David S. Rice (Beta Iota/Gamma Epsilon, ’83) named 2024 Richard H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year

September 2024– Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity is proud to announce that David S. Rice (Beta Iota/Gamma Epsilon, ’83) has been recognized as the 2024 recipient of the Richard H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award. The Fraternity’s mission relies heavily on the dedication, time, and talent of its alumni, who selflessly contribute to the advancement of Sigma Alpha Mu and the enrichment of its members.

The Richard H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award was formally added to the Blue Book at this summer’s Convention business meeting. Last year, the Octagon surprised Richie as the first recipient of this new award that bears his name. Going forward, this award shall be presented annually to the frater whose volunteer efforts and contributions have made a significant difference to Sigma Alpha Mu’s success in accordance with the rules adopted by the Octagon and best exemplifies the dedication and selflessness of the man in whose honor this award has been named.

David Rice’s contributions this past year have been pivotal in maintaining the operations of the Fraternity. He has played a key role on Sigma Alpha Mu’s budget, finance, and audit committees, ensuring sound financial stewardship. His leadership extends to his role as Treasurer of the Endowment Fund. Additionally, David serves as a Director of the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting the fraternity and its philanthropic endeavors.

David’s service exemplifies the spirit of this award, and his work has had a profound and lasting impact on Sigma Alpha Mu.

Please join us in congratulating David S. Rice on receiving the 2024 Richard H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award for his exceptional contributions and dedication.

Sigma Alpha Mu’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. Our vision is to transform Sigma Alpha Mu into 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. Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men and has been open to all men of good moral character since 1953. We will continue to attract members of all beliefs who appreciate our great heritage as a fraternity of Jewish men. Learn more at sam.org.

David H. Phillips (Sigma Beta, ‘80) honored with the 2024 William P. Schwartz Distinguished Service Award

September 2024-Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity is proud to announce that David H. Phillips (Sigma Beta, ’80) has been named the 2024 recipient of the William P. Schwartz Distinguished Service Award. The award, considered the highest honor for service within Sigma Alpha Mu, recognizes alumni whose contributions to the Fraternity are of such lasting and exceptional quality as to merit the fraternity’s highest recognition.

Since its inception 71 years ago, this prestigious award has been presented to only 20 members, underscoring its exclusivity and the profound impact of these men. Living recipients include notable Sigma Alpha Mu figures such as Richie Williamson, Ron Katch, Howard Miller, Phil Glauben, and Lee Manders with the award itself named in honor of Executive Director Emeritus William P. Schwartz.

David H. Phillips’ Lifelong Commitment to Sigma Alpha Mu
Fraternity has been more than just an organization for David Phillips—it’s been a lifelong passion. As the son of Walter Phillips (Sigma Beta, ’47), a dedicated alumnus, David was introduced to Sigma Alpha Mu at an early age. He frequently attended conventions as a child, growing up surrounded by fraternity legends like Bill Schwartz, Larry Schaffer, and Sidney Guller. These experiences nurtured his deep bond with Sigma Alpha Mu, which only grew stronger over the years.

Upon enrolling at The Ohio State University, David found his home in the Sigma Beta Chapter, where he quickly established himself as a leader. His involvement has only expanded since then, spanning decades of dedicated service. David’s contributions to Sigma Alpha Mu include:

• Chapter Advisor
• House Corporation President
• Regional Governor
• Consul
• Supreme Exchequer
• Supreme Prior
• Endowment Fund Trustee, Treasurer, and Chairman
• Foundation Director and Vice President
• Co-Chairman of the Centennial Committee

In addition, David has led numerous committees, too many to name, with each role further cementing his legacy within the Fraternity.

Sigma Alpha Mu is honored to present this award to David, whose service has not only advanced the Fraternity but also inspired generations of brothers. His lifelong dedication and leadership serve as a model for all who follow in his footsteps.

Please join us in congratulating David H. Phillips on this well-deserved recognition as the 2024 William P. Schwartz Distinguished Service Award recipient.

