The Emerald - Fall 2022

As you may know, Sigma Pi celebrated the 55th & 56th Biennial Convocations in August 2022. As we prepared for the Convocation, it gave us a chance to step back and reflect over the last four years. Our Fraternity has achieved so much since we last gathered in Niagara Falls, NY for the 54th Convocation in 2018!

First, prudent financial management has allowed the Fraternity to invest nearly half a million dollars back into critical areas of operations. Some of this investment is obvioussubscribe to our YouTube channel and you’ll find a dozen professionally prepared videos added in the last year with many more to come. Further, all of our chapters received recruitment supplies to start the 2021 academic year. They also have access to industryleading recruitment software at no additional cost.

The Fraternity has also invested in areas that are less visible, but no less important, including growing our operating reserves and working capital by 35% over the biennium. While these investments are not easily visible, they make the Fraternity more durable in the face of an unknown political and social future. The stronger our reserves, the more dexterity the Fraternity has in writing its own path for the future.

The biggest successes that we have achieved are at the local level. For example, our new member retention reached 95% - the highest that we have ever recorded. This is a testament to the thoughtfulness of the undergraduates in their determination of who should join Sigma Pi Fraternity. As more evidence of success at the local level, we are proud to report that nearly 1,000 alumni and friends attended Sigma Pi-hosted events across North America over the last 12 months.

Our fundraising has also achieved new records. We started Radiant Napa Valley at no cost to the Fraternity and, thus far, we have over 100 subscribers and have received more than $11,500 in revenue from their memberships. This is well above our estimates for the first year of the club. Our partners at the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation also had their biggest year ever in terms of total donations. This incredible fundraising success allowed the Foundation to award more than $147,000 in scholarships, fellowships, and grants this year, which makes two years in a row that they have awarded that much to our undergraduates and graduate students. The Foundation also kickstarted the Leadership Speaker Series, which provided donors with exclusive interviews with high profile Sigma Pi alumni including Nike’s longest tenured employee, an award-winning photographer for the LA Times, a C-Suite executive for a multi-billion dollar global clothing company, and an NFL coach and his son, an NCAA coach. And that’s just the beginning of the Series!

Sigma Pi Fraternity has emerged from the pandemic era as a financially stronger organization, better rooted in our values, and with the proven flexibility and knowledge to meet the needs of our chapters, colonies, and alumni clubs. Our undergraduates have shown their resilience, and our Foundation’s success proves that our work over the last several years represents the future that our brothers want.

The continued efforts of our staff, volunteers, and donors will set the stage for what we expect to be a tremendous 2022-2024 biennium!

CEO Jonathan M. Frost (UMSL '99) jfrost@sigmapi.org

In This Issue

ABOUT THE EMERALD VOLUME CVI, NUMBER 2 - Fall 2022

1074-5289, USPS 011-013)

The Emerald has been published since 1911 by: Sigma Pi Fraternity

Kermit Dr., Suite 730 Nashville, TN 37217 and additional mailing offices.

SUBMISSION DEADLINES

Fall - June 1 Spring - December 1

ABOUT SIGMA PI

Sigma Pi Fraternity was founded at Vincennes University, Vincennes, Ind. on February 26, 1897. The Executive Office is located in Nashville, Tenn. Sigma Pi has chartered more than 230 chapters in North America and has initiated over 115,000 members since 1897. The founding fathers of Sigma Pi Fraternity are:

Rolin Rosco James (1879-1953) William Raper Kennedy (1877-1944) James Thompson Kingsbury (1877-1950) George Martin Patterson (1877-1960)

SHARE YOUR STORY

Send pictures and stories to: emerald@sigmapi.org or Sigma Pi Fraternity

1101 Kermit Dr., Suite 730 Nashville, TN 37217

05

06

Events

Spotlight

Reports

Accomplishments

Double Brothers

Council

Finish

Contributors

EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Chris Carter (Middle Tennessee '08)

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Summer Clarkson BUSINESS MANAGER

Jen Wyatt

CONTRIBUTORS

Jacob Camilleri (Saginaw Valley State '14)

Drew Carpenter (Middle Tennessee ‘85)

Jeff Cline (North Carolina State '85)

Daniel Daugherty (Morehead State ’88)

CEO Jonathan M. Frost (UMSL '99)

Doug Gold (Santa Clara '91)

Kyle Heimbigner (Washington State '10)

Jeremy Lenart (Monmouth '19)

PGS Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth '00)

Alex Pettigrew (Indiana of Penn. '15)

GS Kent Varney (Kentucky '97)

Jake Reed Hired as Assistant Director of Chapter Support

The Executive Office of Sigma Pi is proud to announce that Jake Reed (Arkansas ‘19) was hired as Assistant Director of Chapter Support within the Chapter Support Department. He officially began serving in the new role on June 13, 2022.

In the role of Assistant Director of Chapter Support, Reed will advise, consult, and train chapters on operations, recruitment, and general support in person and virtually.

Reed attended the University of Arkansas, where he graduated with a finance degree. He served as the Herald and Sage at AlphaSigma Chapter, helping to lead the chapter to its biggest membership (100+) in over 50 years. Additionally, he helped the Chapter win its first-ever Grand Chapter Award, as well as ensuring its position in winning a second consecutive one this year.

“I am beyond excited to get started in this position with Sigma Pi,” said Reed. “Having the opportunity to impact undergraduates and those around me excites me due to the shared vision of growth the Fraternity is experiencing. I look forward to creating and nurturing life-long relationships with undergraduates and alumni that will continue to help better Sigma Pi Fraternity. As an undergraduate, Sigma Pi gave me a purpose. I am excited to try and give back as much as possible to the organization that has given me so much.”

In his free time, Reed enjoys spending time with his friends, hanging out with his two dogs, and loves to be outdoors. He’s also a big sports fan (specifically the Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia 76ers, and any Arkansas Razorback team).

Nathen Andrews Hired as Undergraduate Support Consultant

The Executive Office of Sigma Pi is proud to announce that Nathen Andrews (Orlando, FL ‘19) was hired as the Undergraduate Support Consultant within the Chapter Support Department. He officially began serving in the new role on June 6, 2022.

In the role of Undergraduate Support Consultant, Andrews will be working with chapters and colonies on various areas of operations and recruitment. He will be their main point of contact for any items related to recruitment, academics, or overall consultation.

Andrews graduated in August 2022 with a degree in Political Science on the Pre-Law Track at the University of Central Florida.

During his senior year, he was a Legal Assistant intern at Chad Barr Law Firm in Altamonte, Florida.

Within his chapter, Andrews held active roles, including Herald and Sage, as well

as numerous other positions such as Event Manager and New Member Educator. "Sigma Pi has fully constructed me into the man I am today, because without the professional development, public speaking, and management skills that I have learned throughout my time in this Fraternity I would not be on the upward trajectory that I am on today,” said Andrews. “It has also given me some of the best friends that I could have ever asked for, especially in some of the hardest times that young men go through in their journey through college to adulthood. So when I was offered a job that would allow me to give even a fraction of that back, I completely jumped at the opportunity."

In his free time, Andrews enjoys playing guitar, which he has played since he was seven years old.

GRAND SAGE

Kent Varney

(Kentucky '97)

gs@sigmapi.org

First, let me thank everyone for putting on the best Convocation in Sigma Pi history. It was a wonderful time celebrating the first 125 years of Sigma Pi with brothers from all over the country. Second, I'd like to thank PGS Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth ’00), as over the last four years his leadership through the pandemic has placed us in a situation of success for the next two years.

Now we must focus on the future; as we move forward, the new Grand Council is excited to build upon the foundation that has been built over the last few years. Since we have achieved a level of financial stability, we can now focus on improving the alumni and undergraduate experience. We will introduce new leadership and educational programs in the next two years.

As we are able to increase staff following the pandemic, this will allow more involvement and interaction between the Executive Office and members of the Fraternity.

We are also working with the Sigma Pi Educational Fund and Sigma Pi University to organize alumni events for the upcoming two years. Through a joint effort over the last few years, we have conducted many alumni events across the country. These regional events have allowed our alumni to become more involved and informed about our Fraternity. We would love our alumni to come to these events, and if you are having an event, please let the Executive Office know if you need any assistance organizing the event.

GRAND COUNCIL MEMBERS

GRAND SAGE

Kent Varney (Kentucky '97)

Pike County Family Court Judge

DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE

Brian Devot (Cal State Long Beach ’95)

Vice President of Private Banking at Union Bank

Brian Kurisky (Ferris State ’07)

Executive Director of the Collaborative Center for Community Engagement at Rutgers University –New Brunswick

Christian Miele (Towson ‘00)

Deputy Secretary at Maryland Department of Disabilities

Ryan Post (Valparaiso ‘09)

Lead Engineer at Whirlpool Corporation

Justin Todoroff (Cal State Long Beach ’01)

Vice President at Uber Freight

PAST GRAND SAGE

Joseph Palazzolo (Monmouth ’00)

Professor, Leon Hess Business School at Monmouth University

By the Numbers

For the 125 year celebration, we asked you to join us in the fraternal experience in three ways: Celebrate , Learn , and Engage . Lets take a look at those three key pillars in which you took part in this historic milestone within our Fraternity.

