Indianapolis, IN – Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity has named Matthew Ray (Beta Omega, ‘17) its next Communications Manager beginning Friday, November 3rd. He succeeds Kelby Dolan, who concluded a 7-year tenure on staff this fall after transitioning to a new association role.
Matthew’s academic emphasis at Kentucky Wesleyan College was Marketing and Advertising. On campus, he applied this knowledge in roles with the campus radio station WKWC where he served as a Radio DJ/Host and Senior Producer/Student Manager. He served as Candidate Educator and Philanthropy Chairman for the Beta Omega Chapter of Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity. In his recent professional career, he served as a Public Safety Telecommunicator for the Kentucky State Police. He has also held retail customer retention and account management specialist positions.
Executive Director Andy Huston shared, “I had the privilege of first meeting Matthew as an undergraduate leader during a visit to the Beta Omega Chapter, where it was evident to see the impact of Sigma Alpha Mu on his life. Forging that organizational pride with his marketing and advertising knowledge will be a powerful force in enhancing our mission and vision. I am excited to help unleash Matthew’s potential to make the story of our impact shine brighter.”
Matthew shared, “I am very fortunate to begin my professional journey with Sigma Alpha Mu. As an alumnus of the Beta Omega Chapter, SAM holds a dear place in my heart. I am eager to use my passion for the fraternity to further the organization’s brand and assist in managing alumni relations strategies. I am looking forward to developing our online presence in an effort to improve the organization’s outreach to not only alumni and active members but to the public as well.”
Matthew lives in Kentucky with his wife, Amanda, and his daughter Elinor.
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.
Sigma Alpha Mu Rallies in Support of Israel
The following message was sent by email on 10/31 to all alumni with good email addresses. Didn’t receive it? Please update your contact information at portal.sam.org or sam.org/contact.
Dear Fratres,
Following the devastating terrorist attacks on Israel by Hamas earlier this month, many SAM chapters responded with efforts to remember and honor the Israelis who were killed, kidnapped, or injured and to show their solidarity with Israelis. Here are some of the initiatives our chapters have undertaken on campus:
Mirroring the fraternity’s statement condemning the terrorist attacks and supporting Israel, chapters and their members have followed suit posting on social media. Many have also showcased their members participating in pro-Israel rallies on campus.
Rho (Illinois) and Mu Psi (Miami OH) chapters have flown the Israel flag from their chapter houses.
Psi (Pitt), Sigma Theta (Texas), and Sigma Chi (Maryland), to name a few, have raised more than $7,500 for American Friends of Magen David Adom.
Our Beta Iota chapter at the University of Wisconsin received a call from a SAM alumnus who asked for solutions so his freshman daughter could feel and be safe, so the fratres responded by helping escort her to class and other places around campus. This is a great example of how our expanded SAM family comes together during challenging times.
Even as student fratres rallied support for those killed by Hamas, they have been dealing with heightened tensions and antisemitism on campuses. Students, parents, and alumni have been reaching out to the Fraternity for additional support. SAM has been responding through educational programs, using our networks and partnerships to give students the tools to navigate increased tension on campuses, and helping coordinate increased security for chapter facilities with local partners. In the past two weeks, SAM has provided the following programs, to name a few:
A webinar titled The War in Israel and Its Impact on College Campuses, presented in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League and Alpha Epsilon Phi, Sigma Delta Tau, and Zeta Beta Tau. It ran on October 12 and drew 200+ attendees.
A webinar titled Writing a Letter to the Editor described how to write about supporting Israel and denouncing antisemitism.
A resource guide to prepare for the International Day of Resistance/International Day of Jihad.
These programs are in addition to Sigma Alpha Mu’s ongoing efforts to promote Jewish life on campus, support development of Jewish leaders, and combat antisemitism. Such programs include:
Jewish Endeavor Grants – grants to undergraduate chapters/members to support Jewish life on campuses.
Summit Against Hate – an educational partnership with Alpha Epsilon Phi, Sigma Delta Tau, and Zeta Beta Tau to educate college professionals about antisemitism on campus and how to support students.
Piazza Center Research – research aimed at safer and more supportive fraternity and sorority life for Jewish students.
This programming is made possible by alumni support of Sigma Alpha Mu and the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation. To learn more about any of the above programs, please visit sam.org. To learn more about the work of the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation in support of student fratres or how to get involved, please contact [email protected].
