Sigma Phi Epsilon - University of Oregon

Your Impact, Our Future: Giving Back to Oregon Beta O ur bond as SigEp brothers extends beyond our undergraduate years. The experiences and values we gained at Oregon Beta shaped who we are, and giving back ensures that future generations of brothers will benefit as we did. There are many ways to support Oregon Beta, allowing you to contribute at a level that fits your time and commitment. Ways to Give Back: Donations: These support scholarships, leadership programs, and Chapter operations. They directly benefit the Chapter and are tax deductible. You can make a gift at sigep.org/orbeta. Volunteering: Mentor, advise, or assist with alumni initiatives. We are always looking for volunteer support within our AVC. Career Coaching: Offer guidance, networking, or share your career journey with current undergraduates. Submit your interest form for volunteering or career coaching at sigep.org/about/get-involved/volunteer. Staying Connected: Attend alumni events, reunions, or virtual meetups. Every act of support strengthens our brotherhood and preserves Oregon Beta's legacy. Get involved today and make a lasting impact! Page 4 The Impact of Alumni Volunteers IAN SCHRAY '97 ON MAINTAINING FRATERNAL SUPPORT T hough Ian Schray '97 had no initial interest in joining a Fraternity, one lunch visit at the Oregon Beta Chapter House changed everything for him. He was excited to embrace a community of likeminded young men on campus, and Ian's fraternal commitment continues to this day through devoted volunteer service. DISCOVERING THE BROTHERHOOD "I realized these guys are just like me," Ian said, remembering his recruitment experience. Within a couple months, he was living in the house and forming strong bonds with dozens of brothers. "We had a fire in late 1994, and we lived in a hotel for three months. Through that shared experience—the brotherhood was never stronger than when we were going through that." From his first time witnessing the SigEp ritual, Ian gained a deeper understanding of his place in the brotherhood and committed himself to bettering Oregon Beta Chapter. He served as chaplain, a role that he considered the heart of the house for its importance in preserving the Chapter's culture. INVOLVEMENT BEYOND COLLEGE In 2019, Ian felt a desire to give back to Sigma Phi Epsilon as a mentor for Oregon Beta. When COVID and the Chapter's suspension derailed SigEp at the University of Oregon, he worked with the Alumni Volunteer Corporation to navigate rechartering in fall 2023. "It's the best thing I've ever done," he added. "It's a sense of giving back… I know there are kids out there that just need a little bit of help, and I think it's important to give it to them. We were given help, and I want to make sure they have the same guidance." As a Chapter counselor, Ian is grateful to work with a talented mentor board to guide undergraduate leaders toward SigEp growth and success. He also mentors the current chaplain and helps with things from grades to Fraternity responsibilities and life steps beyond college. "I also routinely go down and hold informal workshops with the guys. My favorite thing is ritual, and I get to go do that every once in a while." ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT MATTERS Ian appreciates Oregon Beta Chapter's strong mentor and alumni boards, though he hopes fellow alumni can find different ways to make an impact on a more individual scale as well. "I envision a role for people who don't want to get super involved with the nuts and bolts of the Alumni Board, but they feel they can give back for a student at risk of failing. Just grab an undergraduate, take them for lunch or coffee, have phone calls. It doesn't have to be a formal involvement; it can be an army of a million." You can connect with Ian and discuss volunteer opportunities at ian@schray.com "I want our mentorship to continue to blossom as the Fraternity continues its growth."

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