Sigma Phi Epsilon - Virginia Tech

Page 3 A recent study found that Fraternity and sorority members were more likely to succeed in college and beyond than their non- Greek peers. They are three times more likely to obtain an internship while in college and two times more likely to have a job waiting for them when they graduate. Students spend 90% of their time outside the classroom. SigEp and other Greek-letter organizations capitalize on those hours by preparing men for success in college and in their futures far beyond what their peers experience. 83% of members say their confidence in their leadership skills increased because of their membership. A study of thousands of alumni of diverse backgrounds shows this holds true regardless of an individual's background or socioeconomic status entering college. Behind every great organization is a group of valuable volunteers. Because of higher expectations, as well as the support and network fraternities provide, members experience greater gains in learning and graduate at higher rates than their peers. Volunteers and alumni are that support, and SigEp could truly not do this incredible work without that support. Interested in volunteering with SigEp? Learn more about SigEp's volunteer opportunities today at sigep.org/resources/alumni-and-volunteers. RECENT RESEARCH REINFORCES THE IMPORTANCE OF GREEK-LETTER ORGANIZATIONS F or Robert Kulp '85, the foundation of a meaningful life wasn't poured in concrete—it was built through brotherhood. Drawn by hometown connections and a desire to be more than just another face in a crowd of 20,000 students, Robert found in SigEp a sense of purpose, belonging, and brotherhood that shaped his path forward. What stood out most about the chapter was its balance—a culture that blended athletics, leadership, and a vibrant social scene. "You might excel at one ... and improve yourself by following your brothers' lead in others," he recalled. That peer- driven growth model laid a foundation for his personal and professional development, helping him emerge from college with confidence, direction, and lifelong friendships. Robert's degree in Building Construction and service in the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserve forged a strong foundation on which to build two multimillion-dollar businesses from the ground up. After Naval assignments in Charleston, Virginia Beach, and Scotland, Robert built a career in residential construction, eventually founding Blue Ridge Residential, specializing in historically sensitive renovations. His passion for design, detail and appreciation of historic architecture led to another business, Black Dog Salvage, and ultimately to his role as the "architecturologist" in the long-running TV series Salvage Dawgs, which you can find on DIY/Magnolia Network, Discovery+, Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and YouTube TV. Robert reflects fondly on his time helping improve the old Chapter House and remains inspired by the dedication of fellow alumni. "The commitment and time that guys like Ed Bishop '73, John Lawson '75, and Jay Sage '84, and many others give—it's really admirable," he said. "I can't imagine a better launch pad to the real world than I found at Virginia Kappa." Robert Kulp '85 Talks Purpose, Commitment, and Growth A Fraternal Foundation Alumni with the Lifetime Brotherhood Award. From left: Paul Ostrye '77, Bill Thomas '72, Rick Charter '72, Scott Perkins '87, Tom Eubank '74, and Jay Sage '84. If you'd like to reconnect with Robert, you can send him an email at rkulp@blackdogsalvage.com. Now based in Roanoke, Virginia, Robert and his wife, Patti, enjoy life as empty nesters with three grown daughters. Whether he's cheering on Hokie football, kiteboarding, or captaining Black Dog's vintage cruiser "Damn Skippy," Robert carries with him the spirit of Sigma Phi Epsilon—a brotherhood that continues to shape his journey today. "Sigma Phi Epsilon was truly the best decision I made during my years at Virginia Tech." Brothers for a lifetime!

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