Sigma Phi Epsilon - Missouri University of Science & Technology

PAGE 2 BEARTRACKS Our House…Our Home Percentage of Pledges Paid by Year Graduation Years % of Pledges Paid 1945-1950 100% 1951-1955 100% 1956-1960 93% 1961-1965 98% 1966-1970 95% 1971-1975 100% 1976-1980 91% 1981-1985 96% 1986-1990 96% 1991-1995 95% 1996-2000 85% 2001-2005 94% 2006-2010 36% 2011-2015 10% F or Dave Denner '76, his undergraduate experience was key in his development as a man, an engineer, and a leader. Sigma Phi Epsilon helped him cultivate lasting friendships and interpersonal skills, while the university provided an excellent academic background. Through his time at Missouri Gamma, Dave fondly remembers the pledge class walkout and keeping the fire lit, initiating his brother, Devin Denner '79, the noisy coffee pot that belonged to John Ohara '76, and, of course, the party weekends. He encourages undergraduates to enjoy these moments while balancing other aspects of their lives. "Study enough to make good grades, but don't study so much that you miss out on other facets of the college experience," Dave said. "And to young alumni, work hard, make your boss look good, and make time for family." As the president of Coronet Industries Inc., he used this advice and the social skills he developed as a SigEp to succeed throughout his career. In his position, he handles environmental cleanup of a 1,000-acre site in Florida for two Japanese companies that own Coronet. Dave previously worked as a plant manager for Monsanto and vice president of manufacturing for a small specialty chemical company. "Being a SigEp taught me a lot about working with people from different backgrounds," he said. Dave resides in Eureka, Mo., with his wife, Denise. The couple has been married for 39 years and has three children. He enjoys working out at the Y several times a week, reading, and following the Cardinals, Blues, and Missouri Tigers. Dave can be reached at denner@earthlink.net. Becoming a Balanced Man Fraternity Plays Significant Role in Alumnus' Growth Q: Why did you decide to join Sigma Phi Epsilon? A: My dad, Larry Hendren '73, was a SigEp at MS&T and had fond memories, but he encouraged me to weigh my options when I was considering joining. I was hesitant to join a fraternity at all my first semester, but after touring the house and meeting the guys, I recognized what a great group they were. It was one of the best decisions I ever made. Q: What did your undergraduate experience at Missouri Gamma mean to you? A: It was full of incredible life experiences and taught me invaluable lessons about myself and others. I learned technical, leadership, and interpersonal skills that will shape the rest of my life. I also gained several friends and memories that I hope to hold forever. Q: What are some of your favorite memories? A: The fun things I got to do nearly every day with guys who are still my best friends today—playing golf on a nice afternoon and racquetball when it was not so nice, watching movies way too late into the night, and having Chinese on Sunday afternoons. And the silly things we did ceremoniously—dragging the rock all over Rolla before Homecoming, festivities and parties for St. Pat's, going away for formal weekend, and, most of all, Steak Fry. Q: How did the fraternity prepare you for life after college? A: I learned so much about what I was capable of—everything from how to throw a horseshoe to how to motivate someone to pay their bills. It also helped me socially come out of my shell and that has since made a difference for my personal and professional fulfillment by breaking away from the dorky engineer stereotype. Q: Why do you believe it is important for all alumni to reconnect or stay in touch with the chapter? A: I'd like to think that Sigma Phi Epsilon was a large part of our lives as we transitioned from high school kids to working professionals and more mature adults. The chapter is still strong because of the great guys there and strong support from guys that used to be there. If we don't continue to support it after we leave, it will deprive others from this same experience. Q: Where do you work now, and what do you do specifically? A: I live in Germany doing cyber security for Lockheed Martin. Q: What are some highlights from your professional career? What do you enjoy most? A: I love to travel and have been fortunate to visit lots of fun places all over the U.S. for work as a systems engineer. My first two winters after graduating college I worked in Anchorage, Alaska, on an air traffic control system, and it was awesome. My dream of working internationally came true when I was offered a job in Germany last year. I have also managed to work in R&D, business development, and program management. One of the Best Decisions Matt Hendren '05 Thankful for Missouri Gamma Experience Dave Denner '76 and his grandson, Carson

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