Sigma Chi - West Virginia University

B etween supporting Mu Mu's capital campaign and helping Psi Psi Chapter (literally) rebuild at Syracuse University, Steve Oliva Jr. '91 has been a devoted Sigma Chi alumnus for years. That didn't make him any less astounded at how many brothers reached out after his replacement heart surgery five years ago. "At one point, the nurses and doctors in charge asked if I was a celebrity because they'd never seen anyone get so much attention," Steve said. "Truly unexpected, but it was very moving at a time when I felt my lowest and loneliest." One brother who Steve hadn't seen in over 20 years, Jeff "Gouldie" Gould '89, drove four hours by himself to bring Steve gifts and pass some time. All that support reignited Steve's thirst for life and motivated him to do the work needed for a full recovery. Steve truly found friends for life in his Sigma Chi experience. From multiple parties and Derby Days to his time as ritual chairman, Steve was surrounded by brothers who cared deeply about both fun and professionalism. "Sigma Chi and Mu Mu shaped me to be a better all-around person, and that is why I'm still involved today." In December, Steve celebrated 30 years with his family's construction and real estate business, Oliva Companies (which is celebrating its 85th anniversary). He has served on Psi Psi Chapter's House Corporation Board for 15 years, and his company has renovated their chapter house many times since its reinstatement, transforming the entire 1923 Victorian home into a modern-day house complete with today's codes and necessities. Now, Steve is excited to bring his experience and insight as a member of our campaign's building committee! "I believe the house doesn't make the fraternity, the brotherhood does—but renovating 700 N. High will no doubt strengthen our brotherhood," Steve said. He keeps up with brothers often in a group text, in which they talk about their lives and families and reflect on college days. Those great memories, and all that Sigma Chi has done for him, inspired Steve to keep the legacy alive by getting involved. He hopes this, too, will inspire fellow brothers to help by donating what they can. Steve and his family live in Jamesville, New York, and they try to make it back to Morgantown for a football game at least once a year. Steve is passionate about preserving the Greek experience and looks forward to a successful campaign! If you'd like to connect with Steve or learn more about his role, you can reach him at steve@olivaco.com. A Home to Strengthen Our Brotherhood Why Steve Oliva Jr. '91 Joined the Campaign B efore he even came to West Virginia University, James "Jimmy" Frey III '19 knew that his path in life would lead him to Sigma Chi. As a senior in high school, Jimmy knew Mu Mu's 2015 magister, Daniel Seneri '16, and fell in love with the idea of joining a lifelong brotherhood. "I knew Sigma Chi would help me in every facet of my life," Jimmy said. "Serving as Sigma Chi president taught me how to be a leader, understand how to manage my time, and how to make the best of any situation. Being able to serve as consul of the best fraternity on campus was a huge confidence boost!" Today, Jimmy serves as the senior district manager at ADP—a job he not only loves but is also thriving in. This year, he qualified for his second consecutive President's Club, rewarded to top sales performers in the company. Living only 30 minutes from Morgantown, West Virginia, it's easy for Jimmy to stay involved with Sigma Chi. In his free time, he volunteers with the local alumni chapter and helps with rituals during pledging and initiation. Jimmy chooses to stay involved because Sigma Chi gave him favor and distinction. He is thankful to have had the best undergraduate experience because of Sigma Chi, and he feels he owes it to the next generation to provide the same. "Because I'm blessed with a stable source of income, it would be selfish of me not to give back to help the future of the chapter so future brothers get the same opportunity that I had," Jimmy said. "Any little bit helps. You can spread out your donation over a period, which is nice—I did monthly installments. However, if you don't want to donate financially, get involved other ways! You get what you give in this world." Staying connected to his brothers is important, and by using social media, group chats, visits to each other's hometowns, and annual golf outings, it's easy to do so. Outside of work and spending time with those he loves, Jimmy likes to travel, use his Traeger smoker, watch movies, and attend Abundant Life Church with pastor Nick Cook '74. Jimmy enjoyed getting together with the chapter at the 125th celebration. "I have been waiting for this for the past two years," he said. "Thank you to Robin Turner, the House Corporation, and everyone who stayed true to making this happen even after it was canceled because of COVID." You can connect with Jimmy at (724) 366-8886 or jefrey@mix.wvu.edu. Jeff "Gouldie" Gould '89 visits Steve Oliva Jr. '91 (right) following Steve's replacement heart surgery in late 2016. EMBODYING CHARACTER AND INTEGRITY James "Jimmy" Frey III '19 Shares His Gratitude for the Brotherhood I believe the house doesn't make the fraternity, the brotherhood does— but renovating 700 N. High will no doubt strengthen our brotherhood." 3

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