup for the Merlin Olsen Day of Service and do service for Family Place.

~Tanner McClune, 2021

VALPARAISO Iota Sigma 8 38 590

Our chapter’s biggest accomplishment was learning and being able to run as a chapter through the pandemic while still having the opportunity to be on campus. We had initiation, chapter meetings, brotherhood and recruitment events and still were able to grow as a chapter. We are looking forward to spring recruitment coming up.

~Jacob Newkirk, 2020

VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH

Mu Delta 8 25 75

The chapter has adhered to the guidelines imposed on us by the university. We have initiated both of our recent pledge classes this semester. We

won Alpha Sigma Alpha’s philanthropy week and were large contributors to other philanthropies.

~Kellen Pluntke, 2023

WABASH Delta Chi 13 68 1,760

The chapter successfully completed the fall semester with in-person classes. We had some difficult virus outbreaks on campus and were challenged to battle through the quarantines and isolation. It was a difficult semester, but I’d like to thank the seniors for giving the freshmen the best pledgeship possible given the adversities we faced.

~Cade Cox, 2023

WASHINGTON (SEATTLE)

Upsilon Upsilon 30 115 2,670

During these months our chapter has focused on maintaining our high standard of academics and professional development. Every brother has created a LinkedIn account and has had their resume reviewed by the UW Career and Internship Center. We are also excited to initiate the largest pledge class at the University of Washington with 31 new brothers.

~Salihou Fatty, 2022

WASHINGTON (ST. LOUIS)

Tau Tau 0 70 2,069

In light of COVID-19, fall 2020 has

REACH OUT WITH SIGMA CHI

Sigma Chi’s Reach Out App is a free and anonymous mental wellness resource that provides access to support services 24 hours per day, 365 days per year.

Undergraduate users can customize their Reach Out app experience with resource information for everything available on their campus. You do not have to be a Sigma Chi member or enrolled in school to download or use this app.

Download Sigma Chi’s Reach Out App in the App Store or Google Play store.

been especially trying time for the chapter. Nonetheless, we have helped make Sigma Chi a more diverse and inclusive Fraternity by meeting as a chapter, in committees and with the International Fraternity to discuss these issues. Additionally, we have taken a leadership role in eliminating interpersonal violence on our campus.

~Richard Sims, 2023

WASHINGTON STATE Beta Upsilon

24 70 1,474

During the fall 2020 academic term, the chapter has been able to adjust to having a new chapter facility and has overcome the challenges associated with it. We have learned a lot from all being in the same place for the first time in years, and it has made us closer than ever as brothers.

~Devlin DelGiudice, 2023

WEST CHESTER Mu Eta

8 23 47

The chapter has been able to welcome an amazing fall class and initiate our pledges who were not able to be initiated last semester due to COVID-19. We have found challenges this semester being online for the foreseeable future, but we are excited to show the West Chester University campus what it means to be a Sigma Chi.

~John Delaney, 2020

WEST GEORGIA Lambda Phi

8 27 138

We initiated eight new brothers into our chapter during the fall 2020 academic term. We also had the honor of seven of our current brothers graduating and entering alumni status.

~Cauy Foster, 2022

A COLLEGE IN MORGANTOWN, W. VA. Mu Mu

15 62 2,462

Our biggest accomplishment has been the chapter's ability to operate throughout the COVID-19 pandemic as well as throughout our disassociation from the university two years ago. The chapter initiated both our spring 2020 and fall 2020 pledge classes, and we continue to find new ways to better our community during these strange times.

~Kyle Howard, 2021

WESTERN Epsilon Omicron

10 51 1,409

Our brothers are moving chapter houses for the first time in our history. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in the process, from alumni to actives. Starting Dec. 1, 2020, we will officially be in our new chapter house. Our brothers are extremely excited for what is to come.

~Ben Sokol, 2021

WESTERN CONNECTICUT Iota Eta 6 23 391

We are happy to have initiated six brothers into the Fraternity during the fall 2020 academic term. We’re happy to welcome William Parrot, 2021, Brian Payne Jr., 2021, Dani Lopez, 2023, Niko Fiorito, 2024, Anthony Fiorenza, 2021, and Drew Lewis, 2024, into Sigma Chi. We also are happy to announce that we received high scores for both initiations that happened this semester.

