Sigma Phi Epsilon - Florida International University

the Florida nus page 2 N early 30 years ago, Manny Becerra '86 and a group of about eight men embarked on the journey of starting the Florida Nu Chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon. All of the men were very involved on campus, but wanted to do more. At the time, there was only one other fraternity on campus. "The idea was to leave a legacy at FIU," Manny says. "It was a structure that others could come and be welcomed." Fortunately, the men didn't encounter many challenges during the chartering process since all were hands-on and willing to step up. Each brother had a different, important role—Manny laughs and recalls his nickname was "mom," as he was prepared to interject any time he thought something was a bad idea. The fraternity was local for a year and was able to become Sigma Phi Epsilon soon after. Their original plan was able to be fulfilled because they all shared a common vision. His favorite part about being a SigEp member was simply the camaraderie and the brotherhood of the group. "It was a diverse class of characters— full of strength and unity," Manny says. As an alumnus, he enjoys being able to see the difference he and his brothers made 30 years ago. "You can look back and see our imprint," Manny says. "The fraternity changed the way I think about things." SigEp means a great deal to Manny— it was where Manny honed his early leadership skills and cultivated lifelong friendships. He still enjoys seeing and keeping in contact with brothers when he can. "Florida Nu is a testament to life," Manny says. "Joining SigEp was, and continues to be, a positive experience." Manny is the president of the Connected Living business of Assurant Solutions. He and his wife, Ana, have three children: Susana, Mary, and Manny. They reside in Miami, Florida. You can contact him at manuel.becerra@assurant.com. Founding Father reminisces on Early years of Florida Nu Manny Becerra '86 Is Proud of SigEp's Growth second annual october 7—Don't Miss out! L ast year, SigEp FIU alumni joined forces with the Thomas B. Jelke Foundation and Mark Marandino and Associates to put on the inaugural Red Door Classic charity golf tournament. It was our first time putting together a philanthropic project as alumni. Our goal was to get SigEps and others in the community to get together, have a great time, do some networking, and raise money for good causes. The committee was led by Pete Cabrera Jr. '08 and it was a resounding success. In our first year, we raised $21,000 for three great charities: The Buoniconti Fund, the FIU Foundation's first generation scholarship fund, and Florida Nu's scholarship fund. Our goal this year is to raise $35,000 and we need your support. There are four ways you can help: • If you play golf, or know people that play golf, sign yourself and/or them up to play. • Have your company, or one you are close to, become a sponsor for the event—there are eight sponsor levels from $150 to $10,000 and you can even donate items to the silent auction. • Come to the dinner and awards ceremony after the tournament for a small fee. • Make a donation to the tournament as a tax-deductible gift for the charity. Time is running out to help. For more information, turn to page 4 and visit reddoorclassic.com. in memory of michael lopez '18 W e regret to inform our alumni of the passing of an undergraduate brother, Michael Lopez '18. The undergraduate Chapter posted online, "He was shot and murdered on July 30. Michael was an amazing young man and an all-around good person. He was a loving son, grandson, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend to many. We are going to dearly miss our brother and it pains us to see a young man with such an incredible heart and unlimited potential have his life ended so tragically and suddenly." The Chapter and several alumni were present at the wake and also performed the Fallen Brother Ceremony at the burial. A candlelight vigil was held on August 10 at FIU and was incredibly well attended by the campus community—a testament to the love so many had for Michael. May he rest in peace. Michael Lopez '18 and his girlfriend, Doris Gutierrez, who was also shot in the incident and is recovering from major injuries. Upcoming Events September 15 Meet the SigEps September 21 SigEp alumni happy hour october 7 Red Door Classic presented by Mark E. Marandino, CFP october 22 FIU Homecoming tailgate at Roar Lounge November 19 Third annual softball tournament at Tamiami Park January 21, 2017 30-year anniversary celebration Please visit fiusigepalumni.com for more details.

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