LEARN ENGAGE

$11,500+

Total royalties from Radiant Napa Wine Program in 2021-22

100+

Average listeners per episode of the Owl Talk Podcast since launch in February 2022

$2,356,600

Estimated value of primary, outside, and contingent bequests made through the Freewill partnership (since launch in January 2022)

Alumni undergraduates, and friends attended 27 Events hosted by Sigma Pi across the United States In 2021-22

Digital impressions of the Winter 2022 issue of The Emerald, available on Issuu.com

$476,000+

Total items sold through Shop Sigma Pi in 2021-22

Stories shared from 6,448 respondents to the Oral History Project through PCI

As part of the 125th celebration, all donations beginning in November 2021 through the 55th/56th Convocation were counted towards the initial goal of $100,000. Thanks to an amazing year of giving, two stretch goals were established and surpassed, with nearly half a million dollars gifted to the Fraternity!

Help Sigma Pi continue our progress by making a gift today at give.sigmapi.org

Sigma Pi Announces Strategic Plan Through 2027

S igma Pi Fraternity has developed a five-year strategic plan to guide the Fraternity and its members on our Golden Quest.

There will be ten focus areas, including Undergraduate Experience, Alumni Experience, Volunteer Experience, Alumni Clubs, Post-Graduate Experience, Leadership Development, Health & Safety, Diversity & Inclusion, Growth, and Brand Awareness.

The ten focus areas are built around the clear need to provide immense value to our members and elevate Sigma Pi to the next level of fraternal progress, all while sustaining a clear and direct vision for the future of the Fraternity. Through this strategic plan, the aim is to provide clarity on the Fraternity’s goals while giving

our members a clear viewpoint on how they are deeply rooted in the Fraternity’s identity and can be genuinely involved in the success of the organization.

For 125 years, Sigma Pi has grown from humble beginnings to a national organization of 116,000 lifetime members, 232 chapters throughout its existence, and countless memories made for brothers across North America.

This is an opportunity to define what Sigma Pi is and to ensure that the Fraternity will be strong for its next 125 years. To learn more about the strategic plan,

Photo courtesy of Todd Rosenberg

The Art (and Work) of Storytelling

What Sebastian Maniscalco Learned from Comedy, Family, and Sigma Pi

by The Emerald Staff

With multiple enterprises under his belt, including standup comedy specials, films, and sold-out stadium shows, Sebastian Maniscalco (Northern Illinois ’95) is arguably the hardest working comedian today. He maintains a packed schedule and attributes his powerful work ethic to his family—and to Sigma Pi. Sebastian initially didn’t think a fraternity would be his style, but after struggling academically and socially in his first semester at NIU, he accepted an invitation from a couple of friends at Beta-Sigma Chapter. “As soon as I rushed, I thought, ‘Yeah, this is the place for me,’” he recalls. Sebastian found lifelong friendships, improved his grades, and eventually became house manager followed by chapter president. “That definitely helped me throughout my life by teaching me responsibility and how to handle different people and personalities.”

TELLING A STORY

“I come from a family who are a bunch of storytellers, and we love to laugh,” Sebastian said of his Italian American upbringing in Arlington Heights, Illinois. His immediate family didn’t have cable TV, but Sebastian would watch at his cousin’s house, where he grew fascinated with comedians like George Carlin, Jerry Seinfeld (who now calls Sebastian his favorite comic), Eddie Murphy, and Richard Pryor.

He also spent time in high school attending a comedy club in the Chicago area to watch the

local talent work on their craft. In his senior year of college, Sebastian won a campus comedy contest, and as his prize, he opened for a headlining comedian in DeKalb. Even though it wasn’t his best performance, he was determined to improve and make a living in comedy; he moved to Los Angeles after college to pursue exactly that.

Growing up, Sebastian especially enjoyed comedians who felt relatable. This inspires his observational comedy style—pointing out the quirks and oddities of daily life, such as dinner parties or trips to Chipotle (where staff bends over backwards to remind him the guac costs extra).

“Now I have a family and two kids, and a lot of my jokes are about being a parent,” he added. “I don’t sit in a room and write the comedy— it’s inspired by my experiences … more about storytelling than punch lines.”

STAYING HUNGRY

Even during the early pandemic months, Sebastian stayed busy. That included two nights guest-hosting for Jimmy Kimmel, continuing his podcast (The Pete & Sebastian Show, alongside fellow comedian Pete Correale), and performing for charity events on Zoom. A handful of these Zoom events, which he cohosted with Italian American chef Dom DiBartolomeo, led to the Discovery+ show Well Done with Sebastian Maniscalco, in which he explores the culinary arts and etiquette with guests.

Sebastian has since continued touring as conditions allow. This resulted in record-breaking business last year, as he was one of the first acts in the U.S. to return to large-scale venues, posting some of the highest grosses.

He currently has over 40 shows scheduled through 2022. “Being on the sidelines for 16 months gave me a new appreciation for comedy, being back on the road, and not taking anything for granted.”

WORKING WITH THE GREATS

Sebastian has also worked in film in recent years, appearing in critically acclaimed films such as 2018’s Oscar-winning Green Book and 2019’s Oscar-nominated The Irishman. “It was pretty surreal,” he said of working with the likes of Martin Scorsese, Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci—all names he grew up with. “If you told me that I’d be in a movie with these guys, I would have told you [that] you were crazy.”

While standup and acting are both a type of performance, Sebastian notes that acting for movies works a different muscle than comedy. “Obviously, nobody’s laughing on set because you’re filming, so it’s a little harder to gauge whether your performance is being well received.”

Nonetheless, he has enjoyed acting so far and hopes to continue in the future.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Though he took a different career path than many Fraternity brothers, Sebastian is thankful for the friendships and connections he built in Sigma Pi. “I think Fraternity life gives you a good glimpse of how the world works as far as relationships are concerned.” He encourages younger brothers and recent graduates to find their passion and give 110% toward it, to utilize their connections (as many of his Sigma Pi friends have done in their careers), and to remember that the fun of Fraternity life comes with big responsibilities as well.

“I just can’t stress how important it was for me to be part of Sigma Pi.”

Sebastian’s Nobody Does This Tour continues through 2022. Stay Hungry is his best-selling memoir and also his latest comedy special, available on Netflix. His upcoming movie, About My Father (starring himself and Robert De Niro), is loosely based on his own life experiences.

To learn more about Sebastian and/or connect, visit sebastianlive.com.

Photo courtesy of Peggy Sirota

SPEF CHAIRMAN Jeff Cline (North Carolina State ’85) SPEF@sigmapi.org

We are excited to see that the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation (SPEF) 2021-2022 fiscal year wrapped up with some impressive results. To paint a picture of the overall numbers:

• Net assets maintained a level above $5 million (subject to financial audit)

• Contributions totaled $534,000 (+72%)

• 780 unique donors made contributions

• 258 (+40%) new donors began their tradition of giving

• Over $147,000 in grants and scholarships were distributed, impacting 293 members

• Largest Chapter Educational Fund (CEF) group distribution of $14,200 and the largest single CEF scholarship award of $7,500

In addition, the SPEF published an Annual Report for the first time since 2015, utilized ThankView multimedia messages to improve donor communications, created new lifetime annual giving levels to recognize our generous supporters, and partnered with FreeWill, where we now have 50 documented wills & trusts, as well as six bequests to Sigma Pi with an estimated value of $95,000, and visibility to an outside bequest from a single member of $750,000!

We can clearly see — despite the continued economic headwinds — that donor counts remain steady, donation dollars and new donor acquisition have both increased, donor communication has improved, and services have expanded. All while leading up to our quasquicentennial celebration in San Antonio!

The Sigma Pi Educational Foundation and Sigma Pi University (SPU) support the educational initiatives of the Fraternity to inspire, promote, and support the lifelong development of our members. Together, we can change a life through the award of a scholarship, save a life through delivery of health and safety programming, and build a better future for the men of Sigma Pi.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, and all the men of Sigma Pi who have benefited from your generous contributions, we thank you for your continued commitment and ongoing support of the Educational Foundation. Because we all believe in Sigma Pi….

As a donor today, you can be an active partner in the development of the Sigma Pi leaders of tomorrow by creating the financial support they need to continue their educational pursuits and reach their goals. We encourage you to reflect on how Sigma Pi has enhanced your life and consider a tax-deductible gift to SPEF or SPU. No matter the size of the gift, all donations will benefit our members at a time when they need it the most.

Giving back to Sigma Pi Fraternity with your debit or credit card online at give.sigmapi.org is a quick and secure way to make your contribution today! Now, you can even make a conribution through Venmo or Paypal ! Just visit our donation form, fill out your information, then select the button at the bottom on how you'd like to make your gift.

Learn more about all the ways to donate by scanning the QR Code above or by visiting:

give.sigmapi.org

BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEMBERS

CHAIRMAN

Jeff Cline (North Carolina State ’85)

VICE CHAIRMAN/INVESTMENTS

David Presson (Murray State ’77)

VICE CHAIRMAN/LEGAL

Mike Long (Oakland ’03)

TREASURER

Daniel Daugherty (Morehead State ’88)

SECRETARY

Robert Pankau (Oakland ’02)

TRUSTEE

Taylor Lapsys (UC Irvine ’04)

TRUSTEE

Patrick Reimer (Morehead State ’94)

In February 2021, Sigma Pi hosted its first-ever 10 Stars Campaign. The fundraising effort centered around the idea of “give $10+ and ask ten,” where we ask our members to give what you can, whether it’s $10 or more; then, we hope you will ask ten of your friends to do the same.

