Table of Contents

Features

College of Chapters

A photo essay captures the College of Chapters experience.

• Day 1: Registration and Ritual opening
• Day 2: Foundation board meeting and core program sessions
• Day 3: Pilgrimage to Headquarters Shrine and V.M.I.

Finding the Scoop in Sochi
Drew Bogs (Ball State) earned the opportunity of a lifetime covering the Winter Olympics in Sochi with his Ball State journalism program.

The Olympic Fangelist’s Dream Job
As BP’s director of Olympic strategy, sponsorship and marketing, George Bauernfeind (Indiana) helps top athletes achieve their dreams to compete on the world stage.

Splitting Lanes
The inside story of how Don Jeanes (Texas State) landed the lead role in a Super Bowl commercial that became an instant classic.

Back Down South
Mark Walsh (College of Charleston) and his journey to the “bottom of the world.”

Letting His Lights Shine
Mike Justak (Ball State) is on a mission to get Parkinson’s patients up and moving.

Departments

From the Editor
Behind the scenes.

More at SigmaNu.org
The latest resources and information available at the fraternity’s website.

Conversation
Readers respond to the fall 2013 issue featuring Bill Courtney (Mississippi) and the Undefeated documentary.

Updates from Lexington
News from the General Fraternity.

Chapter Eternal
Remembering a former congressman and a talented musician.

Chapter News
Dispatches from around the country.

Alumni News

Bookshelf
Michael Kimmel’s Guyland tells the [delayed] coming of age story of young men in America. Plus the latest titles by Sigma Nu authors.

Higher Education
MOOCs: legitimate disruptor or passing fad?

Perspectives on Our Past
Grand Historian Bob McCully (San Diego State) chronicles the history, tradition, and heroes that make the Legion of Honor unique.

Interview
Division Commander of the Year Jamison Keller (Cal State San Bernardino) reflects on his Sigma Nu story and offers best practices for working with fellow alumni.

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By Scott Smith (Central Arkansas)

Michael Kimmel’s Guyland tells the (delayed) coming of age story of men in America.

In his book author Michael Kimmel takes the reader deep into the world he calls “Guyland,” mapping out the geography, influences, and behaviors of “guys” in what can be described as a new phase of life. Guyland has firmly rooted itself between the dependency of boyhood and the autonomy, sacrifice, and responsibility that characterizes manhood. It’s not a state of arrested development but more of a new stage where guys, not quite boys or men, hang onto the Peter Pan notion that it’s not quite time to grow up just yet. Guyland is characterized as both the time between adolescence and adulthood and those places where guys gather absent the demands of serious responsibility and outsiders like jobs, parents, kids, and girlfriends.

Stories of guys engaging in extreme behavior just before, during, and immediately following the college years are ubiquitous as are the media and personal accounts of psychological, alcohol-induced, and violent pseudo rites-of-passage. A fraternity-related hazing death has occurred nearly every year since 2000, Kimmel says. Hospital transports for alcohol overdose are a common occurrence Thursday through Saturday nights on college campuses across the country. One in five women will be sexually assaulted while in college, according to Kimmel’s research. He adds that high school students are bombarded with anti-gay comments, with teachers rarely intervening. More than half of college students involved in clubs, teams, and organizations experience hazing, and nearly half experienced it prior to coming to college, according to a University of Maine study by Elizabeth Allan and Mary Madden.

While Guyland is everywhere that males between the ages of 16 and 26 gather, it best describes the population of mostly white, middle-class, college bound/going/recently graduated males living together in groups and working entry-level jobs or not at all. Fraternity houses, dorms, and shared apartments are the predominant domiciles of Guyland’s inhabitants, Kimmel says in his book. This new social space is defined and ruled by The Guy Code – a set of attitudes, values, and traits that describe (inaccurately) what it means to be a man.

1. “Boys Don’t Cry”
2. “It’s Better to be Mad than Sad”
3. “Don’t Get Mad – Get Even”
4. “Take It Like a Man”
5. “He Who has the Most Toys When he Dies, Wins”
6. “Just Do It” or “Ride or Die”
7. “Size Matters”
8. “I Don’t Stop to Ask for Directions”
9. “Nice Guys Finish Last”
10. “It’s All Good”

Never show emotion, winning is imperative, compassion is taboo. These axioms govern behavior and are used to evaluate whether guys measure up. Guys inform their views of masculinity in light of the voices of the men in their lives. In the absence of men, they take their cues from other guys. Masculinity is essentially boiled down to performing for and being judged by other men, with the goal of being a “man among men.” The problem is that guys have a skewed internal sense of social norms, assuming that excessive behavior is average when it comes to things like sex, alcohol, and violence. College students regularly overestimate the amount their peers drink and then proceed to increase their own consumption in order to keep up. These misperceptions coupled with the lack of a playbook for becoming an adult leave guys to figure it out as they go along, typically with too much room for error.

Kimmel traces the sociology of Guyland across several spheres, filling out his observations from a four-year survey of over 400 males with a series of national studies, insights from over 30 years of his own research, and telling examples from the inhabitants of Guyland. Guyland covers high school, binge drinking, hazing, sports, media, pornography, the hook up culture, predatory sex and rape, the role of girls in Guyland, and a final chapter of recommendations for turning “just guys” into just guys. Perhaps the best summary of Guyland’s effects is in the rites of passage and initiation rituals guys put each other through. Whether it’s for a fraternity, sports team, club, or some other selective group, guys put up with ceremonial degradation in order to be accepted, liked, and aligned with the in crowd.

Such rituals provide ample evidence that hazing is less about younger males trying to impress their elders, and far more about the sense of entitlement that the older males have to exact such gratuitously violent and degrading behaviors from those more vulnerable than they.

While blaming the media is a poor strategy and lazy scapegoat, the constant barrage of sex, violence, and drugs being pumped from stereos, TV, magazines, and video games cannot be completely ignored. The hyper-masculinity of college and professional athletics, pornography, and virtual outlets guys fill their time with certainly have an impact on the version of manhood they are trying to live up to. Retreating to a fantasyland where they can adopt an avatar – an idealized version of themselves – and employ a skill and control not found in their everyday lives has become less entertainment and more of a daily priority. While many may not agree with Kimmel’s portrayal of the escapist nature of political and sports talk radio, video games, pornography, anonymous message boards, and online gambling, the fact remains that guys spend an inordinate amount of time in these spaces. Certainly there is a reverberating effect of this type of retreat into a “no girls allowed” and no consequences environment.

The typical transition to adulthood is marked by five life-stage events: leaving home, completing one’s education, starting work, getting married, and becoming a parent. Only 31 percent of men under 30 had reached those markers in 2000, compared to 65 percent just forty years earlier, providing further evidence that the transitional moment between adolescence and adulthood has become its own life stage, with adolescence beginning earlier and earlier for each generation and adulthood later and later. Adulthood is no longer marked by a series of experiences but rather a set of attitudes, Kimmel contends. When they are ready to “accept responsibility for their actions,” decide on personal beliefs and values independently of parents or other influences,” and become “less self-oriented, developing greater consideration for others” they then, in essence, feel like adults.

Not all of Guyland is bad, though. The advancing age of marriage, for example, benefits both men and women, giving them additional time to advance their careers and establish their identities before committing to a family. The reality is that most men do not commit rape or sexual assault, drink daily or to excess, think bullying and hazing are acceptable, or feel comfortable treating women as property or objects.

The problem remains that an uncomfortable individual, when faced with a silent majority led by outspoken extremists, has a tendency to go along for fear of being singled out or having his manhood and loyalty to the brotherhood questioned. Most guys do not participate in extreme behavior most of the time, but they know people who do, and most do not say anything about it. Edmund Burke’s famous line, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing” perfectly summarizes the result of the bystander role most guys play. Kimmel explains,

[B]eing a real man isn’t going along with what you know in your heart to be cruel, inhumane, stupid, humiliating, and dangerous. Being a real man means doing the right thing, standing up to immorality and injustice when you see it, and expressing compassion, not contempt, for those who are less fortunate (p. 287).

Being a man is about being courageous, honorable, and ethical. Something that fraternity, when done right, is all about. Sigma Nu chapters are ideally positioned to advance this conversation among their membership; whether through LEAD sessions and other intentional conversations on topics like sexual assault, alcohol misuse prevention, values, and ethics, or in developing true mentoring relationships with “big brothers” and local advisor-mentors. Fraternity men and chapters should promote true masculinity – acting as beacons of love, honor, and truth – not a promotion of excessive behavior and delayed development. Guyland is a wake-up call to the realities and effects of the college experience and surrounding years on males. Advisors, fathers, and brothers can benefit from the perspective, analysis, and advice provided by Kimmel.

