In a heartfelt ceremony this past September, Delta Sigma Phi brothers gathered to honor Bruce Loewenberg (Mizzou ’58) with the dedication of the Bruce J. Loewenberg ’61 Delta Sigma Phi Gate at Stadium 3W. This prestigious recognition at the University of Missouri celebrates Bruce’s decades of unwavering commitment to both Mizzou and Delta Sigma Phi. As University of Missouri Director of Athletics, Brother Laird Veatch (Kansas State ’13), remarked, “Bruce recognizes the power of community and is intentional about it.” His remarkable generosity and leadership have not only strengthened our Fraternity but also left an indelible mark on the university community.

Brother Loewenberg’s impact on Delta Sigma Phi goes beyond just his generosity—it’s about his unwavering commitment to our brotherhood and the values we hold dear. His leadership, kindness, and devotion to the Fraternity have touched countless lives over the decades. Executive Director Phil Rodriguez has had the privilege of seeing firsthand how Bruce’s passion for Delta Sigma Phi has shaped not only the men of Beta Beta Chapter but also brothers across the nation. In the heartfelt reflection that follows, Phil shares his personal experiences with Bruce, offering a glimpse into the deep bond they’ve formed and the profound gratitude we all feel for Bruce’s contributions. His dedication to cultivating lifelong friendships and fostering the spirit of brotherhood truly embodies what it means to be a Delta Sig.

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In October 2018, I was humbled by the opportunity to begin my tenure as Executive Director of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity.

I’m not going to lie—the first few weeks were a total blur. I was driving back and forth from our home in Illinois, all while preparing to move my family to Indiana. I spent time learning the ins and outs of the National Fraternity, while also communicating with alumni to hear their feedback and concerns. In all honesty, I can hardly remember much of that first month. However, one person stands out vividly as I look back on those first 30 days: the one and only Bruce Loewenberg.

Sometime in the second week of my tenure, I received a call in my office. When I picked up, a loud, boisterous, and direct voice on the other end asked, “Are you the new Executive Director!?”

Nervously, I replied, “Yes.”

“Well, you need to get down here. Beta Beta needs some help, and you need to get here ASAP. You’re going to stay at my house, and I’ll see you within 48 hours.” Bruce said this in a way that was clearly a statement, not a question. That was my first interaction with Bruce—direct, passionate, and always with the Fraternity top of mind. Needless to say, I went down to Columbia within those 48 hours, and that was the beginning of my friendship with Bruce.

Over the past six years, I couldn’t count the number of phone calls, emails, texts, and conversations we’ve shared. I’ve had the privilege of staying at his home numerous times. Each time, we’ve broken bread together, maybe had a glass of wine… or two, and talked endlessly about the Fraternity. Bruce’s mind is like a steel trap. He can recount brothers, their initiation years, professional and personal milestones, and so much more—not just from Beta Beta but from chapters across the country.

During these cherished moments, I’ve listened to Bruce share stories about the Fraternity’s impact on his life. He may not want me to share this, but I’ve seen tears in his eyes when he talks about the importance of our Fraternity and brotherhood. There aren’t many men I know who have such deep loyalty to their fraternity and alma mater.

When Bruce called me last month to ask if I would attend his gate-naming ceremony, there was no way I would miss it. As you’ll see in the video below, many Beta Beta brothers and alumni of the University of Missouri were there as well.

I am proud to call Bruce Loewenberg a brother. His friendship and care for not just Delta Sigma Phi but for me personally have been among the greatest gifts of my time as Executive Director. I will forever be grateful for his fellowship. Thank you, Bruce, for all you have done for Delta Sigma Phi and the University of Missouri.

YITBOS,

Phil Rodriguez, Illinois State ’03
Executive Director