Sigma Alpha Epsilon - Michigan State University

S I G M A A L P H A E P S I L O N | M I C H I G A N S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y Realizing the Bill Fiscus Vision W hen Stephen Hickman '64 came to Michigan State, he knew that he wanted to be a part of the Greek system because fraternities could provide opportunities and experiences that he would not receive anywhere else. "ΣΑΕ was the chapter that impressed me most and I was fortunate to receive a bid," he shares. Steve's fraternity experiences afforded him important skills and lessons that prepared him for the world after college. "ΣΑΕ gave me confidence in myself, friendships that have lasted throughout my life, and valuable instruction in behavior and responsibility." His memories and friendships from his undergraduate years remain with him today. He shares that the pledge classes of 1963-65 planned their first reunion together in 1994 and have continued that tradition in years since. "I strongly encourage other pledge classes to follow our lead and organize their own reunions." It is these memories and lessons that motivated Steve to give to A New Chapter in Michigan Gamma's Legacy. "I gave so that others may enjoy the same opportunities I had." He knows that in order to achieve success, though, it is important for as many alumni as possible to support the campaign. "Someone before us sacrificed so that we could enjoy the benefits of ΣΑΕ. Now it's our turn. Giving back to the chapter fulfills a responsibility that we have to Michigan Gamma." Steve owns Brazeway Inc., a company that produces tubing, evaporators, and condensers for the air-conditioning and refrigeration industries worldwide. He has enjoyed the opportunity to build his company and provide opportunities for others. His time with ΣΑΕ helped him figure out what he loved and how he could make that into a career. He encourages undergraduates to take advantage of the same opportunities. He and his wife, Sally, live in Adrian, Michigan, and have two daughters, Tracy and Stephanie. Steve communicates regularly with a dozen of his ΣΑΕ brothers and they get together every couple of years. This year, they met in Carmel, California, in September. You can connect with Steve at slhickman@brazeway.com. "NOW IT'S OUR TURN" Steve Hickman '64 on Giving Back to ΣΑΕ I n recent years, Sigma Alpha Epsilon has been a top chapter on Michigan State's campus. They have been gaining a positive momentum that seems as though it has no bounds. This is one of the many reasons that Mike Kamish '86 is supporting A New Chapter in Michigan Gamma's Legacy. Mike has remained involved with Michigan Gamma Chapter since graduating nearly 30 years ago. He has served on the house corporation board, the alumni advisory board, and now serves on the campaign board. Mike's motivation to give back comes from his desire to keep the future of Michigan Gamma strong. "I want to ensure that future young men have the same opportunities and experiences that I had through ΣΑΕ and give back because of how much the fraternity gave me. Our involvement with the chapter shouldn't end after graduation." Mike is enthusiastic about the campaign and what it means for the future of the chapter. "The renovations to the house are long overdue. I think a campaign like this to strengthen the physical aspects of the house will support the ongoing membership itself, as well as benefit the individuals and the university community as well." Knowing that the campaign success depends on the alumni as a whole, he encourages other alumni to support the campaign for Michigan Gamma. "It's an easy contribution to make in that there are many avenues of support and every little bit helps." The campaign offers different levels of investment, various payment options, and will make an impact on the future of Michigan Gamma. Mike keeps in close contact with many of his ΣΑΕ brothers today. "Ironically, seeing everyone now, outside of college days, keeping in touch with everyone, and seeing people at football games are my favorite memories." He also remains involved because he values the Greek system. "I think that the fraternity experience is important. It played a positive role in my education and I think the Greek system is something that should be supported in general." He and his wife, Kris, live in Beverly Hills, Michigan, where Mike is a strategic account executive. They have a son, Kieran, who is 11 years old. You can connect with Mike at mikekamish@me.com. Keeping the Momentum Going Why Mike Kamish '86 Gave to Michigan Gamma "I think a campaign like this to strengthen the physical aspects of the house will support the ongoing membership itself, as well as benefit the individuals and the university community as well."

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