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Readers response to the Fall 2013 issue featuring Bill Courtney and the Undefeated documentary.

Another excellent edition of the best fraternity magazine in the industry!

-Maury Gaston (Auburn)

Just Excellent, both hard and electronic copies. Congrats

-Carl Berry (Idaho)

Rebuilding Moore

When I received the call for materials I  began raising money from my weekly poker table, neighbors, and all five of my kids. I contacted the local chapter (Cal State Fullerton), and despite being on summer break they put me in contact with a recent alumnus who happened to be the assistant manager of a nearby Home Depot. He arranged for a 50% discount on necessary supplies, including eight full “Elmer Pails” and two 5-gallon water coolers full of gloves, trash bags, eye protection, and first aid kits that were then shipped to the chapters involved with tornado relief. I can see the chapters in Oklahoma put them to good use.

My point is it took valuable time and was not really enough. If each chapter were to assemble four pails with the materials the brothers from Oklahoma recommend Sigma Nu could put over 100 pails in the hands of the local chapters within a few days of any disaster. A little coordination can have a big impact on the next big disaster.

-Jerry Schulte (UCLA)

Perspectives on Our Past: Valor in Action

Wonderful story about wonderful men of a wonderful generation by a wonderful author and Grand Historian!

-Maury Gaston (Auburn)

Another great job by Bob!

-Marshall Napper (Louisiana Tech)

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Hard Work Pays Off

Despite a late-season surge, Eli and the Giants fell short of making the playoffs this year, but that didn’t stop another Sigma Nu from stealing the show on Super Bowl Sunday. Whether you watched the big game or not, you could not have missed the buzz about the ‘Puppy Love’ commercial featuring actor Don Jeanes (Texas State).

Earlier this year we had the chance to interview Don near his home in Los Angeles. Don shared with us his path to acting and how his approach to the business side of the industry is rooted in the skills he developed in Sigma Nu and later working an entry-level sales job. As Don’s story shows, there is no substitute for hard work, and when you stick around good things are bound to happen.

Don’s smashing success with two consecutive Super Bowl commercials is also a reminder of Sigma Nu’s widespread influence. No matter where or when, if there’s a major event taking place in the world, there’s a good chance one of our Sigma Nu brothers is involved in a significant way. 

Only five days after the Seattle Seahawks won their first Lombardi Trophy in franchise history, the big stage shifted to Russia and the 2014 Winter Olympics. The Sochi Games, like the Super Bowl, are yet another example of Sigma Nu brothers turning up to take prominent roles in major events.

Drew Bogs (Ball State) leads our Olympics coverage with his trip to Sochi covering the Winter Games with his immersive journalism program. Our story about George Bauernfeind (Indiana) provides a unique look at what is involved with sponsoring the athletes looking to fulfill their Olympic dreams.

Rounding out our Olympics coverage is a flashback to the 1956 Winter Games where the U.S. swept the podium in men’s figure skating, led by Sigma Nu Brother Hayes Jenkins (Northwestern).

Whether it’s Don Jeanes scoring a lead role in the top Super Bowl commercial or Drew Bogs landing a scoop at the Olympics, we hope you’ll see in our stories how Sigma Nu brothers positively influence the world we live in.

Yours in Sigma Nu,

Nathaniel Clarkson (James Madison)
Managing Editor

P.S. We’re always interested to hear what our readers have to say. Leave your reactions in the comments section for each story and we’ll publish them with the next issue.

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Best Practices Library for Alumni

The Best Practices Library for Alumni is designed to give specific examples of how Sigma Nu chapters have achieved excellence in alumni relations and helps to provide a road map for other chapters to follow in achieving their own excellence.  Many of the most successful Chapter Advisors, Alumni Advisory Board Members, and Housing Corporation Board Members were asked to provide specific practices attributable to their great success and have been included.

The Best Practices Library for Alumni includes resources such as successful habits for alumni advisors, sample alumni event invitations, sample housing agreements, and a sample Alumni Advisory Board governance model.

Social Planning Guide

The new Sigma Nu Social Planning Guide provides a commonsense overview of the Risk Reduction Policy & Guidelines and instructions on implementing risk reduction concepts for social events.  The guide includes explanations of the risk reduction policy, a rationale for determining what constitutes a chapter event, event planning templates, examples for managing alcohol and guest lists, and assorted tips for applying risk reduction and safety guidelines.

Updates to LEAD Phase I

The Fraternity just rolled out an updated LEAD Phase I facilitator manual and online content.  Some of the recent updates include improved readability of printed facilitator notes, inclusion of ethical dilemma scenarios for group discussions, new parliamentary resources added to Session 4, enhanced session wrap up pages with reflection questions, application ideas, and a discussion quote to begin each facilitated session.

These are but a few of the updates added to both the online content and facilitator manuals for Phase I.  Log in to view the online content through the Member’s Area and view the new facilitator manuals on the LEAD page at sigmanu.org.

Becomeasigmanu.org

Looking to refer a prospective member or legacy to the Legion of Honor? Becomeasigmanu.org was launched to provide a platform for potential new members or legacies to learn more about Sigma Nu and to have their name submitted to the chapter that they are interested in. The website also accepts referrals from alumni and friends of Sigma Nu who may be interested in referring someone they know to Sigma Nu.

Becomeasigmanu.org also features the history, famous alumni, and the purpose of Sigma Nu and includes a map of all current chapters. Be sure to check out becomeasigmanu.org and refer a prospective member to the Legion of Honor.

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Former Congressman E. Clay Shaw, Jr. (Stetson) entered Chapter Eternal on September 10, 2013, at the age of 74. Brother Shaw was the former mayor of Fort Lauderdale and went on to serve in Congress for 26 years. Shaw is survived by his wife, Emilie, four children, and 15 grandchildren, according to a Miami Herald obituary.

“Clay cherished his time in the U.S. Congress representing the people of South Florida. He was a devoted family man setting a fine example for our 15 grandchildren. They will always be proud of Clay’s love of country,” said Emilie Shaw in a statement released by the family.

Brother Shaw was born in Miami, Fl., in 1939. He attended Stetson University where he joined the Delta Mu Chapter of Sigma Nu. Shaw went on to earn an M.B.A. from University of Alabama in 1963 and his J.D. from Stetson College of Law in 1966.

Shaw was elected mayor of Fort Lauderdale in 1975, at the age of 36. In 1980 he was elected to serve Florida’s 22^nd district in the U.S. Congress. He would serve 13 consecutive terms before retiring in 2008.

During his service on the Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Shaw played a significant role in developing bipartisan welfare reform legislation signed by President Bill Clinton. Shaw later joined the House Social Security subcommittee where he influenced Social Security reform. Among his other contributions, Brother Shaw is also credited with promoting the 1982 Missing and Exploited Children’s Act.

Brother Shaw died after a long struggle with long cancer. He was buried at a family gravesite in Alabama.

Brother Zak McConnell (North Georgia) entered Chapter Eternal on October 29, 2013, at the age of 26. Zak was pursuing an MBA at University of Georgia in Athens with aspirations of starting a career in the music industry business.

Brother McConnell, a talented mandolin player, founded the Fiddleheads in 2009 while attending University of North Georgia, where he joined the Kappa Chapter of Sigma Nu. Zak and the Fiddleheads were featured in the ISSUE of The Delta following their successful run on the hit TV show “America’s Got Talent.”

“Zak was kind, humble, passionate, compassionate, respectful and intelligent. We have lost someone who was a dear friend, a son, a brother, and a husband. And a world-class musician who played every note of every song with all of the passion that was in his young heart,” according to a statement posted to his band’s website.

Zak grew up playing a variety of instruments, including electric guitar and mandolin. Zak dedicated his musical talents after hearing renowned mandolin player Chris Thile of Nickel Creek. Zak’s family estimates Zak saw Nickel Creek perform 30+ times live in concert.

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Akron

 The men of the Kappa Lambda Chapter have been very busy this semester. Halfway through the semester, the brothers have completed 268.5 community service hours. These hours were raised, in part, at their second annual Kan Jam for Kancer philanthropy event and other Greek letter organizations’ events on campus.

