“Our Fraternity’s bond is strong and never-ending – a hoop of steel.” SigEp’s Hoop of Steel Senior Charge acknowledges the strength and unity that brothers of our Fraternity have with one another. This bond of fraternalism is the inspiration behind the Hoop of Steel Society. 

Every year our brothers from across the country come together at the Carlson Leadership Academy to acquire the skills they need to become effective leaders. We are also given the opportunity to make contributions to the Sigma Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation. In the past we’ve been asked to give $19.01 in honor of our founding year. This year we were asked instead to contribute any amount we want, but to do it in honor of a mentor who has made an impact in our lives. 

“This is about honoring our mentors – it’s about telling them that we’re modeling ourselves after their example,” said Student Director Marshall Miller, Valparaiso ’14, who presented the 2014 Hoop of Steel Society Campaign at the Chicago CLA in Lombard, Ill. 

Marshall said none of the opportunities we have been given by SigEp would be possible without the support of our alumni and friends. Now we have a chance to give back. And, by doing so, we become leaders and future mentors within our Fraternity. Marshall ended his presentation by calling upon his brothers to become leaders by joining the society. 

Undergraduate brother Michael Young, Case Western Reserve ‘15, said he decided to join the society. “I think it’s a great way to honor those brothers who really helped us grow. The best way for us to get better is to learn from the members who were the best before us and try to keep improving.”  

Keegan Hilmer, North Dakota ’16, said, “I noticed that not everybody that has helped you along the way is recognized. I think the reason why I gave is because I believe there is a personal way you can recognize somebody in a big way while still keeping it at home.” 

In the charge we say, “We pass this hoop to remind us of our lifetime commitment to Sigma Phi Epsilon.” By joining the Hoop of Steel Society, we are again acknowledging our lifetime commitment to our Fraternity – and honoring our mentors at the same time.