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

Epsilon Xi Chapter Delegates holding awards from Convention.

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:

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. 

Photo of Jerry and Vicki Conrey

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]

Legacy and Recruitment Recommendation Guide

Recruitment is the lifeblood of Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity. One of the great benefits of our international network of more than 70,000 alumni is the potential to shape lives through recruitment referrals. 

Anyone can submit a recruitment recommendation form (sam.org/recommend), and interested students can also let a chapter know they are interested at sam.org/join. Ultimately, recruitment is a process of mutual selection. The chapter will determine who it wants to invite to join by extending a bid. The potential new member (PNM) has the opportunity to evaluate whether or not he wants to accept that invitation to join. 

This mutual selection process changes when a potential new member has legacy status.

WHAT IS SIGMA ALPHA MU’S LEGACY POLICY?

The Fraternity’s Constitution and Bylaws state, “It shall be the policy of each Chapter to extend a bid to the son or grandson of any frater of Sigma Alpha Mu, and to the brother of any frater of the same Chapter.” 

WHAT IS THE LEGACY NOTIFICATION & VERIFICATION PROCESS?

The chapter must be notified online at sam.org/recommend of the potential new member’s legacy status before the recruitment period. Sigma Alpha Mu International Headquarters will authenticate the legacy status of the PNM and notify the chapter leadership. Please submit any legacy referrals at your earliest convenience. The more time the chapter has to connect with the PNM, the better! 

It is critical that the legacy notification is submitted at sam.org/recommend, so there is no ambiguity of who was notified and when. Unfortunately, passing comments made during recruitment to a member of the chapter might not be recorded or relayed due to the fast-paced nature of the process. Please don’t leave access to membership up for chance. The headquarters staff reviews all submitted referrals with the chapter leadership.

WHAT IF THE LEGACY NOTIFICATION IS GIVEN TO THE UNIVERSITY?

Documenting legacy status on a university recruitment document is a good first step to take. Keep in mind that universities and interfraternity councils may not know our specific legacy policy and may not share this information with the Chapter or Fraternity Headquarters. To ensure that the chapter receives an official legacy notification from the Fraternity Headquarters, we ask you to submit the documentation at sam.org/recommend.

DO LEGACIES GET TREATED DIFFERENTLY DURING RECRUITMENT?

The recruitment experience should be the same for all PNMS. The reality is that legacies are treated differently because they are required to receive a bid. No student should be bullied, harassed, or intimidated in conjunction with Sigma Alpha Mu from recruitment, during candidate education, to the initiation, or through graduation. We encourage any reports of misconduct to be filed at https://sam.org/incident-report/.

WHAT IF THE NOTIFICATION WAS NOT SUBMITTED?

Some PNMs decide not to inform a chapter because they want to receive a bid on their own merits. Others are concerned that they will be treated differently through recruitment if their legacy status is known. The reality is that if the legacy status isn’t reported to the chapter in advance of recruitment, they cannot be held accountable for the policy. 

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THERE IS A LEGACY POLICY VIOLATION?

If the chapter was notified in writing of the potential new member’s legacy status before the recruitment period and did not extend a bid as required by the Blue Book, please report the violation to Sigma Alpha Mu International Headquarters. Our staff will verify that the PNM legacy notification was received by the chapter, engage the chapter leaders about the issue, and intervene on behalf of the legacy PNM.

Chapters that knowingly violate the legacy policy are referred to Sigma Alpha Mu International Fraternity’s Standards Committee for disciplinary review. 

DOES A BID GUARANTEE MEMBERSHIP IN SIGMA ALPHA MU?

To be direct, no. All candidates in Sigma Alpha Mu must uphold the policies and practices of the Fraternity. Any candidate can be removed prior to initiation for conduct or failure to meet minimum expectations. That said, the candidate education program (True MDH Initiative) is designed to educate candidates about of values, history and operations rather than a process to “weed out” individuals.

WHAT ABOUT LEGACIES WHERE THERE’S NO SAMMY CHAPTER ON CAMPUS?

Unfortunately, Sigma Alpha Mu doesn’t have an active presence on every campus across North America. In some cases, chapters with storied histories are now closed due to conduct or membership. We encourage you to share their information with the International Fraternity. Whether we have had a chapter there before or this would be our first time on campus, we would love to discuss this process with him. This effort would be supported by our dedicated Growth Department. Learn more at sam.org/expansion.

HOW CAN YOU BE INVOLVED IN YOUR LEGACY’S EXPERIENCE?