On October 13, 2013, Kan Jam for Kancer kicked off its second appearance at The University of Akron. Kan Jam is a game in which a pair of teammates attempt to throw Frisbees into a large rubber trashcan. Comprised of 24 competing pairs, this elimination style tournament was held in the University’s Stile Field House. The men were able to raise $1,700 from team registration and donations from local vendors and alumni in the area. Participants in the event got a t-shirt, food vouchers, and raffle tickets for prizes like gift cards to restaurants, University of Akron athletics gear, and a chance to win a 50/50 drawing. All the proceeds raised for the event were donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital along with a signed memorabilia from the men of the chapter.

The brothers took home first place in synchronized swimming at Delta Gamma’s annual Anchor Splash swimming competition, benefiting the sisters’ national philanthropies: Service for Sight and Joining Forces. As part of their candidate philanthropy project, the fall candidate class won second place at mocktails, a program promoting alternatives to alcohol. The chapter also found time to raise $468 for the Alzheimer’s Foundation and many brothers participated in a walk to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s research. Brother Michael Sabo was recently accepted into Gamma Sigma Alpha and, along with Brother Ryan Hayes, Order of Omega. Brother Jonathan Freidl was elected secretary of RHPB and Brother Tyler Yohman accepted an internship with URS Corporation.

Kappa Lambda Chapter recently hosted University of Akron Vice President of Student Success and former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel who presented a session from his award winning book The Winner’s Manual. The 30-40 people in attendance from both the Kappa Lambda and Delta Alpha Chapters hope to use the message they heard and apply it back to their specific chapter operations.

Finally, the chapter’s intramural football team was invited to participate in a football tournament at Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind.

 Alabama in Huntsville

 The Mu Beta Chapter won Best Homecoming Float and the homecoming week trophy for the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Lt. Commander Justin Neal was elected vice president of Order of Omega. Austin Finley has been chosen as a president’s ambassador, vice president of Alpha Lambda Delta honor society, and IFC vice president of risk reduction.

Stephen Yarbrough, Jared Waylander, Austin Finley, Dustin Kunter, Alex Case, Marshall Sommers, Judson Cummings, Paul Rowland, and Michael Maddox all participated in the UAH Leadership Education and Advising Program.

Auburn

Alabama Governor Robert Bentley issued a proclamation declaring November 16 as Beta Theta Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity Day for the chapter’s commitment to community service and developing ethical leaders.

Lt. Commander Cody Sanders recently served as a United States ambassador to the international organization Thought for Food. Brother Sanders traveled to Berlin to participate in the organization’s international gathering that was attended by representatives from 25 countries. The event was held to discuss strategies for feeding a global population of 9 billion by 2050. Following graduation, Brother Sanders will be pursing his master’s degrees in public administration and community planning. Sanders hopes to continue his involvement with Thought for Food.

Beta Theta Chapter created an award in honor of Division Commander and Grand Chaplain Maury Gaston to be presented each year to the brother who shows self-improvement through his commitment to Sigma Nu.

Birmingham Southern

Sigma Nu and Kappa Delta placed first in the homecoming week competition at Birmingham Southern on November 2. The weeklong competition featured a banner painting contest, highest participation percentage in activities, and a house decoration contest. This was the second time in four years that the chapter has placed first in the homecoming competition.

Bowling Green State

Epsilon Chi Chapter recruited 12 new candidates last fall, doubling the chapter size to 24.

Butler 

 The Epsilon Mu Chapter from Butler University is off to a tremendous start to the 2013-2014 school year.   At the beginning of September, the chapter planned and participated in an all-chapter fall retreat at Ransburg Scout Reservation in Bloomington, Ind. This is the second year for this event, and it continues to improve and impress. The chapter utilizes this time to promote brotherhood, implement the strategic plan for the year, and host the first LEAD sessions for each class. In appreciation for letting the chapter use the facilities, the brothers contributed approximately 140 hours of service to the camp. All in all, the retreat was a huge success and, hopefully, will translate into another prosperous year for Epsilon Mu Chapter.

California Berkeley

The Beta Psi Chapter is proud to introduce 20 new members to the brotherhood this semester, increasing the chapter’s brotherhood by 75%. In the business world, a brother recently helped win a $100,000 grant for his startup called Ekko Devices, which is developing a new stethoscope that will allow patients to record and archive heart rates. Only 10 startups won out of 500+. Recent alumni and brothers started and are continuing to develop a nonprofit organization called Consult Your Community, which gives college startups free consulting from college student consultants, giving both parties work experience in their respective fields. The expanding company now has representatives and groups at UC Berkeley, Harvard University, Stanford University, Columbia University and many more. The chapter is excited to see where all of the brothers will be in the years to come.

Case Western Reserve

Beta Iota Chapter was recognized in Heart of Ohio magazine for their Mike Hardy Basketball Marathon in honor of their chapter brother who entered Chapter Eternal in 1984. This year the chapter’s annual event benefitted a camp where Mike spent his summer before attending college. in previous years the chapter has raised funds for leukemia patients and an orphanage in Russia. This year, 15 teams raised close to $1,000 that helped the summer camp purchase a new pontoon boat.

 Central Oklahoma

 The Mu Tau Chapter at the University of Central Oklahoma is proud to announce that rush week saw an increase in manpower of over 100%. Thirty new members joined the Legion of Honor as of August 29th.

Mu Tau also had members seek office in student government.  Brother Colt Coldren serves as the vice chairman of the student congress (i.e. speaker pro tempore), Brother Eric Ogilvie serves as the secretary of the ways and means committee, Brother Dylan Morgan serves as a senator for the student congress and president of the Student Veterans of America, and Brother Chris Fry serves as the administrative assistant for the student government.

Brother Chris Fry was inducted into the Order of Omega on October 24th. He is one of fifteen Greeks at UCO joining the Order this year.

Clemson 

 Theta Zeta won the moving division for the homecoming float display competition for the third year in a row. The chapter is looking forward to its fall philanthropy event, GameBall Run, in which it will work with the Delta Chapter from the University of South Carolina. The two chapters will run the game ball from Clemson to Columbia before the Clemson-South Carolina game to raise money for the Clemson University football coach Dabo Swinney’s All in Team Foundation.

 Colorado State

The Delta Rho Chapter is pleased to announce that the chapter has recruited its largest candidate class since rechartering. The chapter took 18 candidates and won chapter of the year this spring. The chapter also had the highest number of alumni present at the alumni and parent tailgate.

Drury

Epsilon Beta Chapter won the Drury Spotlight Award for Community Service for their participation in a series of service events that included Pack a Million Meals, Shoes Against Hunger, and the Ozark Food Harvest.

 Duquesne 

 Brother Brian Bost was the first Kappa Delta brother to win the honor of homecoming king. He was announced as the winner at halftime of the homecoming game on October 12th. Brother Bost has been a great contributor to the Kappa Delta Chapter as Recorder last year and the white rose ball chairman for the 2013-2014 school year. Along with his efforts in Sigma Nu, Brother Bost also served as director of freshman orientation this past summer.

Georgia

Mu Chapter started off the year by hosting U.S. Rep. and Brother Phil Gingrey of the Gamma Alpha Chapter at Georgia Tech. Congressman Gingrey is serving his 5th term as the U.S. representative for Georgia’s 11th District and is currently running for U.S. Senate. Congressman Gingrey highlighted his time as a Sigma Nu at Georgia Tech and how it has influenced him. The candidate class enjoyed meeting the congressman with candidate Donley Henson stating, “It is truly inspiring and encouraging to see alumni such as Congressman Gingrey still giving back to his fraternity.”

 Alumnus George Hearn has a phrase very familiar to the brothers of Mu Chapter: “Brotherhood is for life.” On Sunday, October 20th, Mu Chapter took that phrase and added a new twist, “Brotherhood for Golf.” The chapter held its inaugural brotherhood golf tournament at the Lane Creek Golf Club in Bishop, Ga. The two-man scramble was won by Brothers Hudson Jerles and Jeff Brum.

The chapter’s brotherhood chairmen, Alex Croy and Hunter Garrett took charge of all the logistics for the afternoon. The event brought together every current candidate class of Mu Chapter, and a variety of skill levels. “The golf tournament is something unique at Mu Chapter,” said Freshman Cole Graham. “We have a ton of good golfers but the unwritten rule is that the good guys don’t team up, so everyone has a chance to win and have a good time.”

Second place was highly contested – the one-hole playoff came down to the last putt. The big brother, little brother team of Sam McKinstry and Mitch Fenbert emerged victorious after the team of sophomores, Joseph Brittain and Andrew Greene had some trouble in the woods.