Sigma Alpha Mu’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. Our vision is to transform Sigma Alpha Mu into 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. Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men and has been open to all men of good moral character since 1953. We will continue to attract members of all beliefs who appreciate our great heritage as a fraternity of Jewish men. Learn more at sam.org.

Michael P. Krasny (Rho, ’73) named SAM Man of the Year

September 2024 – Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity was proud to announce Michael P. Krasny (Rho, ’73) as the 2024 Achievement Award recipient during Convention in New Orleans. The Sigma Alpha Mu Achievement Award is presented annually to one member whose outstanding achievements, apart from fraternity activities, are deemed worthy of the highest recognition by the Fraternity. Previous honorees include Congressmen, Ambassadors, industry leaders, and even a Nobel Prize Winner.

This year, Sigma Alpha Mu honors Michael Krasny for his exceptional contributions to the business world and philanthropy. Krasny founded CDW in 1984 at the age of 29. Under his leadership as Chairman and CEO, he grew CDW into a Fortune 500 company and the nation’s largest direct marketer of multi-brand computer products for business. By 2007, when CDW was sold to a private equity firm for $7.3 billion, it employed more than 5,600 people.

Krasny’s success extends beyond business. He established the Circle of Service Foundation, a private foundation that supports community services, medical research, Jewish community initiatives, and education. His philanthropic work continues to uplift and provide opportunities to underserved populations.

“Sammys changed my life,” Krasny shared when reflecting on the significance of accepting this award, a rare departure from his habit of declining public recognition. Throughout his career, Michael has humbly downplayed his achievements, letting his impact speak for itself. But as the first-ever Rho chapter member to receive this prestigious honor, Krasny’s fraternity brothers knew this moment was something special.

A Tribute from His Fraternity Brothers:
Michael’s lifelong friends and brothers from the Rho Chapter contributed heartfelt remarks during the award presentation, recalling his journey from a young man with wild hair and a knack for crazy antics, to the successful entrepreneur and philanthropist he is today.

“Who knew that guy would be honored for his life achievements alongside a U.S. Ambassador, a U.S. Congressman, and a former chairman of the Motion Picture Association of America?” one brother reflected. “We, his fraternity brothers and lifelong friends, would like to say we knew. But we didn’t.”

The tribute emphasized Michael’s character, describing him as compassionate, humble, curious, generous, and always true to himself. His success, while remarkable, pales in comparison to the person he has become. As his friends put it, “You may or may not have his financial success, but you can and should emulate his character and his grace.”

Krasny’s leadership and vision are truly inspiring, and his story serves as a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and humility. His fraternity brothers underscored this sentiment: “For all you undergraduates here today—let this give you hope for your tomorrow!”

Sigma Alpha Mu is honored to recognize Michael P. Krasny for his outstanding achievements and continued contributions to his community and beyond.

Sigma Alpha Mu’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. Our vision is to transform Sigma Alpha Mu into 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. Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men and has been open to all men of good moral character since 1953. We will continue to attract members of all beliefs who appreciate our great heritage as a fraternity of Jewish men. Learn more at sam.org.

Epsilon Xi Chapter at Emory University Named 2024 Founders Cup Winner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 2024 – Sigma Alpha Mu presented its Epsilon Xi Chapter at Emory University with the prestigious Founders Cup at the 2024 Convention in New Orleans. This annual award is given to the chapter that demonstrates excellence in leadership, scholarship, community involvement, and a commitment to the fraternity’s core values.

Epsilon Xi earned this honor due to their consistent success and ability to adapt through challenges. Their chapter has built a strong network of support, both within their brotherhood and through additional campus and community resources. By promoting the highest ideals of the fraternal experience, they serve as an example of what a well-balanced fraternity can achieve.

This year, Epsilon Xi stood out for their efficient communications with chapter advisors and headquarters staff, while fostering an ambitious academic environment. Their ability to balance academic rigor with a sense of fun and fraternity life has earned them recognition as a humble and deserving chapter.

