Delta Sigma Phi Search Committee has Named New Executive Director & CEO

(Indianapolis, September 18, 2018)— Delta Sigma Phi National President Jim Larson and the organization’s Grand Council have announced that Phillip Rodriguez, Illinois State ’03 will become the Executive Director of the Fraternity and Foundation, effective October 1, 2018.

“On Behalf of the Grand Council and the entire selection committee, I am pleased to welcome Phil as our next Executive Director,” said Larson, noting Rodriguez’s record of success within and outside of the Fraternity. “His history of working with stakeholders from all walks of life to deliver substantial change and vision will be a remarkable asset in our continued effort to serve as America’s leading Fraternity. He is a strategic and passionate leader and we are elated to have him join our team.”

Rodriguez most recently served as a senior executive at the Illinois Toll Highway Authority, overseeing the $1.4 billion agency and its $15 billion “Move Illinois” program. He previously worked in politics and government, managing multiple statewide campaigns and administrations in Illinois. In 2015, he guided a newly-appointed state Comptroller through a nationally unprecedented state budget impasse.

He later served as Deputy Chief of Staff and senior advisor to Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, overseeing all operations and public engagement.

“I am beyond humbled and honored to lead Delta Sigma Phi in its next chapter,” said Rodriguez, who will become the twelfth Executive Director in the organization’s 119 year history. “I want to thank both the Grand Council for this opportunity and our outgoing Executive Director Patrick Jessee for his service and relentless commitment to our great organization. Over the years I have seen firsthand the incredible opportunities that Delta Sigma Phi provides to young men, alumni and the communities we live in. I am eager and excited to work with the Grand Council and our entire organization to share the remarkable stories of our membership changing lives across the globe.”

Rodriguez has been active with Delta Sigma Phi since 2003. He has served in multiple roles, beginning as President of his Chapter at Illinois State University and continuing throughout his professional career. Phil served as Epsilon Omega’s Alumni Corporation Board President, President of the Chicagoland Alumni Association and has served on numerous committees and tasks forces for the organization. He has also been an active member of the Delta Sigma Phi Foundation where he has been an 1899 Society member and active fundraiser for the Fraternity.

Rodriguez currently resides in Naperville, IL with his wife, Cami — who he lavaliered in 2004— and their two young children, Noelle and Dennis. The family will be moving to Indianapolis this fall. After October 1, Rodriguez can be reached at rodriguez@deltasig.org. You can follow him on social media on Facebook and Instagram.

Announcing the 2019 McKee Scholarship Recipients

First awarded in 2009, the McKee Scholarship program is available thanks to the generosity of the late Hensel McKee, Washington ’30 and his wife Jeanette McKee. The Scholarship is available to undergraduate members and alumni members who are pursuing graduate degrees. To be eligible, applicants must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, be initiated members of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity in good standing, and be enrolled at a college or university during the academic term.

We are please to announce this year’s recipients:

The Better Man

$10,000 each for men who are a well-rounded embodiment of Delta Sigma Phi values.

Quinton Berkompas, Washington State University ‘17

Tristan Ott, Missouri University of Science and Technology ‘17

Brett Seidl, Kansas State University10

Men of Courage

$2,500 each for men who exhibit exceptional leadership.

David Adams, Albion College ‘19

Elliott Beach, Thiel College ‘12

Paul Chung, The University of California, Los Angeles ‘18

Elias Hanna, Transylvania University ‘14

Szymon Kamiński, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign ‘16

Mason Lovell, The Ohio State University ‘19

Jeffrey Marshall, The University of Texas at Austin ‘19 

Jake Moore, Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University ‘18

Joel Revo, The University of Michigan ‘17

Garrett Riou, The University of Texas at Austin ‘10

Christian Suero, Michigan State University ‘10

Michael Woller, Utah State University ‘18

Men of Action

$2,500 each for men who have committed themselves to outstanding service to their communities.

