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A Campaign for Gamma Xi Chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity at the University of Wyoming

80 Years of ExcellencePreserving Our Legacy, Building Our Future

A Campaign for the Gamma Xi Chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity at the

University of Wyoming And the Danny Nelson Chapter Room

In Honor of Danny N

elson



The Gamma Xi Chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity at the University of Wyoming is a leader of Greek life on Fraternity Row and in student life and affairs on the university campus, having a fellowship, a brotherhood, a reputation and a chapter house that attracts some of the best and brightest of young men from a diversity of backgrounds and provides them a home. Our membership covers a broad spectrum, but it is singularly focused on excellence and a commitment to upholding the standards and virtues that we as Sigma Chis hold dear. It is a place where young men learn life skills and leadership abilities. It is a place that draws us all back to the University as alumni. Simply put, it’s a place where brotherhood happens.

Join Us as We Take the Next Step Toward our FutureAt 52 years old, the house needs our attention as much as the active chapter that gives the house its heart and soul. Built in 1957, much of the facility is out of date, both in terms of décor and finish and health and safety standards. Twenty-first century students at the University of Wyoming have many housing choices, and we need the Sigma Chi house to be competitive with newer and more updated properties. Its décor, technological access and safety requirements must be updated to stay competitive.

In order to secure our future and completely renovate the Gamma Xi house, we are embarking on a $1,000,000 capital campaign. This is about more than just physical repairs, this is our opportunity to ensure that Sigma Chi remains the premier fraternity on campus. It is a chance to improve the quality of our living environment to both encourage membership, and provide a safe home that meets our current actives needs. We plan to use this once in a lifetime op-portunity to increase our scholarship fund and create a maintenance fund so that the renovations we make now will last for generations to come. We have already taken the initial steps by reaching out to you, our alumni. Your support gave us the motivation to move forward at this time, and we have “Seized the Day” with a vision of a new and improved Gamma Xi house. Your loyalty and dedication to Sigma Chi is more important now than ever.

For the first time in years, we have a live-in mentor overseeing the activities at the house. We are committed to protect-ing your investment and providing the active brotherhood with a monitor and a mentor. We are proud of the Cowboy Sig, our web site (www.wyomingsig.net) and our undergraduates. Renovating the house is the last piece of the puzzle, and we need your support NOW to help us achieve our goal!

Maintaining Leadership on the Row and on CampusThink back to your college days, when you were walking into a world unknown. How did Sigma Chi influence your life during those years? And how does it still influence your life today? As undergraduates, we all learned a very important creed: the Jordan Standard. In part, we pledged to be men of good character, possessed of good morals, having a high sense of honor and deep personal responsibility. These values un-doubtedly shaped who we were as active members of Sigma Chi, and still resonate in our lives today.

Now is our opportunity to remember what Sigma Chi gave to us, and what it holds for many future generations of young men at Wyoming. Now is our chance to give back.

We’ve always been a leader on the Row and on campus. With your support, we will have a successful fundraising campaign and maintain our leadership at Wyoming. Please join me in making a generous pledge of support to our Preserving Our Legacy, Building Our Future capital campaign.

Dave Fuller ’76Campaign Chairman

Preserving our Legacy, Building our Future as a Leader on Fraternity Row



Danny Nelson Chapter Room/ Full House Renovation $587,850 *Includes fire suppression and sprinkler system ** This figure also includes $150,000 estimate for the no-bid items

Maintenance Endowment $100,000

Additional Leadership/Scholarship Endowment $300,000

Total Goal for Alumni Contributions $987,850

Basement Foyer $17,600

Basement Hallway $13,700

Stairwells $14,700

Front Foyer $1,650

Living Room $30,750

Dining Room $23,800

Ladies Bathroom $6,200

Kitchen $30,250

Upstairs Hallway $13,350

Upstairs Bath $19,700

Roofing $22,550

Exterior Deck *No Bid

Retaining Wall $14,500

One Flagpole and Base $3,800

Install Sprinkler System *No Bid

Landscaping *No Bid

Ward Windows *No Bid

Front and Back Sidewalk *No Bid

Fire Alarm and Fire Sprinkler $149,500

Screens $2,100

Washer and Dryers $6,000

Downstairs Bath $7,500

Gamma Xi Capital Projects



1923 The first meeting of the Independent Association was held April 12. Membership dues were 25 cents per month.

1926 Members of the Independent Club (formerly Indepen-dent Association) began to petition to affiliate with Sigma Chi nationally. In 1930, Sigma Chi was established at the Univer-sity of Wyoming.

