News Archives
December 02, 2007
November 18, 2007
Chapter Eternal
Brothers,
I come to you with some very serious and unfortunate news. As many of you already know, Brother Brison has entered the Chapter Eternal. We do not yet know the details surrounding his passing. I am sending this to inform the Brotherhood of the Visitation and funeral that will be held in Travis's memory. The Visitation will be held on Monday, November 19th from 3 pm to 9 pm at the following address:
Toedtmann & Gross Funeral Home
1221 Washington St
Hermann, MO 65041
The funeral will be held Tuesday, November 20th at 11 am at:
St. Paul's Catholic Church
603 Walnut St
Berger, MO 63014
The local florist is Herman Florist and can be reached at 573-486-1800.
For Strong Arms
November 04, 2007
September 09, 2007
Homecoming '07
Brothers,
The new year has started and the undergraduate chapter is
excited about the possibilities the future holds. We just had a
brotherhood event and one of our main discussions was alumni
involvement. We have tweaked the normal homecoming activities in
order to make it a more fun and productive weekend for you guys. No
dance this year! Instead we are going to meet in the upper room of
Buffalo Wild Wings to eat,drink, and socialize. Here is the schedule
for weekend:
FRIDAY: 6pm BBQ at 703 Monroe Street. Bring everyone, bring
yourself, we do not care, we just want to see some alumni. We will be
serving something besides the traditional $1 package of hot dogs.
Pulled pork or chicken?
SATURDAY: 7am Sunrise football to start the day off. Yes, you
might/will be hungover, but this will be fun. Meet between the chapel
and Kretzmann Hall.
12:30-2:30pm Tailgate by the football stadium. Hamburgers
and hot dogs, refreshments, football, tent to escape the sun... Stop
by and make your presence felt.
5-7pm ISHC meeting in the basement of Mueller Hall. Right
next to the Union if anyone is confused. EC has committed to attend
and we hope discuss the goals of the Iota Sigma chapter.
7-?pm Buffalo Wild Wings. We have the upper room reserved
for alumni and significant others. Cash bar, wings, and anything else
you might want. This is in place of the dance so that the whole
chapter can socialize with the alumni and everyone can enjoy themselves.
SUNDAY: 12:30pm Chapter. Location to be determined.
As the acting link between the undergraduates and alumni, I feel like
I should express that we are really attempting to get you involved and
feel like you can relive a little bit of your college experience. I
would really like to have RSVP'S to the friday night dinner and
possibly the BW'S saturday night. My email address is
Dan.Brunette@... and phone number is 317-417-0023. Let me know
what your plans are. I do not expect you to be at all these events,
but we would for you to come to a couple. We cleaned the FUNHOUSE
like never before and put a bar in on the main floor. It looks pretty
good and we want to show it off. Anyone is welcome all weekend, 404
Monroe. Sorry this is so long. Your participation will make this
weekend. Please RSVP!
In Hoc,
Daniel Brunette
April 11, 2007
Golf Outing '07
Here is the final information regarding the Golf outing that will be held on April 21st at Aberdeen.
The outing will begin at 9:00 by a shot-gun start, so please be on time. The cost is $80 which includes 18 holes of golf, lunch, dinner, contests (longest putt and longest drive), and prizes.
In previous years we have held the dinner following the outing at Aberdeen. This year, in an effort to have non-golfing brothers and alumni attend and interact with all of you, we are having the dinner at one of our houses on campus, 703 Monroe. The dinner will be beginning at 4:00 and we will be serving very similar food to that of Aberdeen. If you come to dinner but not golf, it will be $15. We will have nice hamburgers, hotdogs, chips, possibly some wings and beer. We hope that this gets more non-golfing alumni in town to meet up with other brothers.
For directions to Aberdeen, please go to http://www.golfataberdeen.com/content.php?link=location.php
For directions to the dinner at 703 Monroe, you can call me at 734-652-4019 or our Pro-Consul Pat Millian at 219-508-6254.
I apologize that this follow up email from the one I sent in February is coming so late, but I hope it does not affect any ones attendance. If you have any question please feel free to email me at brad.johnson@valpo.edu. Please RSVP to brad.johnson@valpo.edu
In Hoc,
Brad Johnson
February 02, 2007
January 27, 2007
Fall Pledge Class of '06
From left to right:
Ben Turk, Chris Gift, Jim Wright, and Travis Brison
January 11, 2007
September 27, 2006
Homecoming 2006 Events
Homecoming 2006!
I have just recently been alerted to the fact that a majority of our
alumni are not on the list serve and have not recieved emails
regarding homecoming. Here is the lastest informartion regarding this
years events. I apologize for not getting them up earlier.
Homecoming is the weekend of September 30, and the schedule is as
follows:
Saturday September 30th-
6:30 a.m. - Sunrise Football- Meet at the Funhouse, 404
Monroe Street - the game will be played at 7:00 am at East Gate
Field
9:00 am - SCEFVU meeting in Mueller room 6 from 9-11 am
12:30 p.m. - BBQ at our property- Behind Phi Psi If it's
raining, meet at the Fun House-- This will be a bbq for alumni, their
families and current brothers. At the bbq there will be games, a
presentation from the executive board regarding the chapter and, of
course food.
Sunday October 1st,
12:00 p.m. Chapter- place TBA
I hope you are looking forward to Homecoming as much as we are. We
would love to see and meet all of you and we hope this schedule
helps make homecoming more welcoming and enjoyable for you. In
order to prepare for the BBQ and Chapter, could you please send me a
brief email if you plan on coming to one of these two events
(brad.johnson@valpo.edu). In and effort to make everything run as
smoothly as possible, please let me know how many people will be
joining you (an estimate) and if you will be bringing kids to the
BBQ. Also, like always, the Fun House is open for any of you to
use. If you need a place to stay or just a place to hangout for a
bit, the door is always open.
In case some of you were wondering where the Fun House is located,
its 404 Monroe Street, which is just pass the hospital between Brown
Street and Lincoln Way. If you can't find it for some odd reason,
feel free to call.
For those of you who will be in town on Friday night, I'm sure there
will be a party of some kind going on and you are more than welcome
to come and attend. If interested you can contact one of the
following people in order to find out where the fun is going down.
Myself, Brad Johnson- 734-652-4019, Ben Nice- 815-499-0539, Mark
Reddel- 708-280-1456 or Andrew Gensch- 708-205-4521.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, feel free to email
me at brad.johnson@valpo.edu
In Hoc,
Brad Johnson
March 29, 2006
Spring 2006 Pledge Class
The much anticipated spring pledge class of 2006
From left to right.
Front Row:
Jeremy Schares, Brian Wise, Nic Girouard
Back Row:
Paul Schreiber, Jason Douthett, Andrew Foote, Kevin Wagner, Brad Zimmerman
March 22, 2006
Spring 2006 Golf Outing!
Spring 2006 Golf Outing
What: Annual Iota Sigma Golf Outing
When: April 22nd, 9:00 a.m.
Where: Aberdeen Golf Course
Price: $78 to Golf $115 and up to sponsor a hole
RSVP: April 6th mark.reddel@valpo.edu
What to wear: Khaki pants (or shorts) and a collared shirt.
Proceeds from sponsoring a hole at the outing will go to support the memorial being created for Nate Osterbur and Chris Jagodzinski.
Hope to see you out on the links and if you're lucky, Puetz will be there decked out in his skin tight knickers.
March 10, 2006
Happy Birthday Mr. Norris!
Happy Birthday Chuck Norris
The men of Iota Sigma of the Sigma Chi International Fraternity would like to take the time to recognize the 66th birthday of one of America's finest action heroes turned late night exercise equipment salesman. Born Carlos Ray Norris Jr. on March 10th, 1940, Chuck Norris went on to train with the late Bruce Lee and then released approximately 1,483 first rate action movies. Using only his steely, fear inducing glare and famed Wrangler moose knuckle, Chuck was able to "convince" 76 of the past 78 Best Actor Academy Award winners to forfeit their statuettes to him for his performances. Rumor has it that several shavings from his beard are on special ops mission to retrieve the two final statuettes from Jack Nicholson who has some type of pact with the Devil, God, and Vin Diesel concerning his wins. Nonetheless, Chuck stands as the only man in the universe to:
1.) Speak Braille
2.) Cure Cancer with his tears (too bad he's never cried)
3.) Put "laughter" into "manslaughter"
4.) Clog a toilet while peeing
5.) Refer to himself in the fourth and seventh person
6.) Slam a revolving door
7.) Find the white cross.
April 06, 2005
Alumni Brother Wins Korean TV Game Show
Brother Andrew Johnson ('04) left the comfort of his home in the United States of America last summer to pursue a job as an English teacher in South Korea. Having become quite bored with the classroom teaching of English, Andrew sought other outlets of personal fulfillment. I say to you all now, what better place to teach English than on Korean television station "Arirang TV"? Answer: No better place.
Arirang TV is designed to teach the English language to the people of Korea through its programming. The program, "The Contenders", spoke directly to Andrew. Having been a two time college bowl champion (once with your faithful webmaster), his fervent desire to answer trivia is undeniable. Andrew found his calling to win trivia and teach English in a foreign country in “The Contenders.”
Andrew's team, "Madcow" successfully defeated two opponents over the course of two aired shows on Arirang TV. Andrew is not exactly clear on what his prizes are, but he is quoted as having, "Won a whole lot of neat stuff." When asked about the best part, Andrew commented: "I really enjoyed the small talk with the host. At no time was it trivial . . . get it?"
However, this story has a sad end. After a long, prominent run of 15 episodes over 4 months, "The Contenders" was cancelled by Arirang TV. Andrew had a chance to win a trip to China, but due to a lack of viewership, this won't be happening. Andrew can only be content in knowing that he is the ultimate champion of a foreign game show.
The Contender's Website: !CLICK HERE!
An Episode Game is available at: !CLICK HERE!
To view Andrew's 1st episode, click on Episode # 160. His repeat win is available in Episode #161. You will need to do free registration for the videos. I suggest using an email account that you never use so that Spam from South Korea can be avoided.
March 26, 2005
15th Anniversary Schedule of Events
Schedule of Events
Friday, April 1st
Brotherhood BBQ Party
701 Union St. (The Yellow House)
If lost, just look for the house with christmas lights in April.
5:30pm - 8:00pm
Contact Tom Mathews with questions
(815)-260-5460
Capture the Cross
404 Monroe St. (The Fun House)
8:00pm
Contact Dan Karnatz with questions
(847)-207-4621
Saturday, April 2nd
15th Anniversary Dinner
Christopher Center for Library and Information Technology
Community Room
Opens at 5:30pm
Dinner served at 6:00pm
Consul Daniel Santiago Speech apx. 7:15pm
Sunday, April 3rd
Chapter Meeting
Ask a brother for location
12:00pm sharp
Contact Consul Daniel Santiago with questions
(937)-620-5058
Alumni brothers in need of sleeping accommodations may contact any of the off-campus brothers to inquire about sleeping arrangements. There are several local hotels as well.
Off-Campus Brothers
809 Brown St.
Jeff Borchardt (254)-624-3219
Ben Galvin (636)-346-6723
Steve Rajki (630)-248-1083
404 Monroe St.
Adam Dellay (401)-595-7986
Dan Karnatz (847)-207-4621
Kevin Perri (574-210-0197
701 Union St.
Todd Blum (815)-342-2377
Scott Domsch (816)-809-5847
Tom Mathews (815)-260-5460
March 21, 2005
Spring 2005 Pledges . . . Yes, Finally.
After much anticipation (and ballyhoo from Pat Byron '03), there finally exists a picture of the Spring 2005 pledge class of Iota Sigma of Sigma Chi. Be sure to click on the picture to receive your very own copy of desktop wallpaper. This stylish desktop background will arouse fear in your enemies as well as add an air of sophistication to your monotonous home computer.
From left to right.
Front Row:
Dan Brunette, Mike Jederlinic, Patrick Millian, Karl Schreiber, Erik Alanson, Cal Warren, Jake Brunoehler
Back Row:
Tim Oestmann, Jon Braun, Tom Siepman. Troy Bixler, Dan Lieske, Daryl Kapp, Andy Steinbach, Dean Pichan, Jake Lieske, Greg Stock, Zak Bergman, Tim Dooms, Mike Supp.