After the tournament, the brothers congregated on the back porch at Lane Creek for dinner and awards. The award ceremony included a wholesale-store-sized jar of pickles for the worst score and filets for the winners, as well as good natured observations about everyone’s golf game.

The event exhibited the solid brotherhood that exemplifies Mu Chapter. Several of the foursomes had brothers from four different candidate classes. One of the foursomes included an entire fraternity “family.” Eldest family member and Commander of Mu Chapter, Ben Booth, took on the day with his little brother Alex Croy paired with Alex’s little brother, Hunter Garrett and Hunter’s little brother, Harrison Milford.

The Sigma Nu expectation of excellence was not apparent from watching some of the golf shots, but the strong bond of brotherhood was clearly evident throughout the day. The spring tournament will be held in March.

On Tuesday, November 5, Sean Gilrain was elected vice president of administration of the University of Georgia IFC.

Sean was recently elected Lieutenant Commander of Mu Chapter, having previously served as Recruitment Chairman and Social Chairman. This past year, he served the UGA IFC as co-chairman of its recruitment committee. A third-year student at the University of Georgia, Sean is a Leonard Leadership Scholar, and a member of the Corsair Society and the Dean William Tate Honor Society.

Sean is the ninth consecutive brother from Mu Chapter to be elected to the UGA IFC executive board.

Gettysburg

This semester, the fall candidates, with the help of Alumnus Rob White, completed a new crest for the Zeta Sigma house. The crest was recreated by Brother White, then painted and refurbished by the candidate class. After many years of displaying Sigma Nu pride to the Gettysburg campus, the crest was beginning to look dated and needed to be replaced. After facilities management took the old crest down, the newly constructed crest was put in place. The new crest should last for years to come!

Houston

 As of August 21^st, the Zeta Chi Chapter has moved into its brand new home at the Bayou Oaks residence – its first since colonization. The facility underwent a one million dollar renovation this summer and is now equipped with a state of the art study room, chapter room and executive room. Recent additions included all new furniture, an HD projector, study carrels and more. The house accommodates 15 members of the chapter.

Huntingdon College

 Nu Beta Chapter is enjoying their first full semester in their own chapter house. With Greek housing recently being introduced as a new facet of student life at Huntingdon College, Nu Beta is proud to be the first Greek organization in the history of the school to move off campus into a chapter house.

Nu Beta was eager and willing to be the first organization to move into its own house. The chapter was aware that this relocation would provide a spark in recruitment, as well as reenergize brothers by providing a tangible achievement to reward their efforts in their pursuit of excellence. Nu Beta was in constant communication with administration for the entire semester prior to moving into the house, working with the school to handle all the details, and fulfilling all the requirements set by the school in order to move into the house.

Nu Beta intends to continue utilizing the new chapter house in a plethora of ways, including in its recruitment, social events, alumni gatherings, and brotherhood events.

Illinois

 Indiana 

 Beta Eta Chapter at Indiana University is hosting this fall its second annual Greek Bowl, a flag football league that raises funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

This year, the chapter has expanded the league to include an eight week regular season that runs from September 20-November 10. Teams from 16 different Indiana University fraternities will form the league, which will conclude with a championship game on November 15 following a one-day playoff round.

Proceeds from Beta Eta Chapter’s Greek Bowl will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and its mission to discover cures and means of prevention for pediatric diseases through research and treatment.

Jacksonville State

 Candidate Class President Kenneth Smith won homecoming king at Jacksonville State University this fall. The Iota lambda Chapter is very proud of his accomplishment. Brother Smith was chosen in an online poll by the student body and was selected as king over four other candidates. In addition, the Iota Lambda Chapter raised $700 for the Wounded Warrior Project during the chapter’s inaugural car show Hot Rods for Heroes.

James Madison 

 Junior Brother David Dwyier was the lead engineer on a project to build a custom tricycle for 9-year-old Troy Haverstrom, who has spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy. The project to build the tricycle was brought before the sophomore engineering class last year. Out of the team working together to design the tricycle, Brother Dwyier was selected to build the bike. He spent the summer in Harrisonburg working to complete the tricycle, which was built with student designed and constructed parts. Due to Troy’s disability, the tricycle is custom-made to allow for Troy to change gears and brake on the right handlebar.

Speaking about his experience, Brother Dwyier commented, “I can’t even describe the feeling I have right now being able to see this — here’s something I built and was able to give to someone who’s not able to ride a bicycle by himself.”

Kansas

 Kent State 

 This November 23rd, the Zeta Gamma Chapter and Alpha Tau Omega at Kent State hosted its annual Whitefeet vs. Blackfeet rivalry football game at Dix Stadium at Kent State. Money raised at the game was donated to The Upside of Downs Foundation, located in Cleveland, Ohio. The Upside of Downs helps raise awareness for children with Down’s syndrome in the northeast Ohio area. Brother Shon Christy of the Kappa Lambda Chapter is a member of the organization. The game has been played annually for over two decades and originally started as a pick-up football game down the street from the chapter houses. The game has turned into the chapter’s annual fall philanthropy and is a big hit throughout the Greek community at Kent State.

The game is usually attended by around 400-500 people. Family, friends, sorority women, and fraternity men from other chapters come out to cheer on both teams and help support the great cause. Zeta Gamma Chapter and Alpha Tau Omega began playing the game to relive the two fraternity’s historical rivalry.

Four months prior to the event, the Zeta Gamma Chapter helped at a community service event for The Upside of Downs at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Ohio. The chapter became really close with the organization after the event and wanted to make it their local charity. Alpha Tau Omega loved the idea of helping the organization out and the chapters will be working with The Upside of Downs for years to come.

The Zeta Gamma Chapter and Alpha Tau Omega plan to donate $5,000 to The Upside of Downs this November. They raised nearly $3,000 at the 2012 game. The chapters have made efforts to plan fundraising events around Kent, Ohio, to help increase the total fundraising numbers for this year.

 Lamar 

 The Zeta Psi Chapter has ushered in a new era after spending a year on “Show Cause.” The previous semester saw the Zeta Psi Chapter achieving the Regent’s Award for Academic Excellence for its high GPA, as well as receiving an award for its 48% growth in manpower. The chapter determined that the fall semester would bring even more impressive accolades. The chapter set goals for recruiting, school spirit, as well as service and philanthropy hours. Achieving the recruitment goal proved to be difficult; especially, for a university that has a history of poor interest in Greek life. Although the original goal was not met, the chapter recruited the biggest candidate class it has seen in two years. To most, eight candidates would seem modest. However, with a chapter that began the semester with seven active members, this accomplishment is great.

As for school spirit, the Zeta Psi Chapter has a history of setting the standard for Lamar University’s athletic event attendance. This is still the case for the men of the Zeta Psi Chapter. They have continued to be, despite a considerable size difference, the prominent Greek organization in attendance. The Zeta Psi Chapter does not discriminate in the importance of the athletic events. All events, from the school’s newly revamped men’s football program to the minimally attended girls’ soccer games, can expect a good turnout of Sigma Nu gentlemen. In September, the chapter made a nine hour trip to the Oklahoma State University to meet the Sigma Nus of OSU, as well as to support the Lamar football team. The trip proved to be a huge success. The chapter learned the ways of a Rock Chapter, as well as showed the school spirit promised.

In addition, the Zeta Psi Chapter is still on track to achieve its goal of having the most service and philanthropy hours in the IFC. The chapter’s community service includes participation in events such as the 5k walk for Gift of Life, as well as weekends at the local food bank. With a lot of help from the current active members and the chapter’s numerous and supportive alumni, the Zeta Psi Chapter has remained afloat. More importantly, it has proved to be an important and integral part of the Lamar University community.

Louisiana Tech 

 The Eta Zeta Chapter at Louisiana Tech University is proud to announce that it has inducted the largest candidate class of any fraternity on campus for the past three years in a row, each year having an acceptance rate of over 80 percent.  In addition to having the highest GPA on campus for 98 out of the last 132 quarters, the members are involved in many on-campus organizations including orientation student leaders, student government association, student advancement team, student recruiters, and Order of Omega, a Greek honors society.  They have also won the annual Greek week tournament trophy for two consecutive years.  The Greek week tournament includes events such as athletics, philanthropy, and team building.

The Eta Zeta Chapter recently celebrated Louisiana Tech University’s homecoming week with two of the founding fathers of their chapter, as well as a ceremony that included the parents of both members and candidates.  During the fall quarter, several LEAD sessions were conducted to not only better the men in college, but also prepare them for their future endeavors.  The brothers of the Eta Zeta Chapter would also like to congratulate Josh McIntire for being selected to represent Louisiana Tech at the National Student Leadership Forum on Faith and Values in Washington, DC.  The National Student Leadership Forum provides an opportunity to discuss the significance of faith and values as foundations for effective leadership.

