Sigma Alpha Epsilon - Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

PAGE 3 ScientiSt Brother DeDicateD to Σae How Tom Morgan '72 Contributes to the Future of NY Epsilon T he ΣAE chapter house impressed Tom Morgan '72 with its physical presence, as well as its setting in a residential neighborhood away from campus. "The men in the house, however, were what made joining and living there so enjoyable; a good mix of backgrounds, majors and interests. I would not have had such a well- rounded college experience if I had lived-in anywhere else." For him, it felt like going home every evening. Tom's experience as an ΣAE prepared him to work with others, step outside his own view point, and see others' motivations in a fresh way. Another unexpected attribute gained from the brotherhood was learning to navigate home ownership problems. "Whether it was a simple repair or a more involved problem, there always seemed to be a brother who knew what to do." The same was true with academics. When struggling, there was a brother willing to help with a course he had already taken. As far as success, Tom shares his advice with undergraduates, "An RPI degree will be like a passport into the real world. I had no idea when I got it, how much that diploma mattered in the world of engineering, science and technology." ΣAE also helped Tom develop as a problem solver, to learn persistence and how to gain insight from the ideas of others. "I am a senior scientist at the Rensselaer Institute for Data Exploration and Applications, RPI's data analytics research program. I also spend time working with Earth and Environmental Science students on projects for the Jefferson Project at Lake George. Lessons learned as an undergrad still apply to my day-to-day research activities." Tom has been active with the Preserving Our Past, Providing for Our Future campaign and shares, "It was satisfying to come back to the Troy area after many years and get more directly involved as an LAE board member. The experience of living in the house is not all that different from years ago, although the building is showing its age and needs our help." He recognizes the chapter's strength due to the continued work of the actives in recruiting, the financial support and time the alumni contribute. Tom urges his brothers to keep their contact information up-to-date. "You might be surprised to discover how many brothers are interested in touching base via phone, email or even at the house to catch up on life's journeys and hash over old times." Living locally has allowed Tom to dedicate time to chapter operations. And an element Tom noticed when reconnecting with NY Epsilon was how constant the chapter has been over the years. He encourages his brothers to look back at what NY Epsilon did for them. "After all these years, getting back together, even if just on the phone or for a weekend, to talk about old times and compare life experiences is a pleasure." He reminds them to look back as time passes too quickly, pausing to relive a little of the past with old friends and recharge for the future. You can hear more about why Tom supports the campaign via email at trm13411@sbcglobal.net. I 'm happy to report the continued strength and vitality of the brothers of NY Epsilon. Having initiated 17 men in the fall 2018 pledge class, we are eager to see these exceptional men step up into leadership positions as they become upperclassmen. We are inspired by the generosity of our alumni for the campaign to renovate our home and want to contribute by leading by example in the RPI community and proving the members of ΣAE are True Gentlemen. MAKING AN IMPACT IN THE COMMUNITY Our philanthropic efforts are as strong as ever. We love supporting the Troy Boys and Girls Club every year with Farkouh Field Day! Brothers volunteered at the event while kids enjoyed an obstacle course, face painting, and a cotton candy machine. Last fall, we also hosted a bake sale with Alpha Phi. The funds raised were used to support the B+ Foundation, a children's cancer charity that helps kids through financial assistance, research and advocacy. CHANGES IN RECRUITMENT NY Epsilon did fairly well in recruitment relative to the other chapters on campus. While the RPI Greek Life Task Force delayed recruitment until October, NY Epsilon decided to not formally recruit in the spring, instead participating in informal recruitment with targets for men to join as sophomores. THANK YOU, LOYAL ALUMNI As one of the largest fraternities on campus, New York Epsilon bears a great responsibility to the community, our collegiate institute, our neighbors near 12 Myrtle Avenue, and current as well as future members. By following the creed of The True Gentleman, the chapter helps mold fine young men into better citizens, scholars and leaders to benefit themselves and others during their time here at RPI and after. Fraternally, Nick Mesibov '20 Eminent Archon ea@nyepsilon.com NY Epsilon Shows Leadership on Campus and in the Community Our IFC Sports Barker winners! (Left) Alumni vs. actives soccer game last fall. (Right) We hosted a bake sale with Alpha Phi to support the B+ Foundation. The 2018 Farkouh Field Day at the Troy Boys and Girls Club.

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