Sigma Phi Epsilon - University of California, Berkeley

Page 2 Taking New Leaps Forward MATT BUNCH '05 ON SIGEP'S LASTING RELEVANCE A ll too often, fraternity chapters and universities can have a strained relationship—especially when a suspension or closure is on the table. Yet when that happened to California Alpha in the spring of 2019, UC Berkeley actively courted SigEp's return to campus. "SigEp is a positive influence in the Greek system at Berkeley, and the university never had a serious problem with our chapter," notes Matt Bunch '05, one of the alumni helping facilitate our return. The prior challenge, instead, was to persuade SigEp Headquarters that California Alpha had the right timing, resources, and alumni support for that comeback, which is now set for the fall of 2024. As outgoing AVC president, Matt has been on the frontlines of this process—not unlike the California Alpha rechartering in his college years. LEARNING THE VIRTUES Matt had no interest in fraternities but agreed to tag along with a friend on a trip to the Pacific Film Archive—a trip that got canceled at the last minute. To make it up to him, a SigEp visiting from HQ, Corey Schuler, Indiana Zeta '02, took him to coffee. He told him about the leadership opportunities, personal development, and lifelong friendships found in SigEp. "They weren't lying. I became a better person, and SigEps are some of my closest friends today," he said. Matt credits his growth in confidence and leadership to the SigEp experience—especially the book The Leadership Challenge, co-authored by Barry Posner, California '70, which the brothers studied at SigEp leadership trainings. Skills from those years are a part of Matt's everyday practices as he motivates others in his professional life. GROWING WITH DILIGENCE For much of the chapter's previous restart, Matt served as the Chaplain. He was in charge of practicing the ritual as well as developing and enforcing the rules and bylaws to foster future success. One of the reemerging chapter's biggest challenges was growth while keeping guiding principles at heart. "It would have been too easy to do what others were doing and throw giant parties," he said. "We kept our social events safe and manageable." In an era where hazing was still commonplace on campus, the brotherhood strove to reject poor behavior and stay true to SigEp's values. The current challenge, in Matt's view, is whether young men will want to join the 122-year institution that is Sigma Phi Epsilon (including 113 years at Berkeley); but he thinks the answer is yes. "We see all the time at other schools that although it's changed over time, SigEp is still a relevant part of college life." What hasn't changed is the need for leadership and positive relationships. "Being able to communicate and work with other people will never go out of style." BROTHERLY LOVE LASTS Above all, Matt wants future brothers to know that SigEp is fun. "Some of the best times in my life were hanging out with my brothers. We didn't realize at the time we were building something bigger than ourselves. But it prepared me for the future, and I still think back on how great it was." Matt lives in West Sacramento, California, and is transitioning from AVC President to Director of Operations; he's also served as a mentor with chapters across the state. With a lifelong career in California state politics, he happily volunteers to coach any brother seeking a career in politics or government affairs. You can reach Matt at matthewbunch@gmail.com. Matt (left) with Mike Green, California Alpha '62 at the 2023 Grand Chapter Conclave. Help SigEp Grow Stronger Than Ever Send in a Recruitment Referral Today C ollege men spend 90 percent of their time outside the classroom. This means the majority of their college experience has nothing to do with what they are learning behind a desk and everything to do with what they are learning in the world around them. Mental health, academic performance, personal relationships, and professional preparedness are all common issues men are faced with when they step foot on campus. These are issues that no one is meant to face alone. From lifelong friendships to professional preparedness and from developing us as leaders to fostering a mindset for service, SigEp is providing a member experience focused on changing the lives of the young men who choose to spend their 90 percent with SigEp. In the fall of 2024, SigEp will return to the University of California- Berkeley campus and California Alpha will focus on creating a space of support and brotherly love for brothers to grow in their experience outside the classroom. Do you know a young man attending the California-Berkeley who would be a great addition to SigEp this fall? Scan the QR code now to submit a recruitment referral form!

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