~Collin Ouellet, 2022

WESTERN ILLINOIS Iota Omicron 8 21 539

Our biggest accomplishment is admitting eight new brothers into our Fraternity. The pledge class showed great determination and resilience to follow through with pledgeship during a time like this. We would like to shout out our recruitment chair and Magister for adapting so well in such an uncertain time.

~Christian Aviles, 2020

WESTERN MICHIGAN Zeta Nu 25 88 1,377

This fall, facing many challenges, we were able to bring in a pledge class of 23 with only around 100 students in total signed up for recruitment university wide. Following this, we used precautions through pledging and initiation by changing things to be safe and up to COVID-19 standards. We ended up initiating 19 new members without any issues.

~Joshua Wasil, 2022

WILFRID LAURIER Iota Mu 10 42 524

This has been a difficult year full of unexpected twists and turns. We recognize this is a time when brotherhood is needed more than ever. This semester we initiated an incredible class of brothers while maintaining order and safety regulations, and morale has never been higher. New and old, our brothers hold each other in strong arms.

~Benjamin Richardson, 2021

WINDSOR Kappa Mu 4 21 320

Despite the complete closure of the University of Windsor campus and a

citywide lockdown, the chapter managed to recruit and initiate four new members this past semester. Philanthropic involvement in the local community has also seen an increase, including a partnership with the local Safety Village to be announced in the new year.

~Victor Marton, 2021

WISCONSIN-MILWAUKEE

Lambda Chi

22 59 184

With the semester coming to a close, the chapter has been successful, even with COVID-19 restrictions in place. We implemented COVID guidelines during all of our events to keep everyone safe and healthy. As a chapter, we were able to host Parents Weekend outdoors, rake leaves for Make a Difference Day and initiate 13 more brothers.

~Jake Mathiasen, 2023

WYOMING Gamma Xi

5 46 1,752

We find ourselves in unusual times, and it’s more important than ever to remain true to our values so that we may help ourselves and our community. Our greatest achievement for fall 2020 was the initiation of our fall pledges. They have proven to be true Sigma Chis in the face of adversity, and we are proud to call them brothers.

~Tanner Martin, 2023

YALE Theta Upsilon

0 42 514

The chapter remains committed to our past year’s successes internally and through campus outreach. Despite the effects brought about by remote learning, we aim to plan for an even more effective spring semester and the expansion of our brotherhood.

~Dean Putong, 2021

YOUNGSTOWN Eta Chi

9 23 506

Under many uncertainties with COVID-19, the chapter was able to initiate its spring 2020 pledge class. Additionally, we were able to recruit six new brothers into our chapter, the largest the chapter has recruited in recent years.

~Thomas Almasy, 2021

COLONY UPDATES

BOSTON Sigma Chi Upsilon

Despite a semester of adapting to virtual alternatives, the colony has persevered in bringing in a new class, engaging in community service and designing promising concepts for philanthropy. Our greatest achievement was our vigilance in adhering to institutional guidelines while ensuring that the potential new members and pledges got the most out of the recruitment and pledging experience.

~Jason Gao, 2022

COLORADO-BOULDER

Sigma Chi Omega

With the recent addition of our fall 2020 pledge class, we are growing and developing our colony. Working with COVID-19 regulations, we are creating ways to further our connection as brothers with trips to the mountains for skiing, snowboarding or even sledding. We are planning several more trips to the mountains this winter where we can all get together safely.

~William Richards, 2023

HOUSTON Sigma Chi Xi

Colony members at the University of Houston successfully completed a beach cleanup following a horrendous hurricane. We managed to pledge the biggest pledge class on campus for the third semester in a row.

~Mickey Al Rahmany, 2023

LOUISIANA STATE Sigma Chi Zeta

During the fall 2020 semester, the colony welcomed our new pledge class into our brotherhood, as well as completed multiple service events across our great state of Louisiana. The men of our chapter traveled to Lake Charles to aid in the Hurricane Laura cleanup and volunteered to preserve the USS Kidd.