Through the efforts of our brotherhood collectively, we raised over $61,000 from 187 donors! Thanks to those gifts, we were able to not only hit our original goal of $25,000 but go above and beyond both of our stretch goals of $35,000 and $50,000.

With Sigma Pi celebrating 125 years in February, the decision was made to transition the 10 Stars Campaign to October, the 10th month of the year — with 10 being a number representing Sigma Pi throughout its identity, most importantly in the radiant triangle.

The second iteration of the Campaign will begin on October 1, 2022!

In support of Sigma Pi Fraternity's 10 Stars Campaign, we graciously ask you to give what you can, whether it’s $10 or more, during the month of October. Then, we hope you will ask 10 of your friends to do the same. It’s give $10+ and ask 10. It’s that simple. And with your help, we can take this campaign and turn it into something that makes all members of our Fraternity proud!

Be a team leader and get others to join! Each chapter and colony is currently set up with a team, or you can fund raise as an individual!

You can also make your contribution go further!

If you are an undergraduate, join the Delta Society during the month of October and your contribution will also count toward your team's goal for the 10 Stars Campaign.

If you are an alumnus, you can join the Owl Society where your contribution in October will also count toward the 10 Stars Campaign.

Year In Review

OF BROTHERHOOD CARDS DISTRIBUTED

SPU CHAIRMAN

Doug Gold (Santa Clara '91)

SPU@sigmapi.org

Anyone or anything that reaches the ripe old age of 125 could use a little nip and tuck. Our beloved Fraternity is no different. Under CEO Jonathan Frost’s leadership, Sigma Pi has been going through that effort over the last several years.

Despite the challenges posed by the continued threat from University administration around the Country, not to mention COVID, Sigma Pi is thankfully better positioned than it has ever been. The nipping and tucking has resulted in a variety of changes, including the formation of Sigma Pi University (SPU).

SPU’s sole mission is to secure funding for programming that our undergraduates (and even alumni) could benefit from in today’s increasingly competitive world. Our Fraternity is similar to any business that exists, requiring a good “product” to sell to those that would consider buying. Social events and the occasional charitable endeavor is not what today’s young men are seeking. They want mentorship, leadership training, mental fitness, career planning, and many other components that live within the body of our Creed.

SPU is playing a key role in funding the tools and content needed to deliver a more meaningful “product.” Our alumni have already started investing in valuable programming and we ask that you consider SPU as part of your charitable plan so that the next generation of young men can find a fulfilling home in our Fraternity, one that will offer a lifetime of learning amidst our brotherhood.

ABOUT SIGMA PI UNIVERSITY

Sigma Pi has never been about a three or four-year experience while attending school. It represents a lifetime commitment to our values, reflected in our Creed, and each other. Sigma Pi University was developed to drive funding towards important programs that build character, maintain health (spiritual, mental, and otherwise), and support the lifelong commitment to being better men. Join us in this journey that has become more relevant and important to the ongoing support of undergraduates and alumni than it’s ever been.

Learn how you can contribute at give.sigmapi.org.

BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEMBERS

CHAIRMAN

Doug Gold (Santa Clara'91)

SECRETARY

Nelson Farris (Cal State Long Beach '63)

TREASURER

Joseph Conway (Cal State Fullerton ‘78)

The Lasting Impact of Leadership Programming

by Alexander Pettigrew (Indiana of Pennsylvania '15), Director of Education and Programs

As Sigma Pi continues to develop and expand the resources it is able to make available to its members the topic of “Real World” programming has become a focal point in that conversation. In what is becoming an ever increasingly competitive market the Fraternity has shifted its focus to providing both that education and an environment where that type of program can not only flourish but continue to grow year over year.

With that in mind Sigma Pi launched the Tony Siress Leadership Summit (TSLS) on April 23, 2022. TSLS is in its launch and in its continuation of growth is the culmination of programming that is applicable and relevant to undergraduate attendees. The content focuses on educational pillars such as leadership, risk management and mitigation, professional development, marketing and branding, and diversity equity and inclusion. Sessions that were created to maximize each of these educational pillars were We Are Sigma Pi, Mitigating Risk in Your Business, Conflict Management in Your Workspace, The Power of Your Personal Brand, and Leading with a Strategy. In future programs the TSLS

will look to expand upon and incorporate the educational pillar of Self Awareness into its curriculum.

In terms of reach, the inaugural TSLS launched in April of 2022 exclusively to the Appalachian Province. Moving forward, and in 2023 specifically, the TSLS will be open to all chapter Presidents of the Fraternity. As Sigma Pi looks to identify potential locations for the event there will be a concentration on sites that allow attendees to engage in team building activities such as ropes courses, paintball, basketball, and fireside chats. With the growth of the event the Fraternity also plans to continue securing high level speakers who will be able to convey the importance of both professional and personal development as members of Sigma Pi.

While the world continues to become a more competitive place Sigma Pi is confident the launch and continuation of programs like the TSLS will allow for the Fraternity to create better men and ultimately fulfill our mission – to inspire, promote, and support the lifelong development of our brothers.

A Look Back at Convocation A Recap of the Event in San Antonio, Texas

In August, brothers from across the country – with friends and family – gathered in San Antonio, Texas to celebrate 125 years of the Fraternity at the 55th & 56th Biennial Convocation. The event served as a historical moment for Sigma Pi as members celebrated the occasion but also met in-person on a national scale for the first time in over two years.

“This Convocation was truly a great opportunity for the Fraternity to re-establish the way in which it goes about conducting its business and celebrating the success and brotherhood of Sigma Pi,” said Director of Education and Programs Alexander Pettigrew (Indiana of Pennsylvania '15). “With the move to conduct business virtually prior to the in-person event, this convention was a foundational piece in incorporating education into the program."

Pettigrew continued, "Moving forward, Sigma Pi will look to expand its opportunities to engage members at events like Convocation with

supplemental programming, networking, and additional excursions to heighten the experience of those in attendance.”

The celebration began on Wednesday with the kickoff reception and a special event at the Alamo for alumni attendees. On Thursday morning, the first session featuring the procession of previous Grand Sage Cup-winning chapters, Past Grand Sages, Chapter Advisors, Province Archons, Educational Foundation board members, and the Grand Council. At this time, the 55th & 56th Biennial Convocation officially opened for business following the ritual of the Grand Chapter.

The next session was the Grand Chapter Awards Luncheon which presented the award winners listed on page 17.

On Friday morning, business sessions continued as usual. A Leadership Luncheon followed, where then-Grand Sage Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth ’00) spoke about the Fraternity’s

history. Following the luncheon, the Grand Council for the 2022-2024 biennium was officially elected. After the new officers were installed, the busy day concluded with a memorial service remembering those who entered the Adytum on High over the previous two bienniums.

On Friday night, the celebration banquet took place. This time allowed the Fraternity to honor the major award winners for the biennium.

Founders’ Award recipient Jeffrey Tottleben (Missouri S&T '88) gave a moving speech regarding the reasons he remains committed to the Fraternity and to Alpha-Iota Chapter.

Following, the winners of the Grand Sage's Awards were presented to four well-deserving chapters. This biennium's winners included Alpha-Sigma Chapter at Arkansas and Beta-Tau Chapter at Valparaiso, both winning their firstever Grand Sage's Awards. In addition, Omega Chapter at Oregon State and Iota-Tau Chapter at St. John's University both won their third consecutive Grand Sage's Awards, and both tied the record for most consecutive Grand Sage's Awards won by a chapter.

A special moment occurred where all attendees from New Jersey came up on stage to thank PGS Palazzolo for his dedication to mentoring

and leading the way in their area, as well as his overall commitment to the Fraternity. PGS Palazzolo followed that up with a speech of his own, and afterward, symbolically “passed the gavel” on to new Grand Sage Kent Varney (Kentucky ’97). Lastly, GS Varney then shared his thoughts with the attendees, setting the stage for what is sure to be a great biennium.

As a longtime tradition continued, all brothers circled the ballroom, locked arms, and joyously joined in singing “The Fireside Song” together.

Saturday had an exciting start with a model initiation ceremony taking place in the morning.

During this initiation, Jacob Rovira – son of PGS Larry Rovira (Cal State Fullerton '80) – was initiated alongside Brett Butler (San Diego ’22).

After the initiation, attendees hopped on charter buses to Six Flags for a wonderful brotherhood outing, which officially concluded the 55th & 56th Biennial Convocation.

Lastly, we’d like to share a special thank you with PGS Ed Panconi (Loyola Marymount '82), Michael McDonald (Cal State Fullerton ’78), Todd Griffin (East Carolina '90), and Jeremy Lessman (Franklin & Marshall ’88) for their hard work and dedication as part of the 125th Celebration Committee.

