Customer Centric: A New Look at our Alumni Relations Committee

Written by Vice Supreme Prior Dean Lambert (Nebraska, ’82)

Alumni play a central role in achieving the ΣAM 2030 vision: “To transform Sigma Alpha Mu into the first choice for collegians seeking a forward-thinking, inclusive fraternity which enhances the university experience and prepares the fraternity member for a fulfilling life.”  That’s why the Octagon has adopted a new “customer-centric” Alumni Relations committee that is structured with recent member survey data in mind.

Looking at our ΣAM 2030 stakeholder diagram, sam.org/sam-2030, ΣAM undergrads and alumni are the hub of the organization. 

Stakeholders are inexorably linked to ensure the long-term support and growth of our Fraternity. The new Alumni Relations Committee is organized to successfully engage, inform and retain enthusiastic participation of graduate members of ΣAM. 

How will we do it?

Our strategic plan calls for us to be a data-driven organization. The member survey mentioned earlier is the beginning of a commitment to reach out to members to understand how to provide the best fraternity experience throughout the various life stages of our alumni. Initial data indicates we need to provide a variety of opportunities for alumni participation. 

We have published the Alumni Relations Committee structure with this article. We invested in the various functions and will need a great deal of help to engage and motivate a strong and committed alumni population. Currently, the Octagon is focused on Data & Analytics, Communication and Development.

We are grateful for any amount of time you can commit to volunteering for ΣAM! Committee volunteers typically dedicate a few hours per month depending on the committee’s approach. Inspired to serve? Email evanremer@gmail.com or dean19.lambert@gmail.com.

Where You Can Help

Sign up for one of the following sub-committees at sam.org/volunteer.

DATA & ANALYTICS

Collect, analyze and maintain data to effectively tailor and target alumni communications, programs and services to specific alumni segments.

ALUMNI COMMUNICATIONS

Work with ΣAM entities (Foundation, Endowment, National Properties & Property Management) and ΣAM headquarters staff to coordinate or create timely, relevant communication outreach that engages, informs, and motivates alumni throughout their lifetime of membership.

ALUMNI SERVICES AND PROGRAMS

Identify, create and manage the delivery of services and programs that would be most valuable to each of the identified segments and/or clusters of ΣAM alumni. Measure and report on participation and alumni experience satisfaction on a regular, periodic basis.

ALUMNI INVOLVEMENT

Support recruitment of volunteers to serve as committee chairs and members, chapter advisors, and supporters of alumni services/programs.

ALUMNI EVENT SUPPORT 

Develop tools and resources for alumni reunions, chapter anniversaries or other significant milestones, social events such as golf outings or annual gatherings, alumni philanthropic and community service efforts, and other international alumni events.

ALUMNI GROUP RESOURCES 

Support and manage Alumni Club formation, recruitment, and growth by creating tools and resources for alumni club membership targeting and experience support.

ALUMNI DEVELOPMENT

Responsible for non-deductible fundraising, recruiting investors for housing development projects, and planned giving (in support of ΣAM Foundation and Endowment).

Chapter Eternal Fall 2022

Forever remembering these men and the love they had for Sigma Alpha Mu and their fratres. Notices of their passing were reported between mid-March to November. To report a death, please email samhq@sam.org. Memorial donations in memory of Chapter Eternal members may be directed to the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation. To donate online, go to SAM.ORG/DONATE.

An Obituary for Dorothy Duncan, Daughter  of  Sigma  Alpha  Mu  Founder Jacob  Kaplan 

She was the cherished only child of Shirley (née Vollberg) and Jacob Kaplan. Her father, a Manhattan attorney, was a student at CCNY when Jews were excluded from fraternities, motivating him and 7 of his friends (“The Octagon”) to found Sigma Alpha Mu (“the Sammys”) which spawned chapters on college campuses throughout North America.

Dorothy, known for her beauty throughout her life, inside and out, was an alumnus of Erasmus Hall High School where she was named the “Class Actress” in her yearbook. She attended NYU and worked as a runway model in Manhattan for several years before becoming a buyer at Macy’s in Herald Square. 