1930 Installation ceremonies were held at the Odd Fellows Hall on October 24, followed by a banquet at Conner Hotel. The menu featured boiled elk steak. Gamma Xi was the fifth national men’s fraternity to enter the University, and the 90th chapter of Sigma Chi.

1933 The tradition of Sigma Chi’s Derby Days began at the University of California-Berkeley, under the name “Channingway Derby.”

1957 House Construction by Spiegelberg Lumber Company.

In the Beginning…

1920

1930

1940

1950



1963 The Peterson Significant Chapter Awards were established. Gamma Xi has received 12 of these awards.

Late 1960s The Ward Window was dedicated to “Mr. Sigma Chi”, Montana-initiate Orland Ward, who was a stalwart supporter of the chapter since coming to UW in the late 1940s. The plaque near the 3-story window reads “Dedicated to Orland Ward who exemplifies the highest ideals of Sigma Chi.”

1971 Danny Nelson began his term as chapter advisor, a role in which he served for 31 years. Danny is honored to personally know three-quarters of the Gamma Xi Sigs.

1973 The Wyoming chapter hosted its first Balfour Leadership Training Workshop, which had the second-highest attendance for its time, due to the “lure” of the West. The chapter also hosted the workshop in 1976 and 1989.

Late 1980s The Unguren Memorial Scholarship was established. The award was endowed by Mary Lou and John Unguren in honor of their son Rudy, who was named for his grandfather, chapter charter member Rudy Anselmi. The scholarship is awarded annually to the chapter member whose grades improved the most between his freshman and senior years.

…and Through to Today

1960

1970

1980

1990

2000



The Legion of Honor AwardThis award honors undergraduate chapters with commendable scholarship programs. The scholarship program in every Sigma Chi Chapter should encourage and create positive scholastic attitudes and enhance the individual brother’s desire to reach his fullest potential during the course of his college education. Legion of Honor Award in 2004

Erwin L. LeClerg Outstanding Chapter Advisor AwardEstablished in 1972, this award recognizes the most outstanding Chapter Advisor(s) in the Fraternity. The award is named for Dr. Erwin L. LeClerg, Colorado State 1923, member of the Order of Constantine and former Eastern Province Grand Praetor, Executive Committee member and advisor to active chapters at Colorado State, Louisiana State, George Washington and Maryland.Daniel A. Nelson (Wyoming ’69) received the Erwin L. LeClerg Outstanding Chapter Advisor Award in 1981

Peterson Significant Chapter AwardThe Peterson Significant Chapter Award, sponsored annually by the Sigma Chi Foundation is the highest honor bestowed upon an undergraduate chapter. Named for 38th Grand Consul J. Dwight Peterson, Indiana 1919, 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. 12 Peterson Significant Chapter Awards - in 1974, 1976, 1977, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1990, 1991, 1992, 2004, 2007, 2008

James F. Bash Significant Improvement AwardThe James F. Bash Significant Improvement Award—funded by the late 49th Grand Consul James F. Bash, Butler & Indiana 1946, and his wife, Connie—is given to chapters that have demonstrated major improvement in total chapter operations from year to year. Significant improvement is defined as a gain of at least 25 percent in the score ascribed to a Peterson Significant Chapter Award application from one year to the next. Bash Significant Improvement Award in 2002

International Balfour AwardThis award recognizes the outstanding graduating senior in the entire international fraternity. Gamma Xi is proud to have had two recipients of this award: Paul J. Quiner in 1981 and John B. Etchepare Jr. in 1996

Gamma Xi Awards



The Order of ConstantineWe have had at least five Gamma Xi Sigs who have been elected to this highest honor in Sigma Chi: Daniel A. Nelson, James E. Ross, Jeffery Greene, Mark Quiner and Paul Quiner.

