Sigma Chi - University of Memphis

Memphis Sigma Chi Housing Group, Inc. 11103 Wexford Drive Eads, TN 38028 Address Service Requested The WISE OLD OWL "Because of Sigma Chi, I had a college experience full of pride in my university, deep and meaningful friendships that last to this day, and professional development opportunities through campus and chapter leadership roles," shares Chapter Advisor Brett Collins '04. From the very beginning, he was attracted to the bond of Sigma Chi. "There was something authentic about the brothers there and the connection that they shared." His decision to join Epsilon Kappa is one that has shaped his life ever since. During his undergraduate years, Brett held multiple leadership positions and was actively involved with St. Jude Up 'til Dawn and Frosh Camp. He also attended the Sigma Chi Horizons leadership school. "The fraternity completely changed my direction in college. It reinforced values that I had been taught by my parents and challenged me to live by them in real world situations while refining my leadership skills and giving me confidence in them." In October 2009, Brett was offered the opportunity to become Epsilon Kappa's Chapter advisor. It was an opportunity he had not anticipated but gladly accepted. "I was honored when Tom McAdams, Vanderbilt '57 called to congratulate me on being appointed. I have a deep respect for him and the way he connected, mentored, and led men 40-50 years younger than him." Brett has tried to pass on the lessons he learned during his undergraduate years with Epsilon Kappa. "I believe in helping young leaders identify their strengths and their passions and challenging them to grow and be better." Alumni involvement is an important part of Epsilon Kappa's success and Brett encourages alumni to be involved any way they can. "I think that we have to change the definition of what it means to be an involved Sigma Chi alumnus." He notes that there are a variety of ways that alumni can be involved with the Chapter: re-establish the Memphis Alumni Chapter, host a pledge class reunion, attend annual social events, or become a Chapter officer advisor. "It's about finding that part of Sigma Chi that you are passionate about and centering your involvement around that." Brett works for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital as a professional fundraiser, a position he found through his experiences in Sigma Chi. He utilizes the skills and values he learned in Epsilon Kappa every day to build relationships with others. He lives in Memphis, Tenn. You can contact him at brett.collins@stjude.org. Pictured: Brett Collins '04 with Karson Conway '00, Justin Barnett '02, Richie Weaver '05, Allan Cannon '04, and John Hanna '05. Because of Sigma Chi Brett Collins '04 Shares Why He Values the Fraternity "The fraternity completely changed my direction in college. It reinforced values that I had been taught by my parents and challenged me to live by them in real world situations while refining my leadership skills and giving me confidence in them." Look inside for an update on the campaign!

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