Sigma Chi - University of Cincinnati

Zeta Psi Chapter 2 What Makes Sigma Chi Right for Us? Hear from Some of Our New Members SIGMA CHI BUILDS LEADERS Why Mark Mercurio '99 Wants to Return the Favor M any young college men join fraternities for similar reasons, such as making a huge school feel smaller or to get involved on campus. Mark Mercurio '99 chose Sigma Chi for those reasons and more, not realizing that it would help make him a leader as well. Early on, Mark told Andy Patrilla '95 (who helped recruit him alongside Mark's family friend Brian Kozak '97) that he wanted to run for a small leadership role in Zeta Psi. Andy encouraged Mark to aim higher and run for quaestor. at role thrust major responsibilities on Mark and taught him to lead and motivate his peers—a crucial life skill. "I remember interviewing for jobs, and my experience as quaestor was one of the best examples to showcase my leadership," he said. Mark went on to serve as Consul, which led to one of his proudest college accomplishments: representing Zeta Psi as a finalist for the International Balfour Award his senior year. Along the way, he enjoyed the many parties and formals with his brothers as well as serving as a Derby Days coach. "With that said, the deep stuff that sticks with me are the friendships I made and the brothers I learned from during my undergraduate years." Aer business school and a brief stint in consulting, Mark worked in brand management at P&G. His longest role there was in marketing for the Swiffer brand before getting promoted to a global role; he learned lots about building a brand and running a business along the way. He later worked in marketing at e Gorilla Glue Company, where he has now been CEO since 2019. roughout his career, Mark has been fortunate to work in roles he loves with a great company culture and work-life balance. Mark's donation to the Zeta Psi 140: Leadership Lives here Campaign was partially inspired by his pledge brother Chad Isenogle '99, who encouraged their class to give in memory of Jeremy Bowman '99, a good friend who passed away during COVID. "As I contemplated that gi, I also thought about all the opportunities the fraternity opened up for me," Mark said. "It really helped define me as a leader, so giving to the fund was an easy decision." "I regret that I didn't get to spend more time with Jeremy aer college," he added. "He was one of the most fun people you'd ever meet. So, for any of my fellow pledge brothers and Sigs who knew Jeremy, pitch in to the campaign in his memory. Any little bit helps." Outside of work, Mark spends his spare time with his wife of 20 years, Sara, and their three sons. ey love attending the boys' sporting events and traveling several times per year. He also sees about 10 Zeta Psi brothers once a year for a golf trip. You can connect with Mark at mercurma@hotmail.com. "Sigma Chi has truly taught me how to be myself while learning how to grow as a man and leader of the community around me." –Dean Dudas '26 "Sigma Chi isn't just a brotherhood; it's a family of brothers, parents, and alumni whom I can forever rely on to be there when I need them most." –Colin Pasion '26 "e passion and dedication that everyone had for Sigma Chi instantly drew me in." –Spencer Routt '27 "I'm blessed to have met this group of men who I can truly call my brothers." –Adam Dumford '26 "Sigma Chi has made my time in college what it is; I have made friendships I will cherish for the rest of my life." –Jamison Bodner '26

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