Not Pictured: Scott Fonferko
January 31, 2005
Goodbye Guestbook, Hello Message Board!
It seems like only days ago that the first desktop PC landed on my parent's now obsolete kitchen table. In an ever changing world filled with gigabytes of information, Sigma Chi must ask itself the question of how interactive and advanced it wishes to be. Can it adapt to this Brave New World of Beta and Alpha versions of software? Has this chapter's guestbook become like my parent's kitchen table: old, covered with decade-old dust, and littered with software of a bygone era?
The answer, my faithful web surfers, is a definitive YES. The Iota Sigma Guestbook is old, dusty, dirty and as of January 31st, 2005 at 11:59pm is forever deleted from the Information Super Highway, only to live on in our hearts, minds and twisted senses of humor.
But may February 1st, 2005 be the dawn of a new age in this chapter. An age where brothers can bypass inside jokes, bypass calls to arms against over zealous annotators/webmasters, bypass blather about that time at the Lake when so and so was . . . you get the point. So begins the Age of the Iota Sigma Message Board.
You will find that the message board offers greater opportunities for interaction than did the guest book. The Iota Sigma Message Board Team (i.e. Donny the Codemonkey) has taken the time create preliminary subject areas for discussion. As you will read in the General Discussion area, I am open for suggestions on what to inculde as PERMANENT headings. The areas underneath these headings are completely free to be manipulated by every user of the board. This way, if you want to converse with just your pledge class, you can make a "Spring of 1994" subject area.
All of the board's capabilities are completely explained in the help section available at this address: http://www.messageboard.iotasigma.org/Themes/default/help/index.english.html
The Iota Sigma Message Board Team understands that the first few months here may be tough going. With that said, help is available for free. Realize though that the team is a second semester senior with other things taking priority over questions about such things as "Hey how do I meet chicks on this thing?" or "How do I create my own icon?" The answers are simple: Question the First "Only if you are a Dungeons and Dragons Master will you ever meet a worthwhile chick on the internet." Question the Second: "Click on the PROFILE link, then on the sidebar navigation, click on Forum Profile Information. Insert the link to your picture in the blank space provided to the right."
Happy surfing, and please forward any questions to webmaster@iotasigma.org
January 07, 2005
Recruitment Calendar Spring 2005
Below you will find the recruitment calendar for the Iota Sigma Chapter of Sigma Chi. Be sure to download the exclusive Spring Recruitment 2005 Desktop Wallpaper so that it is easier to keep track of events, dates, and times. The wallpaper may be downloaded by clicking this link. Contact information for our Recruitment Chair is located in the bottom left hand corner of the schedule. If you have any other questions concerning the operations of the chapter, please visit our officer's page to contact the member who can best answer your question. Most can be fielded directly to the Recruitment Chair.
January 04, 2005
Chapter GPA #2 on Campus, Highest Ever!
The Iota Sigma Chapter of Sigma Chi has made further progress in its goal to maintain high academic standing at Valparaiso University. Some of you may recall the blistering grade report of Spring 2004 that recorded the highest chapter GPA in 9 years and placed Sigma Chi in 3rd place among all the fraternities on campus. Further progress was made during the Fall 2004 semester which ended with Sigma Chi in 2nd place for chapter GPA.
The Fall 2004 GPA of 3.213 also represents an important time in the chapter's fifteen year history as it is the highest chapter GPA that has ever been recorded by the Iota Sigma Chapter. Not since the fall of 1995 has the chapter achieved a GPA comparable to the current average.
A continuing trend in Iota Sigma has been the academic success of our pledge classes. Both the spring and fall pledge classes of 2004 finished the semesters as the pledge classes with the highest GPA average among all fraternities on campus. A bylaw change in the requirements for acceptance into pledging raised the required GPA in the Fall of 2002. We have seen continued success in pledging and initiating men dedicated to friendship, justice, and learning.
The Big Three of Sigma Chi
1.) Ben Galvin
2.) Ben Lieske
3.) Tom "Donny" Mathews
Fall 2004 Pledge Class Champion
Dennie Brady
Valparaiso University Grade Point Stats
Chapter GPAs Ranked
1.) Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia - 3.219
2.) Sigma Chi - 3.213
3.) Sigma Phi Epsilon - 3.174
4.) Lamba Chi Alpha - 3.004
5.) Phi Kappa Psi - 2.975
6.) Theta Chi - 2.867
7.) Phi Delta Theta - 2.590
8.) Sigma Pi - 2.464
9.) Sigma Tau Gamma - 2.461
10.) Phi Sigma Kappa - 1.915
Fall 2004 Pledge Classes GPA Ranked
1.) Sigma Chi - 3.245
2.) Phi Sigma Kappa - 3.184
3.) Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia - 2.867
4.) Sigma Phi Epsilon - 2.751
5.) Lambda Chi Alpha - 2.641
6.) Sigma Pi - 2.231
7.) Phi Kappa Psi - 2.04
8.) Phi Delta Theta - 1.914
9.) Sigma Tau Gamma - 1.080
10.) Theta Chi - No Fall Pledge Class
November 25, 2004
Briefly: The Current News of Fall 2004
Derby Days XV Results
Derby Days XV has once again been a rousing success for the Iota Sigma Chapter of Sigma Chi. Though the record of $5,800 from Derby Days XIII was not broken; the chapter did raise roughly $5,300 for Children's Miracle Network. Derby Days is a week long Philanthropic Event held by Sigma Chi Chapters around the nation. The event seeks to engage the campus into several activities held by the chapter including a Trivia Night, a Volleyball Tournament, Field Events and Derby Runs. Derby Runs are best described as brothers placing a felt derby hat on their head and then fleeing hordes of rabid derby chasers. Teams enter Derby Days and attempt to accumulate points by winning activities and collecting derbies from brothers whilst they run. All money raised by the chapter is annually donated to CMN.
Winners are divided into two categories: Sorority Winner and Independent Winner. This year's sorority winner was Gamma Phi Beta. The independent winner was Lank 2 South. The Overall winner was Lank 2 South who single-handedly raised over $1,000 for CMN. Lank 2 South was coached by none other than Faithful Webmaster Tom "Donny" Mathews ('05) and Worthy Consul Philip Morris ('05).
Derby Days is the longest runing Valparaiso University Philanthropic Event and annually raises more money for charitable donations than any other Greek organization on campus.
Fall 2004 Initiated
On November 13th, the Iota Sigma Chapter of Sigma Chi initiated six new brothers into the Sigma Chi Fraternity. Congratulations to Newly Initiated Brothers Mike Gibbs ('06), Bryan Bandy ('06), Brent Park ('07), Matt Engelmann ('07), Dennie Brady ('07) and Sean Rizer ('07). A special thanks to alumni Paul Morawski ('04), Joshua Rockey ('03), and Toddy Schweihs ('03) for their presence and guidance during Initiation.
Erik Horton Elected to IFC
Brother Erik "Erok" Horton ('06) was elected this past November by the members of the Greek Community to Inter-Fraternity Council. He will be serving as Secretary Treasurer of the Council for two semesters beginning in January of 2005. Brother Horton is not alone in the representation of the Greek community at Valpo by Sigma Chi. Brother Rishab Malhotra ('06) serves as the Vice President of Hellenic Council, another programming body of the Greek community. Brother Dan Santiago ('05) serves as the Chief Justice of the Greek Judicial Board. Congratulations to all three men who provide sound judgment and exemplarily service to a thriving Greek community.
Intramural Championships Galore!
Football
Sigma Chi's Intramural Football Team took all the marbles this season going on a 13-0 run to win the Men's Flag Football Championship. Led by Chris "The Freak" Corwin, Iota Sigma defeated independent team The Chiefs to garner more intramural points in what is expected to be a record-breaking year. Once the picture of the Sigma Chi team surfaces, I will replace the following picture of Brother Ditka ('61) and Monster of the Midway Jim Harbaugh (#4) with it.
Dodgeball
Onto a more important front, Sigma Chi scored another victory against the Men of Sigma Phi Epsilon in the First Annual Dodgeball Tournament. This particular sport involved great athleticism and fierce training. The team was led by 37 knockouts from Captain Tom "Donny" Mathews ('05). Brother Kevin Perri ('05) nearly shattered all hopes of victory in the tournament by not dodging 13 balls. Ambulances were called to ARC Gym II after Brother Perri suffered a ruptured spleen, broken clavicle, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and a torn ACL and during the 3rd round of play.
October 03, 2004
Homecoming 2004 Schedule of Events
Homecoming 2004
This year we will be paired with:
Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, Phi Mu Alpha Fraternity, Kappa Delta Sorority, Gamma Phi Beta Sorority
Wednesday, October 6th
Kickoff Cookout
Sigma Phi Epsilon House
5pm
Friday, October 8th
Alumni/Active BBQ
Yellow House (701 Union St.)
6pm to indefinite
(Iota Sigma Alumni and Actives Only)
Homecoming Dance Party
Sigma Phi Epsilon House
11pm
(Open Dance Party)
Saturday, October 9th
Sunrise Football
New Intramural Field on Union St.
Located on the Corner of Union and Greenwich. Across from Yellow House.
7am
(Joe Puetz will be dominated once again as well as the other geriatric alumni)
SCEFVU & ISHC Meetings
Mueller Hall Room 1 (Basement)
11:30pm
(Location may be changing, please monitor this page)
Softball Game vs. Homecoming Pairings
New Intramural Field on Union St.
Located on the Corner of Union and Greenwich. Across from Yellow House.
12pm
Homecoming Date Party 2004
The Court Restaurant and Bar
Doors Open 6pm
Dinner 7pm
Alumni Plates are paid for, but we please ask for donations to recover cost.
Cash Bar stocked with the finest liquors available in Valpo.
Sunday, October 10th
Chapter Meeting
Contact Philip Morris for Location
12:30pm
Five-Star Hotel Accommodations
Sadly Alumni, the chapter is still devoid of anything resembling a Chapter House. The property is as vacant as ever and even the enormous tree that used to be on the corner of the property was destroyed in a thunderstorm on Memorial Day Weekend this year. Worry not, Iota Sigma has once again shown its ability to improvise, adapt and overcome obstacles no matter their size.
There will be several rallying points this year. The following addresses house Sigma Chi brothers and will be available. A continental breakfast will be provided every morning compliments of the Sweetheart.
Fun House
404 Monroe St.
(401)-595-7986
Adam Dellay
Swisha House
809 Brown St.
Jeff Borchardt
(254)-624-3219
Yellow House
701 Union St.
(815)-260-5460
Tom "Donny" Mathews
Contact Information
Homecoming Chair
Adam Dellay
404 Monroe St.
(401)-595-7986
adam.dellay@valpo.edu
Consul
Philip Morris
(716)-587-2552
philip.morris@valpo.edu
September 28, 2004
Fall 2004 Pledge Class Revealed!
From left to right:
Sean Rizer ('07), Mike Gibbs ('06), Matt Engelmann ('07), Bryan Bandy ('06), Brent Park ('07), Dennie Brady ('07)
And as if this late September present couldn't get any better, your faithful webmaster has painstakingly gone to the trouble of creating another soon to be famous desktop wallpaper. Adorn your desktop with the charming young men of Fall 2004. Don't let mom find out, though!
Click here for 1152*864 resolution picture.
Click here for 1024*768 resolution picture.
June 28, 2004
Highest Chapter GPA in 9 Years!
The grade report has just landed on the Consul's desk and he is happy to report record numbers for the Spring of 2004. The Office of Greek Life at Valparaiso places Sigma Chi in third place overall on campus with a chapter GPA of 3.126. This is above the Greek Men's average of 2.894 as well as above the campus men's average of 3.031.
Besides being above average in both fraternal and campus-wide GPA, Iota Sigma has recorded the highest GPA since the Fall of 1995. The Fall 1995 GPA was 3.160. Overall, Spring 2004 has the 4th highest GPA ever recorded by the chapter. The highest GPA ever went to Spring of 1995 with a 3.177.