Miami (OH)

 The Epsilon Nu Chapter of Sigma Nu is looking forward to one of their most anticipated events of the year: mom’s weekend. Last year, the fraternity successfully raised over $4,500 that was put towards general improvements to the fraternity house as well as philanthropy events. This year, the chapter is hopeful in surpassing that amount. In addition, the chapter placed within the top 5 during this semester’s Greek week events. With IFC executive board elections coming up quickly, several brothers of the Epsilon Nu Chapter have expressed interest and are working hard to acquire a position and become more involved with the university’s Greek system. Also, a recent visit from numerous alumni has sparked donations to be used towards new additions for the fraternity house.

Minnesota

Gamma Tau Chapter recruited 29 candidates this fall, which may be the largest class since the chapter was rechartered in 1996. Keeping with Values Based Recruitment, these 29 gentlemen are some of the finest on campus. This year’s recruitment goal was 25, in an ongoing effort to increase the size of the chapter. The chapter surpassed this goal and increased its membership to 71 brothers and candidates.

Last year, Gamma Tau recruited 24 gentlemen overall and 14 the year before. The chapter is thrilled to have so many quality candidates. Because of the large numbers Gamma Tau recruited this fall, the chapter is looking to minimize the bids extended for next year in order to maintain a manageable size and foster close ties of brotherhood.

Mississippi

Epsilon Xi Chapter presented a $25,000 check to Friends of Children’s Hospital in honor of Olivia Manning during the home football game vs. Missouri last fall. Epsilon Xi Chapter was represented by Commander Will Andrews and Philanthropy Chairmen Patrick McDaniel and Paul DeForest. Epsilon Xi Chapter donated $25,000 to Friends of Children’s Hospital at UMMC in honor of Olivia Manning from donations raised from the Annual Sigma Nu Charity Bowl game played last March at Vaught Hemmingway Stadium.  The money raised in the game goes to a paralysis victim but proceeds from the last year’s game also went to the Children’s Hospital in honor of Olivia Manning.

The 25^th Annual Sigma Nu Charity Bowl will be played March 21, 2014 and again part of the proceeds will go to Friends of Children’s Hospital at UMMC in honor of Olivia Manning.  Since it’s inception the Sigma Nu Charity Bowl has raised over $1.2 million dollars making it the largest Greek Fund Raiser in the country.

Missouri

This August, Rho Chapter initiated 12 new members into the chapter, moving the number of Rho initiates to an astounding 2,378 members. The spring semester was a success for Rho Chapter academically, as the chapter placed 9th overall in grades out of 35 IFC registered fraternities with a 3.07 GPA. This cumulative house GPA surpassed the all-university (3.053), all-fraternity (3.009), and all-male (2.917) grade averages. It’s safe to say Rho has an intelligent group of men who dedicate ample time to making the most of their education from Mizzou.

The total number of new candidates signed for the fall 2013 semester reached an amazing 35 young men.  This is the largest class recruited in many years. The chapter looks forward to seeing them learn and grow, and become the new face of Rho Chapter.

 Montana

On October 27^th, over 30 brothers from the Gamma Phi Chapter gathered to help plant 17 trees at the Sussex School in Missoula. The brothers were able to complete this project which replaced trees that had to be removed from the school during the summer.

Speaking about the event, Brother Jim Grover said, “We are looking for more opportunities to do things like this ­­– and we are hoping to do some work with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the YMCA.”  He also added, “We wanted to do something that affects our community in a positive way, and we have done a couple of projects this year.”

 Mount Union

 On March 23, 2013, the Beta Iota Chapter raised approximately $1,000 through the 28^th annual Mike Hardy Basketball Marathon. The Mike Hardy Basketball Marathon was created in 1985 following the death of Brother Mike Hardy in 1984. The chapter uses this philanthropy as a means to raise funds for Ponery Orphanage, which the chapter has partnered with for many years.

Speaking about the event, chapter Commander Cory Ross said, “It’s a big event for alumni and faculty, as well as students. We enjoy raising the money for a good cause and reminding everyone who attends what a great guy Mike Hardy was.”

Nevada

The Delta Xi Chapter home hosted the 85^th Annual Crumley Dinner, known by many as the longest continuous tradition of any fraternity in the state of Nevada.

New Hampshire

 The Iota Sigma Chapter continued on its path toward excellence during the fall 2013 semester. The chapter raised over $5,500 in the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk on October 20th. Additionally, the chapter raised $1,100 for the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition during its annual Sigma Nu Fall Fest philanthropy event.

Northwestern 

 Gamma Beta got off to a great start this fall. The group reassembled in late September for the start of Northwestern University’s academic year. Since then, the colony has been preparing for its rechartering ceremony set to take place on November 9th this year. Although this process has required a large portion of the colony’s attention, it has not stopped the men from excelling in other areas.

The colony is set to host a 5k run benefiting St. Jude Children’s Hospital on November 3rd and is currently participating in community service opportunities and campus involvement. Many of the men are volunteering at the Women’s Club of Evanston which is putting on a Halloween trail for children who face physical, cognitive, or economic challenges. On the Evanston campus, the Gamma Beta Colony has been asked to be the official student section of the Northwestern Volleyball Team and has been given the nickname “Net Heads” by the team.

Northwestern State

 The brothers of the Mu Rho Chapter have doubled their chapter size with 23 candidates pledged into a chapter of 23 brothers. The brothers are having much success retaining candidates with their new candidate program which highlights all sessions of LEAD Phase I. The chapter’s revitalized LEAD Program put in place last spring encompasses all Phases of LEAD.

The Mu Rho Chapter raised nearly $1,000 with the women of Sigma Sigma Sigma to benefit a Mu Rho brother in distress whose home burned in early August. The chapter is looking to continue the success of its newly installed scholarship program by improving its 3.0 GPA which was second on campus for fraternity men and well above the all-men’s average on campus.

 Oklahoma

 This fall, the Delta Epsilon Colony broke ground on its new chapter home, which is scheduled to be completed in August 2014. Despite 100+ degree heat, the groundbreaking was well attended with 150-200 alumni, colony members, family, and friends there to celebrate.

The Delta Epsilon Colony participated in its first homecoming after recolonization efforts last fall. The colony was paired with the men of Beta Theta Pi and the ladies of Chi Omega, and the theme of this year’s homecoming was “Drawn Together by Tradition.”

Delta Epsilon and Oklahoma State’s Epsilon Epsilon Chapter are also currently planning and coordinating a “Bedlam” game ball run between Norman and Stillwater. This philanthropy event will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will take place the Friday before the Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State football game. Both chapters are continuing in their efforts to coordinate a successful philanthropic event. More details will follow.

Old Dominion 

 ODU’s Eta Chi Chapter of Sigma Nu along with Delta Zeta Sorority and the surrounding community helped unload 3,000 pumpkins this year for the Larchmont United Methodist Church’s annual pumpkin sale. Sigma Nu has been helping the church of their chapter advisor (Watt Jones) each year for over a decade. The tractor-trailer that delivered the pumpkins was completely unloaded this year in a record 1 hour and 37 minutes. About 50 Old Dominion University students volunteered this year.

Penn State

 The Delta Delta Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity is engaged in its annual fundraising campaign for the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Council Dance Marathon “THON.”

The Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon THON is a year-long fundraising and awareness campaign for the fight against pediatric cancer. Last year THON raised over $12 million for a total of over $101 million since inception in 1973. This money goes directly to the Four Diamonds fund which supports the families and patients at Hershey Medical Center. The fundraising culminates in a 46 hour no sitting, no sleeping dance marathon from which THON gets its name.

Delta Delta raised over $25,000 last year and has set its goal at $50,000 for this year’s campaign.  Currently the chapter stands at a little over $19,000 at about half way through the fundraising window.

The chapter and its partner Volé, a Penn State ballet club, are prepping for the final canister solicitation (“canning”) weekend of the season. Additionally, the pair is planning several other fundraisers including a spaghetti dinner and a car smash.

For the first time ever, the chapter has adopted a THON family. A THON family is one that is directly supported by the Four Diamonds Fund. This allows the chapter to interact personally with those it is helping to care for. It is a very selective process and only organizations demonstrating high levels of involvement are permitted to adopt a family. Delta Delta is proud to welcome its THON family, pediatric cancer patient Garrett, with his parents, and brothers into their fraternal family.