~Oscar Scruggins, 2022

MOUNT ROYAL Sigma Chi Mu

Given the circumstances of beginning the new school year, the colony conducted both virtual and in-person events, including game nights, movie nights, brotherhood events and a TraumaInformed Care Workshop. Our philanthropic efforts were devoted to our second annual Charity Kickball

Tournament and our second annual blood drive. We look forward to further strengthening our brotherhood next semester.

~Cody Rudiger, 2020

NORTH CAROLINA-WILMINGTON

Sigma Chi Epsilon

The colony’s most significant accomplishment is completing Phase I and Phase II on our way to becoming a chapter of Sigma Chi.

~Justin Golle, 2022

TENNESSEE-KNOXVILLE

Sigma Chi Sigma

Our chapter’s most significant accomplishment encompasses a new pledge class of 64 members in the fall. We have successfully completed Preparation for Brotherhood as well as Phase I. We earned a blue ribbon and ranked in the top 10 percent among other chapters in philanthropy. Our brothers look forward to taking the next step in getting our charter back on April 29, 2021.

~Trey Ridenour, 2023

TEXAS-SAN ANTONIO

Sigma Chi Alpha

This fall semester the colony proudly held a successful philanthropy week spanning Nov. 9 to Nov. 13. We raised over 400 pounds of food for our local San Antonio Food Bank. The donations ended in a great turnout and was very heartening for all of our brothers to be able and take part in contributing to our community.

~Alexander Pedraza, 2023

WESTMINSTER

Sigma Chi Tau

Having completed finals prior to Thanksgiving, the fall semester at Westminster is now officially in the books. Despite being a challenging semester, it was nevertheless a successful one. Perhaps the highlight was the colony finishing in the top 25 percent of all chapters in the Huntsman Challenge. The colony’s final act of the semester was electing a slate of new officers.

~Richard McQuay, 2022

UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTER ANNIVERSARIES

APRIL

4/3/1971 Eta Kappa, Missouri State, 50 years

4/3/1966 Zeta Xi, California State-Northridge, 55 years

4/9/2011 Lambda Kappa, R.I.T., 10 years

4/22/1916 Beta Xi, New Mexico, 105 years

4/23/1921 Beta Phi, Arizona, 100 years

4/27/1991 Iota Omega, Loyola Marymount, 30 years

MAY

5/8/1926 Gamma Kappa, Utah State, 95 years

5/15/1886 Alpha Omicron, Tulane, 135 years

5/27/1891 Alpha Chi, Penn State, 130 years

5/30/1871 Chi, Hanover, 150 years

5/31/1881 Kappa Kappa, Illinois, 140 years

JUNE

6/21/1886 Alpha Pi, Albion, 135 years

6/23/1886 Alpha Beta, California-Berkeley, 135 years

Anniversaries are listed every five years.

ENDEAVORING TO RETAIN THE SPIRIT OF YOUTH

Sigma Chi remembers 48th Grand Consul Dr. Charles Thatcher, MICHIGAN 1943

If you talk with enough Sigma Chis who have attended one of the Fraternity’s leadership training workshops since the program began in 1947, you’re likely to find thousands of men in various stages of life who recall fondly lessons they learned from the late 48th Grand Consul, Order of Constantine Sig and Significant Sig Dr. Charles Thatcher, MICHIGAN 1943, who entered the Chapter Eternal on Jan. 27, 2021, and credit him in some part with shaping the person they are today.

There’s Thatcher’s lesson on time management that has stuck with 59th Grand Consul Dick Hester, BALL STATE 1977, and scores of others where Thatcher, an Army veteran and former professor of chemical engineering, shared advice on how to manage every minute of every day. Then, there’s the analogy that springs to the mind of Order of Constantine Sig and Sigma Chi Foundation Senior Director of Development Sig Frank Raymond, PENN STATE 1971, where he encouraged Sigs to be mindful of their interactions with others and compared those interactions to billiard balls colliding — whereby the trajectory of each person changes as a result of the energy transferred from another.

Despite how numerous and varied Thatcher’s lessons were, each was sure to be filled with his trademark intellect and wit and to be delivered with the sort of compassion and empathy that made Thatcher so beloved by generations of Sigs and students.