The academic success of the chapter is a result of several factors this year. The brotherhood retreat held in September of 2003 with Past Grand Consul Dick Hester ended with several chapter goals which were submitted to Sigma Chi International Headquarters in Evanston, Illinois. The Scholarship goal for the chapter stated:
Increase chapter’s GPA from 3.03 to 3.2 by May 2004.Action Steps:
1.) Implement Scholarship program that was designed last year
2.) Implement Scholarship program requirements into pledge classes
3.) Mandatory study periods for pledges
4.) Review GPAs of all brothers to determine where and what kind of help is needed
5.) Enforce Scholarship through encouragement not through penalties
6.) Rush, Bid and Initiate men that meet and exceed our bylaw requirements (2.5 for Brothers and Pledges)
While missing the mark by a mere 0.074, the chapter did make a large gain towards its overall goal of high scholastic achievment. Much of the credit is owed to last year's scholarship chair, Chris Shaffer ('04). His work with the chapter as well as with last year's Magister Jon Ackerman ('04) in implementing the Scholarship program helped encourage the academic success recorded by the chapter.
Below are the GPA rankings for all Fraternities on Valparaiso University's Campus:
1. Sigma Phi Epsilon 3.284
2. Phi Mu Alpha 3.237
3. Sigma Chi 3.126
4. Phi Kappa Psi 2.933
5. Lambda Chi Alpha 2.909
6. Sigma Pi 2.827
7. Phi Delta Theta 2.801
8. Sigma Tau Gamma 2.754
9. Theta Chi 2.576
10. Phi Sigma Kappa 2.494
March 01, 2004
Pledge Brother Enters Chapter Eternal
Christopher Jagodzinski
April 12, 1985 - February 25, 2004
Tragedy struck the Iota Sigma chapter of Sigma Chi several days before Spring Break, once again. Having emerged from Brother Nate Osterbur's untimely death in February of 2003 with a chapter strengthened through grief and mourning, the strong arms of brotherhood were tested again with the death of Spring Pledge Class member Christopher Jagodzinski.
On February 21st, the pledge class had been preparing for their pledge retreat at the Indiana State Dunes when news reached the chapter that Chris' roommate had found him unconscious on his dorm room floor. Chris was taken by ambulance to Porter Memorial Hospital several blocks from campus. Early predictions were that Chris had suffered a stroke, but the reasons why were not known.
Magister Jon Ackerman, cancelled the retreat and directed the class to the hospital. Brothers and pledges spent several hours outside the hospital awaiting word on Chris' condition. Chris' mother, accompanied by Pastor Cunningham from the University Chapel, informed the chapter that Chris had suffered a stroke. All feeling was lost from the right side of his body and he could not speak. Chris was to be airlifted to St. Luke's Hospital in Milwaukee so that he would be closer to home and at a facility more suited to fulfilling Chris' needs.
On Sunday, February 22nd, during the weekly Chapter Meeting, the family called to inform us that Chris' condition had improved with all of his feeling returning and small amounts of speech beginning. The chapter left feeling very uplifted by the news.
A memorial service for Nate Osterbur took place that evening in the Chapel of the Resurrection. The inspirational words from Brother Phil Morris, Pastor Cunningham and Nate's parents concerning the past year without Nate gave the chapter great strength to deal with the current adversity. The words of encouragement and support from all about Chris' stroke gave hope for the uncertain future ahead.
Monday passed with no word on Chris' condition, therefore it was felt that no news is good news. The chapter breathed another sigh of relief, continuing to pray for a positive outcome and a reunited pledge class.
Tuesday afternoon, the Chapter was informed that Chris had suffered another stroke in the early hours of the morning. All his progress had been erased and he was placed on life support shortly thereafter. The doctors had finally determined that Chris was suffering from a congenital defect in the arteries and veins in his brain.
His veins, being too thin to supply his brain with blood, caused Chris to suffer strokes at a rate that his body could no longer tolerate. In afternoon of Wednesday, February 25th, Christopher left us and entered his place in the Chapter Eternal. Chris' mother informed us of his passing and that she was currently authorizing Chris' organs to be used in transplants so that others may survive their ailments. That afternoon, Pastor Cunningham, showing his unending support for our Chapter and for the Campus Community, held a prayer service in the chapel.
Chris' funeral was held on Sunday, February 29th in Muskego, Wisconsin. Chris was buried with his pledge pin. He was also buried with his Big Brother Rishab Malhotra's Sigma Chi Badge and Brotherhood Ring.
The chapter wishes to thank all of the Greek organizations, Jennifer Jones-Hall, Pastor Cunningham, Iota Sigma Alumni and all of the students at Valparaiso University for their support during this time. Even a Webmaster as instilled with a lack of brevity as this one cannot express in words how much all of your support emotionally and spiritually means to this chapter.
Please keep Christopher's family & friends, the student community and the chapter in your hearts and prayers during these coming months as we once again wrestle with the fragility of life and mourn yet another great loss.
February 28, 2004
Brother Reflects on a Year Without Nate
Below you will find Brother Philip Morris' reflection that he shared with those gathered at Brother Nate Osterbur's Memorial Service on February 22nd. Nate entered Chapter Eternal on February 23rd, 2003 after suffering a severe head trauma in the Athletics and Recreations Center on Valparaiso University's Campus. Nate has been missed dearly this past year and we feel it appropriate to keep everyone up to date on the Chapter's progress with our loss of Nate. Nothing could be more fitting than presenting the emotional remarks that Phil gave to us on February 22nd.
-Webmaster-
---------------------------------
As spoken by Philip Morris, February 22nd, 2003:
Good Evening,
First, on behalf of the men of Sigma Chi, I would like to thank everyone for joining us here this evening.
Nate’s life effected all of us, in varying ways, yet it speaks volumes of his character to see that, here, a year later, he’s still effecting our lives. He’s still with us, in our hearts and in our minds.
Over the past few months people have asked, at various times, what emotions I anticipate I’ll be feeling tonight and tomorrow. Truthfully, I never had any idea. Yet, last night, a distinct emotion began to surface in my head. It was a feeling of privilege.
Tonight, here in the peace and solemnity of the chapel, almost exactly a year since many of us gathered in prayer, with heavy hearts after a weary 4 days, we once again join together.
Last year, there was uncertainty mixed with restrained hope permeating through the chapel. However, there is a decidedly different atmosphere this evening. Tonight, we gather for our own personal reasons, yet we do so with an undoubtedly different mindset. I’d like to share my own.
This evening, I feel privileged. I feel privileged to be here with you, with members of Nate’s family, with those whom Nate touched in an intimate way, and with those who may have never met Nate. I feel privileged tonight, to share memories, to share hugs, and to share prayers.
Tonight, I feel most privileged to have known Nate Osterbur. One of our pledges asked me the other day what Nate was like, and immediately, unconsciously, the beginnings of a smile flickered at the corners of my mouth. As I related stories of midnight trips to Subway, that smile began to swell. I tried to explain how much Nate respected, and truly loved his mother and father, and how much he admired his older brother and sister. I tried to explain how much of a passion he had for music. I tried to explain how Nate truly understood the concept of friendship.
If you never met Nate, understanding how he made his friends feel is somewhat easy. Start, by smiling. Smile as big as you possibly can. Smile so large that you’re cheeks begin to close your eyes from underneath. Then, once you’re smiling as large as you ever have, try and smile a bit larger. If you had the privilege of ever meeting Nate, ever getting to talk with him, sit with him in class, room with him, hang with him, eat with him, pledge with him, create music with him, this is how he made you feel. He was blessed with the ability to cause your heart to smile as large as humanly possible, then smile a bit larger. He did it over and over. Which I believe is why we’re here tonight.
Just because we don’t see Nate in class, in the VUCA, in chapter, or on campus doesn’t mean he isn’t still making us smile. Once you get through the darkness, push away the grief, and dry your tears, you come to realize that what made you smile in the first place, is still there. I’ve begun to realize that he isn’t too far off, even a year later. Look inside your heart…if you’re here tonight, then most likely, Nate is still there, doing whatever it will take to make you smile…
February 09, 2004
Spring 2004 Pledges Now in Stock!
View Left to Right
Back Row: Chris Jagodzinski, Mark Reddel, Ryan Turner, Andrew Gensch, Mike Herlache, Jason Kramer, Ben Nice, Kurt Heist
Front Row: Phil Leondhardt, Marty DeNicolo, Brad Johnson, Steve Urbanczyk
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January 17, 2004
January 07, 2004
SCEFVU Presents Spring 2003 Semester Awards
Sigma Chi Educational Foundation at Valparaiso University Honors Chapter GPA Leaders |
 |
Left to right: Matt Wallace, Tom "Donny" Mathews, Pedro Cuerva (Chapter Advisor), Dan Santiago
These brothers were recognized by Sigma Chi Educational Foundation at Valparaiso University for holding a chapter position during the Spring Semester of 2003 and earning a GPA above 3.5. Matt Wallace also earned the award for highest chapter GPA. Dan Santiago recieved the award for most imporved GPA with an increase of at least 0.75 points. Jon Ackerman was not present for his award but held an office and earned a GPA above 3.5. Pedro Cuerva did not recieve an award as he is the Chapter Advisor. Jon Ackerman was not available for comment on the selection to hold his award.
November 25, 2003
Iota Sigma Initiates Fall '03 Class
May they wear the white cross worthily through life.
From Left to Right:
Chris Dilullo, Nate Gordon, Sean Barfield, Brian Schultz, Blake Bolthouse
October 28, 2003
Derby Days Results
Derby Days XIV
Benefitting Children's Miracle Network
The totals are in and the winners have been announced for Derby Days XIV (that's fourteen, Puetz) held In late September. Your faithful webmaster has gathered pictures and information from various sources to give a fair and balanced report on Derby Days.
With that said, Lank 2 South was robbed by the flagrant cheating of Sam Pickett's team, Lanks Northern Ninjas. There is no excuse for this type of behavior which included, but was not limited to martial arts attacks on brothers, stealing of derbies, use of counterfeit money, forged checks, food poisoning inflicted on the coaches of the Gamma Phi Beta team, and tomfoolery combined with shenanigans that cannot be mentioned on this family friendly corner of the Web.
Consul's Interjection:
Iota Sigma would like to apologize for our webmaster. He has been sacked. Those who influence his writing have also been sacked. Here are the results of Derby Days XIV.
Independent Winner: Lank Northern Ninjas
Sorority Winner: Gamma Phi Beta (2-Year Repeat)
Overall Winner: Gamma Phi Beta
Money raised for The Children's Miracle Network: $3000+
We would like to thank Dr. Hector J. Marchand of Northwest Indiana Cardiovascular Physicians for his generous donation to Derby Days. Also thanks to all of the teams that participated in Derby Days. Without the iron will demonstrated by the fine women of Valparaiso's Independent Community and Sororities, Derby Days would not be so successful.
The Derby Days galleries can be found by going back to the homepage and selecting them from the recently posted sections.
October 20, 2003
Parent's Day Schedule
Sigma Chi Parent's Day
October 25th, 2003
Brunch at 808 Brown St.
11am - 12pm
808 Brown St.
It's not quite breakfast and not
quite lunch, but it comes with a
slice of cantaloupe. It's quite good.
Social Hour with Sigs Throughout Time
2pm - 3:30pm
Crusader Room in Union
Speakers from undergraduate
chapter and alumni. Matt Trapp to
discuss Sigma Chi Educational
Foundation at Valparaiso University
Dinner at Strongbow Inn
6:30pm
Located on Rt. 30 across from
Wal-Mart and Denny's.
Reservations have been made for tables
under Sigma Chi's name but the chapter
will not be paying for dinner.