The epitome of vivacious, she was also hilarious, good-natured, and amenable to new things – even trying white water rafting with her grandchildren at age 80.

Dorothy was a fantastic cook best known for her incredible brisket and someone who always encouraged her children to invite their non-Jewish friends to her Passover Seder to learn about Jewish traditions. 

Although she lived most of her life in her beloved Kansas City, she was still a New Yorker through and through who loved her Schrafft’s coffee ice cream and, even in her 80s, could still navigate her way around the streets of Manhattan so fast that even her grandchildren couldn’t keep up. 

She adored her many dear friends, her dogs, babies, old black and white movies, playing tennis at Oakwood CC, traveling the globe, rooting for the KC Chiefs, and a good party. She also had a remarkable memory for the people and events of her life and always had a great story to share such as when she was 4 and her parents brought her along to see the legendary fan dancer, Sally Rand. As she told it, she stole the show when she screamed, “Look Mommy – that lady is naked!” But most central to her personality was her incredible maternal nature. No woman ever loved her children or grandchildren more deeply than she, and she always made sure they knew it.

Young Alumnus Consul Patrick James Wright III

“My goal in life is to live my life in such a way that when I die, someone can say he cared.”

— Young Alumnus. Consul Patrick James Wright III (FIU ‘14)

Written by AJ Davis, Growth Consultant

At the 2022 Convention, Fra Patrick James Wright III (FIU ‘14) was elected by unanimous decision to serve as the next Young Alumnus Consul representing and supporting the Octagon and Undergraduate Advisory Committee. At the business session, Wright made history becoming the first African-American to be elected to the Octagon. “I am a big believer in the power of role modeling and envisioning myself excelling more,” shared Patrick.

“I am a big believer in the power of role modeling and envisioning myself excelling more.”

Young Alumnus. Consul Patrick James Wright III (FIU ‘14)

Patrick joined the Delta Zeta Chapter at Florida International. His interest in the opportunity of the Young Alumnus Consul began in 2016 when he began his first semester as Prior of the Chapter. “I was admittedly nervous knowing someone could run from the floor,” Patrick humbly noted. “I’ve worked up to this, but this role could very well not have been my next opportunity. It is such a great honor to be considered.”

Wright has served in numerous capacities since becoming a Sammy including Prior of the chapter, Education Leadership Consultant, CLD Facilitator, as well as a DLI Participant. With the knowledge he gained from these positions, the question asked of him was what goals are you looking to accomplish while serving this role? Wright said, “Sometimes undergraduates do not believe that headquarters is there to support them, rather it serves to be a disciplinary resource. 

In reality, the Headquarters and the Octagon represent the members who want to know what’s going on and support them by leveraging resources. Another goal Wright has revolves around the UAC and how to involve the members more. Incorporating more professional development for the Undergraduate Advisory Committee would lead our students to feeling like their voice is heard by the international organization. They don’t have a voting responsibility and it’s more of an educational role. 

Based on what I know from my schooling and professional work, the way that the fraternity operates and learning organizational management, would be key factors for students to learn.” 

Fra Wright is looking forward to in his role specifically to building relationships between the Octagon and UAC for the benefit of each. Wright suggests, “our chapters continue to grow and as our college campuses get more diverse, there may be a need to widen the number of undergraduates on the UAC.” 

Fra Wright III talked in depth about his plans and where he sees the organization headed. He concluded, “It is truly my deepest longing to be a great person. Unafraid to make mistakes. Strong enough to bring people to the same place. Vibrant enough to change an environment without saying a word. And in the end, after all the music stops. My goal in life is to live my life in such a way that when I die, someone can say he cared.” 

Mu Psi Chapter Founders Cup Win

The Mu Psi Chapter at Miami OH embodies our eight ideals and incorporates them into their chapter operations and everyday lives. More importantly, the chapter demonstrates these values when recruiting and educating new members.  They are a diverse group of men who pride themselves in being inclusive and accepting of all individuals regardless of race, sexual orientation, and religion. These experiences helped them recruit their largest new member class in five years this spring with 37 new members.