- Oregon State (Omega)

Tier

- Arkansas (Alpha-Sigma)

- Valparaiso (Beta-Tau)

- St. John's (Iota-Tau)

Jeffrey Tottleben (Missouri S&T '88)

Jacob Camilleri (Saginaw Valley State '14)

Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota)

Ian Wolf (Rutgers' 12)

Grand Sage's Award Grand Sage's Award

Grand Sage's Award Grand Sage's Award

Founder's Award

Staff Member of the Year

Clegg Scholarship Trophy

Justice Curtis Shake Award

Grand Sage’s Award

Tier 1 - Oregon State (Omega)

Tier 2 - Arkansas (Alpha-Sigma)

Tier 3 - Valparaiso (Beta-Tau)

Tier 4 - St. John's (Iota-Tau)

Grand Council Award

Tier 1 - Oregon State (Omega)

Tier 1 - Iowa (Xi)

Tier 1 - Georgia (Alpha-Phi)

Tier 2 - Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota)

Tier 2 - Missouri S&T (Alpha-Iota)

Tier 2 - Arkansas (Alpha-Sigma)

Tier 3 - Grand Valley State (Theta-Rho)

Tier 3 - Montclair State (Iota-Iota)

Tier 3 - Valparaiso (Beta-Tau)

Tier 4 - Detroit-Mercy (Gamma-Alpha)

Tier 4 - Monmouth (Delta-Beta)

Tier 4 - St. John's (Iota-Tau)

Grand Chapter Award

Arkansas (Alpha-Sigma)

Valparaiso (Beta-Tau)

St. John's (Iota-Tau)

Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota)

Purdue (Eta)

Clegg Scholarship Trophy (Byron R. Lewis)

Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota)

Founders' Award

Jarett Wait (Cornell '77)

Jeffrey Tottleben (Missouri S&T '88)

Dr. Jay Morgan (Murray State '91)

Young Alumni Volunteer Award

Ryan Sullivan (St. John's '15)

Young Professional Achievement Award

Lucas Sarris (Orlando, FL '13)

Andrew Beuschel (Monmouth '07)

Brett Stevens (Monmouth '05)

Michael P. Carey Award

Chase Whitt (Kentucky '20)

Jack Corriea (St. John's '20)

Connor Henson (Arkansas '21)

Harold Jacobsen Award

Krish Gupta (Purdue '21)

Greg Auteri (St. John's '20)

Dil Sen (UC Berkeley '19)

Cletus A. Broecker Award

Ryan Kasper (St. John's '20)

Carson Ernst (Cal Poly '19)

Kyle Juza (Grand Valley State '19)

Lyle Smith Chapter Advisor Award

Erik Murrell (NJIT '19)

Peter Georgantopoulos (UC Irvine '95)

Yougnand Paul (St. John's '15)

Justice Curtis Shake Province Archon Award

Ian Wolf (Rutgers' 12)

Dr. Robert L. Burns Award Faculty Advisor Award

Dr. Lynn Agre, Rutgers University

Guy "Red" Mackey Award

Christopher McMonegal (East Stroudsburg '20)

Staff Member of the Year Award

Jacob Camilleri (Saginaw Valley State '14) Director of Alumni Engagement & Annual Giving

Louis Foley Award Iota-Tau, The Hoot

William J. Cutbirth Jr. Award (Philanthropy) Georgia (Alpha-Phi)

William J. Cutbirth Jr. Award (Comm Serv) St. John's (Iota-Tau)

Most Outstanding Alumni Club Award

Orange County Alumni Association

Most Improved Chapter Award

UC Irvine (Eta-Upsilon)

Merino/Tash 100 Man Chapter Recognition

Auburn (Alpha-Delta) - 146 Members

Boulder, CO (Zeta-Delta) - 123 Members

The Founders' Award

Recognizing the Recipients from the 2020-22 Biennium

Sigma Pi Fraternity is proud to announce the three recipients of the Founders’ Award for the 2020-2022 biennium.

The Founders’ Award is the highest and most prestigious honor which Sigma Pi Fraternity bestows upon an individual brother.

Jarett Wait (Cornell '77)

Jarett Wait serves as the President of the Mu Chapter Alumni Board. He has been president since 2013 and a member of the board since 2002. In addition, Wait was a past president and board member for the Mu Chapter of Sigma Pi Educational Foundation.

Professionally, Wait is the managing principal of JF Wait Advisors, a consulting firm based in New York City. He is a senior advisor and board member at CoVenture. Prior to this, Wait was a managing director, member of the executive committee, and global head of the Capital Formation Group at Fortress Investment Group.

Jarett spent the vast majority of his career at Lehman Brothers in various senior executive roles working in locations such as New York,

Since 1962, the Fraternity has recognized its most outstanding alumni brothers through the presentation of the Founders’ Award.

The selection is based upon outstanding contributions or exceptional service in the business, a profession, education, or humanitarianism, including service to Sigma Pi or the fraternity industry overall.

London, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. Additionally, he is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, an advisory board member for the Center on Law and Security NYU School of Law, and a member of the executive committee of the board for CityLax. Wait previously served on the Cornell University Council, the College of Arts and Sciences Advisory Council, and the Cornell Athletic Advisory Board.

Said Wait: “I’m very proud of my lifelong involvement with the brothers of Sigma Pi, which isn’t defined based on graduation year or age etc, but rather shared values and a shared DNA that creates a unique bond that is lasting and important in my life.”

Jarett Wait (Cornell ‘77)

Tottleben accepts his Founders' Award at Convocation

Dr. Jay Morgan (Murrary State '91)

Dr. Jay Morgan has served as the 14th president of Morehead State University since 2017. Prior to service at MSU, Dr. Morgan served as the statewide chief academic officer and vice president for academic affairs and student success for the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education in Frankfort.

Before statewide service at the Council, Dr. Morgan served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Murray State University, as well as associate provost, university faculty regent, leadership program director, graduate program coordinator, and professor.

Dr. Morgan holds a Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University, a B.S. and an M.S. from Murray State University, as well as a certificate in management from Vanderbilt University.

Since joining MSU, the University has broken records for private fundraising for

scholarships, student retention, U.S. News and World Report rankings, as well as logged several athletic championships. He has also led the way for major facility upgrades and a new building for science and engineering.

Dr. Morgan notes that MSU is striving to become a Top 10 Regional University in the South and to stay focused on student success, and they are well on our way.

“I am honored and humbled that my name would even be mentioned for the Founders' Award” said Morgan. “I credit the fraternity for providing me with many opportunities and great experiences, and I want to accept this award hand-in-hand with all the lifelong fraternity members that I have had. The current [undergraduates] should remember that Sigma Pi is the tie that binds, and it lives on past graduation for the rest of your life.”

Jeff Tottleben (Missouri S&T '88)

Jeff Tottleben — who has remained a dedicated alumni for over 30 years — served as the Capital Campaign Chairman for AlphaIota’s drive to build a new 19,000 square foot Chapter House, completed in August of 2019. His efforts to mobilize key donors, organize fundraising activities, and lead the campaign through groundbreaking and completion were instrumental in Alpha-Iota achieving a decades long goal of completing a new chapter house that is best-in-class on the campus of Missouri S&T. Jeff continues to stay involved by mentoring the active chapter on issues such as Marketing, Public Relations, and Recruitment. Tottleben founded Red Skye Wireless in November of 2000, which built through acquisitions and organic growth a 200-store chain of AT&T Wireless Retail locations before selling the entire operation in 2017. He is currently involved with several

companies as both an investor and mentor, including Main and Main Properties, a retail real estate development firm, and local food manufacturing companies Dogtown Pizza and Marcoot Jersey Creamery.

“I am very humbled and honored that my brothers would nominate me for this award,” said Tottleben. “I met some of my best friends for life when I pledged 35 years ago and staying involved has allowed me to develop deep and meaningful relationships with other alumni from our chapter throughout the years. So much of my personal development is due to the fraternity and my brothers. Staying connected to the fraternity has made me a better friend, husband, father, businessperson, and mentor. I look forward to continuing to develop my lifelong relationship with Sigma Pi”

Dr. Jay Morgan (Murrary State '91)

Jeff Tottleben (Missouri S&T '88)

Sigma Pi men,

share a sense of affinity and

to our Fraternity. To show your Sigma Pi Pride,

your photos with us at photos@sigmapi.org

Brothers and their significant others enjoyed the special track including a riverboat and wine tour

Office staff members gather for a photo at the Alamo

PGS John Merino (Cal State Long Beach '55), PGS Ed Panconi (Loyola Marymount '82), and others

procession, business sessions, and other events

Grand Chapter Awards Banquet begins

from chapters in California gather for a group photo

outgoing Grand Council joins together for a group photo during the Banquet

2020 Founder's Award Recipient Fr. Mike Hobson (Worcester Polytechnic '81) offers the benediction during the Banquet

PGS Larry Rovira (Cal State Fullerton '80) poses with a newly-intiated brother — his son, Jacob Rovira (Cal State Fullerton '22)

Convocation wraps up with a trip to Six Flags Fiesta

Represent Your Fraternity: Shop Sigma Pi!

SIGMA PI CLASSIC CREWNECK

This vintage crew is an essential component for every brother’s wardrobe. Printed on a high-quality Champion sweatshirt, the piece provides a new take on an old favorite. The heather ash material allows the Fraternity crest to shine as the focal point on the crewneck. Enforced with cover-stitching and heavy ribbed knit waistbands and cuffs.

