During the 2016 Carlson Leadership Academies, SigEp honored three district governors for their service. As these three men move on to pursue other opportunities, we reflect back on all they have done for the Fraternity.
Jeffrey Gates, Wichita State ’89
Few men have had as significant an impact on SigEp, especially in the Southwest, as Brother Jeff Gates. Jeff began early, serving faithfully as a student member of the National Board of Directors from 1987 to 1989.
Since then, his impact has been vast. Jeff got involved immediately after graduation in any way he could. Song practice, faculty dinners, mentoring undergraduates … Jeff did it all.
He has been a vital member of the Kansas Eta and Kansas Epsilon AVCs in a variety of roles. As co-chairman of Wichita’s capital campaign, he was the backbone behind the seven-year, 2.5 million dollar housing campaign for Kansas Eta. And in 2002, he was already named a SigEp Distinguished Alumnus.
But Jeff’s impact has reached much farther than Wichita or Emporia. In 2001, Jeff became a lieutenant district governor and would become governor for District 19 two years later. Since then, his efforts have only increased. No task has been too big … or too small. He has generously donated his time and money to Carlsons, Conclaves, chapter scholarship dinners, AVC meetings, chartering banquets, and … yes, song practice.
Andy King ’01, said it best,
“Jeff Gates is a tireless advocate for SigEp and what it means to a young man. He is constantly putting SigEp before himself, his family and his career as he tirelessly works to share his thoughts, opinions and historical perspectives to both the alumni as well as the undergraduates.”
Carey Heckman, Dartmouth ’76
For over 11 years, Brother Carey Heckman has served our Fraternity with distinction—and his impact on SigEp, especially in the Northeast, cannot be understated. Carey served as chapter counselor for his own New Hampshire Alpha at Dartmouth College from 2004 to 2009. A professor at Dartmouth, he used his academic connections to recruit professors to engage with the chapter, including the dean of the college. Today Dartmouth has three faculty fellows thanks to Carey’s efforts. His teaching career included stints at the Stanford and Michigan law schools. In 2011, he helped New Hampshire Alpha design a house that would become a premier Residential Learning Community.
That same year, he humbly accepted the role of district governor where his already powerful impact grew dramatically. During Carey’s time as district governor, he took great pride in supporting the chapters and volunteers in District 1. Having served as a local volunteer himself, he knew what volunteers needed to be successful. He held an annual meeting for volunteers from the district that included time for fun and fellowship after business had been completed. Carey greatly valued District 1’s attendance at leadership events and made sure that the district always led the country in attendance at Carlson and Conclave. He brought enthusiasm to his role, creating an “Always First!” Conclave badge to highlight the accomplishments of District 1.
Scott Swedberg, Elon ’11, had this to say about Carey,
“Carey and I first met at Carlson in 2009, where he agreed to teach me how to make the most of my position when I wanted to learn more. My chapter was 12 hours from his home, and he still agreed to help us because I asked him to, giving selflessly of his time and money. Carey Heckman is the epitome of a servant leader, too humble to accept his title, and his influence has made me a better SigEp, leader and friend. I’m just one of many people that owe their success to Carey.”
Marcus Robinson, Dayton ’99
Marcus is passionate about many things, chief among them his family, his friends, his work, and most certainly, his Fraternity. Marcus joined the Ohio Rho Chapter at the University of Dayton in 1996, where he was elected chaplain and chapter president.
Following graduation, despite being early in his career, he jumped into volunteering right away, serving as lieutenant district governor in 2002 and being appointed as district governor only a few years later. Marcus has served as district governor of Ohio since 2006 and in that time he has displayed an undeniable passion for SigEp. His rare patience and wisdom has guided AVCs and brothers in Ohio, as well as attendees at EDGE, Carlson, Life After College, Conclave and Ruck where he is a regular facilitator. He has readily shared his talents as a member of the branding and Ritual task forces, always bringing his signature expertise and leadership.
His good friend and fellow volunteer Brent Osborn, Ohio State ’09, had this to say,
“Marcus’ willingness to step up without hesitation and contribute in every capacity possible has always amazed me and sets a phenomenal example for myself and others. Our district is forever changed for the better because of his contributions and dedication to excellence.”
These men have led their districts with enthusiasm, determination and sacrifice, and our Fraternity is forever grateful.
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