THE GIFT OF LEARNING

Thatcher was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on April 4, 1922, and in 1929 moved to Escanaba, Michigan, with his parents, Oliver and Carrie. He then attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. He was an editor of TheMichiganDaily newspaper, cadet commander of Michigan’s Army ROTC program, a member of the all-campus honor society, a

member of the University of Michigan band and joined Sigma Chi thanks in part to encouragement from fellow band member Roy Mattern Jr., MICHIGAN 1942

After graduating from Michigan and winning the 1943 International Balfour Award, Thatcher served from 1943 to 1946 as an ordinance officer in the U.S. Army. He then returned to the University of Michigan and began a lifelong career in education, working in the school’s dean of students of office and as a faculty member of its chemical engineering department from 1947 to 1958.

Thatcher’s career subsequently brought him to the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, as professor from 1958 to 1965 and as dean of Pratt’s school of engineering and science from 1965 to 1970. From 1970 to 1992, Thatcher was a distinguished professor of engineering at the University of Arkansas before retiring at age 70. He was so well remembered, however, that he was called back to teach in 2005 and 2006 and continued doing so unofficially until his passing. Along the way, he authored three textbooks and in 1973 earned the American Society for Education Award for Excellence in Teaching, among other accolades.

AN ADVOCATE FOR UNDERGRADUATES

To say that Thatcher took seriously his lifelong commitment to the White Cross would be an understatement. Rather fittingly, his more than 70-year career of volunteerism and service in Sigma Chi began with an invitation to join the 1948 Leadership Training Workshop faculty. “I probably would have never been seen again in Sigma Chi had it not been for the Balfour Award,” he said in a 2017 interview with Sigma Chi. “That’s the only way [Order of Constantine Sig Fred Mitchell, MISSISSIPPI STATE and MICHIGAN STATE 1913,] who was looking for faculty at workshop, would’ve known about me. His invitation for me to be on the workshop faculty in 1948 was the beginning of my Sigma Chi career.”

That career included service as a member of the Leadership Training Board from 1957 to 1973 and a stint as its chairman from 1971 to 1973; serving as alumnus member-at-large to the Executive Committee from 1964 to 1973; as Grand Pro Consul from 1973 to 1975; and as Grand Consul from 1977 to 1979. The Fraternity dedicated its 1974 workshop at Purdue University to him, and in 1979 he received the William H. Carlisle Jr. Outstanding Workshop Faculty Award.

A highlight of Thatcher’s term as Grand Consul included his visiting all 172 active chapters at the time — a feat that Thatcher completed by April of 1976, less than one year into his term. “Visiting 172 chapters was an experience I would not have missed for anything. It was an experience I would not do again, even if my wife, Flo, would let me. But in doing so, I get a feeling of vitality that is exciting in most chapters,” he said at the end of his term.

It was during one of these visits that Hester, then the Consul of the Ball State chapter, first met Thatcher, who planned to visit the chapter and observe its initiation ceremonies. Hester recalls being nervous at the prospect of having a Grand Consul critique his chapter’s Ritual performance but felt reassured upon meeting Thatcher. “His immediate warmth, his reassurance and his encouragement just put me and the entire Ritual team immediately at ease. At that moment, I knew what type of brother he really was.”

Years later when Hester, during his own term as Grand Consul from 1995 to 1997, sought advice on a new leadership program designed for sophomore members that became the Horizons Huntsman Leadership Summit, Thatcher was

one the first calls he made asking for feedback on the program and to be part of the planning committee. Thatcher agreed. “Chuck immediately said ‘Absolutely,’” Hester recalls.

Thatcher also accepted invitations from Hester to join his discussion groups at the Fraternity’s summer leadership training workshops, having done so most recently in 2017 at age 95.

“It was always amazing,” Hester says. “He would just walk in the room, pick right up on the topics the group was talking about, [and] offer sage advice in his very calming and humorous way. It was always wonderful to see the way he’d interact with the undergraduates. Every workshop, he knew I was going to invite him to stop by my discussion group and he always did.”

The ease with which Thatcher connected with others will be part of his enduring legacy. “We all know the reality of entering the Chapter Eternal one day,” Hester says, “but I was betting that if anyone could live forever it’d be Chuck. And in a way, he will. He will live forever in the many of us who were so impacted by his life.”