MOISTURE-WICKING PERFORMANCE POLOS

Need letters for gameday or your next event? Toss on a polo and call it a day. With premium brands to shop from like Nike and Devon & Jones, you’re bound to find a product that is both professional and breathable. Order in bulk for your chapter and customize them however you want! Submit a request in the Chapter Order page in the Sigma Pi Store.

BOLD SIGMA PI TEES: LETTERS / EST. 1897

Rep your colors and letters on campus with these lightweight tees. An oversized print is the easiest way to spotlight your design and make a statement. Wear the 1897 Tee in the classroom, and sport your 1897 tee at your next intramural event.

CUSTOM CHAPTER ORDERS

We make chapter orders simple. Got a design idea for your chapter? Our team is here to help your vision come to life! We make it easy to collect payments and sizes from your group, and even deliver your box of shirts individually bagged and labeled. Host an online store for your chapter and allow members to pay individually! Need some inspiration? Visit the Designs page at shop.sigmapi.org and start your order today!

Events & Anniversaries

October 2022

October 26

110th Anniversary Penn State (Theta)

November 2022

November 10

15th Anniversary UTSA (Iota-Delta)

January 2023

January 10-12

Mid-Year Leadership Conference (Virtual)

January 25

20th Anniversary Norfolk, VA (Theta-Eta)

February 2023

February 2-5

Tony Siress Leadership Summit (Dallas, Texas)

February 24

100th Anniversary UCLA (Upsilon)

February 25

5th Anniversary FDU-Florham (Iota-Phi)

February 26

126th Founders' Day Sigma Pi

March 2023

March 29

20th Anniversary Ferris State (Theta-Theta)

Alumni and undergraduates gather together in Atlanta in March 2022

April 2023

April 12

15th Anniversary Minnesota (Iota-Zeta)

April 24

30th Anniversary Colorado State (Eta-Sigma)

April 16

40th Anniversary San Diego (Epsilon-Chi)

April 26

20th Anniversary Penn State-Altoona (Theta-Iota)

April 29

90th Anniversary Missouri S&T (Alpha-Iota)

May 2023

May 5

110th Anniversary UC Berkeley (Iota)

May 30

105th Anniversary Iowa (Xi)

September 2023

September 27

70th Anniversary Mississippi (Beta-Mu)

October 2023

October 20

50th Anniversary Kentucky (Epsilon-Beta)

Positive Change at Eta-Upsilon

by Jeremy Lenart (Monmouth '19), contributing writer

Over the past few years, Eta-Upsilon Chapter at the University of California-Irvine, has become a shining example of excellence and a proud carrier of the Sigma Pi name. Thanks to the guidance of advisors and dedicated leaders, these young men brought the Chapter together and made it better. Not long ago, the Chapter only had 27 active members. Today, it has 85 active members and has won many IFC awards. It has also held the highest GPA among other fraternities on campus for several consecutive quarters and had an undefeated IFC flag football season in fall 2021.

Before Eta-Upsilon experienced the success it knows today, the Chapter was lacking strong leadership. The young men of Eta-Upsilon were eager to improve the Chapter, but they needed mentorship and advice from an advisor/alumni perspective. In July 2019, an alumnus and founding member of the Chapter, Peter Georgantopoulos ('95), became chapter advisor and gave these young men the guidance they were searching for.

With the newfound leadership from Georgantopoulos, the Chapter began to work as a unit. The burden of tedious work was evenly distributed across the Chapter rather than falling on a small group of brothers. Every man was doing their part, allowing the executive board to focus on their specific roles. The brothers were turning in more reports and keeping better track of their money. Revenue was growing in the Chapter and the men could feel the bond of brotherhood more than ever before. Georgantopoulos said, “When only a handful of guys want to do the work, the question is: whom are those guys going to be? Now we have so many people who want to do work, the question becomes: who is the right guy to oversee that?”

The first undergrad to become that overseeing guy was former Chapter Sage Luis Escalante ('19). Escalante said he entered the Chapter with the mindset to “leave the fraternity better than you found it.” He understood that they needed to take rushing events seriously if they wanted the Chapter to grow. When he was an incoming sophomore, Escalante held a 45-minute rush meeting where he strategically laid out the guidelines and plans for an effective rush season. The brothers responded to Escalante’s enthusiasm and recruited the largest fall pledge class two years in a row. Recruiting 30 men the first year and 28 the following year.

Following Escalante’s time as sage, Gabriel Trejo ('21) stepped up and filled his shoes as chapter sage. Possessing the same work ethic, Trejo was able to maintain the success that the Chapter was building. Despite the challenges brought on by the early stages

of the COVID-19 pandemic, each of these young men used that as an opportunity to work on the Chapter. They completely translated their rush program into a virtual one and began holding group study sessions online to boost the Chapter’s GPA. They also held virtual philanthropy events, got the Chapter involved in the American Red Cross Blood Drive, and donated gifts to the Big Brother Big Sister program.

The hard work paid off when the Chapter won seven IFC awards. The awards consisted of, Outstanding Advisor, Chapter Values, Membership Development, Philanthropy & Service, Risk Programming, Scholarship Programming, and the Chancellor’s Cup which is awarded to the best overall IFC chapter on campus.

As Eta-Upsilon continued to flourish, chapter alumni began to show more interest. The alumni reinitiated a scholarship fund exclusively for the Eta-Upsilon chapter. Along with that, Georgantopoulos said, “recently graduated Alumni have come forward to help the Actives pro-actively in professional/career development by finding alumni who already work in the fields that the actives are interested in pursuing.”

When asked about the driving factor of the Chapter’s success, Trejo said, “It all came from the brotherhood. Because we have this bond; we get together to study and work out. We find our strength in numbers.” Georgantopoulos elaborated on that brotherhood when he spoke about an IFC basketball game he attended as chapter advisor. He said, “they had the sidelines packed with brothers from the Chapter. That brotherhood aspect was there from the beginning.”

All of their hard work paid off at the 55th & 56th Biennial Convocation when they were awarded the Most Improved Chapter award for the biennium.

Eta-Upsilon demonstrates that, with a strong sense of brotherhood at the core and the help of dedicated leaders, a group of young men can push the envelope of success and exemplify what it means to be a chapter of Sigma Pi.

A B C D E F

Chapter and Colony Statistics

STATE - Location of the chapter

BALANCE - Ø indicates a zero balance; $ indicates that money is owed to the national organization

ROSTER SIZE - Total number of undergraduate members during the 2021-22 academic year

NEW MEMBERS - Total number of new members during the 2021-22 academic year

INITIATES - Total number of initiates during the 2021-22 academic year

LIVING MEMBERS - Total living members

H I J K

AVERAGE GPA - Average GPA of chapter during the 2021-22 academic year

CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT - Percentage of chapter involved in other campus organizations during the 2021-22 academic year

DONORS - Number of members who donated to the Educational Foundation during the 2021-22 academic year

CHAPTER EDUCATIONAL FUND - Indicates if the chapter has started a CEF or not

CEF MINIMUM BALANCE RECEIVEDIndicates if the minimum balance of the Chapter Educational Fund has been met

*Data reported as of 2021-2022 academic year

NOTE: Empty cells in columns G and H indicate data that wasn't submitted

G

Gamma-Iota Chapter at Worcester Polytechnic

Alabama (Theta-Omicron)

Auburn (Alpha-Delta)

West Alabama (Theta-Gamma)

Arkansas (Alpha-Sigma)

Arkansas Tech (Iota-Lambda)

Southern Arkansas (Epsilon-Kappa)

Ø 68

AL Ø 146

AL $ 10

AR Ø 69

460

146 1685 2.94 48%

10 226

69 597 2.95 28% 3

AR $ 20 0 20 184

AR $ 18 0 18 449 94% 2

Arizona State (Beta-Kappa) AZ $ 72 0 72 619 3

Northern Arizona (Beta-Iota) AZ Ø 29 0 29 536 1

Cal Poly (Eta-Delta)

CA Ø 84 0 84 364 3.43 47% 7

Cal State Chico (Theta-Mu) CA $ 31 0 31 282 2.65 6% 1

Cal State Fullerton (Epsilon-Nu)

CA $ 56 1 55 928 21

Cal State Long Beach (Beta-Omicron) CA Ø 56 0 56 1522 3.22 100% 16

California-Irvine (Eta-Upsilon) CA Ø 72 0 72 547 32% 19

California-Santa Cruz (Iota-Eta) CA $ 25 11 14 369 2

Carson, CA (Eta-Iota) CA Ø 13 0 13 354

San Diego (Epsilon-Chi)

Santa Clara, CA (Zeta-Eta)

UC Berkeley (Iota)

UC Santa Barbara (Alpha-Omicron)

UCLA (Upsilon)

Boulder, Colorado (Zeta-Delta)

Colorado State (Eta-Sigma)

Orlando, FL (Iota-Kappa)

South Florida (Iota-Sigma)

Georgia (Alpha-Phi)

Iowa (Xi)

Eastern Illinois (Beta-Gamma)

Illinois State (Epsilon-Eta)

3.35

SIU-Carbondale (Beta-Nu) IL Ø 33 0 33 959 40% 2

Western Illinois (Epsilon-Zeta) IL $ 9 0 9 698 2

Purdue (Eta)

