Going back to the start of the New York Chi chapter at Clarkson University, Kate Mikel was the first volunteer to say yes to help charter this chapter. Kate was approached by the men who wanted to start a SigEp chapter, and she gave a hesitant yes as she didn’t know if she wanted to work with a fraternity. She then met with SigEP Headquarters and knew this fraternity would be different. After that, Kate dove into helping start the New York Chi chapter and worked so hard for the last 25 years as the Chapter Counselor to help keep them successful.

Kate has worked for many years on improving the chapter within the National Fraternity and Clarkson’s fraternity and sorority life. From the words of the past Chapter Success Manager, “Kate Mikel, being the chapter counselor has made a profound impact not only on being a SigEp fanatic but on the local level, which has made an immense impact on the guys.”

Some things Kate thinks about as a volunteer:

• Favorite thing to do as a volunteer: When the new members join, Kate gets to sit down with the men, share info about the chapter, and get to know them individually. She also likes when alumni come back and see how they are growing in their adult lives and starting their own families.
• What keeps her up at night as a volunteer? Ensure the chapter has completed all Standards and Expectations with the National fraternity and Clarkson.
• Most significant impact: Seeing the relationships between her and the members go past their time in undergrad. From attending their weddings, getting lunch, having phone calls, and attending family events, she is happy to see them and to strengthen her relationship with the men after college.

Thank you, Kate, for all the fantastic work you have done and will continue to do with the young men of the New York Chi chapter!

Check out more inspiring alumni & volunteer stories here!