The White Rose Ceremony

In 1909, the service in memoriam was officially added to the Ritual. More than a century later, the beautiful White Rose Ceremony is publicly conducted as a final honor to the life of a Sigma Chi and to recognize the brother’s entrance into the Chapter Eternal.

The White Rose Ceremony may be conducted in two ways: as part of a memorial service and at a cemetery. In both, brothers who are present don white roses over their hearts. Then, each brother places his rose on the casket. After honor is called to the name of the deceased, the words spoken by the leader of the ceremony are short, yet poignant and true to the spirt of Sigma Chi:

“InasmuchasourdearlybelovedbrotherworeoverhisheartTheWhiteCrossofSigmaChi,whoseimmaculatewhitenesssymbolizedtousthepurityofhismotives, therefore, it is most appropriate that he now bear above his heart our emblem; and that we lay white roses upon his casket in token of the sweet memories we will always cherish of him we loved so well.”

The service in memoriam is one of four portions of the Ritual that can be conducted publicly. It provides a brief, but powerful glance at the meaningful words of Sigma Chi to those outside of our order, showing them the importance of the bonds of our brotherhood.

Denotes Life Loyal Sig

Order of Constantine Sig and Significant Sig Leon Peterson, UTAH 1961, entered the Chapter Eternal on Nov. 21, 2020. He was 82. Peterson was born on June 13, 1938, in Lehi, Utah. He founded Peterson Development, a real estate firm, in 1968. Peterson served on many boards, including the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, and contributed to many causes like Sigma Chi. He was a strong influence in collecting donations from alumni to renovate the aging Utah undergraduate chapter house. Peterson also served as a bishop, in the bishopric and on the high council in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Forty-eighth Grand Consul, Order of Constantine Sig and Significant Sig Dr. Charles Thatcher, MICHIGAN 1943, entered the Chapter Eternal on Jan. 27, 2021. He was 98. Thatcher was born on April 4, 1922, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He studied chemical engineering in college and eventually earned his PhD. Throughout his career, he held many positions in higher education, including as a professor and dean. Thatcher retired from the University of Arkansas in 1992. His Sigma Chi involvement was numerous. Thatcher, an International Balfour Award recipient, was a regular faculty member at the annual leadership training workshop and served on the Executive Committee from 1964 to 1979.

Order of Constantine Sig Del Tacconi, UTAH STATE 1962 , entered the Chapter Eternal on Nov. 14, 2020. He was 81. Tacconi was born on April 9, 1939, in Waco, Texas. He was chapter advisor for the University of California-Berkeley undergraduate chapter. Tacconi helped establish the East Bay Alumni Chapter and served as its president and secretary. He also helped to develop a Big Brother program with the California-Berkeley chapter. Tacconi volunteered with the former Cornerstone mentorship program and was on the Journey Operating Board in 2010. The Fraternity honored Tacconi with the Seven Lights Alumni Award in 2010.

Order of Constantine Sig Emory Walker Jr., DENVER 1959 , entered the Chapter Eternal on Oct. 8, 2020. He was 91. Walker was born on Sept. 11, 1929. He served Sigma Chi in many capacities. Walker was on the Board of Grand Trustees and on the Executive Committee as the Grand Trustee representative. He served as president and treasurer of the Denver Alumni Chapter, president of the University of Denver house corporation, Grand Praetor of the Rocky Mountain province and as a Quaestors division facilitator at the annual Leadership Training Workshop. He also was part of many International Fraternity committees, task forces and commissions.

Significant Sig Jerry Bashaw Jr., OREGON 1957 , entered the Chapter Eternal on Sept. 11, 2020. He was 87. Bashaw was born on June 19, 1933, in Portland, Oregon. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard before attending college to study industrial engineering. Bashaw started the manufacturing companies Aurora Modular Industries and Modtech Inc, which creates modular buildings. After retiring, he became interested in the agricultural business and spent his later years running a ranch in Picabo, Idaho. Bashaw enjoyed classic cars and spent time restoring them. He was named a Significant Sig in 2006.