Significant SigsPaul Carlin • Stanley K. Hathaway (Nebraska initiate and former Wyoming governor)• Richard J. Macy• William Hendry• Montie R. Deer • Dave True (Purdue initiate and very successful Wyoming businessman)• Mike Enzi (George Washington initiate and current Wyoming state senator)•

Alumni Awards, Recognition and Service

How Sigma Chi Influences All of UsThe following is a note from the mother of an undergraduate, sent in 1984…

I would like to say how pleased I am that my son chose to become a Sigma Chi. He insisted that I read your pledge manual, and I was delighted to learn about your ideals.

I gave you a boy, you are giving me back a man. I know the Sigma Chi experience has helped him to grow and mature in an honorable manner. I thank you for the influence you have been on him and his brother Sigs. They are all impressive young men and will always be welcome in our home.

The effects are lifelong. I’m sure that many other parents feel as I do.

Recent Undergraduate Alumni Awards, Recognition and Service



LocalUW Greek Life Award for Community Service - 2005UW Gold Finalist (Clint Jasperson) - 2006UW Gold Finalist (John Kindle) – 2006Tobin Award Recipient (John Kindle) – 2008UW Greek New Member of the Year – 2009UW Greek Scholastic Achievement - 2009

Provence Level (Regional Level)Provence Chapter of the Year – 2007Provence Outstanding Ritual Exemplification – 2007Provence Undergraduate Brother of the Year

(Ben Pflanz) - 2007Provence Chapter of the Year – 2008

NationalBash Significant Chapter Improvement Award - 2002Peterson Outstanding Chapter Award – 2004Peterson Outstanding Chapter Award – 2007Peterson Outstanding Chapter Award – 2008

Sigma Chi Horizons AttendeesJared S. GrubbPhillip D. HarderRobert Wayne HarderClinton L. JaspersonMichael McNameeBenjamin A. PflanzRobert Nelsen SteeleTom J. WhiteTrevor Frohne

Chapter Activities and ProgramsPatterson Undergraduate Scholarship ProgramHouse Mentor ProgramGreek Life Excellence FundSigma Chi’s ‘Choices’ Program

Organizations Supported by the Undergraduate Chapter

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Albany CountySince the late ‘90s, many of the undergraduate brothers have served as mentors not only to each other, but to younger men as well. Big Brothers / Big Sisters of Albany County has had a special place in the WyoSigs’ hearts for almost a de-cade. In an effort to help in their fundraising, the chapter hosted a cardboard sled derby in March of ’09. This inaugural event helped raise awareness, and funds, for the Bigs’ program and the great work they do with Laramie’s youth.

Eppson Center for Seniors – Meals on WheelsEvery month, a group of brothers works with the Eppson Center for Seniors to deliver hot meals to residents of Lara-mie who have difficulty leaving their home. Although this is a relatively new project for the WyoSigs, it has taken root and will continue to be a focus in the future.

Slade Elementary School – School CarnivalFor years, the WyoSigs have participated in the Slade Elementary School Carnival; hosting a booth/game for the school’s students and parents. Each year, the Slade Carnival raises funds for school projects such as additions to the school library and school supplies for special needs students.

Huntsman Cancer Research Center and the Children’s Miracle Network – Derby DaysAlthough the General Fraternity has chosen to support the Huntsman Cancer Institute, the Gamma Xi Chapter contin-ues to support the Children’s Miracle Network in addition to the Huntsman Center. As in past years, WyoSigs make regular visits to National Jewish Hospital in Denver (CMN Network Hospital) to spend time with the children and their families.

Recent Undergraduate Alumni Awards, Recognition and Service



Projected Giving Pyramid

CAmpAIgN gOAL: $1,000,000

1$75,000+

2$100,000+

1$50,000

5$25,000

15$10,000

40$5,000

40$2,500

100$1,000

This represents the number of gifts at each level that we need to reach our goal.