Over almost 114 years, Sigma Alpha Mu members have risen to the occasion to meet the challenges of the moment- from our refugee program that saved dozens from the Holocaust, to alumni who worked to support the birth of Israel, the many fratres who have served in the armed forces, and the alumni who have and continue to be leaders in their communities. The sons of Sigma Alpha Mu continue to rise to the moment.
Fraternally yours,
Andy Huston, Kappa ’01 Executive Director, Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity
Aaron Girson, Delta Nu ’92 CEO, Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation
P.S. If you would like to support the efforts of Sigma Alpha Mu, please click here and make your tax-deductible donation.
Programs to Combat Antisemitism
In the days that have followed the October 7th terrorist attacks on civilians in Israel, we have seen a significant increase in antisemitic incidents on college campuses. The ADL has reported a 400 percent increase. We celebrate our rich heritage as a fraternity of Jewish men and know that our fratres of all faiths are strong allies in the effort to combat hate and antisemitism on campus. Sigma Alpha Mu remains committed to supporting our fratres on college campuses by providing timely education, resources, and training.
The following programs are available to our members:
#JewishStudentsUnite event in conjunction with Hillel International and Chabad on Campus International. November 1st – 1:00 PM ET. Register Here
Sigma Alpha Mu is a presenting sponsor.
ADL’s Fighting Hate from Home. November 1st – 3:00 PM ET. Register Here
Partner programming.
Summit Against Hate. November 27th – 8:00 PM ET – VIRTUAL – Register Here
The Summit Against Hate was a recipient of the 2017 and 2021 North American Interfraternity Conference’s Laurel Wreath Award, co-hosted by Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity, Alpha Epsilon Phi Sorority, Sigma Delta Tau Sorority and Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity. Funding is generously provided by the foundations that support these organizations.
Do you want to support the growth of Sigma Alpha Mu? Please consider a non-tax deductible contribution to our Bridge Builder Fund at sam.org/bridge.
Do you want to support the Jewish Endeavors Initiative Grants? Please consider a tax-deductible contribution to Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation at sam-fdn.org/donate.
Sigma Alpha Mu Stands With Israel
Sigma Alpha Mu stands with Israel.
As we pray for peace and for the people of Israel following the ongoing terrorist attacks that began this weekend, we ask that you take a moment to show your support to your Jewish and Israeli friends.
Sigma Alpha Mu has many Israeli-American alumni and undergraduate members. Thousands of undergraduate fratres and alumni have traveled to Israel on Taglit-Birthright programs. Sigma Alpha Mu believes Israel has the right to exist as a Jewish and democratic state and supports the U.S.-Israel relationship because Israel is America’s closest ally in the Middle East. We will not sit idly as anti-Israel speech permeates across American college campuses and we officially oppose the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement against Israel.
Sigma Alpha Mu will do everything in our power to strengthen ties between our undergraduate members, living alumni, and the State of Israel.
This statement was published on October 10th with an image of our Sammy/Israel Flag Pin. The pin is now available online with proceeds to benefit Israel causes.
Additional Updates Follow Below
Update from Executive Director Andy Huston:
Sigma Alpha Mu seems to shine brighter in these dark days. Sigma Alpha Mu has been a safe space to gather, mourn, rally, make statements, demonstrate pride, learn, and take action. The spirit of fraternity and mutual moral aid and support could not be more important or more necessary on campuses today.
The fraternity’s staff and volunteers have been a trusted resource for our undergraduates as they navigate the complex challenges following the terrorist attacks in Israel. Sigma Alpha Mu has provided tremendous education, resources, and support to chapters following the terrorist attacks in Israel.
Our students have expressed fears about campus safety, protests, and university support. Chapters worked with our staff to secure additional security for their facilities before the International Day of Resistance or Day of Jihad. While no Sammy chapter facilities have been directly targeted at this time, we have seen a significant uptick in antisemitic activities on college campuses.
We hosted a webinar with ADL on October 12th for 200+ attendees about the War in Israel and its Impact on College Campuses in partnership with Alpha Epsilon Phi, Sigma Delta Tau, and Zeta Beta Tau.
Many chapters have shared statements supporting Israel that mirror the fraternity’s statement on their social media platforms. Several students used sample messaging we provided to write their university administrations or have spoken out against antisemitic student government resolutions.
Sammy chapters have raised over $7500 for the American Friends of Magen David Adom. We have some great photos of our members at pro-Israel rallies on campus, with the Israel flag hung from chapter facilities, and demonstrating pride in the face of the challenging environment on college campuses.
Do you want to support the growth of Sigma Alpha Mu? Please consider a non-tax deductible contribution to our Bridge Builder Fund at sam.org/bridge.
