Sigma Phi Epsilon - Purdue University

From the heart 2 INDIANA ALPHA Grateful for the ups and downs Chapter Provides Tommy Payne '14 Advantageous Life Lessons T he best role models bring light into the world and shine when it is dark. Although many go through life without admiring the determination and humility of others, Tommy Payne '14 feels fortunate that one of his role models was always right there beside him. When Tommy arrived at Purdue in 2010, his father, Steve Payne '82, became not only his role model and father, but his Indiana Alpha brother as well. While Steve encouraged Tommy to check out SigEp, Tommy attributes his decision to join the chapter to his wonderful recruitment experience and instant connection he made with active members. "It always felt like home to me." While Tommy cherishes a multitude of fond memories made in the chapter house, he says the day-to-day hilarity of living with 60 of his closest friends was one of his favorite parts about being a SigEp. "I developed lifelong relationships with my fraternity brothers. There was never a dull moment." Looking back at his decision to join SigEp, Tommy is grateful now more than ever for both the ups and the downs he experienced. "The valuable lessons I gained mean a lot to me, and I'm not sure I would have received them someplace else," he says. "I learned from wonderful mentors like our advisor Dick Blum '64, who taught me invaluable life lessons." He insists that, although at times tumultuous, his experience as an Indiana Alpha taught him life skills that have resonated with him ever since. Without the tough decisions Tommy had to make as an executive member, he says he would be ill prepared to take on challenging situations. "It helped me learn how to manage my time, how to deal with stress and authority, how to deal with people different from myself, and how to work hard for both personal and collective goals." He adds, "I also credit SigEp for being a big part in my success in going to law school; the chapter provided me with many leadership and scholarship opportunities that distinguished myself as a law school applicant." Tommy beams with confidence knowing his time as an Indiana Alpha, although tough, gave him the tools to be successful both at the Indiana Maurer School of Law and in life. Aside from his father, whose actions serve as a constant everyday force in Tommy's life, New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter has been Tommy's role model throughout his youth. "Jeter leads by example. I admire the humble way he goes about his life. I admire his charitable efforts, and I admire his determination and work ethic." Derek Jeter is the reason Tommy strives to emulate a life infused with humility and honesty, because these qualities, Tommy says, lead to success. As an alumnus, Tommy is eager to stay involved in the chapter. He especially looks forward to participating in football Sundays and the alumni golf outing. Tommy is a role model himself, as his steadfast dedication to help strengthen Indiana Alpha and reestablish the chapter's merit serves as a light for alumni who may still see the dark. E-mail: tcpayne2@gmail.com Tommy Payne '14 with former Senator Richard Lugar Active Members Dedicated to Rebuilding Reputation O ur beloved Indiana Alpha Chapter, throughout history, has been one of the most involved and powerful branches of SigEp, as well as one of the most influential fraternities on Purdue's campus. We have always had strong numbers and, for the last four years, have been a top contender for best fraternity grades, placing first at the end of last semester. What makes our fraternity so great, so unique, is the range of backgrounds and plausible futures that each brother has. Indiana Alphas come from all over the world, and each one of us brings a new perspective to the table when evaluating aspects of life. This diversity enables our members to think more universally when it comes to important choices and as a result broaden their horizons, preparing them for life after college. Cultural intelligence, matched with ambition to do great, is what keeps this chapter strong, even in its darker days. Since 1905, this brotherhood has truly been put to the test. Last year, our chapter went through extensive membership review and was put on probation due to the poor decisions of a few brothers. Unfortunately, our brothers were under the impression that our house was going to end its 109-year run on campus and close down for good. A chapter of over 120 men has been stripped down to 30, with only four living in the house this year. These are the lowest numbers our chapter has ever seen. However, from following the principles of the Balanced Man Program, we were able to draw in 11 new members who are more than enthused about helping the transformation of our chapter. Thankfully, we are still up and running, with more national and alumni support than ever. The principles of this program are being put into place, and our chapter is taking some major steps toward rebuilding its reputation with a clean slate. It is a grand opportunity for all of us involved; as we will be able to, once again, prove how great Indiana Alpha can be when we are determined. Fraternally, Ian Bannon '17 Chapter President president@purdue-sigeps.com (847) 997-8055

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