Adam Boro, University of Maryland ‘17

Daniel Cooper, Transylvania University ‘16

Neal Eller, Kansas State University ‘17

Jacob Forbes, Washington State University ‘17

Noah Huehnergarth, The Pennsylvania State University ‘18

Kyle Huffman, The Ohio State University ‘18

David McGrath, Case Western Reserve University ‘17

Ethan Santoni-Colvin, The University of Texas at Austin ‘19

Jason Semaya, The University of Michigan ‘18

Ravi Shastri, Missouri University of Science and Technology ‘18

Jonathan Staley, Indiana State University ‘17

Alberto Tueme, The University of Texas at Austin ‘14

Max Vorcheimer, The University of Michigan ‘17

Men of Excellence

$2,500 each for men who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance.

Harrison Fields, University of Kentucky ‘18

Scott Fletcher, Utah State University ‘08

Gavin Husted, Shorter University ‘18

Nicholas Killian, Eastern Michigan University ‘18

Austin Lamb, Transylvania University ‘18

Reed Marquardt, The Ohio State University ‘19

Rishabh Mazmudar, Case Western Reserve University ‘14

Luke Prohaska, Kansas State University ‘18

Trevor South, University of Kentucky ‘18

Franklin Wang, The Ohio State University ‘17

Tommy Weinstein, University of Michigan ‘18

Yanshuo Zhang, Missouri University of Science and Technology ‘18

Sphinx Scholarship

$2,500 each for graduate students of distinction.

Samuel Finn, University of Michigan ‘15

Michael Fritz, University of Kentucky ‘14

Tom Gallery, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology ‘16

J.T. Henderson, Transylvania University ‘15

Kollin Michels, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire ‘13

Justin Miller, New Mexico State University ‘94

Brenton Novit, The University of Texas at Austin ’15

Michael Rafo, Eastern Michigan University ‘15

Suraj Rama, University of Kentucky ‘13

Christian Soares, University of Kentucky ‘13

Mark Solinski, Loyola University Chicago ‘13

Lloyd Taylor, The Ohio State University ‘12

Nile Scholarship

$500 each for undergraduate men exhibiting exceptional leadership and values.

James Barr, The University of Texas at Austin ‘18

Matthew Benge, The Ohio State University ‘18

Adam Brzyski, Missouri University of Science and Technology ‘18

Cody Dorman, University of Northern Colorado ‘16

Allen Fooks, University of Pittsburgh ‘18

Matthew Greenway, The University of Georgia ‘18

Justin Groshek, Gannon University ‘18

Victor Guardiola, The University of Texas at Austin ‘19

Curtis Harryman, Iowa State University ‘16

Zachary Lewis, Missouri University of Science and Technology ‘16

Isaac Narrett, The University of Michigan ‘17

Jacob O’Rourke, University of Central Florida ‘16

Sahil Prabhudesai, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology ‘16

Ari Rand, Loyola University Chicago ‘19

John Sykes, University of Florida ‘18

Charlie Story, Chapman University ‘18

Matthew Waigand, Shorter University ‘18

Cole Walter, Duke University ‘18

Kawai’ola Wong, Millikin University ‘18

Alexander Wood, University of Missouri of Science and Technology ‘18

1899 Society Reaches New Heights

We are overwhelmed to announce that for the 3rd year in a row, the number of members in the 1899 Society has grown. We are now going strong with 305 members, each who have donated at least $1,000 to the Foundation. The core group of donors has been the driving force behind it all.

It’s been an incredible year – all thanks to our very generous donors.

At the end of June, Delta Sigma Phi wrapped up the 2018 fiscal year. Over the past 12 months, we’ve had some incredible moments. It’s truly been a fantastic year for the Foundation! We owe all of that success to you, our most loyal supporters.

We have some exciting plans for this new fiscal year, like the new monthly giving program: the Insula Society. Keep your eyes open for more as we roll into a new year together. Thank you to each and every donor for their generous support.

You can keep the support moving forward and help Delta Sigma Phi reach even further. Join The 1899 Society today!

Statement to Media – Central Florida Lawsuit

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – JUNE 14, 2018 – Delta Sigma Phi has been named in a central Florida lawsuit alleging sexual misconduct through an online group involving multiple members of the University of Central Florida chapter.