This year the chapter is sending Brother John Patterson (senior, sports broadcasting) to represent the fraternity at the 46 hour dance marathon. When asked what made THON special he said, “[THON] shows the good in Penn State and in people.”

Penn College of Technology

 In the first of what is expected to become an annual event, a 5K run/walk sponsored by Sigma Nu at Penn College raised more than $300 for the Wounded Warrior Project. The race, which began at the main campus entrance near the Student and Administrative Services Center, was won by Daniel J. Schepis, of Quakertown, enrolled in information technology: web and applications development concentration. In second place was Shannon L. Abercrombie, an applied health studies major.

 Presbyterian College

 The Zeta Theta Chapter at Presbyterian College has focused on developing its brotherhood in the active chapter as well as in the alumni chapter. This semester, the brothers have taken an initiative to become better-rounded men. In regards to LEAD, the chapter has started utilizing all four phases, with a variety of guest speakers presenting. Some of the topics that were covered are career development, goal setting, and the value of the fraternity. Beyond LEAD, the chapter has also focused on athletics, winning the intramural soccer championship. Concerning alumni development, Zeta Theta is continually connecting with members. In order to do this, the chapter has developed the ‘51 Club, a mechanism for alumni to support the chapter.

 Rhodes College

 Frankie Dakin, who was running a campaign for local alderman, which the chapter first reported in the fall 2012 Delta, is now going on a national tour with a movement called The Can Kicks Back to encourage young voter political involvement as it relates to the national debt. Dakin is on tour for about a month, after winning the Alderman election in July 2012 by a margin of 56-44, toppling a four-term incumbent.

“What it comes down to is that I’ve always loved public service and haven’t had an opportunity until now to get involved in a national campaign,” said Dakin speaking about his work with The Can Kicks Back. “The real debt to us is estimated at around $200 trillion, plus all the unfunded liabilities. That’s going to be coming out of our pocket as we get older.”

Rochester Institute of Technology

 Mu Zeta Chapter had a busy fall with several LEAD sessions, attendance at philanthropies, and participation in contests. On October 3^rd, the chapter co-hosted a safe sex seminar with the student life team. On the following day, the chapter hosted a healthy food contest, with two alumni brothers and three sorority members serving as judges. Furthermore, the chapter participated in Alpha Xi Delta’s “Be Xi Greatest” and finished the event in fifth place. Lastly, two chapter brothers participated in Sigma Sigma Sigma’s “Sign Idol” on October 21^st.

Samford 

The Iota Chapter had a very successful recruitment, welcoming a candidate class of 27 new members.  The second annual car smash recruitment event was a success in drawing in potential new members and giving the chapter positive exposure on Samford’s campus. Alumnus Bobby Patrick opened his home to host the chapter’s final event of formal recruitment for the fall.

 San Jose State 

 During the 2013 fall rush week at Sigma Nu Zeta Iota, multiple alumni came out to career night to share their experiences and benefits of joining Sigma Nu. The chapter holds a career night once every semester during rush in which the brothers and potential new members participate. The purpose of the career night is to give potential candidates insight on how Sigma Nu can be a benefit not only during college but also afterwards.

On Sunday, October, 27^th the chapter brothers held a 5k “Zombie Run.” Over 500 Bay Area locals turned out for the event, and the fundraiser made the San Jose Mercury newspaper! The race raised several thousand dollars for local San Jose parks. Event coordinator Brother Weston Furia developed the idea with his dad after thinking about how popular zombies had become. He decided to use it as a fundraising technique. Commenting about the event Furia said, “Why not do a zombie run?”

South Carolina

 The Delta Chapter had its most successful year of fall recruitment ever with a class of 48 candidates. Also, Brother Ken DeHart was recognized as the top producing financial representative intern at The Worrell Agency, affiliated with Northwestern Mutual.

Southern Maine

 Brother Tyler Boothby has been elected president of the Portland Lions Club. Brother Boothby is the youngest president of any Lions Club in the state of Maine. The Portland Lions Club is also the oldest in the state and the oldest north of Boston. The Lions Club is the largest community service organization in the world.

The work of Brother Boothby, as well as his fellow chapter Brothers Nate Cadorette and Tyler Jenkins, were highlighted in an article about the resurgence of the Portland Lions Club. Also prominently featured in the article are Alumnus Brother Bruce Roullard (Southern Maine) and Vice Regent Duane Dreger (MIT). Brother Roullard, who served as the Portland Lions Club president from 2004-2013, was largely instrumental in the resurgence of the Portland Lions Club chapter. Brother Roullard led a recruitment initiative with the University of Southern Maine and the resurgence of the chapter has largely been led by Sigma Nus.

The Lions Club magazine is translated in 20 different languages and is circulated around the world.

 Southern Mississippi

 To welcome the incoming class of 2017, Brothers Kyle Stoner, Jean-Paul Brion, and Rodney Campbell participated as members of the University of Southern Mississippi’s Golden Eagle Welcome Week (GEWW). In addition, Jean-Paul was a member of one of the most prestigious organizations on campus, Southern Style, who are the official student ambassadors of the university. These brothers answered questions the incoming freshmen had about where their class locations, financial aid, help on campus, and anything an incoming freshman might be worried about.

The chapter brothers know that they are called to serve the community and campus by being leaders, role models, and most importantly, Knights.

Southern Poly

The Iota Pi Chapter was well represented at the Order of Omega awards banquet at Southern Polytechnic State University this year. Brothers Alex Harrington, Brad Thompson, Andres Munoz, and JP Dockter were recognized for obtaining a 4.0 GPA for the spring 2013 semester. In addition to academic excellence, Brother Brad Thompson was recognized as Scholar of the Year, Brother JP Dockter was recognized as the Fraternity Man of the Year, and Brother Luc Graap was installed as the IFC president for 2014. Brother Brandon Thimes, who served as Order of Omega president, helped arrange the event and distribute the awards.

The Brothers of Iota Pi understand that excellence is not just an award but a lifestyle to live by. The motivation for the chapter to actively participate in outside organizations came from the realization of the opportunity to recruit more potential members to build a stronger chapter.

The Iota Pi Chapter is excited for the recent accomplishments and hopes to build a vision for the future to obtain Chapter of the Year, in addition to individual awards.

 Stevens Institute of Technology

 The Gamma Delta Chapter had a prominent role in organizing a Stevens’ event called Techfest. Techfest, a two-day-long festival featuring music, a “paint blast,” and other activities, is a student run and organized event. The team that coordinated the event was led by four Stevens chapter brothers. All of the designs, logos, promotional items, and t-shirts were created by Brother Luke Phillipi. The event was attended by over 1,000 students and is the most successful Techfest to date.

On August 30^th the chapter had a brother enter the United States Navy. Currently, he is still enrolled and not on active duty.  The brothers also recently participated in a breast cancer walk in Central Park.

Valdosta State 

 The Mu Nu Chapter has several exciting chapter awards and accomplishments to share. The chapter was awarded the Highest New Member GPA, Most Improved GPA, and Overall Highest GPA for the academic year of 2012-2013. The chapter was also awarded Excellence in Community Service and Philanthropy Activities, Academics and Scholarship, and Campus Involvement and Leadership for the 2012-2013 year. Finally, the chapter was awarded Chapter of the Year for 2012-2013.

This fall, Sigma Nu and Kappa Delta won the float competition during the Valdosta State homecoming week. Thanks go to all the chapter brothers who made these accomplishments possible!

Vanderbilt 

 Sigma Chapter held a military-inspired fitness competition at Vanderbilt University this fall called the Warrior Challenge, benefitting The Wounded Warrior Project. This was the first year of the event, and it marked the end of a week dedicated to community service from the chapter’s members. Over 100 students attended or actively participated. The event attracted several Nashville businesses to set up free giveaway booths.

With multiple brothers and alumni in the Army and Navy ROTC programs at Vanderbilt, Sigma Chapter decided to center its philanthropy on the goal of aiding military veterans. All members of the chapter were active in recruiting participants from sports teams, athletic clubs, and the Greek community in the weeks prior to the event. Moving forward, the chapter plans on continuing the Warrior Challenge as an annual event with the goal to increase donations and participation year after year.

 Villanova 

Brother Mike Dolio’s work owning an arcade was recently highlighted by the CBS news affiliate in Philadelphia, Pa. Brother Dolio has owned the video game arcade since he was 16. Dolio, now 21, has renamed the arcade Uncle Mike’s Arcade. Speaking about his experience running the arcade, Dolio said “empower your employees to really make them feel that they have a stake in the business.”