Significant Sig Lod Cook, LOUISIANA STATE 1949 , entered the Chapter Eternal on Sept. 28, 2020. He was 92. Cook was born on June 17, 1928, in Louisiana. Cook joined the Atlantic Richfield Company as an engineering trainee and years later became chairman and CEO. He retired in 1995. Cook was a longtime supporter of his alma mater. He provided significant funding for the alumni center that bears his name, and when it was dedicated in 1994, three former U.S. presidents attended. In 2001, he received the first George Bush Corporate Leadership Award for his role in supporting employee volunteerism and corporate citizenship.

Significant Sig Bill Del Biaggio Jr., OREGON 1962, entered the Chapter Eternal on May 2, 2020. He was 80. Del Biaggio was born on May 31, 1940, in San Jose, California. In 1994, he helped found Heritage Bank of Commerce and served as its original chairman. Shortly after retiring from the bank in 2017, he joined the California Bank of Commerce and most recently served as executive vice president. Del Biaggio was a philanthropist for many causes, including the Guadalupe River Park and Gardens and Family Supportive Housing.

Significant Sig Phil Horsley, UTAH 1960 , entered the Chapter Eternal on Oct. 21, 2020. He was 82. Horsley was born Oct. 16, 1938, in Brigham City, Utah. In 1983 he founded what would later be known as Horsley Bridge Partners, one of the earliest firms to offer institutional investors an opportunity to participate in private equity and venture capital investments. In 2002, the firm was inducted into the Private Equity Hall of Fame. Horsley, who had served on several boards, retired in 2010 and spent more time working with Open to Hope, a family foundation honoring his deceased son, Scott.

Significant Sig Dr. James McKinzie, ILLINOIS 1952 , entered the Chapter Eternal on Dec. 8, 2020. He was 90. McKinzie was born on Feb. 12, 1930. McKinzie was responsible for bringing the first eye microscope, cryogenic instruments, laser and the phacoemulsification unit to Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura, California. For his many years of enhancing its reputation and quality, he was awarded the hospital’s first Cephas Bard Award. McKinzie also developed and held two patents on ophthalmological drugs and was an associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Significant Sig Robert Smith, WILLAMETTE 1953 , entered the Chapter Eternal on Sept. 21, 2020. He was 89. Smith was born on June 16, 1931, in Portland, Oregon. He was a member of the Oregon House of Representatives representing the 26th district from 1961 to 1973. He served as House speaker for two sessions in 1969 and 1971. He then became a U.S. representative who served Oregon’s second congressional district from 1983 to 1995. Smith retired in 1995 but ran again in 1996 after his successor admitted to lying about his military service record. He then served from 1997 to 1999.