Contact Information
Parent's Day Chair
Ben Galvin
ben.galvin@valpo.edu
September 30, 2003
Fall 2003 Pledges: 10x the Sparkle of Spring 2003
Fall 2003
Sean Evan Barfield Sophomore University Place, WA  Sparkle real. Gold Teeth Not. | Blake Bernard James Bolthouse Sophomore Marne, MI  Say his name ten times fast. |
Chris Michael Dilullo Sophomore Grayslake, IL  Snake Skin Boots Owner | Nathan Michael Gordon Sophomore Plymouth, IN  Tennis Pro & Devo Fan |
Brian Edward Schultz Sophomore Sheboygan, WI  Sam Peterson Version 2.0 |
September 18, 2003
Derby Days 2003 Schedule
Sunday, Sept. 21st Derby Days Kickoff Monday, Sept. 22nd Derby Disk Hunt
Derby Disk Hunt Trivia Night
Derby Disk Hunt Volleyball Tournament | Thursday, Sept. 25th Derby Disk Hunt Volleyball Tournament Friday, Sept. 26th Derby Disk Hunt Skit Night Saturday, Sept. 27th Scarlet Derby Field Events Date Auction (Winners Announced) |
Contact Information
Derby Daddy
Adam Schrank
Adam.Schrank@valpo.edu
Homecoming 2003 Schedule
Friday, October 3rd
6pm – 9pm
Closed Party with KKG, Gamma Phi Beta, Lambda Chi Alpha on Sigma Chi Property. BBQ with Music and Dancing.
Preliminary Theme: White Trash. Games to include horseshoes, varmint hunting, and hubcap toss.
Saturday, October 4th
7am – 9am
Football Game
Old, Tired, Out of Shape Alumni Brothers vs. Virile, Active Brothers
6pm – 12am
Homecoming Dance
Casa del Roma
Dinner (Alumni Cost $20 per plate), Cash Bar, Musical Stylings of Muhammad
Donations to cover all costs much appreciated
Please RSVP with our social chair by September 28th if you plan on attending. All alumni brothers attending will be charged at the door.
Sunday, October 5th
12pm - (TBA)
Chapter Meeting
email matt.wallace@valpo.edu for information on location.
Contact Information
Social Chair
Jeff Borchardt
(219)-464-6438
(254)-857-4136
jeff.borchardt@valpo.edu
August 10, 2003
Iota Sigma Dominates at BLTW
The 56th Balfour Leadership Training Workshop (BLTW) was held in Lincoln, Nebraska July 31st through August 3rd. It is the largest gathering of its kind held by a Greek letter organization. The purpose of the workshop was to provide the nearly 850 undergraduate attendees of the Sigma Chi Fraternity with leadership skills that will help them run an effective chapter at their respective colleges.
Iota Sigma of Sigma Chi was proud to send 6 of its undergraduate brothers to BLTW. Consul Matthew Wallace (’04), Magister Jon Ackerman (’04), Pro Consul Tom Mathews ('05), Adam Dellay (’05), Rishab Malhotra (’06), and Ben Lieske (’06) spent nearly 10 hours per day attending seminars, discussion groups, 
chapter planning sessions and listening to keynote speakers such as 63rd Grand Consul Lee Beauchamp, Grand Pro Consul Keith Krach, and 59th Grand Consul Dick Hester.
BLTW is not only a time for learning and planning for the upcoming year, but also a time of recognition for the chapter’s accomplishments during the past school year. Several awards are presented at BLTW, including the J. Dwight Peterson Award and Legion of Honor Award. “The Peterson Significant Chapter Award is the highest award bestowed upon an undergraduate chapter. Named for Past Grand Consul J. Dwight Peterson, Indiana ’19, the award recognizes excellent, but not impossible, performance by chapters in all major areas of operation and programming. For many years, the Peterson plaque has been a symbol of dedication, idealism, and achievement.” (from sigmachi.org) The Legion of Honor Award recognizes those chapters that run excellent scholarship programs encouraging life long learning and scholastic achievement.
Once again, Iota Sigma has received the highest honor bestowed upon an undergraduate chapter of Sigma Chi. Iota Sigma has frequently enjoyed the company of the Peterson Significant Chapter Award on the ride home from BLTW. In only 13 years as a chapter of Sigma Chi, Iota Sigma has won the Peterson Award 11 times.
Along with the Peterson Award, Iota Sigma was also presented with the Legion of Honor Award. During the past year, Iota Sigma created a scholarship program that raises the minimum GPA above Sigma Chi National Standards and Valparaiso University Standards, as well as implements programs to raise the lower GPAs in the chapter.
Last, and certainly least, of the honors received by Iota Sigma is champions of the annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament. Iota Sigma participated in the tournament with 64 other teams and went on to win the crown for the first time in chapter history. The team consisted of Ben Lieske, Jon Ackerman, Adam Dellay, Rishab Malhotra and Delta Eta Sig Devlin Thomas. Brothers Wallace and Mathews provided moral support, high quality H2O, and worked out cramps using techniques taught to them by members of the Kazawa Atoll.
In closing, Iota Sigma would like to recognize one of Iota Sigma's alumni, Tim Birner ('02) for his "presence" at BLTW. The picture you see at the beginning of the article is of Tim. All were enthused to see him grace the cover of every item one could imagine at BLTW. Tim will be pursuing a career in male modeling focusing on rainwear by Ralph Lauren. Look for his first spread in the Winter 2004 issue of Marshall Fields' Shop 'Till You Drop product catalog.
More information regarding the topics in this article can be found within the links below:
Information Regarding Peterson Application
May 03, 2003
Mysterious Video of Songfest 2003 Surfaces
Recovered from Aegean Sea
This footage was obtained late Thursday night by your faithful webmaster. Sigma Chi Heptagon officials are preliminarily pointing to newly initiated brother Chris Corwin as the potential source while Deep Throat, not seen since Watergate, occupies the second spot on the list of suspects. The complete story of Songfest can be found here: Iota Sigma Three-peats at Songfest
There are two sizes. 19mb and 9mb. Click on picture for streaming video. Right click and select "save target as. . ." to save video to your computer.
May 01, 2003
Iota Sigma Three-peats at Songfest
 |  |  |
Joe Puetz is known for many things on Valparaiso University's campus. To some he is known as the math major with no calculator. To others he is known as the deepest voice in the choir. To his brothers he is known as Magister. Never would his name be confused with "winner", especially winner of three consecutive Songfest 3rd place awards and one Best Theme Award.
As is the Iota Sigma Tradition, Songfest practice began roughly a week and a half before the annual event sponsored by Union Board. Songfest is designed to pit student organizations against eachother as they showcase dance/song routines they have created and practiced.
Songfest Chair Joe Puetz has been selecting music and choreographing Iota Sigma's routine for three years. The math major from Wisconsin believes in unothrodox routines characterized by impromptu falls and music drawn from the bowels of everyone's CD collections.
Asked about his style, Joe Puetz had this to say: "I prefer to call my style a mixing of theátrenuevo and surrealist pop. It's like I take Bach and mix it with Rock. You could call it Mach." Well whatever it was, Joe truly is a musical/dance genius.
This year's routine was created by Joe during his Advanced Topics in Numerical Analysis & Numerical Fluid Dynamics class. "Pillow Talk" contained the musical stylings of Genesis' "I Can't Dance", Tiffany's "I Think We're Alone Now", The Dixie Chicks' "Cowboy Take Me Away", and Juice Newton's "Angel of the Morning". The highlight of the performance was the thrusting of angels Alan Jacobs('06) and Rishab Malhotra('06) into the air as bubbles were blown over the frontline of singing Sigs.
Below you will find pictures taken by the Webmaster's sister, Thera. She is only in the introductory photography class so no complaints about quality. Click for larger version.
We can't dance? Look at that perfect form.
Joe's favorite move is the sliding-look-right.
A very dangerous move, especially on chapel steps apx. 18 inches wide.
Just call us angels of the morning . . . baby.
The finale of the show brought the audience to their feet.
April 23, 2003
Iota Sigma Initiates 12 New Brothers
A journey that began in February came to a close on April 12th, 2003. The Spring class of 2003 completed all of the requirements of the pledging program and were initiated as brothers in the Iota Sigma Chapter of Sigma Chi. Conrgrats to our new brothers on their completion of the pledge program. May they wear the white cross worthily throughout life.
Spring 2003
Jeff Borchardt Sophomore Lorena, TX  | Chris Corwin Freshman Galveston, IN  |
Ben Galvin Sophomore St. Louis, MO  | Matt Gutwein Sophomore Aurora, IL  |
Erik Horton Freshman Naperville, IL | Alan Jacobs Freshman Peru, IL  |
Jim Klein Freshman Burr Ridge, IL  | Jesse Kurth Freshman Naperville, IL  |
Ben Lieske Freshman Valparaiso, IN  | Rishab Molhatra Freshman Aurora, IL  |
Drew Renner Freshman Mason, OH  | Reed Williams Freshman Paradise Valley, AZ  |
April 19, 2003
The Art of Sigs: Poetry of Iota Sig Published in Mag
One might recall from his days of pledging that Sigma Chi finds its roots in the Erodelphian Literary Society. Though at Valparaiso we do not stem from such lofty a background (all apologies to the days of DTP), many of our brothers have shared some of those same literary interests upon which Sigma Chi was founded.
In the most recent issue of The Magazine of Sigma Chi, one of Iota Sigma's own was featured in the special section dedicated to "The Art of Sigs". The poetry of brother Steven Zittergruen ('02) was originally composed while he was an undergraduate, however can presently be found on page 34 of the Magazine.
Steve graduated in 2002 from Valpo, majoring in Theology and completing work in Christ College. Currently he is enrolled as a first year seminary student at Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary in Columbia, South Carolina.
A MEDITATION ON FROST
by Steven Zittergruen ('02)
A lazy road less traveled calls
that I might venture down its way.
"It's made the difference" some proclaim
but there before the fork I stall.
I neither know nor care to say
what merit runs with little use.
Although one path's seen more abuse
what good is wear to judge my way?
So here I stand in sweet reprieve
from saunters deep through snowy wood,
refusing use to judge the good,
I idly kick at the frosty leaves.
Beneath the poplars I discern
what's popular is often right.
Since many students brave the plight
suppose that I refused to learn!
So use and wear we'd best ignore -
but beauty, truth, and justice seek -
lest others on our conscience breach
as we stare at the forest floor.
But also know it's rather rash
to limit choice to just two paths.
If others' ways are not for me
I"ll gladly through the forest crash.
Upon further investigation, Steve also has another poem at SigmaChi.org
ON HASTE
by Steven Zittergruen ('02)
A lone tree towers on a hill
Stands perched as one alone, although
It stands within a forest still;
the other trees lie far below
Withered and dead it harshly stands
like a dagger above the rest
void of branches, as if a brand
plunged into Nature’s very breast.
It quickly grew and fast did leave
The canopy where it was weaned
But then it could find no reprieve
From wild sun that harshly beamed
For in its haste to leave the ground
It did not slow and recognize
It needed other trees around
To shield it from the bitter sky
And in the same way men do err
By vainly lusting after power
But quickly fall into despair.
When over others they do tower.
Still, high above the zenith peaks
The tree, a testament to see
Loud shouting ‘blessed are the meek’
And dead and damned will others be
April 13, 2003
Consul's Farewell Address to the Chapter
Consul’s Farewell Address to the Chapter
David J. Martens
April 13, 2003
Remembering that our roots lie within that of a literary society, I believe it important that each Consul, at the close of his term, should address the chapter after a period of introspection and reflection. My hope is that it becomes a long standing tradition in which he aims to summate his term as the leader of the chapter, perhaps providing insight to the alumni brothers, closure for undergraduate brothers, and learned lessons for those who are yet to come.
In our lives, we go through stages or cycles—and this Iota Sigma Chapter of Sigma Chi is no different. Today we finish our most recent chapter in what has been a storied history of this organization at Valparaiso University. But just as we end, we also begin, turning the page with the introduction of new members to our order, and new leaders to assist us as we forge ahead.
This address comes after moments of reflection in which I replayed the year in my head and asked those simple but important questions: What have we done? What have we learned? How are we better having spent this together? Reflection, contemplation, a thoughtful pause—whatever it may be, is of vital importance. We can only learn from our experiences if we understand them. Heed the lesson from our I-Week readings; reminding us the importance of closing our mouths for a moment to let our caged bird of thought and imagination fly freely.
