When Peter A. Grable, Monmouth ’89, and Benedict “Benny” Parma, Illinois ’86, both signed up with their wives for a group trip to Spain and Portugal, neither had any idea that it would be a life-changing journey.

Parma and Grable had casually known each other through their church for years and lived in the same town, Glenview, Illinois. The pilgrimage to Spain and Portugal was primarily to see some significant religious sites, enjoy some R&R, indulge in great seafood and wine, and disconnect from their busy lives. Neither expected to make a lifelong brotherly connection with someone they’d only known as an acquaintance. Early in the trip, they briefly exchanged pleasantries, learning more about each other’s work, family life, personality and sense of humor.

A casual comment opens the (red) door

The brotherhood revelation came roughly five days into the trip over dinner in Porto, Portugal. While enjoying great seafood and a glass of Port with their wives, Parma offhandedly mentioned that back in the “old college days,” he was a SigEp at the University of Illinois.

Caught off guard by what Parma had just said, Grable asked, “Say that again. You’re a SigEp?”

Parma’s response: “Yeah. Don’t tell me you’re a SigEp as well?”

Grable excitedly responded with, “Yep. Monmouth College, Illinois Gamma.”

They couldn’t believe they’d just confirmed they were both SigEp brothers. Instantly, the bond was cemented.

Once the SigEp connection was made, the Fraternity stories poured out: chapter traditions, events, leadership roles and life on campus in a SigEp Fraternity house. As they conversed about the Fraternity experiences they treasured and their shared brotherhood, the newly acquainted brothers quickly found common ground in their similar experiences on two different campuses.

Their wives were surprised at how quickly Parma and Grable engaged in reflective conversations and mockingly asked if there was a secret handshake. The brothers advised, yes, there is indeed one, but they couldn’t show it to their wives … rules are rules!

Most people come back from a two-week vacation with souvenirs, jetlag, plenty of photos they’ll never look at again and a few more dents on well-worn luggage. Parma and Grable returned with something much more meaningful: a SigEp connection. No longer just acquaintances, they are grateful for the opportunity to form a bond that goes deeper than friendship. There’s nothing like connecting with a brother!