In February 2021, past Grand President and Order of the Golden Heart recipient John Hartman, Missouri ’61 (right), suffered a stroke. In his time of need, two brothers and dear friends came to his aid — Mike Duggan, Missouri State ’74, and Zar Toolan, Columbia ’01.

Week by week, every step of the way, these brothers communicated with doctors, therapists, social workers and care facilities to help Brother Hartman as he regained his strength. They also made sure Hartman received the cards, notes and well-wishes sent by the many other brothers around the country who wanted to let him know he was in their thoughts. These notes have been a source of great joy to Hartman. (Brothers who’d like to reach out to Hartman can send notes to him via SigEp’s Headquarters office.)

More than just a kind gesture extended to a brother in a time of need, Duggan and Toolan’s involvement is the result of a deep friendship with Hartman that stretches back decades. Through the years, they’ve shared family events and holidays together, started SigEp chapters, mentored countless undergraduates in Missouri, and facilitated the Ruck Leadership Institute.

During the Brotherhood Luncheon at the Fraternity’s 2021 Conclave, Duggan and Toolan were named the recipients of the Clayton-Doud Award in acknowledgment of their ongoing love and support of Hartman as he continues to recover.

Duggan accepted the award on behalf of himself and Toolan, who was unable to attend. He spoke to the audience about how meaningful it has been to them and other brothers to be able to assist their good friend. “It’s been a pleasure to serve John and to help him. We put together a team of SigEps that we lean on a regular basis to decide on his care.”

When Jim Clayton, Tennessee ’57, fell upon hard times with his company, Clayton Homes, fellow SigEp Wallace C. Doud, Wisconsin ’48, came quickly to his aid and helped navigate the difficult juncture. In appreciation of Doud’s service, Clayton endowed the Clayton- Doud Award, which recognizes brothers who exemplify the Fraternity’s charge to help fellow brothers in their time of need.