Examining the most recent chapter of the Iota Sigma story, we find a group of men who continue to demonstrate that they are of high minds and strong hearts. For any group of individuals to succeed together as unit requires that their foundation is a sound one. Ours is sound in that we remain grounded in the Ritual. We continue to make that our top priority—all of our activities, programs, and efforts can be traced to it. We do things because they are the right thing to do, not because they bring us honor or accolades. It is at the heart of who we are. Through our ritual we build a sense of true brotherhood, which enables us to achieve whatever we set out to accomplish.
It is that brotherhood that dictates the course of our actions. And it is that brotherhood that binds us together, in good times and bad. This year we have seen great moments, be it winning recognition at the Indiana State Day or hosting a Derby Days campaign that not only captivated the campus community but also raised the bar in the arena of philanthropic contributions. But we have also seen tough times—none more difficult than that fateful week in February in which we lost one of our own.
But again, we are called upon to learn from these experiences. In our darkest hour, with the dark clouds of adversity engulfing us—when our hearts were sore, faith weak, and courage all but gone, we endured. Moreover, we flourished. The essence of an organization’s character is tested and truly revealed in times of trial. Do not forget praying together. Sitting in that church together. Riding in that bus, together. Saying goodbye together. Take lessons from that experience. When times are hard we do not quit. We may falter but we do not fall. We pause, we collect ourselves, and we continue onward—together.
And so we must continue onward in our mission on this campus. We must continue to seek out ways in which we can live our values everyday—by both example and activity. It means choosing to be involved in causes in the campus community, for by doing so, not only do we grow and mature and learn, but we share ourselves with those around us. This chapter was the impetus for bringing respectability back to the Greek community when it began 13 years ago. We must continue the commitment to standing out and being a catalyst for what happens and what matters in this campus and community. That requires courage and ambition. We have both. But we must see it through to fruition. We must dream big and then do big. We say that world expects more of us than it does of other men. Each of us must continue to ask ourselves, “Are we meeting those expectations?”
It is helpful to regularly ask ourselves why we exist as a fraternity—and specifically, what each of us is doing here. Ponder, ‘Why does Sigma Chi matter?’ Why do I invest my time, my talents, and my means in this chapter? What am I putting in, and concurrently, getting out?
As we are reminded in our pledgeship, Sigma Chi is about asking questions, for it is through those inquiries that each of us can learn and find our own answers. If we do not question, we do not grow and improve. My own inquiries affirm that Sigma Chi matters because it is about personal relationships—relationships that help us learn from another, and if we have the courage, to do great things. It builds character, sometimes in ways we might never imagine. Weekly chapter meetings provide an exercise in standing up and declaring what we believe, both as a group and as individuals. Leadership opportunities give us lessons in life and relationships. Our Ritual reminds us to seek what is noblest and best. These things only begin to explain why I am proud to wear the badge of this fraternity—and why the experiences it has given me are immeasurable in value.
Oftentimes a brother will bring in a literary work to read to the chapter, be it an inspirational quote or perhaps words from a great thinker. From those readings we learn lessons from those who have come before us. We aim to make ourselves better through the experiences of those speaking to us. But we must not forget that in our midst we have our own great thinkers. The names Peterson, Puetz, Ackerman and Johnson (to name a few) while not Aurelius or Socrates, provide insight and wisdom in its most personal form. Each of us here are philosophers of sorts, our words providing guidance, insight, and means of aiding one another. Never forget the power of your voice—and always listen. Hear what is said and take it to heart.
This group of individuals is a special one. It has been the greatest honor for me to serve as your Consul. I will never forget the shared experiences and countless things I have learned because of this opportunity—and because of my interactions with each of you.
You now begin a new chapter to the Iota Sigma story. And you do so with an optimistic and confident eye to the future. Continue to strive for what is noblest and best and you will be able to say with clarity and assuredness that you have finished your work.
Laugh. Smile. Be different. Be proud. And enjoy every step of the way.
Consul's Farewell Address to the Chapter
Consul’s Farewell Address to the Chapter
David J. Martens
April 13, 2003
Remembering that our roots lie within that of a literary society, I believe it important that each Consul, at the close of his term, should address the chapter after a period of introspection and reflection. My hope is that it becomes a long standing tradition in which he aims to summate his term as the leader of the chapter, perhaps providing insight to the alumni brothers, closure for undergraduate brothers, and learned lessons for those who are yet to come.
In our lives, we go through stages or cycles—and this Iota Sigma Chapter of Sigma Chi is no different. Today we finish our most recent chapter in what has been a storied history of this organization at Valparaiso University. But just as we end, we also begin, turning the page with the introduction of new members to our order, and new leaders to assist us as we forge ahead.
This address comes after moments of reflection in which I replayed the year in my head and asked those simple but important questions: What have we done? What have we learned? How are we better having spent this together? Reflection, contemplation, a thoughtful pause—whatever it may be, is of vital importance. We can only learn from our experiences if we understand them. Heed the lesson from our I-Week readings; reminding us the importance of closing our mouths for a moment to let our caged bird of thought and imagination fly freely.
Examining the most recent chapter of the Iota Sigma story, we find a group of men who continue to demonstrate that they are of high minds and strong hearts. For any group of individuals to succeed together as unit requires that their foundation is a sound one. Ours is sound in that we remain grounded in the Ritual. We continue to make that our top priority—all of our activities, programs, and efforts can be traced to it. We do things because they are the right thing to do, not because they bring us honor or accolades. It is at the heart of who we are. Through our ritual we build a sense of true brotherhood, which enables us to achieve whatever we set out to accomplish.
It is that brotherhood that dictates the course of our actions. And it is that brotherhood that binds us together, in good times and bad. This year we have seen great moments, be it winning recognition at the Indiana State Day or hosting a Derby Days campaign that not only captivated the campus community but also raised the bar in the arena of philanthropic contributions. But we have also seen tough times—none more difficult than that fateful week in February in which we lost one of our own.
But again, we are called upon to learn from these experiences. In our darkest hour, with the dark clouds of adversity engulfing us—when our hearts were sore, faith weak, and courage all but gone, we endured. Moreover, we flourished. The essence of an organization’s character is tested and truly revealed in times of trial. Do not forget praying together. Sitting in that church together. Riding in that bus, together. Saying goodbye together. Take lessons from that experience. When times are hard we do not quit. We may falter but we do not fall. We pause, we collect ourselves, and we continue onward—together.
And so we must continue onward in our mission on this campus. We must continue to seek out ways in which we can live our values everyday—by both example and activity. It means choosing to be involved in causes in the campus community, for by doing so, not only do we grow and mature and learn, but we share ourselves with those around us. This chapter was the impetus for bringing respectability back to the Greek community when it began 13 years ago. We must continue the commitment to standing out and being a catalyst for what happens and what matters in this campus and community. That requires courage and ambition. We have both. But we must see it through to fruition. We must dream big and then do big. We say that world expects more of us than it does of other men. Each of us must continue to ask ourselves, “Are we meeting those expectations?”
It is helpful to regularly ask ourselves why we exist as a fraternity—and specifically, what each of us is doing here. Ponder, ‘Why does Sigma Chi matter?’ Why do I invest my time, my talents, and my means in this chapter? What am I putting in, and concurrently, getting out?
As we are reminded in our pledgeship, Sigma Chi is about asking questions, for it is through those inquiries that each of us can learn and find our own answers. If we do not question, we do not grow and improve. My own inquiries affirm that Sigma Chi matters because it is about personal relationships—relationships that help us learn from another, and if we have the courage, to do great things. It builds character, sometimes in ways we might never imagine. Weekly chapter meetings provide an exercise in standing up and declaring what we believe, both as a group and as individuals. Leadership opportunities give us lessons in life and relationships. Our Ritual reminds us to seek what is noblest and best. These things only begin to explain why I am proud to wear the badge of this fraternity—and why the experiences it has given me are immeasurable in value.
Oftentimes a brother will bring in a literary work to read to the chapter, be it an inspirational quote or perhaps words from a great thinker. From those readings we learn lessons from those who have come before us. We aim to make ourselves better through the experiences of those speaking to us. But we must not forget that in our midst we have our own great thinkers. The names Peterson, Puetz, Ackerman and Johnson (to name a few) while not Aurelius or Socrates, provide insight and wisdom in its most personal form. Each of us here are philosophers of sorts, our words providing guidance, insight, and means of aiding one another. Never forget the power of your voice—and always listen. Hear what is said and take it to heart.
This group of individuals is a special one. It has been the greatest honor for me to serve as your Consul. I will never forget the shared experiences and countless things I have learned because of this opportunity—and because of my interactions with each of you.
You now begin a new chapter to the Iota Sigma story. And you do so with an optimistic and confident eye to the future. Continue to strive for what is noblest and best and you will be able to say with clarity and assuredness that you have finished your work.
Laugh. Smile. Be different. Be proud. And enjoy every step of the way.
April 07, 2003
The King Comes to Valpo
Royalty came to Valpo this February, even if it were only in name, as Order of Constantie Sig Ed King came to Valparaiso to speak to the Greek Community. The visit was sponsored by the undergraduate chapter, the Valpo Greek Life office, and the Sigma Chi Educational Foundation at Valparaiso University (SCEFVU), the first educational speech SCEFVU has sponsored in its short history.
King presented to two separate groups, first holding a workshop for the executive boards of all of the Greek organizations and then holding the "New Member Retreat" for all fraternity and sorority new members. Both presentations focused on the role of Greeks as ritual-based organizations and encouraged groups to focus on that nature when confronting and addressing problems.
Before the presentations, Mr. King dined with members of the current Iota Sigma executive committee, sharing with them some of his stories having served as the Grand Tribune, the spiritual leader of the international fraternity.
Brian Kramer, board member of SCEFVU, was happy they could help bring King to campus as their first sponsored speaker.
"The Foundation was pleased to bring Mr. King to campus. We are committed to bringing different speakers to campus, especially those who deliver a message to the entire Valparaiso University community."
In the past year SCEFVU has given out over $1,000 in scholarships to high achieving brothers.
A special thanks goes out to alumni Russ Zell, who generously contributed money to aid in bringing Mr. King to campus.
To read some of Mr. King's thoughts on fraternal rituals, please peruse the link below.
"Secret Thoughts of a Ritual"
- By Ed King
March 27, 2003
2003 Golf Outing Information
Where:
The Course at Aberdeen
When:
May 3rd, 2003 1:30pm
Cost:
$85 (includes 18 holes w/cart, 4 free drink tickets, steak dinner,hole prizes, and gift certificates for the winning team.)
Proceeds benefit:
All proceeds go to Sigma Chi Educational Foundation at Valparaiso University which provides for undergraduate scholarships and educational programming such as Ed King's visit this February.
Golf Format:
Scramble
Directions:
From Hwy 30, go South on Tower Rd (S.R. 250) at the Aberdeen billboard. Course is 2 miles down on your left.
Sponsoring:
The opportunity to sponsor a hole is available. The cost is $100 and we will place your name and business on it. Please contact us ASAP so that sign will arrive on time.
Contact Information:
Please contact Jon Adams if you have any questions at Jon.Adams@valpo.edu or (847) 830-0131.
Make checks payable to Sigma Chi Fraternity.
Mail to: Dave Martens 404 Monroe St. Valparaiso, IN 46383
Links of Interest:
Even better directions to the course
March 20, 2003
Godspeed to Our Brothers in the Military
On March 19th, 2003 at approximately 9:00pm, the war with Iraq began.President Bush's warnings to Saddam Hussein and his sons to leave Iraq in 48 hours went unheeded. President Bush stated,
"On my orders, coalition forces have begun striking selected targets of military importance to undermine Saddam Hussein's ability to wage war. These are opening stages of what will be a broad and concerted campaign."
The impact of this event has been felt around the world and especially by the families and friends of the men and women serving in the military. The brothers of the Iota Sigma chapter of Sigma Chi are also concerned about their loved ones in the military. Our chapter has several alumni serving in the military as well as active brothers serving in the Air Force ROTC.