Much of the Mu Psi Chapter’s success is attributed to exceptional leadership. Each year, members are engaged and involved with the International Fraternity, by serving on the Undergraduate Advisory Committee and participating in our award-winning program, Developing Leaders Initiative.  Members of this chapter continually hold leadership roles on the IFC executive board and are involved in various campus committees, such as Hazing Prevention Committee and Greek Leadership Retreat.  

The Chapter prioritizes alumni engagement by planning regular alumni and undergraduate networking events. The Mu Psi chapter demonstrates ongoing humanitarian efforts through their annual philanthropic initiatives and strong focus on mental health awareness. The Chapter organized various philanthropic events including a silent auction during their parents weekend, March Madness Bracket Challenge and their Oxford Tennis Open raising over $17,000 for The Judy Fund.  The Chapter values brotherhood events whether that is a trivia night at their house or 80 brothers attending a Cincinnati Reds game together.

“[They have a] deep and genuine desire for every single one of their brothers to be seen, supported, and  loved for who they are.”

Dr. Steve Large, Assistant Vice President of Student Health and Wellness at Miami [OH]

Their commitment to a positive fraternity experience is illustrated in the care they have for one another. Assistant Vice President of Student Health and Wellness at Miami [OH] Dr. Steve Large shared, “When it comes to promoting and protecting the mental health of their brotherhood, individually and collectively, Miami’s chapter of Sigma Alpha Mu walks the walk in every single way. Besides having a designated mental health chair on their executive board, ΣAM actively seeks out opportunities for their members around the topic of mental health. What stands out to me most is their deep and genuine desire for every single one of their brothers to be seen, supported, and loved for who they are. I am inspired by the depth of their engagement and the sincerity of their support they show their brothers. I am heartened and so grateful for their continued commitment to mental health.” 

Sigma Alpha Mu is extremely proud of this chapter!  Please join us in congratulating Mu Psi from Miami University of Ohio on winning the 2022 Founders Cup!

Kristina Rispoli Named Growth Consultant

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity has named Kristina Rispoli as a Growth Consultant. Kristina graduated in 2017 from Arkansas Tech University (ATU) with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Pre-Law. While at ATU, Kristina joined Zeta Tau Alpha and served as Judicial Chairman and the ZTA liaison to the College Panhellenic Council. As a Growth Consultant, Kristina will join efforts related to successful growth and expansion while supporting active and provisional chapters and developing recruitment resources. She has significant professional experience and insight that aligns with our strategic growth priority.

“Kristina is a valuable addition to our team with her entrepreneurial experience,” shared Executive Director Andy Huston. “Three years ago, Kristina became small business owner managing a staff. She previously had an internship with Lloyd’s of London and worked with a local law firm. She values loyalty, teamwork, and relationships which are essential to achieving our strategic expansion and growth goals.”

Growth Consultant Kristina Rispoli shared, “I have learned invaluable lessons from running a business and managing healthy working relationships. The insight I bring to my new position starts with emotionally meeting potential new members where they are. This will build a foundation of trust for effective recruitment.” 

When asked about what she was most excited about in her new position, Kristina reflected, “Being involved in the Greek community in college brought me the best friendships and memories. I want to be able to share that opportunity with new Sammys all across North America.”  

Kristina lives in Russellville, Arkansas, and has an affinity for hiking and exploring the outdoors. She is currently working towards her Registered Yoga Teacher certification and shares a passion for traveling the world.

Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men; the organization has been open to all men of good moral character since 1953. Sigma Alpha Mu’s vision is to be the first choice of collegians seeking a forward-thinking, inclusive fraternity which enhances the university experience and prepares the fraternity member for a fulfilling life. With its International Headquarters located in Indianapolis, IN, the fraternity currently has 48 collegiate chapters and over 59,000 living alumni.

