Sigma Phi Epsilon - University of Florida

Page 5 Sigma Phi Epsilon Brian Warren, Sigma Phi Epsilon's national headquarters CEO, brought his greeting from Richmond, Virginia, and was joined by Bert Harris '74, Florida Alpha's newest Order of the Golden Heart recipient, past Grand President, and past AVC President, in welcoming all to the special ceremony. A highlight of the day was the introduction of Mike Watford '75, Florida Alpha's most gener- ous alumnus who, over the past two years, has donated $1.4 million to the capital campaign. In Mike's honor, Florida Alpha's home will also be known as "The Watford House." Brett Ogilvie '86 who, for more than a year, personally oversaw the renovation of the house, traveling from Orlando often during the renova- tion to meet with the contractor, was presented with a special resolution of appreciation. Throughout the day, active brothers took visit- ing alumni and their guests on tours of the house and following the ceremony, the Chapter hosted everyone at a barbecue luncheon. Brother Steve Shewbrooks '66 presented Chap- ter President Aaron Blau '19 with a special resolution for the Chapter's random acts of kind- ness and service in helping clean up a Gaines- ville elementary school's debris-littered campus following Hurricane Irma. Alumni and their guests got a glimpse of the newly renovated house that features space and technology in keeping with today's demands for more attention to academics. The house features a large classroom, an office for a visiting profes- sor, and a special suite for a residential scholar; all aimed at making Florida Alpha a nation- ally recognized Sigma Phi Epsilon Residential Learning Community. Thank you to everyone who made this dream a reality. It wouldn't have been possible without the support of Florida Alpha alumni and friends. If you weren't able to join us, we hope you will visit Gainesville very soon. Grand Opening Ceremony (Continued from page 1) A plaque recognizing donors of $2,500 and above is prominently hung in the new Florida Alpha Chapter House. Bryson Ridgeway '05 (right) presents Brett Ogilvie '86 with special recognition for overseeing the house renovation. Steve Shewbrooks '66 reads from the award pre- sented to Florida Alpha for their excellence in community service. Mike Watford '75, Bret Harris '74, and Chapter President Aaron Blau '19 stand in front of "The Watford House" plaque. The 285 brothers and friends who contrib- uted $2,834,763 toward the renovation of the Chapter House to ensure the continuation of our Florida Alpha Chapter. Bryson M. Ridgway '05, President of the Florida Alpha Alumni of Sigma Phi Epsilon Inc., led the capital campaign, financial plan- ning, restart of the Florida Alpha Chapter, and house renovation. Bert J. Harris III '74, member of the Order of the Golden Heart and President of the Florida Alpha Educational Foundation Inc., led the capital campaign, negotiated very favorable financing, and provided outstanding leadership and inspiration. Robert "Brett" Ogilvie '86 worked daily, in- spected weekly, and managed the renovation of the Chapter House as the owner's representative. William G. Bell '77 managed the capital cam- paign and traveled Florida during 2015-16 to solicit money for the renovation. Stephen J. Shewbrooks '66 coordinated the efforts of the National Fraternity, the capi- tal campaign, the Florida Alpha Educational Foundation, Florida Alpha alumni, and the re- start of the Florida Alpha Chapter. (Continued on page 8)

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