 Washington

 

 Washington and Lee 

On October 13, the chapter sponsored a chapter-wide philanthropy event for Hull’s Drive-In, the oldest community owned drive-in movie theater in the country. Hull’s Drive-In has been in operation since 1950 and was purchased by a local nonprofit group in 2000 to preserve the theater. The theater has remained open through continuous donations and it has remained a staple of the Rockbridge County community. Speaking about Hull’s, Commander George Steuart said, “Hull’s is unique to Lexington, so we want to support it in any way we can.”

The chapter donated $200 and provided all the volunteers for the evening which included a screening of an NFL football game. The chapter brothers provided TV service so that the game between the Cowboys and Redskins could be viewed. Chapter brothers were in charge of ticket sales, concessions, raffles and monitoring for the night. There were over 150 cars there and it was a big success. The chapter had a great time and hopes to work with the drive-in again sometime in the near future.

Washington State

 The Delta Iota Chapter received three awards at the year-end Greek awards banquet in November. Lt. Commander Bob Johnson was awarded Outstanding Executive Council Member of the Year and Commander Eric David was named Chapter President of the Year. The chapter was also awarded the Most Original Philanthropy of the Year.

West Virginia 

 This October, Sigma Nu at West Virginia partnered with Mountaineer Maniacs – the largest student organization on campus – to raise money for a local breast cancer center. Working with the Mountaineer Maniacs, the chapter was able to raise over $4,000 for the Betty Puskar Cancer Foundation. Speaking about the event Brother Samuel Richardson said, “We are proud to be given the opportunity to be the first organization to co-sponsor Breast Cancer Awareness Month at West Virginia University with … the Mountaineer Maniacs.” The event was organized by Brother Richardson and Brother Stephen Orlowski, the assistant director of the Mountaineer Maniacs.

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Alumnus Inducted in Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Former University of Houston head basketball coach from 1956-1986 Guy V. Lewis (Houston) was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on Sunday, September 8^th. Lewis was popularly remembered as the coach of the famous Phi Slama Jama dynasty of the 1980s that featured Clyde Drexler and Hakeem Olajuwon.

Brother Lewis of Arp, Tx. won 592 games, and led the Cougars to five Final Fours and 14 NCAA Tournament appearances. Lewis was joined at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame by former Houston greats and fellow Hall of Fame inductees Elvin Hayes, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Clyde Drexler. In a recorded address, Elvin Hayes spoke on behalf of Coach Lewis and praised his influence. “I had a dream that I would be one of the greatest basketball players that ever lived… [Coach Lewis] just truly embraced me and made me a great player and made my dreams come true,” said Hayes speaking about Lewis.

Coach Lewis was also an early adopter; integrating the UH basketball program by signing Hayes and Don Chaney as the first African-American players in program history. “He put the University of Houston on the map,” Houston President Renu Khator said. “He is a giant and an icon.”

Kenneth Evans Named President of Lamar University

In March of 2013, The Board of Regents of the Texas State University System named Kenneth R. Evans (Cal. Davis) the president of Lamar University. Evans was selected from amongst 70 other applicants. On July 1, 2013 Evans took office.

Dr. Evans served as the dean of the Michael F. Price College of Business at the University of Oklahoma, a position he held since 2007. Previous experience saw him in a variety of teaching, administrative, and research positions at the University of Missouri, Arizona State University, University of Colorado, and California State University, Sacramento.

Speaking about Dr. Evans’ selection, Texas State University System Chancellor Brian McCall said “As a distinguished academic, proven fundraiser and respected leader, Dr. Evans is the right person for the job. I look forward to seeing his leadership in action.”

Indoor Practice Facility Named in Honor of Manning

Following the premier of the ESPN Films documentary, The Book of Manning, the University of Mississippi announced that once renovations are completed on the school’s football indoor practice facility, it will be named the Olivia and Archie Manning Athletics Performance Center. The Manning Center is scheduled to open in early 2014 and will feature a full kitchen and dining hall that will be open to students, faculty and staff members. The facility will also provide a nutrition center for all Ole Miss athletes, an expand weight room, and increased seating in the team meeting room.

The renovations have been paid for as part of the university’s Forward Together Campaign. The Manning family made a sizeable contribution to help provide for the renovations.

Archie (Mississippi) and Olivia met while attending the university. The Mannings are currently recognized at the university in several ways, including the campus speed limit set at 18 miles per hour- -Archie’s football number, and Manning Way, the road around several athletic facilities on campus that posts a speed limit of 10 mph, Eli’s (Mississippi) jersey number.

“On a personal note, I cannot thank Archie enough for his leadership in helping bring Coach Freeze and myself to lead Ole Miss Football and Ole Miss Athletics,” said Ole Miss Athletic Director Ross Bjork. “The Manning Center will serve as a platform for all of our student-athletes to achieve their highest level of athletic performance and honor the legacy of the Manning family.”

James Honored for Service

Clyde I. James (Morehead State) was awarded the 2013 Founders Award for University Service this year by Morehead State University. James, who worked for Morehead State for 27 years, served as residence hall director, faculty member, associate dean of students, Greek affairs director, and manager of the university center.

Brother James served as advisor to the Theta Tau Chapter of Sigma Nu at the time of its formation and was initiated as a charter member. A native of Morehead, James is a graduate of Morehead High School and MSU. He received his master’s degree in education administration with an emphasis in business from Indiana University.

Since retiring, James has continued to serve Morehead State as a volunteer. James has served as a goodwill ambassador and as president of the MSU Alumni Association. In addition, the university announced that $25,000 has been donated to establish the Clyde I. James Scholarship Endowment to provide scholarships for future students.

Alumnus Competes in Deaflympics

Joviar Molinar (Lamar) competed on Team USA at this past summer’s Deaflympics held in Sofia, Bulgaria in July 2013. Molinar, a tennis player, was able to travel and compete on behalf of the United States, describing it as “a wonderful experience…to interact and learn from each other [fellow athletes]. I’m glad to be part of this world and share it with [Sigma Nu] brothers all over the USA and Canada.”

Molinar was selected for the summer tennis team along with eight other athletes. Unlike other countries, the United States’ Deaflympic athletes raise all of their own funds to travel. To fund the trip Molinar was required to raise $5,000 which he did through the help of his parents, the United State Tennis Association, and his Zeta Psi chapter brothers. The inaugural Deaflympics was held in 1924 and this year’s games featured athletes from 71 nations. Team USA was able to claim 9 gold, 8 silver, and 12 bronze medals.

Wyoming Alumnus Honored for Pro Bono Work for Veterans

John Hursh (Wyoming) was recently spotlighted in the publication Wyoming Lawyer for his work with military veterans returning to college. Brother Hursh has created a partnership with the University of Wyoming and the Wyoming State Bar to offer pro bono work for veterans to maximize the amount of benefits they receive from the U.S. government. For Brother Hursh’s work he was awarded the ABA Military Pro Bono Project Outstanding Services Award.

“After I retired from my practice and moved to Laramie, I was thinking, ‘What should I do to keep myself out of trouble?’ and I thought I might try to do something for veterans,” commented Hursh, speaking about his work. “With all the veterans going to school here, I got to thinking this might be a good thing to do.”

Eta Nu Celebrates Its 50^th

Brothers from the active and alumni chapters gathered on the weekend of September 13-14 to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the chartering of Eta Nu Chapter at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The event began on the evening of the 13^th with a reception at the historic Jefferson Street Pub. The following morning was dedicated to a brunch at the Petroleum Club of Lafayette in which several addresses were given by special guests, alumni, and brothers of the chapter.

Alumni Chapter President Dan Hare began the brunch by welcoming all in attendance. The welcome was immediately followed by a prayer from Father Bryce Sibley of Our Lady of Wisdom Catholic Church and Student Center. The prayer led into a memorial for the brothers from Eta Nu Chapter who have entered Chapter Eternal.

University of Louisiana President Dr. E. Joseph Savoie and Assistant Dean of Students Tucker Sappington were also present to share their congratulations to the group. Dean Sappington thanked the alumni for their legacy on the campus and enthusiastically encouraged them to return often to celebrate their fraternal fellowship. He also complemented the active chapter and acknowledged the chapter’s leadership. Commander Douglas Fournet gave an endearing state of the chapter address to all in attendance. He then assisted Hare in presenting white roses to the chapter’s former and current White Roses (sweethearts) and introduced the past Eta Nu Chapter Commanders that were in attendance.

