Sigma Chi - University of Mississippi

2 T he Eta Chapter of Sigma Chi wrapped up yet another successful semester on Friday, May 6. Over the past few months, the chapter experienced numerous highs and lows. It is through these trials and tribulations that the bonds of our brotherhood are deepened and forever strengthened. Academically, brothers excelled and achieved high recognition. The overall chapter has a 3.15 GPA, with new members holding a 2.96 mark and upperclassmen holding a 3.18 average. Twenty-three members made the Dean's Honor Roll (3.5 to 3.74 GPA) and 20 made the Chancellor's (3.75 to 3.99 GPA). A total of 20 brothers earned a 4.0 semester GPA. A multitude of seniors graduated from the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College, while numerous freshmen, sophomores, and juniors continue their academic endeavors in the program. Sigma Chis at Ole Miss hold many positions within the campus community. Sophomore Edward Brown '24 was elected as vice president of public relations for the Interfraternity Council. Two other sophomores, Porter May '24 and Russ Upton '23, earned a prestigious honor by being chosen for the Ole Miss Columns Society. Freshman Jackson Scruggs '25 was elected to the Associated Student Body, and sophomore Kamal Kota '24 was elected secretary of the Safe Ride Committee. Other brothers remain active members of different clubs and councils around Oxford. Philanthropically, the Eta Chapter did not perform as well as anticipated. Unfortunately, as many of you know, brother Thomas Mayo '23 tragically passed away on Thursday, April 14. Our annual Derby Days had been planned for the following week, but was subsequently canceled. A dark cloud was cast over the chapter on that day, but we have found ways to learn from Thomas' passing and honor his legacy. Mr. David Magee, bestselling author of "Dear William," came and spoke to the chapter about his own son's passing and how he dealt with it. Ultimately, the best way we can honor Thomas is by holding ourselves accountable and providing support for struggling brothers. We have shared pain, vulnerability, and sorrow in the past weeks. However, these will gradually evolve into strength and happiness as we remember the positive impact Thomas had on all of us. All honor to his name. We thank each and every one of our alumni, parents, and other family and friends for their continued support of Sigma Chi at Ole Miss. We look forward to next semester as the current freshmen pledge class will be the first group to live in the new house. We are extremely fortunate to have the resources we do and will continue to make the most of our opportunities in our short time in this paradise that is known as Oxford, Mississippi. In hoc, Edward Francis '23 Consul Brotherhood as It Was (Continued from page 1) FOREVER STRENGTHENING THE BROTHERHOOD Eta Brothers Support Each Other Through Good Times and Bad Derby Days Chairmen Edward Brown '24, Kamal Kota '24, and Alex Bailey '24 with Rebel defensive tackle Tywone Malone during our powderpuff flag football tournament. With over 10 sororities competing, Delta Gamma took home the trophy. Edward Brown '24, Alex Bailey '24, and Porter May '24 take advantage of the new study rooms implemented during renovations of the old house. Only 15 male students are chosen to join the Ole Miss Columns society every year and Russ Upton '23 and Porter May '24 are two of them. The chapter and other members of the Ole Miss community listen as Mr. Cal Mayo, Thomas' father, speaks after the funeral and the White Rose Ceremony. May we continue to honor Thomas' legacy in everything we do. the same experience that he had while in school. "From what I hear, Sigma Chi is as strong as ever and there are a lot of really outstanding men in the chapter representing all of us," David said. To this day, David still runs into other Sigs in Jackson, Mississippi. "It's a lot of fun to run into men and realize in a conversation that they are a Sigma Chi," David said. "You instantly have a connection from a shared experience—which is very cool. When this occurs, it breaks down walls and, suddenly, you're sharing stories about your time as a Sig." David also enjoys catching up with his brothers by playing golf on the weekends or catching a game during football season. "Even if we haven't had a chance to catch up for a while, it always amazes me that we are able to instantly connect with each other," he said. "A lot of my fondest memories are from those times at the house with the guys. I'm fortunate to be able to give a little back and wanted to help the guys that are there now, and in the future, to have the same type of positive experience that I had." After moving to Jackson, David rejoined his family's business, Craddock Oil, which his father started in 1979. After 11 years and when his father retired, David became president. Even with various challenges that present themselves, David is very fortunate to have had the success that they've have over the last 43 years. "Plus, being a part of a family business with your dad and brother makes it even better," David said. David met his wife, Kappi Kalberer Craddock, a Delta Delta Delta at Ole Miss, while working on his MBA at Ole Miss. They've been married 23 years and have three children together: 18-year-old twins Walker and Kayla, who are seniors at Jackson Prep and both plan to attend Ole Miss, and Hartley (16), who will be a sophomore at Jackson Prep in the fall. You can connect with David at davidc@craddockoil.com.

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