Delta Sigma Phi has placed our UCF chapter on immediate suspension as we investigate these claims. While we cannot comment on specific allegations made in the lawsuit, these claims are disturbing and antithetical to our organization’s values and mission.

Announcing our Executive Search

Delta Sigma Phi’s Executive Director & CEO, Patrick Jessee, will be resigning from his position at the end of 2018. We cannot thank him enough for his dedication, forward thinking, and drive for pursuing our mission of Building Better Men.

Like other executive directors before Patrick, you don’t replace the person, but you do try to fill the shoes they wore. We are committed to finding an individual that can fulfill the responsibilities of this demanding role in a manner that continues to drive us toward our Vision 2025 goals.

The executive search committee is actively seeking an empowered, progressive leader with a steadfast dedication to maintaining our member-focused, mission-driven organization. This individual should be collaborative, dedicated, and a staunch advocate for fraternity life. Interested candidates are encouraged to review the position profile available here. To be considered, qualified candidates must submit a resume and cover letter explaining their interest and fit for the position by July 15, 2018, to ExecApply@DeltaSig.org.

We’re excited for Patrick as he pursues his next adventure. We know our next Executive Director is out there right now.

Foundation Position Available: Director of Development

Delta Sigma Phi Foundation is looking for a Director of Development at its Headquarters in Indianapolis. See the description below for details, and send your application and/or questions to Nathan Wight at wight@deltasig.org.


Location:
Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity Headquarters
2960 North Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46208

Type:
Full-Time

Nondiscrimination:
Delta Sigma Phi does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity or national origin.

Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be expected to:

  • Make strong connections with alumni and friends of Delta Sigma Phi and earn their philanthropic support that meets the organization’s needs
  • Conduct 150+ donor visits annually
  • Work closely with all development team members to ensure annual fund, major giving and planned giving goals are met each fiscal year
  • Be determined and results-oriented, self-confident and enjoy working in a small team dynamic and fast-paced environment
  • Personally manage a portfolio of major gift prospects/donors
  • Collaborate with and engage Delta Sigma Phi board members and other volunteers to include them in the fundraising process
  • Assist in formulating and implementing the Foundation’s short-term and long-term fundraising plans
  • Serve as an official ambassador for Delta Sigma Phi

Qualifications:
A bachelor’s degree and at least two years of fundraising or sales experience. The successful candidate will have a basic understanding of planned giving vehicles and be goal-oriented, organized and have excellent written and verbal communication skills. Be able to travel throughout the United States. Finally, this individual must have the willingness to learn in an ever-changing environment.

Contact:

Please submit resume, salary requirements, references, and cover letter to:
Nathan Wight, Chief Advancement Officer
wight@deltasig.org
(317) 634-1899

McKee Scholarship Application Now Open

The 2019 McKee Scholarship application is now available!

Thanks to the contributions from the late Hensel McKee, Washington ’30, and his wife Jeanette McKee, the Delta Sigma Phi Foundation has awarded approximately $1,000,000 since 2009 to both undergraduate and graduate members. The McKee Scholarship awards scholarships based on leadership, service and academic achievement.

The Delta Sigma Phi Foundation will award up to $10,000 per individual scholarship recipient. To be eligible, applicants must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, be an initiated member of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity in good standing and be enrolled at a college or university during the Fall 2019 term.

Available Awards Include:

The Better Man – Three, $10,000 scholarships awarded to brothers who exceed in the areas of Courage, Action and Excellence.

Man of Courage Award – Twelve, $2,500 scholarships awarded to brothers who are bold in their actions in the face of adversity. Show principled leadership while embracing innovative change and advancement. This member stands as a pillar of strength for his fellow man; provides strong counsel, mentoring and advocacy.

Man of Action Award – Twelve, $2,500 scholarships awarded to undergraduate members who are committed to service, loyalty and generosity. They are supportive to those in need, bring peace and unites the Fraternity with the needs of society.

