Sigma Zeta Chapter at Indiana University Awarded Supreme Prior’s Trophy for Most Improved Chapter

September 2025– Sigma Alpha Mu is proud to recognize the Sigma Zeta Chapter at Indiana University as the recipient of the 2025 Supreme Prior’s Trophy, awarded annually to the most improved chapter in the Fraternity.

The Supreme Prior’s Trophy honors a chapter that demonstrates significant growth and positive transformation over the past academic year. At Indiana University, Sigma Zeta’s legacy is marked by resilience and a commitment to progress. While their Chapter Performance Report (CPR) scores improved dramatically on paper, their success extends beyond metrics. Sigma Zeta has focused on enhancing the member experience, strengthening relationships with the International Headquarters staff, their dedicated Chapter Advisor Paul Swartz, and Indiana University’s Fraternity and Sorority Life Office.

This year, Sigma Zeta stood out particularly in community involvement and philanthropy. The chapter hosted its Annual Ball at the Hall, raising more than $12,000 for the Lauri S. Bauer Foundation, and launched the inaugural Miles for Matt 5K run/walk, supporting the Matthew Friedman Memorial to advance brain aneurysm research and awareness.

“The Supreme Prior’s Trophy represents the power of dedication, collaboration, and growth,” said Executive Director Andy Huston. “Sigma Zeta has shown what can be achieved when chapters embrace their resources, commit to excellence, and strengthen their bonds within the campus and broader community.”

Join us in congratulating Sigma Zeta on this well-deserved recognition and celebrating their example of perseverance and achievement within the Fraternity.

About Sigma Alpha Mu

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’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.

Learn more at https://sam.org

Eddie Hunnell (Sigma Omega, ‘86) named 2025 recipient of Heroism Award

September 2025– Eddie Hunnell (Sigma Omega ’86), a man of extraordinary bravery, was honored with Sigma Alpha Mu’s Heroism Award for his courageous actions during Hurricane Helene. While visiting Grassy Creek, North Carolina, for his son’s wedding, Eddie jumped into action as floodwaters from the New River swept away homes. Upon hearing that a woman, Leslie Worth, was trapped in a collapsing house, Eddie risked his life to save hers.

Initially, Eddie attempted to reach Leslie using a canoe. However, the swift current and debris made the journey impossible. Recognizing the danger, Eddie then armed himself with a life jacket and rope before swimming through the raging waters to reach Leslie after she had jumped from her house. Navigating dangerous rapids, Eddie guided her safely to shore, where she was reunited with her husband. Despite losing all of their belongings, the couple expressed their gratitude to Eddie, attending his son’s rehearsal dinner as special guests.

Fra Hunnell’s daring rescue during historic flash flooding

Eddie’s heroic act exemplifies selflessness and courage in the face of nature’s fury, ensuring that lives were saved during this disaster. Sigma Alpha Mu is proud to recognize Eddie for his remarkable heroism. His actions serve as a reminder of the profound impact one person can have in a moment of crisis.

Join us in congratulating Eddie Hunnell as the recipient of our 2025 Heroism Award!

About Sigma Alpha Mu

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’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.

Learn more at https://sam.org

2025 Founders Level Chapters and Hammerstein Awards

This year, six Sigma Alpha Mu chapters earned the distinction of reaching Founders Level, the highest level of operational excellence a chapter can achieve within the Fraternity. Reaching this level is a reflection of each chapter’s dedication to growth, leadership, and community impact.

The Chapter Performance Report (CPR), which guides this recognition, helps chapters meet the standards and expectations of the International Fraternity while sharing their successes. The CPR evaluates chapter operational areas including administration, programming, finances, philanthropy, community involvement, risk management, recruitment, retention, and scholarship information. Bonus points are awarded for optional but recommended programs. Achieving Founders Level means a chapter has excelled across these areas, demonstrating a well-rounded and thriving presence on its campus and in its community.

