These are unprecedented times for SigEp and the collegiate Greek world. Fraternities have become the target du jour of journalists and the public at large. And for good reason. Some have given the media red meat opportunities to point out negative aspects of fraternity life. Sadly, due to the actions of a small minority of our members, we too have been in the press far too often this past year.

Front row (from left): Joel Griggs, Greg Bliss, Phil Cox; back row
(from left): Brad Sry, Paul Duwel, Brian Briggs, Chris Foster.

In nearly every instance, these articles throw out just a line or two about the good works of fraternities, like community service and philanthropic events. Often the implication is that fraternities do those things just to burnish our reputations.

But they don’t see what I see. I once heard a wise SigEp brother say, “From the outside looking in, they can never understand it. And from the inside looking out, we can never explain it.” Perhaps we should do a better job telling our story. Let me start by telling you mine. I have long said that every good thing that has happened in my life can be traced back to my fraternity involvement. I know not everyone can say that, but it is true for me. Unfortunately, the flipside of that is true also: My fraternity has been there for me during difficult times. Especially right now.

I have cancer. I knew that before I was elected Grand President, but the doctors were convinced I had beaten it. Now, over two years since the first diagnosis, the cancer is back with a vengeance, and various treatments and surgeries have only slowed it down. I’m not certain what my future holds, but I know if I go out, I’ll go out swinging.

Why is this relevant? What the public doesn’t see is the incredible power of the relationships that come with being a fraternity man. That story is rarely told, but perhaps is the core of our very existence. In my case, the story includes an outpouring of support that I’ve received from my fraternity brothers near and far. The visits, favors and offers to help have truly sustained me, and they never would have happened if I had not joined Sigma Phi Epsilon. Sometimes I marvel at my good fortune and the amazing friendships I have because of the Fraternity. I’m a very lucky man.

My story will never make the news. But the power of Virtue, Diligence, and (especially) Brotherly Love is worth fighting for. And fight we will.

I hope you have those types of relationships too. If not, I’d challenge you to pick up the phone and call a brother you haven’t spoken to lately. Or help plan a reunion for your peers. Or even better, be a mentor with a local SigEp chapter.

As this is the final letter of my term as Grand President, I’d like to close with an old Irish blessing that I read every day:

May love and laughter light your days,
and warm your heart and home.

May good and faithful friends be yours,
wherever you shall roam.

May peace and plenty bless your world
with joy that long endures.

May all life’s passing seasons
bring the best to you and yours.

Fraternally,

Phillip A. Cox
Grand President