Southern Indiana (Theta-Psi)

Valparaiso (Beta-Tau)

Vincennes (Alpha)

IN Ø 37 0 37 940 3.38 52% 7

IN $ 11 0 11 135 3.3 69% 3

IN Ø 13 0 13 622 3.2 100% 7 √ √

IN $ 4 1 3 976 7

Kansas (Beta-Delta) KS $ 32 0 32 185 3.23 4

Eastern Kentucky (Epsilon-Lambda) KY $ 28 0 28 547 2.88 12% 10 √ √

Kentucky (Epsilon-Beta) KY Ø 45 0 45 1036 1

Morehead State (Delta-Rho) KY Ø 11 0 11 531 2.59 36% 18 √ √

Murray State (Gamma-Upsilon) KY $ 28 0 28 673 9 √ √

Bentley (Iota-Theta)

MA $ 21 0 21 192 3.26 0

Bridgewater State (Eta-Eta) MA $ 50 0 50 446 33% 2 √ √

Fitchburg State (Eta-Tau) MA $ 16 0 16 284 3.02 39% 0

Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota) MA Ø 60 0 60 804 100% 8

Salisbury (Theta-Xi) MD $ 24 0 24 249 2

Towson (Eta-Nu) MD $ 3 0 3 409 0

Central Michigan (Delta-Alpha)

MI Ø 53 0 53 926 3.19 6

Detroit-Mercy (Gamma-Alpha) MI Ø 14 0 14 554 3.1 100% 6

Ferris State (Theta-Theta) MI $ 23 0 23 214 7 √

Grand Valley State (Theta-Rho) MI Ø 80 0 80 334 3.2 24% 1

Lawrence Tech (Zeta-Omicron) MI $ 0 0 0 324 3.11 1

Michigan State (Zeta-Mu)

Michigan Tech (Zeta-Epsilon)

MI $ 91 0 91 580 3.4 30% 1

MI $ 29 0 29 371 2.95 100% 1

Oakland (Zeta-Pi) MI Ø 28 0 28 334 3.18 44% 12 √

Saginaw Valley State (Theta-Beta) MI $ 21 0 21 233 3.15 59% 7

Wayne State (Gamma-Omega) MI $ 9 0 9 436 0

Minnesota (Iota-Zeta) MN $ 23 0 23 224 3.23 28% 5 √

Central Missouri (Gamma-Gamma) MO $ 32 0 32 746 3.2 100% 5

Drury (Epsilon-Rho) MO $ 15 0 15 496 3.56 100% 2

Missouri S&T (Alpha-Iota) MO $ 45 3 42 901 3.59 100% 8

Missouri State (Alpha-Rho) MO $ 45 0 45 1248 6

Mississippi (Beta-Mu) MS Ø 87 1 86 595 2.68 38% 4

East Carolina (Eta-Kappa) NC Ø 56 0 56 308 1

Elon (Epsilon-Theta) NC Ø 26 0 26 663 3.5 78% 3

North Carolina State (Rho) NC $ 48 0 48 872 3.16 8 √ √

Wake Forest (Alpha-Nu) NC Ø 67 0 67 1208 3.34 92% 9

Keene State (Iota-Rho) NH $ 11 0 11 86 2.825 0

Ewing, NJ (Theta-Delta) NJ $ 25 0 25 411 3.2 34% 0

FDU-Florham (Iota-Phi) NJ Ø 9 0 9 51 0

FDU-Metropolitan (Epsilon-Xi) NJ $ 4 0 4 257 3.44 2

Monmouth (Delta-Beta) NJ Ø 36 0 36 437 39 √ √

Montclair State (Iota-Iota) NJ Ø 16 0 16

NJIT (Alpha-Mu)

Rowan (Zeta-Chi)

Rutgers (Gamma-Eta)

Stockton (Iota-Upsilon)

William Paterson (Theta-Tau)

Cornell (Mu)

St. John's (Iota-Tau)

Miami (OH) (Eta-Phi)

Ohio Northern (Zeta)

Carleton (Eta-Rho)

Oregon State (Omega)

East Stroudsburg (Beta-Psi)

Indiana of Pennsylvania (Theta-Epsilon)

3.07

2.87

3.54 86%

3.19 100%

2.7

Penn College (Theta-Phi)

Penn State (Theta)

Penn State-Altoona (Theta-Iota)

(Theta-Sigma)

West Chester (Zeta-Alpha)

Middle Tennessee (Theta-Omega)

(Theta-Nu)

UTSA (Iota-Delta)

Norfolk, VA (Theta-Eta)

Radford, VA (Theta-Lambda)

Virginia (Beta-Pi)

William & Mary (Alpha-Eta)

Washington State (Iota-Nu)

Wisconsin (Tau)

Wisconsin-Oshkosh (Gamma-Mu)

Wisconsin-Platteville (Delta-Iota)

Beta-Mu at Mississippi

Accomplishments

Celebrating the achievements of our chapters, colonies, and undergraduate members across the land of Sigma Pi.

VIRGINIA (BETA-PI)

Brothers Will Mathews (Virginia '21) and Luke Heberle (Virginia '22) placed 3rd in the Virginia Undergraduate Investment Competition. They pitched against competitors from around the country and were evaluated based on quality, analysis, and presentation of investment theses.

ALABAMA (THETA-OMICRON)

The brothers of Theta-Omicron Chapter at Alabama raised $22,495 for the fight against childhood cancer. During the B+ Spin-A-Thon Event for Be Positive Foundation, their chapter also took home three awards including Most Improved Chapter, Overall Top Fundraising Team, and their Vice President took home the Rising Star Award.

MIDDLE TENNESSEE (THETA-OMEGA)

Theta-Omega Chapter was honored to be the winner of the Outstanding Philanthropic Event Award for raising money and awareness for Stop Soldier Suicide given out at the 2022 Fraternity & Sorority Life Awards.

CENTRAL MICHIGAN (DELTA-ALPHA)

Delta-Alpha Chapter was awarded the Chapter of the Year Award at the 2022 Student Organization Recognition Awards for their hard work in philanthropic, athletics, and service events.

Quadruple Double Sigma Pi Brothers

by Kyle Heimbigner (Washington State '10), contributing writer

They call themselves the “quadruple double” brothers.

The phrase comes from the University of CaliforniaIrvine, where Sean Lobb was initiated into Eta-Upsilon Chapter in 2009. When his younger brother Kevin (Cal Poly ’14) joined Sigma Pi, they became the “doubledouble” brothers.

Fast forward seven years and two more Lobb siblings, Braden (Cal Poly ’18) and William (UC-Irvine ’21), the “quadruple-double” brothers moniker was born.

The four enjoy a bond few Sigma Pi brothers get to experience. Their connection as biological brothers has deepened as they became Fraternity brothers.

“It is an amazing experience to have all of my three little brothers in the same fraternity as me,” Sean said. “We would not be as close, and we would not have shared all the things we did.”

Sean points to the ritual and brotherhood of Sigma Pi that furthered the bond between the Lobb brothers. He attended each of his biological brothers’ initiation rituals and said they got lettered apparel each time to commemorate the special occasions.

“It’s hard to put into words,” Sean said, “It’s just been super special.”

On top of the Lobb brothers’ connection, a bridge has been built between the two chapters. Sean has spoken to Eta-Delta Chapter at Cal Poly on topics such as leadership and recruitment. The chapters have shared ideas on increasing recruitment and expanding philanthropic efforts.

When Sean started college, he never could have imagined that he and his brothers would be fraternity brothers. As a freshman, Sean didn’t think he would join a fraternity. None of the men in his family had joined a fraternity.

Two things made a lifetime of difference in the Lobb brothers’ lives. First, their mother had been in a sorority at UCLA and was president of her chapter. Sean knew a little bit about Greek life from her experiences.

The second, Sean met Griffin Conway (UC-Irvine ’07) and several other Sigma Pi brothers at UC-Irvine and enjoyed how down-to-earth they were. He felt right at home with them.

“They were kind, welcoming, and came from all walks of life,” Sean said, “I was thrilled to join that group.”

It also didn’t hurt that many of the brothers lived right off the beach, and they joked about dolphins distracting them when they grilled.

"The Fraternity will impact us for the rest of our lives."

Sean quickly became active in the chapter and took up various leadership roles, including brotherhood chair, recruitment chair, philanthropy chair, and on to the Executive Council as First Counselor. He eventually became Chapter Sage.

The only thing Sean wanted for his brother Kevin when it was time for him to go to college was for him to find the same type of click Sean did.

It just so happens that click was with Eta-Delta Chapter at Cal Poly. The rest, they say, is history.

“Once Kevin joined,” Sean said, “the rest of my little brothers fell in line.”

In a nod to their mother, who passed away in 2014 due to pancreatic cancer, Sean hopes that he and his biological brothers will be remembered for their leadership within their chapters, along with being the “quadruple-double” brothers. It’s safe to say they’re well on their way. Kevin became social chair during his time as an undergraduate, and Braden recently finished a term as Sage. Though only recently initiated, William plans to take up leadership roles with being on his chapter’s Executive Council the goal.

As for the future, Sean knows he and his brothers will continue to be influenced by Sigma Pi.