Epsilon Xi hosted dozens of programs and events, ranging from brotherhood and philanthropy to athletics, recruitment, and social activities. The chapter has successfully navigated the complexities of being a safe and welcoming space for Jewish students on campus, working closely with campus partners and community organizations to provide support. Additionally, they actively participated in the vibrant campus life at Emory University and have shown steady, sustainable growth in chapter size.

Record Number of Chapters Achieved Founders Level Recognition

In addition to celebrating the achievements of Epsilon Xi, Sigma Alpha Mu announced a record-breaking accomplishment for the fraternity. This year, 19 chapters reached Founders Level, a remarkable increase from the 6 chapters that attained this status last year. Reaching Founders Level is a significant achievement, reflecting a chapter’s dedication to growth, leadership, and community impact.

The 2024 Founders Level chapters are:

• Kappa – University of Minnesota
• Omicron – University of Cincinnati
• Tau – University of Alabama
• Psi – University of Pittsburgh
• Sigma Theta – University of Texas – Austin
• Sigma Chi – University of Maryland
• Sigma Omega – North Carolina State University
• Mu Eta – Drexel University
• Mu Chi – Michigan State University
• Mu Psi – Miami University
• Beta Gamma – University of Arizona
• Beta Iota – University of Wisconsin
• Gamma Tau – University of Florida
• Gamma Chi – Brandeis University
• Delta Pi – University of Ottawa
• Delta Omega – Rochester Institute of Technology
• Epsilon Delta – Johnson & Wales University
• Epsilon Xi – Emory University
• Epsilon Pi – University of Rhode Island

Several of these chapters also stood out for their exceptional performance in their region, earning them the 2024 Jimmy Hammerstein Awards for Best in Province:

• Northeast: Delta Omega Chapter at Rochester Institute of Technology
• Mid-Atlantic: Psi Chapter at the University of Pittsburgh
• Midwest: Mu Psi Chapter at Miami of Ohio
• West Coast: Beta Gamma Chapter at the University of Arizona

These chapters not only achieved Founders Level status but also set the standard for excellence in their respective regions.

Sigma Alpha Mu applauds the efforts of all its chapters for their dedication to upholding the fraternity’s values and looks forward to even greater accomplishments in the years to come.

Sigma Alpha Mu’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. Our vision is to transform Sigma Alpha Mu into 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. Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men and has been open to all men of good moral character since 1953. We will continue to attract members of all beliefs who appreciate our great heritage as a fraternity of Jewish men. Learn more at sam.org.

Ken Schneider Named Chief of Staff at Michigan Hillel

Ken Schneider has served as the Director of Development, Alumni & Real Estate for Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity and SAM National Properties since January 2022. He accepted his next professional opportunity to serve as Chief of Staff at Michigan Hillel. 

“This is an exciting professional advancement for Ken which melds his passion and expertise. Over the past two and a half years, Ken has diligently led efforts to advance our strategic priorities of real estate and alumni development. I am proud of his many contributions to Sigma Alpha Mu,” shared Executive Director Andy Huston.

Ken attended Chapman University where he joined the fraternity in 2010 and earned a degree in history. From 2014-2016, Ken worked on Sigma Alpha Mu staff as an Educational Leadership Consultant before leaving to get his Master’s Degree from the London School of Economics. Before rejoining SAM, Ken worked in non-profit engagement, community building, and leadership development with the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and The Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. As Director of Development, Alumni & Real Estate, Ken worked to secure housing for chapters and grow our engagement of alumni in conjunction with expansion efforts.  

Ken Schneider shared, “As I get ready to take my next professional step, I know that I would not be where I am today without Sigma Alpha Mu. This organization has given more to me through personal relationships and professional growth than I ever thought possible when I signed my bid card in 2010. I am incredibly grateful to every volunteer, staff member and student leader who I worked with; their passion for this great organization shows in everything they do and SAM is better for it. Universities across North America are better for having Sigma Alpha Mu as a part of it, and I am excited to see how we grow to welcome new generations of brothers. Fast and Firm!”

Ken’s last day with the fraternity will be Friday, September 13th. 