In this time of incredible peril, we wish to hold in our hearts those brothers affected most directly by this event. I, as Webmaster, have tried to collect the names of all the Alumni I could that are currently serving in our military. If any brothers or other readers of this article know of any Iota Sigma brothers not listed who are serving, please email me at tom.mathews@valpo.edu.
Iota Sigma's prayers go out to all of those serving in the military at this dangerous time in history. We wish the best to all of you in the war and hope that you will return to the USA safely. Godspeed to our brothers in the military and to the other troops.
Dan Carlson
Graduated in 2000 with BS in Mechanical Engineering
United States Navy
Lieutenant Junior Grade
Reactor Department as the Machinery-1 Division Officer
USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72)
Currently located in Persian Gulf
Keith Fleischer
Graduated in 2001 with a BS in Mechanical Engineering
United States Air Force
Graduated Air Force Officer Training School Nov. 8, 2002
Civil Engineering Officer
Demolitions Engineer
Stationed at Eielson Air Force Base Alaska
Patrick Sanchez
Graduation Date Unknown
United States Air Force
Rank Unknown
Location Unknown
Bryan "Boomer" Kaisk
Graduated in 2002 with BA in Photography
United States Air Force
Enlisted on March 16th, 2003
To begin training shortly
Todd Blum
Graduation in 2005
BS in Meteorology
Air Force ROTC
Cadet Third Class
Dan Santiago
Graduation in 2005
BS in Meteorology
Air Force ROTC
Cadet Third Class
Once again, if you have any information about the above brothers or about brothers no listed above, please email it to me at tom.mathews@valpo.edu.
March 04, 2003
Chapter Takes Home Hester Award at State Day
The Iota Sigma chapter of Sigma Chi took home the Richard E. Hester Award this year at the 111th Annual Sigma Chi Indiana State Day in Indianapolis, IN. The Hester Award is bestowed annually on the chapter which demonstrates the greatest commitment to philanthropic activities for the previous year.
It is said to have been the first non-Balfour award Iota Sigma has taken home from the annual State Day festivities.
Headlining the award-winning Iota Sigma philanthropic program was the 2002 Spring Break trip which saw 18 brothers travel to Ft. Meyers, FL to build houses with Habitat for Humanity. That program was made possible by a grant through the Lilly Foundation, totaling nearly $8,000.
In addition, the chapter raised over $6,500 for Children’s Miracle Network, and participated in numerous philanthropy projects including the World Relief Campaign with Christ Lutheran Church, leaf raking for elderly citizens in the area, and an ongoing tutoring and mentoring problem with the local Boys and Girls Club. Other activities included adopting needy families at Christmastime, work with the Salvation Army, and active participation in several campus philanthropies.
The selection committee was also impressed with the level of participation by the brotherhood in the events. Pledge class projects which ranged from campus cleanups to major yard-work for a homebound woman stood out as importantly integrating philanthropy in the first Sigma Chi experiences of new members—building a tradition for the remaining years to come.
The Hester Award was instituted in 1998 and is designed to recognize chapters that exemplify the message of L.O.V.E. that Past Grand Consul (and special friend of Iota Sigma) Dick Hester preaches: Live Our Values Everyday.
“It’s quite an honor for us to receive this award,” commented Consul David Martens. “It recognizes the long commitment our chapter has had throughout our history, giving of its time and talents to others—an important part of who we are and what we stand for in this community.”
January 06, 2003
Brother Kaisk Presents Photo Show on China
Webmaster proclaims, "New Renaissance is upon us!"
Yes, the New Renaissance truly is here. This past December, Senior Bryan “Boomer” Kaisk presented his final photo show in the Valparaiso University Center for the Arts. He is a Photography major and recently graduated this winter. Boomer created a show that was specifically based on his travels in China. Entitled “Made in China”, the show contained a wide range of photography from urban and rural China.
Your faithful webmaster took some time, as did many other brothers, to visit the two week long show at the VUCA. The contents of the show can be explained best by Boomer’s artist statement. Here is an excerpt from the statement:
"This series of photographs is based upon the everyday life, culture and traditions of China and its people. My work on
this project is a compilation of photographs taken in 2000 while I was a student at the Yuqan Campus of Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, and also during a three week visit to China in March 2002."
Boomer and I also took some time to visit the show where he explained some of the photographs and shared stories about each. I can say that it was more enlightening than my visit to the Art Institute of Chicago during winter break. Sure, I saw some “art” by Michelangelo, Picasso and Matisse, but “Made in China” proved that even the masterstrokes of these artists do not compare to the passionate photographs of Boomer Kaisk.
Unfortunately, due to copyright problems that could arise, I can't post any direct shots of the photos. Nevertheless, you can nearly see the photographs on the sides of some of the pictures. Disregard my hair in the picture. I assure you that I am not only healthier looking in real life but that my hair is actually similar to Fabio's. If you are interested in purchasing any of Boomer's photographs, please send an email to webmaster@iotasigma.org. I accept cash. I mean Boomer accepts cash.
To view the images of Boomer's artist statement as well as the campus wide posters announcing the show, follow these links.
Artist Statement
Photo Show Poster
December 01, 2002
Senior Bryan "Boomer" Kaisk's Photo Show on Display Dec. 4th
Boomer's days at Valpo are near an end. His final work as a student at VU is completed and ready to be displayed in the Valparaiso University Center for the Arts. Last Year, Boomer traveled to China for a semester to study. While in China, he took hundreds of photos for his major in Photography. Beginning Dec. 4th "Made in China" will open in the Strimbu Memorial Gallery located in the VUCA. The show will run from the 4th through the 18th. On December 10th at 5pm, Boomer will be presenting his artist remarks about the project and taking any questions you may have. All are encouraged to visit the exhibit to see Brother Boomer's work.
November 30, 2002
Brothers Dan Santiago and Todd Blum Take Air Force Oath
Valparaiso's campus and Sigma Chi have the distinct honor of possessing 10% of the Air Force Meteorologist recruits. Dan Santiago ('05) and Todd Blum ('05) were sworn in as Air Force ROTC members in late November. Both meteorology majors, they hold the honor of being two of the few and proud Meteorologists in the Air Force. They were sworn in along with two other Met majors in a ceremony that marked the beginning of paid service for the Air Force. Brothers Blum and Santiago are still members of the ROTC program but now have taken one of the first in several oaths to become full fledged Air Force members.
November 12, 2002
Fall 2002 Class Initiated
On November 9th, Fall 2002 pledge class members were initiated into Sigma Chi. After successfully completing the nearly 2 month pledging process and a grueling National Exam, these men proved their worth to wear our badge, the White Cross. Members of the pledge class are Kevin Perri, Adam Dellay, Chris Shaffer, Phillip Morris, Dan Santiago, Tyler Neeman, and Nate Osterbur. Your assistant webmaster was excited with the members of the pledge due to their commitment to the program and also because none of them were able to top his high score of 191.5 on the pledge exam.
August 02, 2002
Iota Sigma Alum Competes for a Cure
For many of the undergraduates at Valparaiso, summer means re-runs of "Webster",a summer job selling lawn gnomes or an escape from the roommate that had more problems than Vin Diesel's acting. However, for one Valparaiso graduate and Iota Sigma Alumnus, summer means waking up at 5am to commence training that will benefit the millions suffering from cancer. Rob Greanias ('92) trains every morning to prepare himself and his team for the Big Kahuna Triathlon.
Rob is the captain of a team in the Team-in-Training program (TNT). TNT is part of the Leukemia-Lymphoma Society (LLS). It is a non-profit organization that focuses on raising funds to promote research, treatment, and recovery of blood-related cancers. TNT and LLS motivate people to train for endurance races (marathons, century rides, triathlons) while also raising money for those suffering from cancer. 75% of all money raised goes directly towards research and treatment.
The Big Kahuna Triathlon will occur on September 8th in Santa Cruz, California. Rob has been very excited with training for this grueling test of his and his team's strength. They have been competing in other races throughout the
summer and also have been training for this race. However, this could prove to be the hardest of all. It is a half-ironman competition consisting of 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and 13.1 mile run. Rob feels confident though, knowing that every bit his team gives will help those in the most serious need.
Rob is interested in receiving some financial help from anyone that is interested. The money will be going to LLS and will be helping to combat the terrible cancers that afflict so many. Rob has also been very generous in pledging that every twenty-five dollar contribution made he will match with a contribution to the Housing Corporation.
All donations are also tax deductible so LLS and TNT will be sending you a receipt that you may file with you accountant. Rob has made a donation form that you can fill out with your much appreciated and needed amount. It is available here in Word format. The form can also be found on Rob's homepage under the letters section and under this story.
We wish Rob the best of luck in the Big Kahuna Triathlon. We are all proud that a man of such ambitious purposes and good character represents our chapter and Fraternity. Godspeed, Brother Rob.
Links Concerning this Story
Team-in-Training
Leukemia-Lymphoma Society
Big Kahuna Triathlon
Rob Greanias Homepage
Donation Pledge Form
June 05, 2002
Valpo Sigs Intern with Sig Alum
Three brothers from the Iota Sigma chapter at Valparaiso University were offered the chance this summer to leave the business college behind and apply what they have learned there in the real world of business. Pat Byron, Marty Rathmann, and Karl Nelson left the sheltered environment of Urschel Hall to intern at My Smart Benefits. Co-founded by Sigma Chi Alumni Jonathan E. Hogge, My Smart benefits "provides consumer-driven, freedom-of-choice employee benefit plans to employers of all types."
All three received notification of the internship in April and began work in the middle of May. Some of the various tasks they complete daily include, but are not limited to, calling insurance agents and brokers to educate them on products and services, preparing agent/broker kits, and running proposals for all product lines and services for requesting agents or brokers.
The internship will not end for the brothers this summer. After completing a
thirteen (13) week training period beginning late July, they will continue to
intern at My Smart Benefits. Currently they work roughly 40 hours a week but
will only work on Fridays during the school year. This tremendous opportunity
will enable them to apply their studies to a real business environment and a real business environment to their studies. Don't worry ladies, this will not interfere with their attendance at various social gatherings. Unlike the other 98% of Valpo students, business majors never have classes on Fridays.
As could be expected of these brothers, they have received recognition for their ambitious purposes. All have excelled in their work and have been offered several impressive opportunities. Says Jack M. Lait, Vice President of Sales:
Patrick, Karl and Marty have progressed at a faster pace than expected from first time Sales Interns, shown a willingness to learn and
level of maturity and responsibility above the typical college senior. Because of their tremendous progress, they have been invited to attend and participate in the annual Direct Reimbursement Days Convention at the American Dental Association headquarters in downtown Chicago, August 2-4 and will in all probability be offered a full time position upon graduation.
Congratulations to Pat, Karl and Marty on a job well done and the best of luck with the business world. Thanks to Brother Pat Byron for his help with supplying the information and Jack M. Lait for his comments on the brothers. Last but not least, thanks to Jonathan Hogge for offering these men of good character the opportunity to work for him.
May 10, 2002
A Different Kind of Spring Break
 |
| Sigs pose proudly in front of their work. |
In recent years, Spring Break has become an explosive phenomenon amongst college students. Many engage in weeklong parties and beach blasts in sunny paradises to forget about life for a week. However, the men of the Iota Sigma Chapter of Sigma Chi opted for a different sort of break. In the first week of March, nineteen brothers accompanied by three faculty members traveled to Ft. Meyers, Florida to build houses with the Habitat for Humanity program as well as take part in a weeklong discussion about vocation.
The trip was made possible by a $7,800 grant from The Valparaiso University Project on the Theological Discernment of Vocation, an entity charged with distributing monies granted from the Lilly Foundation in order to promote theological discernment of vocation. The aim is to assist students exploring the idea of vocation — and what each individual is called to do in his or her life.
A long two-day journey facilitated by the able driving skills of faculty members Dr. Mike Johnson (Sociology), Dr. Larry Mainstone (Marketing) and Dr. David Weber (Theology), was required to reach the sunny destination. Brothers passed the time with competitive Euchre tournaments, Trivial Pursuit competitions, and sleep while the drivers questioned their sanity in agreeing to accompany 18 college men on their Spring Break.