Sharing the bond of brotherhood in Sigma Alpha Mu with your son, grandson, or brother is an amazing experience. We encourage you to support his experience and learn more about the current policies and practices of Sigma Alpha Mu. All initiated members of Sigma Alpha Mu can participate in the Initiation Ceremony as prescribed in the Black Book. You’re encouraged to coordinate with the Chapter Advisor or Chapter Prior to be a part of that experience. Often fathers, grandfathers, or brothers are given the role of pinning our distinct octagonal badge on the new initiate. Upon the legacy’s initiation, all known legacies are published in The Octagonian’s “Sires and Sons” section. Some fathers have gotten involved as a volunteer. Others have helped to coordinate parent communication and support.

BEST PRACTICES FOR LEGACIES

  • Make a sincere effort to connect with as many members as possible 
  • Demonstrate how you will contribute to the chapter
  • Actively participate in all possible recruitment events
  • Build friendships with as many members as possible
  • Don’t act entitled to the bid

How University Administrators Can Combat Antisemitism on Campus

Sigma Alpha Mu members and chapters have faced an alarming rise in antisemitic incidents on campus in the past year, leading Jewish and educational groups call on college and university administrators to take action ahead of the new school year.

August 15, 2024 – Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity has joined with the ADL (the Anti-Defamation League), American Jewish Committee (AJC), the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations (CoP), Hillel International, and Jewish Federations of North America in announcing a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at combating antisemitism on campus in the upcoming school year. Additional supporting organizations include Academic Engagement Network, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Alpha Epsilon Pi, Jewish Grad Organization, Jewish on Campus, National Council of Jewish Women, Olami, Rabbinical Assembly, Sigma Delta Tau, United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, and Zeta Beta Tau.

This unprecedented time for institutions of higher education across the United States demands a unified response to ensure the safety and full inclusion of Jewish students – as well as all students, faculty, and staff. These guidelines provide college and university administrators with clear and proactive ways to support a safer and more inclusive campus environment for Jewish students, and for the entire campus community.

Recommendations include:

  • Clearly Communicate Campus Rules, Standards, and Policies: Make clear to students what it means to be a member of the campus community, and ensure students, faculty, and staff are aware of school policies on protests and demonstrations.
  • Support Jewish Students: Prevent discrimination, unequivocally denounce antisemitism, ensure inclusivity, and provide antisemitism education and training.
  • Ensure Campus Safety: Enforce university codes of conduct, maintain clear reporting avenues for antisemitic incidents, ensure campus staff are trained to address violations of  campus rules, and reaffirm rejection of BDS and academic boycotts of Israel.
  • Reaffirm Faculty Responsibilities: Ensure students’ academic freedom and a non-discriminatory learning environment in the classroom. Communicate and enforce policies regarding faculty who threaten to withhold students’ grades if faculty demands are not met, or who cancel mandatory classes.
  • Prepare for Oct. 7: Anticipate and mitigate disruptions on the one-year mark of the Hamas attack on Israel, ensuring any protest activities do not interfere with campus operations or Jewish students’ rights.

“The unprecedented surge in antisemitism on college campuses last year was utterly unacceptable, and yet far too many administrations failed to respond effectively,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO and National Director. “We insist that all college and university leaders take significant steps to make Jewish students safer.”

“During the last academic year, countless Jewish students experienced harassment, intimidation, discrimination, and even assaults on campus,” said Adam Lehman, Hillel International President and CEO. “Alongside our efforts to build vibrant Jewish communities on campus, we are providing college and university leaders with clear guidance and practical solutions for the steps they need to take to ensure a safer and more welcoming environment for Jewish students. Jewish students and all students deserve a better campus and learning environment this fall.”

During the 2023-2024 academic year, schools saw more than 1,400 antisemitic incidents on college campuses – by far the highest number of antisemitic incidents on campus in a single school year ever on record. Following the Oct. 7 attack, a survey by Hillel and ADL found that 73 percent of Jewish college students and 44 percent of non-Jewish students experienced or witnessed antisemitism on their campuses last fall. A fall 2023 survey by AJC found that 1 in 4 Jewish college/university students felt unsafe at a campus event because they were Jewish.

“What Jewish students faced on campus last year cannot be allowed to continue into the new academic year,” said AJC CEO Ted Deutch. “All students on campus have the right to attend class, learn and grow without intimidation, harassment and even violence at the hands of fellow students and outside agitators. Colleges and universities must do the work to ensure a university culture of pluralism, fact-based inquiry, and dialogue across difference. They must ensure a campus and societal culture where there is zero tolerance for antisemitism.”