$100,000+ - White Cross SocietyHonoring the Badge which we all love

$75,000 - $99,999 - Norman Shield SocietyHonoring our commitment to our fraternity

$50,000 - $74,999 – Blue & Gold SocietyHonoring our dedication to Friendship, Justice & Learning

$25,000 - $49,999 - Veadawoo SocietyHonoring the unique surroundings of our university

$10,000 - $24,999 - Sweetheart SocietyHonoring the Sweethearts of Sigma Chi

$5,000 - $9,999 - 1930 SocietyHonoring the founding of our chapter

$2,500 - $2,499 - Independent Club Society

Honoring our heritage

$1,000 - $2,499 -1855 SocietyHonoring the founding of our fraternity



Projected Giving Pyramid Dean of Students Office Greek Affairs 1000 E. University Ave Dept 3135 Laramie, WY 82071 May 14, 2009 To Whom it May Concern: It is my pleasure to write a letter of support for the Gamma Xi Chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity and their fund raising efforts. Over the past year our fraternal community has accomplished many great things as we continue to support our overall values of scholarship, leadership, and service. During the 2008 calendar year fraternities on our campus donated $15,000 to national and local charities and have contributed over 4000 hours in community service. Each fraternity continues to strive toward the highest of scholarship standards by supporting their members in educational endeavors. The Gamma Xi chapter has implemented a fully structured scholarship plan, including mandatory quiet study hours and incentive programs. Most notable on our campus is the current support from our administration. Over the past year our vice president of Student Affairs contributed $8000 for our community to participate in the Fraternity and Sorority Coalition Assessment Project. Armed with the recommendations from the assessment team that visited our campus last fall, we have formed the Fraternity and Sorority Advancement Committee. This committee will be working through the next academic year to implement a strategic plan for the Greek community. Overall goals include an increase in recruitment and retention, maintenance of high standards for leadership, scholarship, and service, and increased alumni involvement and support. By choosing to support the Gamma Xi chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity, you are choosing to support one of our top chapters on the University of Wyoming campus. Sincerely,

Kate Steiner Coordinator, Greek Affairs



Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs Department 3066 • Old Main, Suite 408

1000 East University Avenue • Laramie, WY 82071

Phone: (307) 766-5123 • Fax: (307) 766-2696

Web: http:// www.uwyo.edu/Studentaff

July 14, 2009

Ellen Konkle

Affinity Connection

[email protected]]

Re: Gamma Xi Chapter of Sigma Chi at Wyoming

Dear Ellen:

I am pleased to provide a letter of support for the Gamma Xi Chapter of Sigma Chi. I am

in complete agreement with our Coordinator of Greek Life, Kate Steiner, in her assessment of

our local chapter of Sigma Chi via the correspondence she has provided to you. Over the years I

have continually been impressed with this fraternity, their student members and their alumni.

The leadership of the chapter is strong and their alumni support is significant. I am very

supportive of their interest in continuing to make capital improvements to their facility and

commend the local chapter for their foresight in doing so.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at [email protected];

307-766-5123.

Sincerely,

Sara Axelson

Vice President for Student Affairs

Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs Department 3066 • Old Main, Suite 408

1000 East University Avenue • Laramie, WY 82071

Phone: (307) 766-5123 • Fax: (307) 766-2696

Web: http:// www.uwyo.edu/Studentaff

July 14, 2009

Ellen Konkle

Affinity Connection

[email protected]]

Re: Gamma Xi Chapter of Sigma Chi at Wyoming

Dear Ellen:

I am pleased to provide a letter of support for the Gamma Xi Chapter of Sigma Chi. I am

in complete agreement with our Coordinator of Greek Life, Kate Steiner, in her assessment of

our local chapter of Sigma Chi via the correspondence she has provided to you. Over the years I

have continually been impressed with this fraternity, their student members and their alumni.

The leadership of the chapter is strong and their alumni support is significant. I am very

supportive of their interest in continuing to make capital improvements to their facility and

commend the local chapter for their foresight in doing so.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at [email protected];

307-766-5123.

Sincerely,

Sara Axelson

Vice President for Student Affairs



The confidence of the Founders of Sigma Chi was based upon a belief that the principles which they professed and the ideal of the Fraternity which they sought were but imperfectly realized in the organizations by which they were surrounded.

The standard with which the fraternity started was declared by Isaac M. Jordan to be that of admitting no man to membership in Sigma Chi who is not believed to be:

The Jordan Standard: The Creed that Binds Us All

A Man of Good Character.......

A Student of Fair Ability.......

With Ambitious Purposes.......

A Congenial Disposition.......

Possessed of Good Morals.......

Having a High Sense of Honor and

A Deep Sense of Personal Responsibility.

sx wyoming

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