Each day brothers would rise before 7:00 A.M. before heading off to the Habitat worksite where they engaged in roofing, plumbing, electrical, and exterior work, amongst many other activities. A site supervisor along with several other volunteers worked with the Sigma Chi crew to help push four houses close to completion while raising the walls of another.
Hard Workin’ Men
The daily 6:30 A.M. wakeup call administered by an all-to-eager Ben Gustafson (12) jolted brothers out of their beds, reminding them that on this Spring Break, sleeping was not a key component. Staying at a Baptist retreat center on Ft. Meyer’s beach, groups of brothers took turns cooking breakfast and dinner and preparing sack lunches for the days’ work.
After eating, brothers set off to work at a Habitat for Humanity housing site. Habitat is an organization that utilizes volunteers in order to build affordable houses for low-income families (Habitat for Humanity is available at http://www.habitatforhumanity.com/). Day one saw brothers focusing primarily on the roofs and exteriors of four houses in a new Habitat neighborhood. Junior Cayle Tompkins, having worked previously in the roofing industry helped assist the site supervisor in showing less-experienced brothers what to do.
“We just listened to Cayle,” commented Adam Schrank (10). “We didn’t know what we were doing but he seemed to have a clue—so we let him order us around.”
The day’s work also brought a welcome surprise. Working at the site was Sig Jerry Havill (University of Rochester ’54), who retired to Florida, spending much of his time helping Habitat.
“That was one of the highlights of the week for me,” commented Brian Niec (11). “It was pretty cool to come to Florida to give a little back and be able to do it alongside a fellow Sigma Chi.”
The second day brought the men back to the same site, this time focusing on electrical work, plumbing, and perhaps most enjoyable, the digging of a hole for a septic tank.
“That was one big hole,” commented Marty Rathmann (11), describing the 5-foot deep hole that numerous brothers made their focus. “It took us forever but it was worth it.”
Day three saw the raising of a house, literally from the ground up. Upon arrival at the site, all that existed was a concrete slab and pre-fabricated walls, lying on the ground. By the time the day was over there stood the resemblance of a house—an experience very fulfilling after one day’s work.
“It’s great to be able to see the fruits of your labor,” commented Steve Zittergruen (12), responsible for the grant proposal and planning for the trip. “Being able to walk away at the end of the day and seeing so much progress was fulfilling.”
Vocation: Exploring What We’re Doing—And Why We’re Doing It
The trip’s theme provided for not only hard work during the day under the Florida sun but also a time in the evening to rest and contemplate, focusing not only the work that was being done that week, but also the work that each brother might be doing for the rest of their lives. The question, “What am I meant to be doing with my life—and for what purpose?” was asked often.
Dr. David Weber, Assistant Professor of Theology at Valparaiso University, led daily discussions about vocation, using a collection of works edited by VU Professor Gilbert Meileander in order to stimulate discussion and encourage self-reflection. Brothers read a variety of pieces to provide background for conversation, including the philosophy of Aristotle and Karl Marx, the literary works of Leo Tolstoy and Mark Twain, and even a commentary on baseball by columnist George F. Will. Time would be spent discussing the readings—and how each brother saw the idea of ‘calling’ fitting into their lives.
Discussion often would turn into debate, while topics of ethics, corporate responsibility, relaxation, and the 60-hour workweek were argued and deliberated.
“I think our discussion time went very well,” commented junior, Bryan Callahan. “It was cool to listen to what some of the guys had to say. It made me think a lot about some things in my life—and where I might be headed in the coming years.”
Dave Martens (11) also thought the vocation focus of the trip was important. “Many of us have been somewhat going through motions in our collegiate careers. This provided us the opportunity to step back and examine what we’re doing.”
Taking It Back Home
Discussion didn’t end during the evening sessions, however. The long ride home provided ample time for continued conversation, mixing debate on vocation with the proper seeding of the Valpo basketball team that was to take place the evening of the return.
“I wasn’t sure exactly what I was going to get out of this trip,” commented Pat Byron (11), “but it gave me a lot to think about. It was a really rewarding experience and I hope we have the opportunity to allow others to do something similar in the future.”
April 15, 2002
Tim Birner To Be Sigma Chi Leadership Consultant
The Sigma Chi International Fraternity has announced its new Leadership Consultant staff for the 2002-2003 school year. Valparaiso Sig Tim Birner (’02) was one of seven chosen out of over sixty applicants to join the ranks of the staff at Headquarters in Evanston, IL.
Sigma Chi Leadership Consultants spend the year travelling the country, sharing the message of Sigma Chi with each of the undergraduate chapters. After completion of a 12-week training program, each LC is assigned approximately 30 chapters with which he is to work with throughout the 2002-2003 academic year. Most of their time will be spent traveling throughout North America, sitting down with undergraduate chapters to talk about improvement, obligations, and overall relations between the local chapter and the international fraternity.
Tim begins his term as a Leadership Consultant on June 17, when he will move up to Evanston to live with the other LC’s to undergo an intensive 12 week training program. Their first responsibilities will be to help with the planning and execution of the Balfour Leadership Training Workshop (held at Murray State, Kentucky this year) as well as preparation for Grand Council, both to be held this summer.
“I feel that a role as a Leadership Consultant would give me an opportunity to help to facilitate improvements in the fraternity that I love, while allowing for personal growth,” commented Birner. “I believe that I have acquired the skills necessary to help undergraduate brothers across this country lead their respective chapters into the future of Sigma Chi. I can only imagine that such an experience will yield more personal growth than I could ever imagine, as I look forward to further involvement as a Sigma Chi alumnus.”
Tim joins Frank Dale (’99) as the only Iota Sigs to serve the fraternity as Leadership Consultants.
Tim is a senior Political Science major and History minor, with plans to graduate this May. He hails from St. Louis, MO, but was born and spent a great deal of his childhood in Papua, New Guinea. In March he will be taking the Foreign Service Oral Exam in Washington, D.C., after first passing the written exam. If he passes that hurdle, he hopes to enter the U.S. Foreign Service after his one-year term as an LC expires, possibly returning to his native New Guinea.
March 15, 2002
Consul Ryan Wolf Wins International Scholarship
This summer, Brother Ryan Wolf ('02) was awarded a Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship. The award, which covers up to $25,000 in tuition and school-related expenses for one year, will likely send Ryan to Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. At Trinity, he hopes to pursue a one-year masters degree in International Peace Studies.
Currently the Consul at Iota Sigma for the 2001-02 school year, Ryan applied for the scholarship late last spring. To win the award, candidates must first be nominated by a local Rotary chapter, and then beat out the nominees from other local chapters in a multiple state region. After reviewing his application and conducting an informal interview, the Valparaiso chapter of Rotary decided upon Ryan as their nominee.
At the regional level, Ryan competed against nominees from chapters in the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana areas, from such schools as Notre Dame and Northwestern. After another interview and a few weeks of waiting, Ryan was selected as the 2001 recipient.
Rotary International, a worldwide organization with chapters in well over 100 countries, annually provides such scholarships to students picked from a regional pool of applicants. Ambassadorial Scholars are expected to promote cultural awareness and understanding in their host country, sharing the American perspective on issues while experiencing other viewpoints as well. Candidates are expected to be intelligent, hard-working, globally conscious, and dedicated to leadership and community service.
Ryan is a double major in Political Science and Humanities. He is also minoring in Film Studies.
"It's an honor to receive a scholarship like this from a service-minded organization like Rotary," said Wolf. "The program at Trinity will be great. I can't wait."
March 01, 2002
VU Sig Earns Fraternity Honor
At Indiana's Sigma Chi State Day in Indianapolis, Valparaiso Sigma Chi President Ryan Wolf earned the Provincial Balfour Award for the Northern Indiana Province.
One of the highest honors awarded to undergraduates each year, the Balfour Award, created in 1929 through the generosity of L.G. Balfour, for whom it is named, celebrates scholarship, character, campus leadership, and Fraternity service.
Wolf, who works as a research assistant for Valparaiso University's Community Outreach Partnership Center, excels in each of the aforementioned categories. A member of the political science, social science, Greek, and senior honor societies, Wolf recently received the Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship, providing up to $25,000 in tuition, room and board for one year of graduate studies. Wolf will attend the Irish School of Ecumenics in conjunction with Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland to pursue a one-year master's in international peace studies.
Throughout his college career, Wolf has been actively involved in campus leadership. As a sophomore, he served the University as an Orientation Assistant. Despite his extensive time commitments to the Torch as Sports Editor, he organized a successful bid for Student Senate, receiving the Senator of the Month award in April of 2000. As a junior, he became part of the Senate Executive Committee as the Public Relations Coordinator. Recently, he co-authored a Faith and Service Travel Grant Proposal for Lilly Project on Theological Exploration of Vocational Discernment at Valparaiso University.
Serving as the thirteenth consul of the Iota Sigma chapter, Wolf strives to help the chapter and its individual members achieve full potential. His tenure has featured a revived focus on scholarship, alumni involvement in chapter affairs, and an intense personal dedication to harmony and philanthropy. Previously, he served the chapter as Ritual Chair and as Inter-Fraternity Council representative.
"My experience as Consul has finally provided me that opportunity to really challenge myself," said Wolf. "I feel I've been able to approach my potential by helping Iota Sigma do the same. I am very honored and humbled to receive such a prestigious award."
Wolf expects to graduate in May 2002 Magna Cum Laude with majors in political science and the humanities. He will contend for the International Balfour Award, which will be awarded this summer at Sigma Chi Leadership Training Workshop.
February 25, 2002
Stine Gets Robbed at "Mr. Valpo"
Some called his performance masterful. Others, poetic. But no can debate the hilarity that was Matt Stine ('04) on stage.
Stine competed as the Sigma Chi nominee to the Mr. Valpo competition, the annual fundraiser put on by the fine women from the Gamma Phi Beta sorority. The contest pits several gentlemen from the student community against one another through sash, talent, and question competitions.
The main goal of the event, however, was to raise money for Camp Millhouse, a camp in South Bend, IN, that serves mentally and physically disabled children.
Stine, along with his brothers raised over $350 for the charity, claiming the title of "Mr. Money", as the candidate who raised the most for the organization. Stine's $350 led the almost $1,500 that the event raised.
Stine showed strongly in the sash and eveningwear competition, impressing the crowd and judges with his dashing good looks and million-dollar smile. However, his performance in the talent portion was by far the highlight of the entire competition.
While most contestants sang songs or played music on their guitars, Stine opted to dazzle with his own musical talent-the electronic mat keyboard. Stine played such classics as "Mary Had A Little Lamb" and "Oh Susanna" with his feet while singing along, much to the enjoyment of the crowd. He even dedicated a song to all of the sailors in the world, playing an old favorite, "Row, Row, Row Your Boat".
While the audience was clearly most pleased by Stine's performance, the judges for some reason did not agree. Stine failed to qualify for the finals.
"We're pretty upset about that," commented Consul Ryan Wolf. "We may look into some sort of formal complaint. Obviously the judges made a mistake."
"I had a great time," commented Stine. "I appreciate the opportunities the brothers gave me as well as all of their support. All of their cheering during my performance was very moving."
No word yet on whether Stine intends to take his skills national. He is making himself available for wedding receptions and graduation parties, however.
"If you're looking for unique entertainment for that special occasion, I might be exactly what you're looking for," he commented.
Sigma Chi has been the biggest organizational giver in the past four years of the Mr. Valpo competition. In three of those years, a Sig has taken home the "Mr. Money" title. Last year, Mike Fabian Jopa ('01) won both the fundraising portion and the overall competition, raising over $1,500 on his own for the charity. The year before that, Chris Gillispie ('03) led the way.
February 21, 2002
Courageous Brother Defends Burrito Joint
Whipped by the wind and snow after hours of wandering with brothers who had just participated in the Sigma Chi Fraternity Indiana State Day, Brother David Manzeske (’02) of Iota Sigma at Valparaiso University found reprieve in a small burrito joint in the Broadripple Bar district in Indianapolis, IN. On that cold evening of February 9, 2002, in the dining area of La Bamba’s Mexican Restaurant, Manzeske became a local burrito joint hero.
