Sigma Chi - University of Missouri

Summer 2015 Newsletter

Xi Xi Chapter of Sigma Chi at the University of Missouri

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R yan Candice was the epitome of a carefree, fun-loving young man. His many good friends included Alex Lindley '15 and other Xi Xi brothers. Last year, the lives of those who loved him were shattered when Ryan killed himself. No one had sensed a hint of the inner turmoil that brought about his death. Instead of merely recoiling from this tragedy, Alex and other MU students decided to grasp the situation; to create a communications program that analyzed and attacked what has become the second leading cause of death on college campuses. Seeing a need to speak from the vernacular and perspective of college students, they initiated the program, Wake Up, with a featured documentary film to be used as a teaching mechanism nationally. The film's objectives are to give proper warnings in order to build awareness of the possible signs of suicidal tendencies, to offer paths to prevention, to tell Ryan's story, and relate the stages of assimilation and reaction to his death by his friends. The group was amazed when immediate response to a website generated more than $21,000 toward the production of the film, which is estimated eventually to cost more than $100,000. Alex's efforts are so impressive that some of the alumni have started a challenge grant of $10,000 to spur your donations—matching them up to $10,000. Thank you to John Qualy '70, John Walker '60, Larry McMullen '54, and Jay Shields '76. The film will include interviews of medical professionals and specialists involved with suicide prevention. If you are interested in supporting this effort, go to gofundme.com/ wakeupdocumentary. Author's note: I have discussed in some detail the direction that Wake Up is taking in organizing its program and in approaching the production of its film. In both cases, I find that the planning to date is remarkably professional. THE TIGER SIG Page 2 Spring 2015 Alex Lindley '15 Champions the Fight against College Suicide O n June 25 and 26 at the International Grand Chapter in San Diego, Calif., Brother Jay Shields '76 will be presented as a Constantine Sig. Jay's contributions to Sigma Chi include leadership in rechartering the Chapter in 2007, instituting the $30,000 per year scholarship plan, drafting the Chapter's Strategic Plan, and tireless leadership as president of both the Xi Xi Alumni Association and House Corporation. The nominating papers for Jay's selection say: "Jay's passion for Sigma Chi knows no limits. He has given the White Cross new luster. He deserves to be a Constantine Sig." Jay can be reached at (314) 308-7583 or jayshields@schaefferoil.com. Honoring an American Hero O n November 1, 2014, Captain Joseph W. Parent '60 was inducted into the University of Missouri Army Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC) Hall of Fame. Joe was commissioned as an Infantry Officer following his ROTC training, where he was a distinguished military graduate and leader in all capacities. Beginning in April 1965, he served as a Special Forces/Green Beret team commander in Vietnam. Toward the end of his deployment in April 1966, while fighting the enemy, Captain Parent received bullet wounds as he rendered first aid to one of his sergeants. Sadly, he died two months later. During his tour of duty he was awarded the Bronze star, Purple Heart, and Oak Leaf Cluster medals. Joe had a bright future and his next scheduled military assignment was to receive his master's degree in economics from Vanderbilt to become a professor at West Point. He was looking forward to that challenge. Those of us who fondly remember Joe and his great smile and caring personality cherish our time together and will forever remember him as a true American hero. He is survived by his lovely wife, Liz Parent Watkins, and daughter, Cindy Mcllhenny. They were on hand, along with his sister, Margie Domeier, to honor him at the Hall of Fame induction. Lee Keefer '58, Don Hicks '58, John Loomis '58, and Paul Carothers '58 (Joe's pledge father) also attended to remember their good friend from 500 College Avenue. Joe will always serve as an inspiration to everyone he touched during his lifetime. He brought great honor to our country and to Sigma Chi. Our appreciation to Bill Bollinger '59 for efforts and opportunity to nominate Joe for this honor. We are pleased his heroic deeds have been honored and will serve to inspire those who follow. BROTHER SHIELDS TO RECEIVE CONSTANTINE AWARD Ryan Candice several weeks before his suicide at age 21. Right: Alex Lindley '15 and other MU students plan operation Watch Out.

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