Sigma Alpha Mu’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. Our vision is to transform Sigma Alpha Mu into 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. Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men and has been open to all men of good moral character since 1953. We will continue to attract members of all beliefs who appreciate our great heritage as a fraternity of Jewish men. Learn more at sam.org.

Jerry and Vicki Conrey lead the way to $5 million in new estate commitments with a $3.5 million planned gift. 

For Immediate Release: August 30, 2024 

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – At its recent convention, Sigma Alpha Mu announced $5 million in new planned gifts commitments, which were headlined by a $3.5 million commitment from Past Supreme Prior Jerry Conrey and his wife Vicki. 

The record commitment from the Conreys will fund programs that support innovation, enhancement of chapter housing and educational initiatives for members of Sigma Alpha Mu. “This extraordinary commitment from Jerry and Vicki will help ensure the future of Sigma Alpha Mu,” said Aaron Girson, chief executive officer of the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation. Jerry and Vicki’s gift will be split equally between the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation and Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity. 

“By making this planned gift, Vicki and I are championing an organization that has profoundly touched both of our lives. We urge our fellow alumni and friends of Sigma Alpha Mu to follow suit, to make a lasting impact on future generations, and to champion causes close to their hearts,” shared PSP Jerry Conrey, Gamma Xi/Cal State Fullerton ’84. 

Conrey’s gift had an immediate impact by prompting Past Supreme Prior David Sergi, Gamma Kappa/Texas A&M ’82, to finalize his own seven-figure estate commitment to the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation. “It is wonderful to see the impact that longtime leaders like David are still having on Sigma Alpha Mu,” said Andy Huston, executive director of Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity. Andy went on to share, “David witnessed the transformational impact of Sigma Alpha Mu when his son joined Mu Chi Chapter. This gift, which will also be split between the Fraternity and Foundation, will help ensure that future generations continue to benefit from fraternity membership.” 

These two gifts were announced on the heels of the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation receiving a $325,000 distribution from the estate of Robert Burg, Tau/Alabama – Phi/Washington U ’43, to fund scholarships for the members of the Tau and Phi chapters. In addition, Past Supreme Prior David Rice, Beta Iota/Wisconsin – Gamma Epsilon/UIC ’83, has finalized an estate commitment of at least $500,000 and a five-year commitment of $25,000 to fund current needs. 

Over the years, dozens of members and friends of Sigma Alpha Mu have joined the Ira Lind Society, Sigma Alpha Mu’s planned giving society. The society was established in honor of ΣAM founder Ira N. Lind, who in 1959 became the first member to establish a planned gift for Sigma Alpha Mu. To date more than $1.2 million in planned gifts have been received by Sigma Alpha Mu, and the total known planned gift commitments are more than $7 million. Planned gifts are commitments from alumni and friends of ΣAM who have commitments in their estate plans. 

For more information on planned giving opportunities or ways to support the current needs of student fratres, contact Aaron Girson, chief executive officer of the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation, at [email protected]. 

Octagonian Spring 2024

CLICK HERE TO VIEW

This issue includes the following articles:

• Message from our Supreme Prior
• Have You Heard
  • Fra Kessler
  • Fra Zupnik
  • Fra Nasatir
  • Fra Krause
• State of the Fraternity
• Around the Chapters
• Taking Care of Business
• The Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation
  • Inaugural Kaplan Safe Campus Awards Showcase Sammy Chapters at Their Best!
  • New Directors Join Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation Board
• Chapter Eternal
• Summit Against Hate
• Alumni Events, Sires & Sons, Dividends, and Mergers

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 [email protected].

Click here to update your Octagonian delivery preferences. 

• David S. Rice (Beta Iota/Gamma Epsilon, ’83) named 2024 Richard H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year
• David H. Phillips (Sigma Beta, ‘80) honored with the 2024 William P. Schwartz Distinguished Service Award
• Michael P. Krasny (Rho, ’73) named SAM Man of the Year
• Epsilon Xi Chapter at Emory University Named 2024 Founders Cup Winner
• Ken Schneider Named Chief of Staff at Michigan Hillel