“The Fraternity will impact us for the rest of our lives,” he said with a smile. “It seems like there is a Sigma Pi wedding every month.”

Sean plans to stay involved with his chapter and other chapters in California. He says he feels compelled to give back. He wants to continue the local support Larry Rovira (Cal State Fullerton ’80) and others have started for California chapters.

EXPANSION UPDATES TAKING SIGMA PI TO NEW (AND OLD) PLACES

by Drew Carpenter (Middle Tennessee ‘18), Director of Strategic Growth

A year after reopening the Growth Department, Sigma Pi Fraternity has seen substantial success with expansion coming out of a global pandemic.

Going into a new academic year, the primary objective of the department remained the same- to expand across North America while also supporting Chapters that were hardest hit during the pandemic. The decision was made by CEO Jonathan Frost to bring on two new graduates, who had both excelled in their roles as Chapter Sage, among other accolades. This search led to the hiring of Jake Reed (Arkansas ‘19) and Nathen Andrews (Orlando ‘19). Nathen was hired as the Undergraduate Support Consultant, while Jake was hired as the Assistant Director of Chapter Support; he has recently stepped into the Director role for the department. These new hires have jumped into their roles and are quickly becoming acclimated to their responsibilities. The impact they have had on fall recruitment has already been seen.

Existing chapters have received substantial assistance in an effort to prepare for the upcoming recruitment season. Ten chapters across five different states have received growth-related visits since the fall semesters began. Meanwhile, over 30 chapters and colonies have received virtual support and training since June. Moreover, an additional 40 chapters and colonies will be receiving visits over the course of the next three months. The incoming new member numbers currently being reported suggests these visits and virtual consultations have set our undergraduates up for success.

To give an idea of the progress over the past year, Sigma Pi has opened or reactivated four colonies over the past calendar year:

• Iota-Beta Colony at Delaware

• Iota-Chi Colony at Coastal Carolina

• Eta-Pi Colony in Kutztown, Pennsylvania

• Iota-Psi Colony at Kennesaw State

Likewise, Sigma Pi has been in discussions with several

alumni groups about reactivating their chapters, including but not limited to:

• Beta Chapter at Indiana

• Eta-Alpha Chapter at CSU-Sacramento

• Alpha-Upsilon Chapter at Rhode Island

• Gamma Chapter at Ohio State

• Gamma-Sigma Chapter at Missouri

It is important to know that alumni involvement of both time and financial resources is important to these talks and efforts. The reason being that engaged and committed alumni provide valuable knowledge and resources to aid the young members in their pursuits and matriculation through college.

If you know of a young man who is attending a campus where we are not currently located, it could be a great opportunity for him to start a chapter and become a Founding Father on his campus. If you are curious about the process to re-open your chapter, or know of an outstanding young man who can help open a chapter, please contact our office at dcarpenter@sigmapi.org.

Members of Iota-Psi Colony at Kennesaw State

50 Years at Delta-Rho

by The Emerald Staff; contributions from Daniel Daugherty (Morehead State ’88)

Delta-Rho Chapter and Delta-Rho Alumni Association were thrilled to have Brothers (both undergraduate and alum) and friends return back to Morehead, Kentucky to celebrate 50+ continuous years of Sigma Pi Fraternity on the beautiful campus of Morehead State University.

As the event came to fruition, it was apparent that the over two years of work put into the planning after Covid related postponements was worth the effort. Thanks to the help of Morehead State President Dr. Jay Morgan (Murray State '91) and the entire Morehead State Alumni Association staff, the event came together in a way that made all attendees proud. Guests started by taking a tour of the University and were wowed by the brand new Adron Doran University Center, and spoke highly of what a great addition The Rocky Adkins Dining Commons, or “The Rock,” is to campus. A golf outing followed on a chilly and windy Friday afternoon at Eagle Trace. The evening continued with the meet and greet with spouses and friends of Sigma Pi.

Saturday kicked off with a campus tour followed up by lunch at "The Rock.” Afterwards, a well-received DeltaRho Alumni Association meeting was held, followed by an invite-only donor reception for those who have donated to the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation and the Delta-Rho Alumni Association Chapter Education Fund. The last event was the banquet, which included speeches from Dr. Morgan and the first President of Delta-Rho Chapter, Bob Guillaume ('71). A few moments were taken to reflect on those who are no longer with us, and then 50 year certificates and recognition awards for other alums and undergrads were presented. The night ended with a 50/50 split the pot with the undergraduates, a silent auction to raise money for scholarships, and some social time to celebrate, dance, and rekindle those bonds of Sigma Pi brotherhood that we all hold dear. Everyone in attendance had nothing but positive comments on the entire weekend's festivities with plans already kicking off to celebrate 55 years of Delta-Rho Chapter and Sigma Pi Fraternity at Morehead State University in 2026!

Volunteer Opportunities

Open Province Archon and Chapter Advisor Roles

Chapter/Colony Advisors

Alabama (Theta-Omicron)

Arkansas Tech (Iota-Lambda)

Auburn (Alpha-Delta)

Cal Poly (Eta-Delta)

Cal State Chico (Theta-Mu)

Cal State Long Beach (Beta-Omicron)

Cornell (Mu)

Ferris State (Theta-Theta)

Georgia (Alpha-Phi)

Lawrence Tech (Zeta-Omicron)

Michigan Tech (Zeta-Epsilon)

Ohio Northern (Zeta)

Oregon State (Omega)

South Florida (Iota-Sigma)

Towson (Eta-Nu)

UC Santa Barbara (Alpha-Omicron)

Virginia (Beta-Pi)

Western Illinois (Epsilon-Zeta)

William & Mary (Alpha-Eta)

Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota)

Province Archons

Central California

Cal Poly (Eta-Delta)

UC Santa Barbara (Alpha-Omicron)

Heartland

Iowa (Xi)

Kansas (Beta-Delta)

Minnesota (Iota-Zeta)

New England

Bentley (Iota-Theta)

Bridgewater State (Eta-Eta)

Fitchburg State (Eta-Tau)

Keene State (Iota-Rho)

Worcester Polytechnic (Gamma-Iota)

Northern California

Cal State Chico (Theta-Mu)

Santa Clara, CA (Zeta-Eta)

UC Berkeley (Iota)

UC Santa Cruz (Iota-Eta)

Volunteer Appointments

Recently Appointed Province Archons and Chapter Advisors

Province Archon

ARKANSAS

Drew Martin (Arkansas '15)

Chapter/Colony Advisor

ARKANSAS (ALPHA-SIGMA)

Derrick Calhoun II (Arkansas '17)

CARSON, CA (ETA-IOTA)

Bryant Plasencia (Carson, CA '13)

COASTAL CAROLINA (IOTA-CHI)

John Ingram III (East Carolina '07)

DRURY (EPSILON-RHO)

Timothy Balmer (Missouri Southern '92)

EAST STROUDSBURG (BETA-PSI)

James Munoz (East Stroudsburg '19)

FITCHBURG STATE (ETA-TAU)

Jack Seaman (Fitchburg '18)

KEENE STATE (IOTA-RHO)

Frank Schembari (Fitchburg '14)

KENNESAW STATE (IOTA-PSI)

Wade Phillips (Southern Polytechnic State '16)

KENTUCKY (EPSILON-BETA)

Don Slaughter (Kentucky '90)

KUTZTOWN (ETA-PI)

Curtis Halteman (Kutztown '22)

MIAMI (OH) (ETA-PHI)

Charles Eldridge (Morehead '86)

MIDDLE TENNESSEE (THETA-OMEGA)

David Reichenau (UT-Martin '89)

MISSISSIPPI (BETA-MU)

Cole Cromwell (Mississippi '16)

MONMOUTH (DELTA-BETA)

Kevin Phelan (Monmouth '01)

NORTHERN ARIZONA (BETA-IOTA)

Ronald Pfannestiel (Northern Arizona '65)

ORLANDO, FL (IOTA-KAPPA)

Justice Johnson (Orlando, FL '15)

Ontario Carleton (Eta-Rho)

Cornell (Mu)

Texas Houston (Theta-Nu)

UTSA (Iota-Delta)

PENN STATE-ALTOONA (THETA-IOTA)

Richard Capraun II (Millersville '91)

RADFORD, VA (THETA-LAMBDA)

Julian Santomauro (Radford '17)

SAGINAW VALLEY STATE (THETA-BETA)

Nicholas Awad (Saginaw Valley State '16)

SAN DIEGO (EPSILON-CHI)

James Ryan (Bridgewater State '94)

SOUTHERN ARKANSAS (EPSILON-KAPPA)

Thomas Turner Jr. (Southern Arkansas '19)

URSINUS (THETA-SIGMA)

Ryan Dennis (Penn State '84)

UTSA (IOTA-DELTA)

Bradley Poronsky (Texas '01)

Are You Subscribed to Receive the Sigma Pi Quarterly?

Visit our "Update Your Information" page on the Sigma Pi website, fill in your information, and select "Yes" in the question"Would you like to receive emails from Sigma Pi?"