Sigma Chi Fraternity CHAPTER ETERNAL

Albion

1958 Richard Nash of Royal Oak, MI; 10/20

Arizona

1984 John Henkel of Centennial, CO; 10/20

Arkansas

1948 Billy Bennett of Bethel Heights, AR; 12/20

Auburn

1952 Carver Kennedy of Atlanta; 12/20

Austin Peay

1969 Larry Harris of Clarksville, TN; 11/19

Bradley

1953 Don Walz of Lafayette, CA; 12/20

British Columbia-Simon Fraser

1952 William Danner of Perth, ON; 12/20

1983 Keith Corrigan of Sparwood, BC; 12/20

Butler

1946 Les Duvall Jr. of Indianapolis; 9/20

1950 Lawrence Henderson Jr. of Indianapolis; 9/20

California-Berkeley

1956 Fredrick Flowers of Orinda, CA; 12/20

1958 David Harries III of El Dorado Hills, CA; 11/20

Case Western

1948 Ignatius Comella of Beachwood, OH; 12/20

Centre

1956 Carol Strey of Olympia, WA; 12/20

Chicago

1952 Bob Mixon Jr. of Huntsville, AL; 12/20

Cincinnati

1963 Larry Mullins of Charleston, WV; 12/20

Connecticut

1949 Gene Delmauro of Guilford, CT; 9/20

Cornell

1963 Charles Skinner of Groton, NY; 12/20

Dartmuth

1946 Richard Scharrer of Dayton, OH; 12/20

Denison

1952 Kent Taylor of Louisville, KY; 9/20

1964 Peter Edwards of Lake Geneva, WI; 9/20

1967 Robert Larson of Worthington, OH; 9/20

1978 Stuart McKeldin of Pompano Beach, FL; 9/20

Drake

2003 Andrew Boysen of Clarinda, IA; 11/20

Duke

1949 Edward Cathcart of Inman, SC; 12/20

1951 Edward Emes Jr. of Washington, DC; 12/20

Emory

1967 John Hughes of Homerville, GA; 10/20

Florida

1956 Bill Rivers of Fort Myers, FL; 11/19

Georgia

1958 Marion Jordan, MD, of Albuquerque, NM; 10/20

2010 Sims Carter of Athens, GA; 12/20

Georgia Tech

1951 John Dover III of Marietta, GA; 11/20

Gettysburg

1951 Bob Little Jr. of Williamsport, PA; 11/20

Houston

1963 Laurie Daniels of Houston; 12/20

Idaho

1957 David Youmans of Grandview, WA; 10/20

1958 Charles Pfeiffer of Boise, ID; 11/20

Illinois

1944 Jud Adams of Tyler, TX; 12/20

1958 Peter Fischer of Rockport, TX; 11/20

Illinois Wesleyan

1958 Chuck Doxey of Valparaiso, IN; 12/20

Indiana

1950 Jack Brown of Fort Myers, FL; 12/20

1954 Jackie Wright of Fort Wayne, IN; 12/20

1961 Jon Gast of Rochester, IN; 10/20

1969 William Moyer of New Albany, IN; 12/20

Iowa State

1954 Jim Champlin of Santee, CA; 9/20

Kansas

1953 Bill McGinty of Overland Park, KS; 12/20

1960 Stanley Lehman of Bisbee, AZ; 12/20

Kent State

1997 Steven Barton of Chicago; 11/20

Kentucky

1952 Frank Myers of Pittsboro, NC; 12/20

1954 Fred Silhanek Jr. of Louisville, KY; 10/20

Lehigh

1958 Charles Burgdorf of Westfield, NJ; 10/20

Louisiana State

1954 Edwin Graves of Baton Rouge, LA; 12/20

1963 Michael McCoy of New Roads, LA; 12/20

1973 Walter Comeaux of Baton Rouge, LA; 12/20

Maryland

1952 Edwin Burtner of Sterling, VA; 12/20

1975 Charles Schlager Jr. of Damascus, MD; 11/20

Miami (Florida)

1943 William Wood of Coral Gables, FL; 10/19

1963 Thomas Morris of Wesley Chapel, FL; 10/19

Miami (Ohio)

