Over 200 SigEp brothers and friends took over Minute Maid Park — the home of the Houston Astros — for the Educational Foundation Gala. Gala attendees raised $134,482 to contribute to a special Conclave endowment, “as it is our hope that in the future, young brothers who want to experience Conclave won’t have to weigh the financial burden of today’s registration cost in their decision making,” said emcee Scott Carr, California-Santa Barbara ’86. The money raised at the Grand Slam Gala will fund 15 future undergraduate Conclave attendees in perpetuity.

Brandon Roberson, Indiana State ’19, spoke to the impact of his first Conclave and his experience in SigEp. “Being here tonight has inspired me to seek even greater success,” he said. “Without SigEp and Conclave, how would a guy like me who grew up tough find himself in a room mingling with people like you? There are so many of us in SigEp whose lives would be further transformed by attending Conclave, and your generosity tonight will help change lives for many SigEp brothers like me.”

Carr went on to say, “Every person in this room has seen the value of Conclave first-hand. It’s where undergrads first experience the power of SigEp beyond their chapters. It’s where many first participate in vision-setting conversations on a grand scale. It’s where some develop a mentoring relationship that will change their life. It’s a one of a kind experience.”

Attendees bid on luxurious experiences and unique items, donated to the Educational Foundation by SigEp brothers and friends. Tom Barton, Loras ’89, life trustee and member of the National Advancement Council, served as the auctioneer, coaxing bids higher and bringing constant humor. 

While the stunning venue, compelling auction items and clever gags delighted the crowd, attendees remained focused on providing the Conclave experience to more and more brothers in the future. As the evening closed, dozens of brothers and friends stood to offer donations to further the Conclave experience for undergraduates in future years.