Man of Excellence Award – Twelve, $2,500 scholarships awarded to members who excel academically. These individuals are able to speak to their academic achievements; awards/scholarships, academic honors and long-term goals.

Sphinx Scholarship ­­­Twelve, $2,500 awarded to members of the Fraternity pursuing a graduate degree.

Nile Scholarship – Twenty, $500 scholarships awarded to members who meet basic qualifications for the McKee Scholarship application.

Application Requirements

  • A complete application
  • Unofficial college transcript showing cumulative GPA

Additional Information

  • Should you be selected as a recipient, you will be asked to submit an official transcript and proof of enrollment for the Fall 2019 term.
  • Please attach a print ready head shot (business dress, at least 1 MB). These photos will be used for press releases of award winners. Reviewers will not be able to view your photo during the grading process.

You may save your progress at any time and return to the application at a later date; however, only completed applications will be considered. If you have additional questions, please contact Madison Denhart at denhart@deltasig.org

 

Apply for the McKee Scholarship here.

 

Frequently Asked Questions: Based on feedback from previous years, here are some Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: “I am a graduating senior, do I apply for the Undergraduate or Graduate Scholarship?”
A: If you are a graduating senior and you are attending graduate school in the fall 2019 semester, you should apply for the Graduate Scholarship.

Q: “I will be completing my undergraduate degree over the summer, can I list this degree as earned?”
A: Yes, but confirmation of completion will be needed prior to any awards being given.

Q: “I am a part-time student. Am I eligible for the McKee Scholarship?”
A: Yes, part-time students are eligible for the McKee Scholarship.

Q: “I am pursuing a certificate at a college or university. Am I eligible for the McKee Scholarship?”
A: No. Unfortunately, the McKee Scholarship is only open to those students who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees.

Q: “I am studying abroad. Am I eligible for the McKee Scholarship?”
A: Yes, students who are studying abroad are still eligible for the 2019 McKee Scholarship.

Q: “My chapter has been closed. Am I still eligible for the McKee Scholarship?”
A: Yes, if you are a member in good standing, you are still eligible for the McKee Scholarship even if your chapter has been closed.

Q: “I have won the McKee Scholarship in the past. Am I still eligible?”
A: Yes, past recipients are still eligible for the McKee Scholarship and may apply again.

On behalf of the Delta Sigma Phi Foundation, we wish you the best of luck in earning the 2019 McKee Scholarship!

Delta Sigma Phi Welcomes Brittany Ankeny-Dooley, Assistant Director of Educational Programs

Delta Sigma Phi would like to welcome Brittany Ankeny-Dooley as our new Assistant Director of Educational Programs.

Brittany Ankeny-Dooley recently graduated from the University of North Texas with a Master’s in Higher Education and also holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from Missouri State University. Prior to graduate school, she worked at the North-American Interfraternity Conference as a Coordinator of IFC Services where she supported and educated 250 Interfraternity Councils across the country. Before joining the NIC, Ankeny-Dooley served as a Leadership Consultant for her organization, Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority. Brittany remains an active member of Alpha Sigma Alpha, serving as the Team Leader for the Sorority’s National Recruitment Revitalization Project Team and also serves as an NPC Non-Delegate Area Advisor.

As Assistant Director of Educational Programs, Ankeny-Dooley will work alongside professional staff and volunteers to design curriculum and administer educational projects relevant to the organization’s strategic plan, including management of The LAMP, Delta Sigma Phi’s online learning platform, as well as our four premiere “brick and mortar” educational programs. Welcome!

 

Updating Regarding Kappa Chapter at Auburn University

On December 9, 2017, Delta Sigma Phi revoked the charter for the Kappa Chapter at Auburn University. This decision, while extremely difficult, was made after repeated attempts of corrective action to address ongoing concerns of member health and safety, and repeated university and Fraternity conduct violations.

Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity is committed to upholding our standards and fostering meaningful Fraternity experiences for our members. Since the fall of 2016, Kappa Chapter has been the subject of multiple university conduct sanctions and financial suspensions, and has failed to uphold the basic expectations of membership in Delta Sigma Phi. In the fall of 2017, Kappa Chapter was found responsible for alcohol and hazing violations by the Auburn University Interfraternity Council.  The National Fraternity conducted an extended membership review, and despite a cease and desist from both the university and Fraternity, conduct problems including vandalizing of property and harassment of individuals continued.

The Alumni Corporation Board (ACB) has been re-established and is working closely with the national Fraternity headquarters and Auburn University to ensure a robust volunteer support structure exists for a redeveloped chapter and to secure plans for the chapter house moving forward. We encourage you to reach out to the ACB, below, should you be interested in being involved.

The news of the chapter’s closure is—without a doubt—upsetting for all Kappa undergraduate members, Fraternity alumni and other supporters. While difficult in the short-term, the National Fraternity is committed to working diligently with our alumni and Auburn University community to restore Kappa Chapter with Men of Courage, Action and Excellence.

Divyesh Jevtani Appointed to Grand Council

Divyesh Jevtani, Illinois State University ’01, has accepted an appointment as a member of the Delta Sigma Phi Grand Council, effective January 1, 2018. Brother Jevtani’s appointment fills a vacancy left by John Knowles, Western Michigan University ’99, who resigned effective December 31, 2017.

Jim Larson, National President of Delta Sigma Phi, said, “We are indebted to Brother Knowles, who has been a dedicated member of the Grand Council for 5 years. He felt it necessary to resign his position at this time because of family commitments and increasingly challenging professional endeavors, and he will be missed on the Grand Council.”  Brother Knowles has served on the Grand Council since 2013 and has previously held many national-level volunteer positions within the Fraternity. President Larson cites Brother Knowles’ tireless work over his two decades of volunteerism, “…as an example for all Delta Sigs to emulate.”

“I reflect in awe of the experiences and cherished memories that will enrich my life forever because of Delta Sigma Phi, and am truly grateful.” said Knowles, on his 18+ years serving Delta Sigma Phi as a volunteer.

Brother Jevtani serves as the Americas Region Communications Senior Manager for Deloitte and lives in the Greater New York City area. He brings strategic and operational communications expertise and a passion for Building Better Men to the Grand Council. His professional background will add to the Grand Council’s collective knowledge as the Fraternity continues to expand and enhance its channels for members to be engaged and to provide feedback and perspective on their fraternal experience.

According to Brother Larson, “Divyesh will bring another level of professional expertise, generational insight, and regional perspective to the Fraternity’s leadership team. His experience in the area of communications will be invaluable for us as we improve our understanding of what our undergraduate brothers and alumni want and need. I expect him to add immeasurably to our “Voice of the Customer” initiative.  As a participant of the Fraternity’s undergraduate training programs, Divyesh is a tremendous testament as to why we continue to invest in and reinforce our commitment to Build Better Men.”

“Our vision is to develop strong leaders, build stronger chapters, and become America’s leading Fraternity,” said Patrick Jessee, Executive Director and CEO of Delta Sigma Phi. “We are excited to have Divyesh join the Grand Council, and see his Fraternity experience come full circle. Divyesh was an active undergraduate brother, serving on the Undergraduate Advisory Committee as the Central Region representative, attending national conventions, participating in several Regional Leadership Academies (RLAs), and graduating from our distinguished learning program – Leadership Institute. Not only was he able to take those experiences back to his chapter as an undergraduate, but he is now in a position to leverage his experiences and help us strengthen our Fraternity.” Brother Jevtani is also a founding member of the New York City Alumni Association and has volunteered at the Northeast RLA, The Summit, and Leadership Institute.

“I am honored to be appointed as a member of the Grand Council and grateful for the opportunity to continue to pay my debt to the Fraternity“ said Jevtani, “and I am excited to serve as the first alumni Millennial and bring new perspectives to the Grand Council.”

Per the Constitution of Delta Sigma Phi, his appointment will run until August 2019 when the biennial Grand Council elections will be held at the Fraternity’s National Convention, to be held in Kansas City.

You can learn more about Brother Jevtani on his LinkedIn profile.