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.