To update your information, visit

sigmapi.org/updateinfo

Volunteering Virtually

When you think about volunteering, the typical image of working with a team on a community project or sitting at the back of the room while the chapter starts the meeting comes to mind. Yet all around the globe, at any given time, thousands of people are volunteering virtually - using their computers, the internet, or their smartphones. Virtual volunteers can complete short-term or long-term tasks, in whole or in part, typically offsite from the organization or person being assisted.

We understand that alumni volunteers can have a great impact on a chapter however we also understand that not every volunteer is going to live within a reasonable distance from the group for which they volunteer. With that in mind virtual volunteering becomes the best option to stay involved with the group. Simply setting up a Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, etc. minimum once a month with the group you are advising is going to be the best way to stay connected and advise the group. This is a great opportunity to get other alumni involved since they will just have to hop on their computer/phone to participate. We can get a lot accomplished virtually and becoming a virtual volunteer is a great way to stay involved with little time commitment to Sigma Pi. Whether it’s becoming a Chapter Advisor or serving on an Alumni Advisory Board both can be accomplished virtually.

If you are interested in volunteering virtually, send an email with your desired group to advise to jcamilleri@sigmapi.org

You don't have to be local to volunteer for the Fraternity!

"Our Ancient Sage firmly believed in the persistence of the soul beyond the grave, and although we mourn our brother’s passing from this world, we take comfort in sharing this belief that life is not ended, but changed, and that he now enjoys the reward for a life welllived and guided by the ideals of our Fraternity."

Accurate as of September 9, 2022

AKRON (GAMMA-NU) Dennis Sullivan ('67)

ARKANSAS STATE (ALPHA-PI) George Blanchard ('49) Paul Dugger ('74)

AUBURN (ALPHA-DELTA) Keith Holloway ('77) Robert Woodard ('64) Robert Woodard ('64)

CAL STATE FULLERTON (EPSILON-NU)

Jeffrey Core ('85) Shawn McGuill ('83)

CAL STATE LONG BEACH (BETA-OMICRON) James Mahoney ('61)

CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT (EPSILON-PI) David Zareczny ('81)

CORNELL (MU) William Brockway ('47)

DREXEL (BETA-THETA) David Smith ('69)

EAST CAROLINA (ETA-KAPPA) Bruce Campbell ('90)

EASTERN ILLINOIS (BETA-GAMMA)

Kenneth Cox ('54) Mike Czysczon ('98) John Ferris ('68) Donald Wisthuff ('64)

EASTERN MICHIGAN (GAMMA-BETA) John Palmer ('67)

EMORY (PSI) William Aycock ('47)

GEORGIA (ALPHA-PHI) Stephen Waters Jr. ('56)

GEORGIA SOUTHERN (GAMMA-TAU) Erik Howard ('05) Patrick Spurgeon PhD ('68)

ILLINOIS STATE (EPSILON-ETA) Andrew Fulcer ('19)

ILLINOIS WESLEYAN (EPSILON-GAMMA) Larry Ballard ('75) William Metzger ('83)

JAMES MADISON (EPSILON-MU) Matthew Moyers ('84)

KENYON (LAMBDA)

Arthur Archer ('51) Robert Brownell ('37) Irving Neece ('36)

Robert Oneglia ('67)

William Wright ('33) Eugene Bonnist Jr. ('47) Samuel Wiltchik ('54)

MISSISSIPPI (BETA-MU) Alexander Sands Mr. ('21)

MISSOURI STATE (ALPHA-RHO) Bill Taylor ('58)

MOREHEAD STATE (DELTA-RHO)

Stephen Bailey ('87) Paul McIntosh ('79)

Thomas Schmid ('71) John Clemons ('91)

NEW MEXICO STATE (BETA-XI) Phillip Robinson ('56)

NORTH CAROLINA STATE (RHO) Lock Ireland ('63)

NORTHERN ARIZONA (BETA-IOTA)

Thomas Byrne ('78)

OAKLAND (ZETA-PI) Scott Benoot ('92)

OHIO NORTHERN (ZETA) Fred Wilcox ('42)

OHIO STATE (GAMMA) John Foulkes ('51)

OREGON (IOTA-EPSILON)

Sean Williams ('07)

PARSONS (GAMMA-ZETA)

William Stern ('69)

PENN STATE (THETA)

Robert Cubbison USN (Ret.) ('54)

PURDUE (ETA)

Edwin Oyer PhD ('48) Donald Weinmann ('55)

RHODE ISLAND (ALPHA-UPSILON)

David Hurdis ('59)

ROCHESTER TECH (BETA-PHI)

Willard Sterling Jr. ('97)

SAN DIEGO STATE (ALPHA-OMEGA)

Robert House EdD ('53)

SETON HALL (DELTA-EPSILON) David Fargnoli ('69)

SHIPPENSBURG (BETA-UPSILON)

Brian Carson ('86) Peter Selan ('72)

ST. LAWRENCE (ALPHA-ZETA)

William Wedge Jr. ('52)

UC BERKELEY (IOTA) Andrew Nielsen PE ('47)

UCLA (UPSILON)

Willard Altman Jr. ('53) Robert Eggert ('54)

UT-MARTIN (EPSILON-TAU)

Rodney Myrick ('88)

VALPARAISO (BETA-TAU)

Ralph Carlson Jr. ('70)

Thomas Hughes ('70)

Kent Johnson ('68) Larry Petersen ('68)

VINCENNES (ALPHA)

Harrison Ball ('06)

David Bullock ('69) James Day ('66)

Jordan Kontor ('14)

Chester Lewis ('69)

Robert McCloud ('67)

Robert Shaw Jr. ('65)

Arthur Taggart ('65)

VIRGINIA (BETA-PI)

Joseph Schulz ('63)

WASHINGTON (ALPHA-GAMMA) Roy De Soto ('51)

WILLIAM & MARY (ALPHA-ETA) Henry Ellis ('49)

WISCONSIN-MILWAUKEE (DELTA-OMICRON)

Michael Barron ('68)

Phillip Michalovitz ('64)

WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC (GAMMA-IOTA) William Tuomi ('65)

A Message from Past Grand Sage Palazzolo

Spending the last four years meeting brothers across North America was inspiring. When my term as Grand Sage started, we were still meeting in-person. After the pandemic put a stop to that, it was great to watch our brothers find new and creative ways to keep the Fraternity strong by using remote technologies. Now, with the pandemic largely behind us, it is gratifying to see the resilience of our chapters as record numbers of new members are being reported from coastto-coast. If there was ever any doubt about whether our chapters would bounce back stronger once college life returned to normal, then let that doubt be silenced because our young men are making history!

And yet, there is so much more for all of us to do. For the first time in years, the crisis surrounding men in our society is receiving legitimate media coverage. College enrollments are dramatically decreasing in many areas of the country, including where we have a critical mass of chapters. Further, male college enrollment is down by more than 10% since 2019; some sources estimate the decrease in male enrollment as up to seven times larger than the decrease in female enrollment. On college campuses, an epidemic of loneliness grew in the years before the pandemic and was exacerbated by the lockdowns. And, unfortunately, men are the victims of more than 75% of suicides and drug overdoses.

I have long maintained that Sigma Pi Fraternity cannot and should not try to be all things to all people. But, we can certainly be a point of light in the lives of college-aged men. We can work to ensure that the next generation of our brothers are uplifted, inspired, and mentored to be the engaged community leaders, family men, and visionaries of tomorrow. Now more than ever, an authentic, genuine approach to fraternalism - the type that should exist throughout Sigma Pi Fraternity - is needed in our country.

At Convocation, I thanked several groups who stood out as points of light in the Fraternity. They included Past Grand Officers and alumni volunteers as well as many young alumni and undergraduates. Convocation was a time of celebration, but now we need to get to work. I ask all of you to make sure that Sigma Pi Fraternity is part of the solution to the problems plaguing college-aged men on campus and in our communities. I am eager to solve these problems with you, and especially within the Greater New Jersey Province, where more than 160 men gathered for their fall province workshop. If just a few of those men returned to their campuses and began working to solve these problems, then that is a major success, for which we should all be thankful.

Spending four years as your Grand Sage leaves me humbled and grateful. Thank you, Sigma Pi Fraternity. Thank you for graciously opening your doors for the last four years as I traveled over 100,000 miles to meet thousands of our brothers. Thank you for your steadfast commitment to our Fraternity’s founding ideals to build the foundation of the future. Thank you for your powerful, vocal support of our undergraduate brothers in the face of the morally bankrupt who prejudge and condemn them just because they are fraternity men. When extremist administrators try to conquer, subdue, and suppress our brothers, thank you for leading the Fraternity’s efforts to educate, uplift, and inspire. Thank you for validating our work with your record-setting support of the Sigma Pi Educational Foundation over the last few years. But most importantly, though, thank you for ensuring the future of our great fraternity by working to make Sigma Pi Fraternity stronger tomorrow than it is today!

PAST GRAND SAGE Joe Palazzolo (Monmouth '00)

Photo Finish

"I joined the Owl Society in hopes that my monthly donations could help future brothers of Sigma Pi down the road. I believe this is important because Sigma Pi contributed so much to me that I can never truly repay with only money, including lifelong friends, country-wide connections, opportunities, and more confidence in myself and my abilities. In my eyes, a monthly donation is the least I can do to repay this wonderful fraternity, and hopefully create a similar experience to mine for brothers to come."

As