While waiting in line for at least fifteen minutes to order a burrito, Manzeske struck up a conversation with the owner of La Bamba’s to inquire about t-shirts sold by the establishment. The men agreed on a transaction, but given the busy nature of the restaurant, postponed their exchange until business slowed slightly. As he waited for Jaime (pronounced HIGH – MAY) to finish up with a few other customers, Manzeske noticed a grave injustice.
It seemed that several unruly college students had devised a scheme to brutally rob Jaime’s business. After having ordered the burritos, these criminals had passed them back to friends who left the restaurant. Shortly thereafter, when it had come time to pay, the said criminals denied their orders and demanded a smaller bill.
As Jaime began to argue with these robbers, Manzeske, recognizing the ideals represented by the White Cross of Sigma Chi, stepped forth to help out his new friend. After a few minutes of intense argument, these dishonest individuals bolted for the door. Quick on his feet, Manzeske moved to block the door. Soon thereafter, the police arrived. Having listened to Manzeske’s testimony, the police required the thieves to pay for their loot. They were then escorted from the premises.
The restaurant exploded with applause. Grateful for Manzeske’s help in saving his business, Jaime offered Manzeske and his friend, fellow Iota Sigma Sig Tim Birner (’02) t-shirts for the effort. Because he felt guilty about taking from a man who had already been victimized once, Manzeske insisted on paying for the shirts.
“I couldn’t help but step in for Jaime. We had developed a pretty close relationship, even during our limited interactions,” said Manzeske. “We must all, as brothers, dedicate ourselves to the ideals for which our badge stands, even if it’s only in a burrito joint in Indianapolis.” He also mentioned that the t-shirts boasted “perhaps the finest quality, both in substance and design, that I have ever seen.”
No one in La Bamba’s will ever forget Brother Manzeske’s heroic efforts to save the establishment.
January 28, 2002
Sigma Chi (Somehow) Wins VU College Bowl
Some might call it intelligence. Some might call it dumb luck. Some might just call them dumb. Regardless how you slice it, you can't take away from the facts - Four men from Iota Sigma now stand as the Valparaiso University College Bowl Champions after heated competition on the afternoon of Saturday, January 26.
Team members Ryan Adler ('02), David Martens ('03), Sam Peterson ('03) and Ryan Wolf ('03) beat out a talented field of 5 other teams to take home the honor of being the best--not to mention the $150 check that goes along with the victory.
College Bowl is a Jeopardy-style game where teams of four compete against one another, buzzers and all, with a variety of questions read by a moderator.
"I think the key moment in the competition occurred before it even began when we drew the first round bye," commented Sam Peterson. "It was just that many more questions we didn't have to face." It also cemented them as the Fraternity champions of the tournament, seeing as no other social fraternities entered the contest.
After their first round bye, the gentlemen faced the women of Kappa Kappa Gamma, beating them with quick thinking and...questions about baseball.
"If it wasn't for the question about (4 time Cy Young Winner) Greg Maddux, I don't think we would have pulled it out," reflected Martens. After answering the question about Maddux, a bonus question involving pitching great Christy Mathewson was answered correctly. "I had no idea. Wolf just blurted it out and it happened to be right."
The baseball answer brought the men roaring back after missing a question involving Christopher Columbus. Each of them were frozen by the question asking, 'What riches-seeker failed to find an alternative route to Asia but is widely credited for the discovery of the New World?'
Wolf, also serving as chapter president, explained the team's failure to answer the question. "We thought it was Christopher Columbus. But what if we answered it and it wasn't Christopher Columbus? Then we would have looked dumb." (Just like you looked dumb for not answering the question at all.)
The semi-final match featured a victory of Team VUDU, members of an improvisation comedy team here at VU. "VUDU was a tough matchup," commented Adler, who was participating in heavy trash talking prior to the match. "Our good looks and charm might have carried us through that round."
Maybe it was that...or the questions about Deion Sanders, Nintendo games, Eddie Murphy movies, and identification of the largest land mammal (the elephant).
Regardless, a tight win led them to a finals re-match with VUDU in the double-elimination tournament. Before the final match, Team Sigma Chi 2K (as they were called) took a ride in Ryan Wolf's Mustang convertible. "We needed to clear our heads," commented Adler, whose penchant for answering questions early caused point-losing wrong answers such as 'Belize', 'Mohammed Omar', and 'Ryan Adler'. (Evidently it was not Ryan Adler who joined Picasso as the founders of the cubism movement.)
The final match drew a large crowd of 20 or so people, made up mostly of groupies that had followed the team from the early matches, including several members of the Chi Omega Sorority. "Their support was vital," commented Peterson. "Especially when the other teams would boo us. I didn't like it when people booed and hissed."
As a result of winning the competition, the gentlemen now have the honor of representing Valparaiso University at the Regional College Bowl championships at Purdue University. The men were dumb(founded).
"What an honor," commented Martens. "We hope to embarrass the University as little as possible when the time comes."
December 01, 2001
Two Seniors Apply for Fulbright Scholarships
Two Seniors of the Iota Sigma chapter have submitted applications for Fulbright Research grants for the 2002-2003 academic year. The very prestigous program allows graduate students to receive funding to study a particular area of interest overseas.
The flagship international educational program sponsored by the United States Government, widely known as the Fulbright Program, is designed to "increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries..." With this goal as a starting point, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 230,000 participants - chosen for their leadership potential - with the opportunity to observe each others' political, economic and cultural institutions, exchange ideas, and embark on joint ventures of importance to the general welfare of the world's inhabitants.
Fulbright Alumni include Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winners, governors and senators, ambassadors and artists, prime ministers and heads of state, professors and scientists, Supreme Court Justices, and CEOs.
Ryan Adler ('02)
Chapter Annotator
Major: Politcal Science
Proposal: A study on the national gun culture of Australia.
Place: Sydney, Australia
Ryan.Adler@valpo.edu
Adler, known for carrying a pocket version of the U.S. Constitution in his pocket, and by far, the most conservative member in the history of the Iota Sigma chapter (no, really) applied for a Fulbright Grant to study in Australia during the 2002-03 academic year. If selected, his work will focus on the national gun culture of Australia.
"Ever since the Port Arthur Massacre of April 1996, the right to keep and bear arms has all but disappeared for the Australian people, all with little political fanfare," said Adler. "My research will look at why a nation with the same legal and social traditions as a country like the US could have such a drastically different view on the private ownership of guns."
If selected he will be living in Sydney, which means that there would be TWO Valpo Sigs in Australia.
"In that event, Andy Nunemaker ('91) and I may look to ship more Sigs over to begin total conquest."
Steven Zittergruen ('02)
Chapter Tribune
Majors: Theology and Philosophy
Project Proposal: Church and State relations in the U.S. and U.K. in the context of Oliver O'Donovan
Place: Durham University, England
Zittergruen@yahoo.com
Steve applied for a Fulbright to study at Durham University in England, a university well known for its theological ethics program. He hopes to study the theological thought of Oliver O'Donovan as framed in his discussions of political-ethical theory, particularly concerned with his claims regarding the roles of church and State.
"The practical application is that this will allow me to consider the status and history of Church-State relations in the U.S. and the U.K., and discern from their very different histories and presents some sort of narrative or framework with which to examine contemporary political structure and current events," commetned Zittergruen."
Steve intends to become a pastor with the possibility of returning to the classroom to teach ethics some day.
For more information about the Fulbright program, see the State Department's website at http://exchanges.state.gov/education/fulbright/
October 29, 2001
Parents' Weekend an Unqualified Success
When one's parents come to visit him while in college, the average male revels in the experience of eating real food for a weekend-and spending as much of his parents money in two days as he can. This weekend was no different.
The 2001 Sigma Chi Parents' Weekend (October 26-28) festivities went off without hitch, that is if you don't count the near-freezing temperatures that descended (again) on the Valpo community. Parents came from near (Indiana) and far (the Rockey Family from Palmer, Alaska) to see their sons.
Saturday afternoon featured an indoor tailgating party before the Football game where parents and their sons congregated in the Memorial Hall 2nd floor lounge for a lunchtime get-together.
Some braved the game to see Valpo lose to San Diego 20-17.
At 2:00 P.M., the families congregated again, this time in the Union Squire Room for food (much of which was baked goods provided by loving mothers), entertainement, and 'engaging conversation'.
Alumnus Dan Trapp ('01) spoke a few words about the new Iota Sigma Educational Foundation and its first scholarship of $200 to Senior Ryan Adler, for most improved G.P.A. over the course of a school year.
The captivating entertainment for the day was led by "The Howling Sigma Chis", a babershop quartet made up of Jon Ackerman ('04), Dave Martens ('03), Joe Puetz ('03) and Marty Rathmann ('03). The boys charmed the crowd with a rousing rendition of Coney Island Baby along with a shaky performance (to say the least) of the Irish Blessing.
According to Brian Niec ('03), the barbershop quartet was a big draw for his mother. "I asked her if she was going to come up for Parents' weekend and she asked, 'will the barbershop quartet be performing again'? I told her yes, and she decided she'd make the trip."
The gentlemen closed the program with the entire chapter singing The Sweetheart of Sigma Chi to their mothers.
For you parents that were able to attend, we thank you. Those that were not, we hope to see you next year!
October 10, 2001
Iota Sigma's Derby Days Raises Over $3,500 for Charity
The 12th Annual Derby Days philanthropy event, sponsored by the Sigma Chi Fraternity here, came to an end last Saturday, marking one of the most successful years of fundraising in the event's history at Valpo. The event raised over $3,500 for charities this year, with a majority of that money going towards a Children's Miracle Network hospital in New York City.
"Derby Daddy" Dave Manzeske, organizer of this year's event was very pleased with the results. "The week was excellent. Everyone seemed to have a great time and we raised a lot of money for the children in need."
The event has become more than a normal campus fundraiser. The very competitive week of activities pits over 400 female students against each other in various events in order to raise money for charity. Each of the 8 sororities entered a team into the competition while 7 independent teams were formed centering on the female wings of the freshmen residence halls.
For the fifth year in a row, an Independent team walked away as the overall winners for the week. The women from Lankenau Hall 4 South, calling themselves the Rhinestone Cowgirls finished with the most overall points for the week. The freshmen from Alumni Hall 3 West, known as the "Twisted Sisters" secured the second place spot in the Independent Division, while the Alumni Hall "3 East Beasts" took third.
The women from Pi Beta Phi took the Sorority championship for the second year in a row, closely edging out second place finisher Chi Omega and third place finisher Kappa Delta.
"It was one of the closest finishes ever," commented Manzeske. "There weren't many points separating the top three finishers."
The winners of both the independent divisions as well as sorority divisions get to donate a portion of the fundraising totals to the charities of their choice. The Rhinestone Cowgirls chose to donate to the Children's Miracle Network, the preferred charity of the International Sigma Chi Fraternity while the women from Pi Beta Phi chose to donate their share to 'Arrow Mont', an art school in Tennessee funded by the Pi Beta Phi national headquarters.
Derby Days has become a part of the freshman year experience for many of the women on campus. Sarah Krueger, a freshman, enjoyed her first taste of the event this year.
"It was a really fun time, but it also helped everyone from our wing bond together through all of the activities. We got to know each other better and were able to get involved in something for charity. It was a great week."
The competition featured scavenger hunts, a trivia night, a volleyball tournament, a 'penny wars' and various other activities, culminating with an auction on Saturday night, which coincided with the announcement of the winners.
"The Derby Runs were a lot of fun," commented Krueger. "They were a lot of work but definitely worth it when you came up with the Derby."
The Saturday evening auction featured the selling off of each member of the fraternity with all of the proceeds going towards charity. Over $1700 was raised in the auction this year, shattering last year's previous record of $1200.
"We should probably check these ladies' heads," joked Consul, Ryan Wolf. "Obviously they haven't gotten to know some of they guys they purchased." Derby Days is a national event that began in 1933 in California and has spread throughout Sigma Chi chapters all over the country. Since Children's Miracle Network became the organization's preferred charity, over $2 million has been raised for their cause.