1956 Thomas Hanlon of Roswell, GA; 11/20

Minnesota

1965 James Billings of Millersville, MD; 12/20

Mississippi

1958 Walter Gray of Bloomington, IL; 12/20

1962 Jody Stevens III of Little Rock, AR; 10/20

Mississippi State

1963 Percy Kimbrough III of Germantown, TN; 12/19

1965 Ernest Deas of Starkville, MS; 12/19

Missouri-Columbia

1957 Roger Ornduff of Gravois Mills, MO; 12/20

New Mexico

1950 Joe Stell Jr. of Carlsbad, NM; 12/20

1951 Moon Barnhart of Anchorage, AK; 12/20

Northern Colorado

1962 Douglas Vap of Aurora, CO; 12/20

Northwestern

1982 Douglas Peterson of Colorado Springs, CO; 12/20

Ohio

1961 James Thomas of Lexington, KY; 9/20

1962 Steve Wahl of Flowery Branch, GA; 9/20

Ohio State

1968 Tad Jones of Santa Cruz, CA; 9/20

Ohio Wesleyan

1952 Robert Edler of Columbus, OH; 11/20

1954 James Carse of New York; 10/20

1954 James Hinton of Akron, OH; 10/20

1960 Ralph Hanna of Williamsburg, VA; 12/20

Oklahoma State

1949 Joseph McClure Jr. of Springfield, IL; 9/20

Oregon State

1952 Bill Mosby of Buellton, CA; 9/20

Penn State

1941 Richard Sartz of La Crosse, WI; 12/20

1944 Robert Campbell of Mason, OH; 11/20

Pepperdine

2013 Alexander Miotti of Ojai, CA; 10/20

Purdue

1962 Jim Parrish of Mount Pleasant, WI; 11/20

1965 James Walker of Carmel, IN; 12/20

1973 Richard Kuntz of San Marcos, CA; 12/20

Rensselaer

1948 Wayne Gilman of Pittsford, NY; 12/20

Rhode Island

1954 Robert Chapman of Muenchen, Germany; 9/20

1958 Dick Hamblin of East Greenwich, RI; 12/20

Rutgers

1991 Patrick Fleming of Bloomingdale, NJ; 12/20

1992 Todd Vozdovic of Gladstone, NJ; 11/20

San Diego State

1952 Duane Pillsbury of Lakeside, CA; 9/20

South Carolina

1950 Roger Wilson of Macon, GA; 12/20

1960 John Tomlinson of Columbia, SC; 12/20

Southern California

1960 Douglas Taylor of Los Angeles; 9/20

1961 Bob Edwards Jr. of San Antonio; 11/20

Tennessee-Knoxville

1957 David Luening of Pittsboro, NC; 9/20

Texas-Austin

1950 Phillips Huck of Diamondhead, MS; 12/20

Utah

1957 Dean Larsen of Salt Lake City; 12/20

1962 Bill Folland of Kenilworth, IL; 12/20

1974 Baylor Warren of Salt Lake City; 12/20

Vanderbilt

1972 Terry Stinson of Atlanta; 11/20

Virginia

1988 Andrew Rice of Winchester, VA; 11/20

Wake Forest

1949 William Beacham of Raleigh, NC; 12/20

Washington & Lee

1951 John Kay of Naples, FL; 12/20

Washington State

1958 Petter Grytness Jr. of Tacoma, WA; 12/20

Western

1960 Alex Eastwood of Hudson, QC; 12/20

Western Kentucky

1965 Alan Fryrear of Crestwood, KY; 10/20

1969 Perry Shaver of Newburgh, IN; 12/20

Wisconsin-Madison

1948 Harold Emch Jr. of Milwaukee; 10/20

Wyoming

1963 John Evenson of Bermuda Dunes, CA; 10/20

The Sig List

1

2 3 4 5

6

Significant Sig and Arizona Congressman Ruben Gallego, HARVARD 2004, on Dec. 2, 2020, was named chairman of BOLD PAC, which is the campaign arm of the Hispanic Caucus. BOLD is the fastestgrowing Democratic political action committee and is dedicated to increasing diversity in the U.S. House and Senate.

Significant Sig Gerald Guerrieri, TULSA 1985, shown below, is head coach of the Texas A&M University women’s soccer team and earned co-coach of the year honors from the Southeastern Conference in fall 2020. Guerrieri led his team to an 8-2 record during the 2020 season.

Former NFL players Peyton and Eli Manning and LaDainian Tomlinson recently became investors in the Baton Rouge-based grill retailer BBQGuys, helmed by CEO Russ Wheeler, WESTERN KENTUCKY 1991. The company was founded in 1998, and the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship selected BBQGuys as a National Small Business of the Week in April 2019.

Jack Karbens, BRADLEY 1963, is a serious athletic competitor in track and field events. He has been a member of the Hawaii Masters Track Club since 1971 and has participated in more than 800 track meets, 70 pentathlons, 60 decathlons, 35 Scottish Highland Games and 12 marathons, among other events. Karbens is a retired professor of accounting and finance at Hawaii Pacific University.

The Fraternity installed its first chapter in the state of Arizona on April 23, 1921, when the local Tau Delta Phi fraternity became Sigma Chi’s Beta Phi chapter. The chapter’s rolls include 30 Significant Sigs, nine Order of Constantine Sigs and three Grand Consuls.

The Fraternity’s Epsilon chapter at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., claims the most members to have held the office of Grand Consul with five members. Forty-third Grand Consul Bolon Turner, GEORGE WASHINGTON 1922, is the most recent person from the chapter to hold the office, having served in the role from 1965 to 1967.

Things to know, notice and tell a brother

BY THE NUMBERS

Fraternity alumni, undergraduates and groups as of Jan. 1, 2021 /////////////////////////////////////

126

650 Colony Members

264,062

Living Alumni Members

235 Alumni Groups Undergraduate Members

13,988 Undergraduate Chapters

fifteen Undergraduate Colonies