Delta Sigma Phi’s San Diego State chapter has long been recognized as one of the Fraternity’s strongest. In recent years, the chapter has earned the Pyramid of Excellence, Operational Excellence, and Recruitment awards, and even celebrated recognition from their campus Interfraternity Council with “Brotherhood of the Year.” But perhaps nothing has demonstrated the strength of their bond more than the way they have come together this fall in support of one of their own.

Earlier this semester, sophomore Ethan McCoy, a new member of the chapter and a pre-physical therapy student, was seriously injured in a swimming accident. Just 19 years old, Ethan is known among his peers as an energetic and positive presence who was training for the 2026 Ironman in Sacramento before his accident. While he now faces a long rehabilitation journey, his chapter brothers quickly rallied around him.

Each year, the San Diego State chapter hosts one of the largest philanthropic efforts in the region. Traditionally, the group has raised funds for the local humane society, supporting causes like animal welfare through a weeklong event known as Sailor’s Week. That program—spearheaded last year by then-Vice President of Philanthropy Brandon Johnson—raised more than $17,000 in its inaugural year, combining fun events like “Pie a Delta Sig,” dunk tanks, and a battle of the bands at the chapter house.

This fall, Sailor’s Week took on a deeper meaning. Instead of supporting an outside nonprofit, the chapter dedicated its efforts to helping a brother in need. The week’s lineup of events—Pie a Delta Sig, Dog Days, Dunk-a-DSig, and more—will bring the chapter together in new ways, turning their traditional spirit and energy toward supporting one of their own.

“Seeing the way our chapter came together has been an experience like no other,” said Chapter President Eric Krog, San Diego State ‘24. “Watching all of us come together to help someone in this situation—specifically one of our brothers—has really shown what brotherhood means in a fraternity.”

Chapter members say the energy surrounding this year’s philanthropy week was unlike any before. Beyond raising funds, brothers came together to spread awareness, support Ethan’s family, and show the San Diego State community what fraternity brotherhood looks like in action.

The efforts reflect both the chapter’s commitment to service and the enduring strength of their brotherhood. As Brother Krog put it, philanthropy has always been a cornerstone of the chapter’s identity—but this year, the cause carried a personal reminder of what it means to stand by one another and live out the true meaning of brotherhood.