Alpha Sigma Phi - University of Washington

9 M any alumni reflect on their years in Alpha Sigma Phi as some of the best years of their life; Paul Bailey '74 is no exception. "My experience in Mu Chapter was truly one in a million; I will always remember pledging Alpha Sigma Phi in August 1973 as one of the best decisions of my life," he says. "I instantly connected with the older members in the fraternity, and some of these brothers are still my best friends today. During my time at UW, the men of Alpha Sigma Phi demonstrated high integrity, moral values, and were amazing, genuine people. Mu Chapter was the one that stood out from the rest and was the best place to call 'home.' A favorite part of my undergraduate experience in ASP was the physical structure itself, The Old Gal. The facility's appearance was nothing short of magnificent, and this was primarily due to the Chapter mem- bers taking care of the house as if it was their own." Attending a university with approximately 54,000 students, roaming the large campus and getting connected with students and organizations can be overwhelming and impersonal. Luck- ily for Paul, Alpha Sigma Phi made the university not seem so large and provided him with a house full of brothers to instantly connect with. "Everyone hung out at the ASP house and they all took care of each other. I was a townie at the time—if it wasn't for Mu Chapter, I wouldn't have felt nearly as connected to the university." This welcoming, family-like atmosphere made Paul comfortable getting to know more people and being part of a larger group of people. "I went from having a few friends to having countless friends who I am proud to call my brothers. They always wanted to see me succeed and excel in all aspects of my life; this is something that very few people have the privilege of experiencing in their lifetime, and every day I am blessed to be part of Alpha Sigma Phi's elite, thriving membership." There are several memories in Mu Chapter that have stayed with Paul over the years, including the Talisman Rose Queen Ball held every year just after winter break and the mentorship he received from former Chapter President Craig Banner '72. "Craig really had a lasting impact on not only my fraternity experience but my UW experience as well. He was the one who encouraged me to pursue microbiology in college, which helped me to build the successful career I have now. I would share some more memo- ries, but unfortunately I can't put those in writing," Paul jokes. Paul's once-in-a-lifetime experience in Alpha Sigma Phi inspired him to return the favor as an alumnus by volunteering on the House Corporation Board. Serving as the House Corporation vice president for the past three and a half years. In the capacity of facilities manager, Paul championed funding for numerous projects and worked with contractors to implement many of them. Some of these projects include: fixing the decaying façade and decking above the entry and the solarium; helping Grand Chapter Advisor Bob Strecker '78 get the funding to finish the hardwood floor, which hadn't been refinished in years; replacing the carpet; completing smaller-scale renovations to the bath- rooms, including fixing leaks in the showers and ground water leaks into the chapter room; replacing every door in the house; and various other physical plant tasks that usually involved leaky old pipes and faulty wiring. "There are always projects to tackle with the facility; I believe these projects have really made an impact on the physical appearance of the house and morale of the Chapter. The Old Gal is a 100-year-old house that has 100-year- old plumbing and wiring, so as an active alum of Mu Chapter, I strive to do everything I can to keep the facility clean and safe for brothers of all generations to enjoy. One simple task the House Corporation has implemented recently is to educate young men to take care of the facility and treat it like it's their own home. This will undoubtedly make a world of difference for future generations of brothers who pledge ASP and have the privilege of living in the Old Gal." Although Paul has completed a substantial amount of physi- cal work for the facility, there are still many projects that need attention. Paul is hopeful that alumni will help do their part in bringing all facility projects to completion by donating to the Securing the Future of Mu Chapter campaign. "I want to show our undergraduate brothers that alumni truly care about ASP and want to make a difference. The fraternity started to improve once more alumni became involved with the House Corporation; today, Mu Chapter's membership stands as one of the best and ASP ranks among the top tier of fraternities at the UW." "Alpha Sigma Phi is comprised of incredible young men. The members' grades have improved immensely; there is a renewed sense of pride being an ASP member; and there has been a huge attitude change within the membership as well. These men truly Paul Bailey '74 An Integral Part of The Old Gal

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