Washington Beta History
The Washington Beta chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon was founded in 1922, making it a house with a rich history and hundreds of dedicated alumni. Currently, SigEp has just over 80 active members with diverse backgrounds. SigEp prides itself on building balanced men who focus on academics, personal and professional development, and giving back to their community.
In Winter of 2023, SigEp achieved a 3.56 average GPA with 71% of members on Dean’s List, making them the highest in the Greek System. This is an impressive accomplishment considering the large variety of business, STEM, and liberal arts majors in the house.
Outside of academics, SigEps develop themselves and their professional aspirations through their Balanced Man Program. The BMP is a rigorous personal and professional development program comprised of various challenges. Members move through the program by achieving specific athletic goals, networking with our generous alumni, and, lastly, mentoring younger members in the house.
Founded in 1922.
SigEp takes their community service and philanthropic ventures very seriously. As an organization, SigEp serves and fundraises for the Boys and Girls Club of America. Through the Boys and Girls Club, Sig Ep members put on major events, tutor students, clean the Wallingford location, and operate fundraisers. SigEp's dedication to the cause has developed a strong relationship with the Boys and Girls Club, and they look forward to working closely with them in the future. Additionally, SigEp participates in other fundraising opportunities on campus such as Delta Gamma's Anchor Splash. In 2019, SigEp worked tirelessly to raise over $30,000 for Delta Gamma's Service for Sight fundraiser. Their members are passionate about contributing to their community at a high level.
This Fraternity Will Be Different.
Sigma Phi Epsilon History
Sigma Phi Epsilon, founded in 1901 at Richmond College, was a response to the need for a fraternity that aligned with Judeo/Christian ideals. Carter Ashton Jenkens, inspired by his previous fraternity experience at Rutgers, sought companions to establish a chapter of Chi Phi at Richmond College but faced refusal. Instead, he, along with 11 other young collegians, formed their own local fraternity. This marked the birth of Sigma Phi Epsilon, with the first meeting occurring in October 1901. The fraternity rapidly grew and adapted to its surroundings, overcoming early challenges.
Founding and Early Years
The 1950s saw a change in leadership as William L. Phillips retired after 34 years as the fraternity's first Grand Secretary. Herb Heilig succeeded him during World War II, and William W. Hindman Jr. took over for 13 years. Under Hindman's leadership, Sigma Phi Epsilon expanded significantly, establishing 51 new chapters in the 1950s, totaling 148 active chapters by 1959.
In the 1960s, Sigma Phi Epsilon continued its growth, chartering 33 new chapters, and saw its membership reach record levels. This period marked the transition to a more business-like operation, aligning with the fraternity's dramatic expansion during the 1950s. J. Edward Zollinger, a leader from IBM, became instrumental in shaping the fraternity's direction, serving as Grand President from 1967 to 1971.
Growth and Transformation
The 1970s posed challenges as fraternities lost popularity. A generation skeptical of established institutions and the "student movement" surrounding the Vietnam War further alienated fraternities. Despite these difficulties, Sigma Phi Epsilon remained committed to its values and continued to provide support to undergraduate chapters. The fraternity's devotion to service and belief in a brighter future saw it emerge with fewer scars than many other fraternities.
The late 1970s saw the fraternity's growth continue, reaching its strongest position ever. With 250 chapters in 45 states and a surge in membership, Sigma Phi Epsilon became the largest and most popular fraternity in history. During this period, the fraternity emphasized long-term financial stability and dedicated itself to undergraduate housing and development.
Despite the negative reputation of Greek life during the 1970s and 1980s, Sigma Phi Epsilon remained the largest and fastest-growing fraternity. The fraternity's Educational Foundation played a vital role in supporting undergraduates and innovative programs. The Balanced Man Program, established in 1991, focused on individual growth, academic excellence, leadership, mentoring, and community service.
Challenges and Resilience
Entering the new millennium, Sigma Phi Epsilon celebrated its centennial as the nation's largest fraternity. The fraternity continued to introduce innovative programs like the Balanced Man Scholarship and the Carlson Leadership Academies. In 2009, its mission was refined to "Building Balanced Men."
Brian C. Warren Jr. assumed the role of executive director in 2010, striving to further elevate the fraternity's role in higher education.
In summary, Sigma Phi Epsilon has evolved over the past century, facing challenges, adapting to changing times, and consistently emphasizing values, growth, and excellence. From its humble beginnings at Richmond College to becoming a leader among national fraternities, Sigma Phi Epsilon continues to shape the lives of its members while remaining committed to its core principles.
