Sigma Chi - Montana State University

4 BOBCAT SIG M atthew Sonnichsen, College of Idaho '04, comes from a small school of only 750 students. Greek life was just as small with a mere three chapters on campus. Finding a home at Kappa Lambda Chapter of Sigma Chi, Matt developed a dedication to leadership as a collegian that would carry on years aer graduation. Taking on a larger campus and chapter, he serves as the chapter advisor for Beta Rho. "Coming to a school with more than 10 to 20 times the student population is an interesting dynamic," Matt said. "It's a challenge, and something I am learning more about day by day." Matt was motivated to take on the role of chapter advisor for Beta Rho aer the Grand Praetor called to ask if he was available to take the position. "I had been waiting to get involved so I jumped at the opportunity," Matt shared. As a former member of the advisory board for the University of Montana, he was excited to hear that the Beta Rho position would be a one-man operation. It didn't take long for his hard work to make an impact. During the spring semester, Beta Rho won a Peterson award—the highest honor an active chapter can receive. Matt set his new goals for the chapter high, aiming to help the chapter attain the Peterson Gold award this year along with Chapter of the Year at Montana State by improving their relationship with other fraternities on campus. Beyond undergraduate awards, Matt plans to help connect local alumni back to the chapter. Events such as Homecoming will be used to entice alumni to come back, visit the chapter house, and get to know the active members. "I'm really trying to get in contact with more alumni to see what they want," Matt said. "Not only do I want to strengthen alumni members' relationships with the chapter, but also amongst themselves." He is hopeful to begin building some of these bridges during the fall semester. Outside of his involvement with Sigma Chi, Matt is an attorney by trade with two daughters, ages 4 and 7, who keep him busy. He says, "Finding time for oneself to relax is key in maintaining a healthy work-life balance." Some of Matt's favorite ways to relax include going on walks, clay pigeon shooting, exercising, and playing video games. If you have questions for Matt, or would like to share your ideas on alumni events, he can be reached at matt.sonnichsen@oracle.com. SERVING SIGMA CHI Meet Matthew Sonnichsen, College of Idaho '04, Beta Rho's New Chapter Advisor Outgoing Training and Doctrine Command General Stephen J. Townsend, center, passes the flag to Army General Mark A. Milley, left, as incoming Commander General Paul Funk II '84, second from left, waits during a change of command ceremony. Incoming Training and Doctrine Command General Paul Funk II '84 high- fives his grandson, Jack Brown, during the change of command ceremony at Ft. Eustis on June 21. A SALUTE TO PAUL FUNK II '84 G eneral Paul Funk II '84 takes command of Ft. Eustis and Army Training and Doctrine Command in D.C.

• Cover