Division Commander Jeremy LaCombe addressed the group and encouraged it to continue to strive for excellence. He then congratulated the chapter on its 50th anniversary and presented a framed and matted certificate to commemorate the auspicious occasion. Former Grand Treasurer, Vice Regent, and Division Commander Austin Landry, an Eta Nu initiate, expounded upon Brother LaCombe’s words and reflected on his treasured experience as an Eta Nu and expressed his hope that the chapter would continue to set the standard at the University of Louisiana.

Closing remarks were provided by Dan Hare and he congratulated Dr. Michael Judice, an Eta Nu initiate, as the new UL Alumni Association president and the first Eta Nu to serve in that volunteer position. He encouraged membership in the University of Louisiana Alumni Association which the Eta Nu Alumni Chapter has forged a partnership with and provides dual membership to both organizations.

The weekend coincided with the first home football game for Louisiana’s Ragin’ Cajuns and the active chapter hosted an open house on Saturday afternoon. Tailgating activities were abundant at nearby Cajun Field where a congratulatory message to the chapter flashed repeatedly throughout the game on the scoreboard’s marquee.

Speaking about the event, alumni chapter president and event coordinator Dan Hare commented, “Sigma Nu has enjoyed a great tradition of excellence at UL throughout the past 50 years and to have been able to celebrate this milestone with so many brothers and friends in attendance is a testament to the brotherhood that we all have shared and it served as a great reminder to us all of the bond of brotherhood.”

Delta Mu Turns 100

On September 28^th, the Delta Mu Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity celebrated their 100^th anniversary at Stetson University. To commemorate the historic occasion, the chapter brothers and alumni leaders held a banquet in which over 250 brothers, alumni, parents, and friends of the chapter came and celebrated.

The evening began with a cocktail reception in which the attendees of the banquet were treated with recognition of the chapter by Stetson University President Dr. Wendy B. Libby. Dr. Libby’s remarks focused on her appreciation of the chapter’s accomplishments and support of the university’s mission. Concluding her remarks, Dr. Libby was presented with a plaque of recognition from the High Council of Sigma Nu by Regent Charlie Eitel. Alumnus Bill Watson then awarded President Libby an 1883 Silver Morgan Dollar – – the year of Stetson’s founding – – as a gift from the Delta Mu Chapter for her support of the Greek system and the chapter.

After the cocktail reception, Alumni Advisory Board Chairman Bill Heim formally welcomed the guests to the banquet and thanked all in attendance on behalf of the chapter for their support of the chapter. Brother Heim invited Brother David Hill to the front to give the invocation prior to dinner.

Following dinner, Regent Charlie Eitel addressed the banquet and encouraged the chapter to continue in their pursuit of excellence and to continue to support the mission of Sigma Nu. Regent Eitel also congratulated the chapter on its 100^th anniversary and then presented chapter Commander, Gage Reed with a plaque recognizing the chapter.

Reflections on the chapter were given by chapter alumni David Buck, Bill Watson, John Fischetti, and Sam Rabin. Fond memories and witty anecdotes were exchanged about their undergraduate days and each brother encouraged the chapter to continue to strive for excellence.

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The Golden Gift (The Adventures of Baxter Heavytread)
Dan Curran (UC Davis)
ASIN: B00F0WXJI8
Publisher: Dan-Yves Curran

Five hundred years ago, primitive humans crossed the then frozen southern ocean for their first encounter with the old races in this new land. Elves, dwarves, giants, and trolls joined together to drive out the invaders. A savage war was fought to a standstill, and an uneasy peace has endured ever since, but trouble is brewing. In the vast goblin swamps to the south, a powerful banished wizard has secretly amassed a great army. The other races must ally if they want to stop this menace. Thrust into the middle of this conflict are a young forest troll, a human wizard-warrior, a female green elf warrior, and a gray elf prince. And as opposing forces maneuver for domination, only these four hold the key to the fate of all, victory or defeat, liberty or enslavement.

Reprinted from Amazon.com

Mosby’s Raider’s Return
Gerry A. Zimmerman (Virginia)
ASIN: B00D63QYD0
Publisher: La Casa Z Publishing Group

Mosby’s Raiders Return is the sequel to that author’s award winning book, Legacy of the Gray Ghost, which was named the Best Historical Fiction book of 2011 and also the Gold Medalist as the Best southern Fiction Novel of the year. This book picks up where Legacy left off as it details the events in the next season at Mosby University, located in the beautiful northern Virginia horse country. The school was named after the legendary John Mosby, who led a band of Confederate raiders deep behind Union lines and his uncanny ability to escape and disappear led him to acquire the nickname of the Gray Ghost. There are many challenges facing the school’s football coach due to graduation losses and injuries as he tries to duplicate the success the team enjoyed during the schools, 50th anniversary year in 1958. Although school integration had been mandated by the US Supreme Court in 1954, many politicians and influential people in Virginia were resisting and preferred to keep things the way they always were. When the president of Mosby University decides to offer young men of color the opportunity to attend this formerly all-white prestigious school, he faces a lot of criticism from some of the alumni. Many of these same critics had already disagreed with the previous year’s decision to employ a black coaching staff, but when a few black players join the team in 1959, the critics were outraged. While the story is fiction, many of the feelings and attitudes described were reflective of that era. Readers who like football and like to cheer for the underdog should enjoy MOSBY’S RAIDERS RETURN. Also, the antics of the various groups of students at the university should guarantee the reader plenty of laughs to go along with the cheers and the football action. It’s also a picture of college life in the South in the late 50’s that will bring back memories to anyone who lived in that era.

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Customer Service: The Cornerstone of Success
Rene A. Henry (William and Mary)
ISBN-10: 0967453550
Publisher: Gollywobbler Productions

Customer service may soon be a thing of the past except for a few companies and organizations that pride themselves on providing their customers with extraordinary service. The U.S. is becoming a rude society. Fewer people care about or expect good customer service. Too many companies are living on past reputations. A new generation of senior executives has no idea what customer service is all about. The author attributes this to a society of people all thumbs about their pods, pads and berries and oblivious to the world around them. This book should be a must read by CEOs, senior managers and heads of PR and customer service at all companies, organizations and institutions as well as local, state and federal governments. The book cites how poor customer service or lack of it has caused and exacerbates crises. There are separate chapters on basics, listening, responding, telephone etiquette, and the problem of gate guardians as well as separate chapters for a more comprehensive look at the success of several companies including Amica Mutual Insurance Co., Marriott and Crystal Cruise Lines. The author, Rene A. Henry, draws from the successful practices of CEOs who know extraordinary customer service to provide the reader with a menu of proven ideas that can be adapted for any type of business, product or service. The book looks at how the Nordstrom family empowers its employees with ownership and entrepreneurialism. Why Amica Insurance has been honored time and again for 100 years for the way it treats its customers. How Carl Sewell became one of the nation’s largest luxury car dealers by turning one-time buyers into a lifetime customers. The way Amazon has profited from Jeff Bezos customer-centric philosophy. The importance Bill Marriott, Jr. places on management by walking around has made it the leader in the hotel business. Ukrops Supermarkets became a major regional chain with a contrarian strategy. Brad Tilden attributes the success of Alaska Airlines to the company s culture and passion for customer service. Crystal Cruise Lines is consistently ranked #1 in its category because Gregg L. Michel and his team listen and respond. Jim Cabela of Cabela s spends time every week to personally read and answer mail in order to exceed customers’ expectations.

Reprinted from Amazon.com

Bread Crumbs
Slats Slaton (Alabama)
ISBN-10: 0989178919
Publisher: Hillford House Publishing

Neil Talson began writing to his daughter the very week she was born. Little did he know his words would one day be read by millions. Mattie Talson’s birth brought her parents much joy. For her father, however, this jubilation was accompanied by an awareness of what loomed ahead: adolescence. So he began compiling a comprehensive volume of fatherly wisdom just for her. For the next fifteen years, he secretly wrote and rewrote a project he titled Bread Crumbs: Morsels of Guidance for My Teenage Daughter in This 21st Century. And now it was finished. Before handing it over to Mattie, however, Neil mails it to a trusted friend to proof and review. Yet, before the package arrives, something unexpected happens and his work is soon rerouted. From there, it takes on a life of its own. Bread Crumbs is the story of an unlikely bestseller. It’s about a father’s forthright presentation of truth and common sense – and about how this private correspondence eventually found its way to his daughter and into the hands of future generations.

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