Sigma Chi - University of Michigan

Fall 2021 Newsletter

Theta Theta Chapter of Sigma Chi at the University of Michigan

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THETA THETA CHAPTER OF SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN | FALL 2021 W hether you're on a sports team, in a book club, or in a friend group, being a part of something bigger than yourself is special. For Jeffrey W. Hansen '90 and Joseph R. Creal '90, being a brother of Theta Theta Chapter provided a significant sense of community. Jeff's father, Wayne Hansen '68, shared many fond memories of the fraternity with Jeff. Even at 74, Wayne's brothers from the Chapter remain his closest friends. Wayne never pushed Sigma Chi on Jeff, though; he wanted his son to make a decision that was his own. When recruitment came along, Jeff felt a sense of comfort at Sigma Chi and pledged with Theta Theta, just like his father. In Joe's case, he had a friend from high school join Sigma Chi. After visiting the Chapter House, Joe knew it was the place for him. "I was looking for a way to make a big school seem smaller, and Greek life did just that," Joe said. Jeff and Joe made countless memories at Sigma Chi, such as going on road trips, initiating new brothers, participating in Derby Days, tailgating for football games, and winning the Rose Bowl and the NCAA Championship in basketball. "The common theme is the laughter and camaraderie with, what I believe to be, a family," Jeff said. Joe's son, Braedon Creal '22, is also a Sigma Chi at U of M. Although many aspects have changed over the past 30 years, Joe saw that the bonds of brotherhood remain true and insurmountable. To add to that sentiment, Jeff stated, "Our brotherhood created an immensely strong bond that has withstood the test of time." Joe and Jeff attended Braedon's initiation ceremony together, they took note of the condition of ritual materials—items were broken and barely taped together. Their desire to get more involved as alumni and honor Matthew J. Peltz '90, their pledge brother who unexpectedly passed away three years ago, inspired a collaboration to update the ritual materials. Matt was Jeff and Joe's roommate at Sigma Chi and remained a close friend post-graduation, living only five miles away during their adult life. COMMUNITY IS ETERNAL Jeff Hansen '90 and Joe Creal '90 Honor Their Fallen Brother A Saturday well-spent at a U of M football game. Go Blue! Bottom row, from left: Matt Peltz '90, Joe Creal '90, and Jeff Hansen '90. Top row: Matt's late wife, Barb, Joe's wife, and Braedon Creal '22. "Together, we spearheaded fundraising from brothers in our era to contribute gifts for ritual equipment in Matt's honor. The improvement was much needed, and I was appreciative that Joe and I could make it happen to remember Matt," Jeff shared. Jeff and Joe both enjoy spending time with their families and going to U of M football games together. They both anticipate the occasional five-year reunion or Homecoming festivities to touch base with brothers they've lost contact with. "Reconnecting with brothers is priceless," Jeff added. They encourage current members to take advantage of their undergraduate experience and to stay involved for years beyond because that sense of community is eternal. You can connect with Jeff and Joe at jhansen@sigmarep.com and jcreal@mosaic-capgroup.com.

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