The 2025 Founders Level chapters are:

• Theta – University of Pennsylvania
• Kappa – University of Minnesota
• Psi – University of Pittsburgh
• Sigma Chi – University of Maryland
• Mu Eta – Drexel University
• Mu Chi – Michigan State University

“Reaching Founders Level is no small feat,” said Executive Director Andy Huston. “These chapters represent the very best of Sigma Alpha Mu—strong leadership, engaged membership, and a commitment to making an impact both on campus and in their communities.”

Only Founders Level Chapters are eligible for the Founders Cup, which was presented to Sigma Chi Chapter at the University of Maryland in 2025.

Several chapters also earned recognition for setting the standard in their respective regions through the Jimmy Hammerstein Awards for Best in Province.

• Northeast: Delta Omega – Rochester Institute of Technology
• Midwest: Kappa – University of Minnesota
• South: Gamma Tau – University of Florida

Sigma Alpha Mu congratulates all 2025 Founders Level and Hammerstein Award-winning chapters for their accomplishments and looks forward to celebrating the continued growth and success of its members across North America.

About Sigma Alpha Mu

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’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.

Learn more at https://sam.org

Ambassador Samuel L. Kaplan (Kappa, ’55) named SAM Man of the Year

September 2025– Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity presented Ambassador Samuel L. Kaplan (Kappa, ’55) with its Achievement Award on July 28th during the 2025 Convention held in Minneapolis, MN. 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. 

Samuel Kaplan joined Sigma Alpha Mu’s Kappa Chapter at the University of Minnesota in 1955. He was a member of the All-University Congress and IFC Judiciary Committee when Kappa Chapter won the Founders Cup in 1957. He was elected to serve as President (Prior) of the chapter. His quest to make an impact on the world was already on record.

A Career of Legal Excellence and Global Diplomacy

Fra Kaplan went on to graduate from the University of Minnesota Law School from which he graduated with honors and was Editor in Chief of the Minnesota Law Review.

He is one of the few American Jews to represent the United States in a Muslim nation. Samuel L. Kaplan served as the U.S. Ambassador to The Kingdom of Morocco from 2009 to 2013. Ambassador Kaplan traveled widely throughout Morocco, meeting with Moroccans from all walks of life to help fulfill President Obama’s vision of a new beginning for U.S. relations with the Muslim world based on mutual respect and defined by partnerships in areas of mutual interest.

Ambassador Kaplan is a founding member of Kaplan, Strangis and Kaplan, P.A. established in 1978. He has served on the boards of directors of several publicly-held companies, including Piper Jaffray Companies, where he served as lead Director.

Commitment to Community and Public Service

Fra Kaplan has been engaged in numerous community and political activities including the Jewish Community Federation where he served as its youngest president. His extensive political activities included supporting Senator Paul Wellstone, President Barack Obama, and others in leadership roles for human rights and preserving the strength of our legal system.

Fra Kaplan was joined by his wife Sylvia at the Convention Banquet. He shared the important roles that organizations such as Sigma Alpha Mu play in the lives of its members. Join us in congratulating our 2025 Achievement Award Recipient Ambassador Samuel Kaplan.

About Sigma Alpha Mu

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’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.

Learn more at https://sam.org

Sigma Chi Chapter Founders Cup Win

The Founders Cup is presented annually to the chapter that best demonstrates excellence in leadership, scholarship, community involvement, and a commitment to the fraternity’s core values. Sigma Alpha Mu’s Sigma Chi Chapter at University of Maryland was awarded the 2025 Founders Cup at the Convention held in Minneapolis in July. This is the first Founders Cup win for Sigma Chi Chapter, which was chartered in 1933. 

This year has been monumental for Sigma Chi in many ways. They have demonstrated how utilizing their resources can exponentially improve success. By partnering with the alumni, they have secured a lease to their original chapter house starting this fall. These alumni also have a highly involved and engaged advisory board that supports the chapter. These factors also contributed to 26 new members joining this past year which is their best recruitment since restarting the chapter in 2016. 