Do you want to support the Jewish Endeavors Initiative Grants? Please consider a tax-deductible contribution to Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation at sam-fdn.org/donate.
The atrocities of 10/7 and continued antisemitic statements on campus cannot be ignored. All university stakeholders should condemn these without equivocation. Please consider sharing this Sample Message for University Administrators that can be adapted with your members, alumni, and parents. This important advocacy effort could create a safer campus culture.
#BlueRibbonsforIsrael
Sigma Alpha Mu has joined the #BlueRibbonsforIsrael Campaign. This will give members actionable steps to take during the continued hostage crisis. https://www.blueribbonsforisrael.org/
Resources about antisemitism and Anti-Zionism (produced by ADL)
Sigma Alpha Mu Adopted the IHRA Definition of Antisemitism
Adopted in 2022.
“Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”
To guide IHRA in its work, the following examples may serve as illustrations:
Manifestations might include the targeting of the state of Israel, conceived as a Jewish collectivity. However, criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic. Antisemitism frequently charges Jews with conspiring to harm humanity, and it is often used to blame Jews for “why things go wrong.” It is expressed in speech, writing, visual forms and action, and employs sinister stereotypes and negative character traits.
Contemporary examples of antisemitism in public life, the media, schools, the workplace, and in the religious sphere could, taking into account the overall context, include, but are not limited to:
Calling for, aiding, or justifying the killing or harming of Jews in the name of a radical ideology or an extremist view of religion.
Making mendacious, dehumanizing, demonizing, or stereotypical allegations about Jews as such or the power of Jews as collective — such as, especially but not exclusively, the myth about a world Jewish conspiracy or of Jews controlling the media, economy, government or other societal institutions.
Accusing Jews as a people of being responsible for real or imagined wrongdoing committed by a single Jewish person or group, or even for acts committed by non-Jews.
Denying the fact, scope, mechanisms (e.g. gas chambers) or intentionality of the genocide of the Jewish people at the hands of National Socialist Germany and its supporters and accomplices during World War II (the Holocaust).
Accusing the Jews as a people, or Israel as a state, of inventing or exaggerating the Holocaust.
Accusing Jewish citizens of being more loyal to Israel, or to the alleged priorities of Jews worldwide, than to the interests of their own nations.
Denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination, e.g., by claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor.
Applying double standards by requiring of it a behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation.
Using the symbols and images associated with classic antisemitism (e.g., claims of Jews killing Jesus or blood libel) to characterize Israel or Israelis.
Drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis.
Holding Jews collectively responsible for actions of the state of Israel.
Antisemitic acts are criminal when they are so defined by law (for example, denial of the Holocaust or distribution of antisemitic materials in some countries).
Criminal acts are antisemitic when the targets of attacks, whether they are people or property – such as buildings, schools, places of worship and cemeteries – are selected because they are, or are perceived to be, Jewish or linked to Jews.
Antisemitic discrimination is the denial to Jews of opportunities or services available to others and is illegal in many countries.
SIGMA ALPHA MU PROMOTES RACHEL SHAFFER TO DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP RETENTION & VALUES
Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity is proud to announce the promotion of Rachel Shaffer (Sigma Kappa Sorority). Having served the past year as a Membership Experience Specialist for Sigma Alpha Mu, Rachel will be continuing on staff as the Director of Membership Retention and Values.
In this new role, Rachel will maximize her skills in student development and engagement as well as an organizational strategy to support our chapters. As the Director of Membership Retention and Values, Rachel will coach Sigma Alpha Mu’s chapters by more intentionally by focusing on harm prevention techniques, values-based decision-making, and strategic initiatives. Rachel’s rapport with students and ability to understand campus culture based on her experience as a fraternity-sorority practitioner will better position of chapters for success.
Executive Director Andy Huston shared, “Rachel has provided top-rate educational coaching and support to our chapters. She’s built extraordinary trust with the students and advisors she works with to help the chapters tackle challenges, improve general operations, and impact chapter culture. I look forward to seeing her innovate the fraternal experience and continue to help chapters achieve their goals and advance the mission of Sigma Alpha Mu.”
Rachel will continue to be a steadfast volunteer for Sigma Kappa Sorority and a law student at Seattle University School of Law while taking on her new responsibilities. Rachel currently resides in Washington state and can be reached at [email protected].
Sigma Alpha Mu was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York as a fraternity of Jewish men. Since 1953 it has been open to all men of good moral character. The vision from our SAM 2030 strategic plan 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. To recommend a member, visit sam.org/recommend.
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.