RESOLUTION IN RECOGNITION OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICE BY MICHELE PETERSON 

WHEREAS, Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity’s mission is to foster the development of collegiate men and our alumni by instilling strong fraternal values, offering social and service opportunities, encouraging academic excellence, and teaching leadership skills. We will continue to attract members of all beliefs who appreciate our great heritage as a fraternity of Jewish men;

WHEREAS, Michele Peterson has dedicated the past six and a half years of her professional career to the advancement of Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity;

WHEREAS, during her tenure as Director of Chapter Services and Assistant Executive Director, Michele Peterson provided tremendous leadership in support of our members through enhanced chapter services, educational programs, and risk reduction resources; Developing virtual programming to support chapters through COVID-19, evolving our chapter coaching model, successfully transitioning two Conventions into virtual experiences along with two cycles of our Chapter Leaders Day program, and launching True MDH train the trainer & Event Management modules on SAM University.

WHEREAS, Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity seeks to publicly recognize the commitment, dedication, and invaluable contributions to the Fraternity by Michele Peterson; 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity acknowledges and extends its gratitude to Michele Peterson for her professional service and lasting contributions to the Fraternity and its mission;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution is saved in the permanent minutes of the Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity Convention, and a copy of this Resolution is given to Michele Peterson.

As adopted on this 13 day of August 2022 by the Convention delegates assembled,

Former Supreme Prior Jerry Conrey

Executive Director Andy Huston

Jackie Hackett named Assistant Executive Director

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity has named Jackie Hackett its next Assistant Executive Director. She succeeds Michele Peterson who concluded her 6.5-year tenure on staff this summer after transitioning to a corporate role. Jackie starts on Monday, August 8th, and will be attending Convention during her first week in this role.

Jackie earned a BA in Communication Studies at Marshall University and her MA in Student Affairs in Higher Education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. As the Assistant Executive Director, Jackie will lead efforts related to chapter health, educational programming, assessment, and accountability. 

She joins our team after a successful tenure at the North American Interfraternity Conference as Vice President for Campus Operations where she worked with 150 IFCs in the southeast, developed training for hundreds of new IFC officers, and evaluated their effectiveness related to key metrics. She served as NIC’s Assistant Director of Educational and Leadership Development where she developed curriculum and educational resources, facilitated programming, executed logistics for large-scale events, and redeveloped programming based on assessment and stakeholder needs. Prior to her work at the NIC, Jackie held the role of Assistant Executive Director for Undergraduate Engagement at Phi Mu Delta Fraternity where she advised 20 chapters and colonies, supervised professional staff, developed advisor training to enhance local support, and designed educational programs including a chapter wellness program and launched a national new member education program.

“Jackie brings a breadth of experience and perspective to this role with Sigma Alpha Mu,” shared Executive Director Andy Huston. “Not only does the Assistant Executive Director role mirror her professional experience, but Jackie has also made a point to build strong relationships with members, campus-based advisors, and international volunteers.”

Jackie shared, “I am so excited to begin this professional journey with Sigma Alpha Mu! Fraternity and sorority life has been a passion of mine for the last 8 years, as I have enjoyed working with fraternity members and volunteers to help them achieve their goals. I am thrilled to join this team.”

Jackie lives in Fishers, Indiana, and enjoys spending time with her dog Duke and her new fiance Tanner. 

Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men; the organization has been open to all men of good moral character since 1953. Sigma Alpha Mu’s vision is to be the first choice of collegians seeking a forward-thinking, inclusive fraternity which enhances the university experience and prepares the fraternity member for a fulfilling life. With its International Headquarters located in Indianapolis, IN, the fraternity currently has 48 collegiate chapters and over 59,000 living alumni.

AJ Davis Named Growth Consultant

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity has named AJ Davis as a Growth Consultant. AJ graduated from  National Park College with an Associate of Science in Business. AJ also attended Arkansas Tech where he joined Alpha Tau Omega in 2019. As a Growth Consultant, AJ will join efforts related to successful growth and expansion while supporting active and provisional chapters, and developing recruitment resources. He has significant professional experience and insight which aligns with our strategic priority of growth.

“AJ is an enthusiastic addition to our team.” shared Executive Director Andy Huston. “He values the impact that brotherhood makes among college men and is excited to facilitate that process in this role. AJ has a demonstrated work history of excellent customer service and engagement that will undoubtedly benefit the development of campus partnerships and positive member experience associated with our expansion efforts.”