“Our campuses should be bastions of diversity and the open exchange of ideas rather than be pervaded by fear, intimidation, and discrimination,” said Eric Fingerhut, President and CEO of Jewish Federations of North America. “With this agenda, Jewish Federations across North America are working to ensure that every community’s institutions of higher learning will take action to protect the civil rights of their Jewish students.”

“Over the past school year, America saw numerous incidents of harassment against Jewish students, violent protests, and flagrant violations of conduct codes. University officials are neglecting their duty to ensure a safe learning environment for all students,” said William Daroff, CEO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. “We urge them to adopt these recommendations and collaborate with Jewish organizations to protect the safety of Jewish students.”

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For more information about Sigma Alpha Mu’s efforts to combat antisemitism, please contact Executive Director Andy Huston at [email protected].

Alumni Events, Sires & Sons, Dividends, and Mergers

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Sigma Chi at Maryland 90th Anniversary Brunch

The Sigma Chi Chapter at Maryland will celebrate its 90th anniversary at The Suburban Club, 7600 Park Heights Ave., Baltimore, MD on Sunday, October 1, 2023. For more information, please contact Howard Miller at [email protected].

Sammy Tri-State Golf Outing & Fundraiser

Sammy Tri-State Alumni Club will host their annual golf outing and fundraiser for The Judy Fund on June 16, 2023, at the Glen Cove Golf Club in Glen Cove, NY exclusively for paid Tri-State members and their families. They are currently looking for players and sponsors. To learn more, go to samtristate.com or email [email protected].

Sigma Kappa at Lehigh Centennial 

The Sigma Kappa Chapter at Lehigh will celebrate its 100th anniversary on Saturday, November 18, 2023. To learn more, email Andrew Levy at [email protected].

Sires & Sons

Fra Aaron Citron (Sigma Zeta, ‘23), son of Fra Richard Citron (Lehigh, ‘88)  

Fra Derek Sale (Sigma Iota, ‘23), son of Fra Andy Sale (Michigan, ‘90), and 

grandson of Fra Robert Sale (Bucknell, ’55)

Fra Ryan Negri (Sigma Iota, ‘23), son of Fra Michael Negri (Hartford, ‘89)  

Fra Zachary Harris (Sigma Iota, ‘23), son of Fra Erik Harris (Michigan, ‘92)  

Fra Elan Grossman (Sigma Iota, ‘23), son of Fra Nir Grossman (Texas, ‘90)  

Fra Andrew Katz (Sigma Iota, ‘23), son of Fra Howard Katz (Michigan, ‘87)  

Fra Tyler Hart (Sigma Iota, ‘23), son of Fra Steven Hart (Michigan, ‘91)  

Dividends

Fra Alexander Paxton (West Florida, ‘05) and wife, Brittney Renea (Alpha Gamma Delta), 

welcome a boy, Archer Allen Paxton.

Mergers

Fra Brendan Harte (West Florida, ‘18) and wife, Angelina Harte

Fra Mauricio Wheelock (West Florida, ‘94) and wife, Kristin Bradley

Former Assistant Executive Director Michele Peterson Williams and husband, Everett Williams

Know a Sammy who had a child or was married in 2023? Send us an update at sam.org/familyupdates.

HQ Hires new ELC, Zackary Newman (Delta Eta, ’16)

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity hired Zackary Newman as its newest Educational Leadership Consultant. Zack attended the University of West Florida where he joined the fraternity in 2016. He earned a dual degree in political science and international studies. As Educational Leadership Consultant, Zackary will provide support to the fraternity’s collegiate members and volunteers. He brings significant experience to this role as former candidate educator of the Delta Eta Chapter at University of West Florida.

“Zackary Newman has been an exceptional leader at the University of West Florida,” shared Executive Director Andy Huston. “Within Sigma Alpha Mu, he has demonstrated strong leadership with Delta Eta Chapter, helped shape our True MDH Initiative as a participant in the Developing Leaders Initiative program, served as our 2019 Convention Karchmer Intern, and was elected to our Undergraduate Advisory Committee. Zack’s perspective from his campus involvement will also help the fraternity based on his work as a Student Admissions Representative at UWF. With this background, Zack will help our chapters continue to grow and thrive on their respective campuses.”

Zack looks forward to helping each chapter implement our new member education, True MDH Initiative. He shared, “I am excited to work with and learn from higher education professionals outside of my own university. After last summer, I know I can also learn from our dynamic team at headquarters where I can further my passion for higher education.” Zack will begin working full-time for the fraternity in Indianapolis on June 15th, 2020.

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity was founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York. 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. We will continue to attract members of all beliefs who appreciate our great heritage as a fraternity of Jewish men. Sigma Alpha Mu currently has 47 chapters and colonies and more than 58,000 living alumni.