From western Kansas roots to business ownership and philanthropic leadership, Mark Soucie, Kansas State ’86, credits SigEp with helping shape his journey.

Finding His Place

Mark Soucie was recruited into SigEp by Jay Newcomer, ’84 — a familiar name from high school days, just 60 miles away. Jay, along with David Gaumer, ’84, and Scott Mueller, ’84, made a strong impression.

“They were fantastic representatives of SigEp and did a great job showcasing the Fraternity,” Mark shared.

At recruitment events, Mark connected with other potential new members and was struck by how SigEp brought together men from across the state. While the Balanced Man Program hadn’t yet been introduced, the chapter already emphasized academics, social involvement, and intramural sports.

Coming from a small farm town and a high school class of just 53, adjusting to a major university was a challenge. SigEp helped ease the transition.

“Being granted the opportunity to be a SigEp helped me transition from a [high school] senior class of 53 to the freedoms of being an adult.”

Leadership in the Chapter

As a collegiate member, Mark served as recruitment chairman alongside Doug Scheibe, ’87 — a role he found deeply fulfilling.

“I thought we pulled together a terrific class that carried through the leadership of the house for a few years. That class has been successful throughout their lives, both personally and professionally.”

Mark also served as chairman for Fight Night, a philanthropic event that raised a record amount for the American Heart Association.

“That experience taught me a lot about leadership and project management — skills that have carried forward into my professional career.”

A Career Built on Experience

Mark’s career began in public accounting with KPMG, where he worked for nearly seven years. He then joined Mutual of Omaha’s controller’s group before moving to Koch Industries in Wichita.

At Koch, Mark spent 19 years in various leadership roles — including controller, treasurer, and CFO.

“The opportunities I had at Koch were second to none. Those experiences gave me the confidence to purchase Ferroloy, and many of the tools I use today stem from my time at Koch.”

Today, Mark is president and owner of Ferroloy Inc., an iron foundry and machine shop in Wichita.

“On most days, I love owning and operating my own business. We’ve successfully grown the company and implemented the processes and equipment needed to move forward. I’m most proud of the leadership team we’ve assembled and the company culture we’ve developed.”

Family and Personal Life

Mark met his wife, Marita, during college, and they married shortly after graduation. Together, they have two sons, Derek and Brett, ’16 — both K-State graduates.

• Derek works in hospitality management in Breckenridge, where he also manages family real estate.

• Brett runs Ferroloy’s foundry operations. He and his wife, Jill, have three children: Eden, Nellie, and Emmett.

“I didn’t know I would love it this much, but being a grandparent is such a blessing. I love when they call me ‘Pops,’” Mark said.

Mark and Marita enjoy traveling, savoring good food and wine, and spending time with friends. Their travels have taken them to Fiji, Iceland, Italy, and Canada, along with frequent U.S. destinations like the mountains, Las Vegas, and Santa Rosa Beach.

Giving Back to K-State

Mark and Marita remain deeply connected to Kansas State University and are proud supporters of Wildcat athletics.

They have served as trustees for the KSU Foundation for more than a decade. Marita also served on the Hospitality Management Advisory Board, while Mark was active on the Finance Advisory Board and served as campus champion for K-State during his tenure at Koch.

To support future students, they endowed an accounting scholarship for first-generation accounting majors from Kansas or Nebraska.

This article is shared from the Kansas Beta newsletter in the Alumni Communications Program.