Dennis G. Paese (Beta, ’70) Named 2025 William P. Schwartz Distinguished Service Award Recipient
Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity is honored to announce that Dennis G. Paese (Beta, ’70) has been named the 2025 recipient of the William P. Schwartz Distinguished Service Award. This prestigious honor, regarded as the highest recognition for service within Sigma Alpha Mu, is awarded to alumni whose dedication and contributions have had a lasting and exceptional impact on the Fraternity.
Since its inception 72 years ago, the William P. Schwartz Distinguished Service Award has been bestowed upon only 21 members, highlighting the exceptional nature of this recognition. Past recipients include esteemed Sigma Alpha Mu leaders such as Hanno Mott, Richie Williamson, Ron Katch, Howard Miller, Phil Glauben, Leland Manders, and David Phillips. Named in honor of Executive Director Emeritus William P. Schwartz, the award continues to recognize alumni whose service exemplifies the ideals and mission of Sigma Alpha Mu.
Dennis G. Paese’s Lifelong Commitment to Sigma Alpha Mu
Dennis Paese joined the Beta Chapter at Cornell University and quickly became an integral part of the organization, earning the trust and respect of his peers as a chapter officer. His dedication to the Fraternity only deepened over the decades, leading him to play a pivotal role in re-establishing the Beta Chapter at Cornell. Under the guidance of Bill Schwartz, Dennis persisted through numerous challenges, ultimately assembling a group of individuals who embraced the Fraternity’s values and vision for the future. Thanks to his stalwart leadership and advocacy with the university administration and alumni cultivation, generations of undergraduate fratres at Cornell have had a physical home at Beta Chapter.
Dennis’s contributions extend far beyond chapter operations. Over the past 39 years, he has served in numerous leadership roles, including:
- Beta Chapter Advisor
- Beta House Corporation President
- Chairman of Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation’s Building Committee
- Secretary of the Foundation Board
- Current Vice President of the Foundation Board
A Legacy of Commitment and Sacrifice
Despite his extensive service, Dennis remains humble about his contributions. Reflecting on this honor, he expressed gratitude for the countless individuals he has mentored and the lifelong friendships he has forged. He takes great pride in the success of Sigma Alpha Mu members, attending the weddings, bar mitzvahs, and significant life events of those he has guided.
Dennis believes that lifelong fraternity commitment requires personal sacrifice and the unwavering support of family. His wife, affectionately known among members as “St. Joan” for her patience and encouragement, has been an integral part of his journey. He credits the enduring principles of Sigma Alpha Mu, embodied in its eight altars, as the foundation that has sustained the organization through generations.
Upon receiving the award, Dennis remarked, “I never expected this. It came completely out of the blue. To be put in the same group as the past recipients is just humbling. I don’t believe I deserve it—there have been others who have done more throughout the years.”
The presentation of this award will occur at the 2026 Convention in Greater New York City on Saturday, July 25th, 2026.
Celebrating Fra Paese
The fraternity is collecting memories about Fra Paese’s impact to share with him during Convention. Please share your story or photos at tinyurl.com/d-paese or by emailing them to matthew@sam.org by June 1, 2026.
Gifts in honor of this recognition can be made to Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation for the Beta Chapter Educational Fund at sam-fdn.org/donate by noting Dennis Paese in the “in honor of” line.
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.
