Sigma Phi Epsilon - Oklahoma State University

ALPHA ARTERY Oklahoma Alpha | Oklahoma State University | Spring 2023 O nce again, Oklahoma Alpha submitted a Buchanan Cup application ahead of the brothers' trip to Conclave 2023. We can all be proud that Oklahoma Alpha is a strong chapter; we have a good chance of taking home our seventh Buchanan Cup in the last eight Conclaves (and our fourth in a row). Every two years at Conclave, Sigma Phi Epsilon recognizes our highest-performing chapters with the Buchanan Outstanding Chapter Award. Named in honor of past Grand President Edwin Buchanan, Ohio State 1911, the Buchanan Cup represents superior and sustained achievement in our fraternity. The "Buc Cup" recognizes the best of the best Sigma Phi Epsilon chapters. Chapters are measured in relation to the accomplishments of their peers on campus across the country. Only the chapters that excel in every area of operations and further the Grand Chapter's strategic plan qualify for this high honor. An engraved silver bowl is presented to Buchanan Cup winners at the Grand Chapter Conclave. You can see our past Buchanan Cups displayed in our trophy case as you enter the chapter. Buchanan Cups will be awarded at this year's Grand Chapter Conclave in San Antonio, Texas, August 2-6. Fraternally, D. Todd Donavan '86 AVC President todd.donavan@business.colostate.edu (970) 430-9700 STRIVING FOR ANOTHER CUP Sigma Phi Epsilon Heads to San Antonio for Conclave 2023 W hy did you join Sigma Phi Epsilon? For Erik Williams '20, the draw came from the chapter's character. "From the very first dinner I ate with the guys, I could tell they were part of a fraternity for the right reasons: to be a part of something bigger than themselves, to develop as leaders, to excel inside and outside of the classroom, to grow in their faith, and to bond as a brotherhood." He found the Oklahoma Alpha house to be a welcoming place, full of young men of varying interests and personalities. "I loved that the brothers never fit a stereotype. Some excelled in leadership on campus, in intramurals, at their churches, in their specific majors, in musical shows, etc." Despite the differences, Erik found the house still functioned as a team. "We were and are united in being the best versions of ourselves. We didn't just talk the talk but walked the walk." The meaningful connections he formed with brothers allowed Erik to strengthen his faith and develop as a spiritual leader. "From our first fireside chat as freshmen, we grew together quickly and deeply. Many of us hosted Bible studies and worship nights and served at Christian summer camps and with our local college ministries." Erik was elected to serve as guide on the standards board during his junior year and then as chaplain during senior year. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in marketing and both international business and Spanish minors. Erik's passion for people led him to a career as a civil servant. "I am blessed to be the manager of business retention and expansion with the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce," he shares. "I engage with major employers here in OKC and support them in their operations, workforce, growth, and expansions while also helping remove barriers to growth." SigEp played a critical part in Erik securing this position. "When the role opened, I reached out to a brother whose mother worked there. I was able to talk to her about the role more in-depth, and she put in a good word for me. I have now been here for almost three years and have loved every second!" Erik began his alumni volunteer journey serving as an alumni mentor for the chaplain and standards board. "I was then approached about being the chapter counselor, which I gladly accepted. I look forward to supporting the chapter and helping them excel however I can." Deeper Discipleship Erik Williams '20 on Maturity, Relationships, and Giving Back "I am confident in saying that I am a better friend, a better servant, a better leader, a better husband, and a better disciple because of my time in SigEp. For that, I am forever grateful." (Continued on page 2)

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