Sigma Chi’s philanthropic efforts were equally impressive—hosting the “Sammy Smash” pickleball fundraiser tournament, raising over $3,700 for the Judy Fund, supporting Alzheimer’s research. Their impact hasn’t gone unnoticed at Maryland as the chapter was honored with a number of campus-based awards, including the best IFC chapter on campus – which they have received 5 of the past 6 years. With a roster of approximately 60 members, the chapter boasted a 3.52 GPA. The chapter also earned the award for Best New Member Programming, reflecting their commitment to meaningful growth and leadership development. 

Sigma Chi chapter is setting a new standard for excellence in Greek life both on campus and within Sigma Alpha Mu. Please join us in congratulating Sigma Chi at the University of Maryland-College Park for winning the 2025 Founders Cup!

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.

Ira Rubenstein (Gamma Rho, ’86) named as the 2025 recipient of the Certificate of Merit

Sigma Alpha Mu is proud to recognize Ira Rubenstein (Gamma Rho, ’86) as the 2025 recipient of the Certificate of Merit. The Certificate of Merit shall be awarded to such alumni whose service and achievements in community endeavors are deemed by the Octagon worthy of national recognition. This is an award about giving back to the community beyond Sigma Alpha Mu to help repair the world. 

Fra Rubenstein enrolled at UC-San Diego where he was a founding father of Gamma Rho Chapter and served as their first exchequer. He has been an advisor, regional governor, Consul and Supreme Recorder on the Octagon, Endowment Fund Trustee, SAM 2030 Chairman, and the Executive Director Search Committee. 

Impact Beyond the Fraternity

This award recognizes his community impact beyond the fraternity. He has served on the alumni association board at UC San Diego, where he also was elected president. USC Marshal School of business advisory board. American university adjunct professor marketing. Ira has been involved with the “On Our Sleeves” Advisory Board and championed Children’s mental health. 

Ira serves on the Disability and Accessibility Peer Group of the Motion Picture Academy (The Oscars) as well as the Disability and Accessibility Peer group of the TV Academy (The Emmys). He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Hearing Loss Association of America and was recently elected chairman of the board. 

Professionally Ira has moved into a public service role as the Chief Marketing and Digital Officer of PBS following a successful tenure as Executive Vice President at 20th Century Fox, Marvel, Sony Pictures leading content, digital media & marketing. PBS embodies the principles of public service broadcasting through its mission to serve the public interest, its non-commercial model, its commitment to education and culture, and its role in providing accessible and diverse programming to all Americans.

Please join us in congratulating Ira Rubenstein on receiving the 2025 Certificate of Merit for his exceptional volunteer service to society.

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.

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.

Nicholas D’Addabbo (Beta Upsilon/Tau, ’09) Celebrated as Richie H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award

August 2025– Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity recognized Nicholas D’Addabbo (Beta Upsilon/Tau, ’09) as the 2025 recipient of the Richard H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award. The Fraternity’s operations rely heavily on the time, talent, and treasure 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 is 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.

Fra D’Addabbo has volunteered for Sigma Alpha Mu for ten years, giving himself to the fraternity and helping to enrich the undergraduate experience. As an integral part of SAM’s education programs, Fra D’Addabbo thinks through the lens of the undergraduates in order to maximize our time in delivering impactful programs to help shape, mold, and educate leadership.

Fra D’Addabo has served as chair of both the Chapter Leaders Day and Leadership Conference, and now serves as the Education Chair of the Fraternity, where he intends to continue his involvement.

“I first reconnected with Sigma Alpha Mu as a volunteer by serving under Nick on the CLD Committee.  Nick was warm and welcoming, immediately bringing a neophyte into the planning process.  I was initiated into the volunteer ranks, and found not just an incredible leader, but a good friend along the way,” shared Supreme Prior Benji Bearman (Kappa, ‘97).

Please join us in congratulating Nick D’Addabbo on receiving the 2025 Richard H. Williamson Volunteer of the Year Award for his exceptional impact as a volunteer. 

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.