Growth Consultant AJ Davis shared, “I believe in meeting members where they are at is a requirement to build that level of friendship and trust. I am excited to travel and acclimate to new communities where I will develop new relationships with Sammys and those soon-to-join. I appreciate the opportunity to learn from everyone about Sammy’s history, and look forward to guiding our active members.”

AJ lives in Russellville, Arkansas, and has an affinity for experiencing the outdoors. He shares his love for hiking and new found hobby of rock climbing. As a self-professed cinephile, you can often find AJ breaking down films and television shows. 

Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men; the organization has been open to all men of good moral character since 1953. Sigma Alpha Mu’s vision is to be the first choice of collegians seeking a forward-thinking, inclusive fraternity which enhances the university experience and prepares the fraternity member for a fulfilling life. With its International Headquarters located in Indianapolis, IN, the fraternity currently has 48 collegiate chapters and over 59,000 living alumni.

Rachel Shaffer named Membership Experience Specialist

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity has named Rachel Shaffer as a Membership Experience Specialist. Rachel attended Illinois Wesleyan University where she joined Sigma Kappa Sorority in 2013. She earned a B.A. degree in Political Science & International Studies. Rachel also earned her Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from Arizona State University in 2018. As a Membership Experience Specialist, Rachel will provide support to the fraternity’s collegiate members and chapter volunteers. She brings significant experience to this role as a former Housing Director for Kappa Kappa Gamma at Illinois State. 

“We are fortunate to add Rachel to our team with her depth of experience in support chapters.” shared Executive Director Andy Huston. “She brings enthusiasm and passion to the evolving role of our chapter services team that provides direct coaching and support for chapter leaders and volunteers. Her work is critical to the achievement of our SAM 2030 strategic plan.”

Membership Experience Specialist Rachel Shaffer shared, “I am excited to share with the members of Sigma Alpha Mu the creative ways I’ve seen fraternity and sorority members engage with their organization as our lives changed due to the pandemic. I am excited to be working in Higher Education again. After completing my service at Kappa Kappa Gamma, I realized how much I missed working with students. I traveled to Los Angeles in February for a conference with my sorority, Sigma Kappa. Reinvigorated by the dedication of our members, I knew the time was right to come back to the higher education landscape.” Rachel also is also linked to Sammy through her family, “My grandfather, Theodore E. Shaffer (Ohio State, ‘47), is a member of the Sigma Beta Chapter.  Though he passed away in 2003, it feels special to have this connection to him now through my new role.”

In addition to this role, Rachel is currently a law student at Seattle University School of Law and lives in Puyallup, Washington with her sweet siamese cat, Ivan. She adopted when Ivan when working in Arizona and he has since traveled with me from Arizona to Illinois and Illinois back to Washington.  We’re our own version of Elle Woods and Bruiser from Legally Blonde. 

Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men; the organization has been open to all men of good moral character since 1953. Sigma Alpha Mu’s vision is to be the first choice of collegians seeking a forward-thinking, inclusive fraternity which enhances the university experience and prepares the fraternity member for a fulfilling life. With its International Headquarters located in Indianapolis, IN, the fraternity currently has 48 collegiate chapters and over 59,000 living alumni.

Octagonian Introduction: Spring 2022

Sigma Alpha Mu provides a lifetime subscription to The Octagonian to all fratres by providing it online and emailing each member with an email address on file when a new issue is published. Our digital communications efforts are also bolstered by more content on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.  If you would like to share news about professional accomplishments, marriage/newborn announcements, or alumni gatherings online, go to sam.org/heard and sam.org/family. 

The Octagonian covers topical issues relating to Sigma Alpha Mu, active and alumni members, alumni clubs, and the interfraternal community.

Having issues accessing this Spring issue? Message us at samhq@sam.org.

Click here to update your Octagonian delivery preferences. 

View in this Octagonian:

Message from the Supreme Prior

Have you Heard 

Lee’s Legacy on Sammy Housing

Summit Against Hate

State of the Fraternity

Sammy Expansion

Meet the New Headquarters Staff

Foundation

Alumni Events

Chapter Eternal

The Truth Campaign