Celebrating the Tragos Quest to Greece at the 59th Grand Chapter Conclave

Brothers from across the country gathered at the 59th Grand Chapter Conclave to celebrate one of SigEp’s most impactful programs — the Tragos Quest to Greece. More than 60 past scholars and mentors came together for the Tragos Quest to Greece Luncheon, sharing stories from their Quest year and building deeper bonds within the Quest alumni community.

Just weeks before Conclave, 18 undergraduates and 4 mentors returned from this year’s life-changing 10-day experience in Greece. Together, they explored ancient ruins, discussed timeless philosophy, and reflected on the Greek maxim “know thyself.”

Since its founding, the Tragos Quest to Greece has allowed more than 550 SigEp brothers and mentors to grow as leaders and thinkers, thanks to the generosity of donors to the SigEp Annual Fund. Named for Past Grand President, Citation Recipient and member of the Order of the Golden Heart Bill Tragos, Washington-St. Louis ’56, and his wife Lilli, the program honors the intellectual and values-driven foundation of our Fraternity.

Brother Tragos was in attendance at the luncheon and shared heartfelt remarks about the program’s enduring value.

“Young men today are desperate for friendship, and we are a society founded on friendship.”

He encouraged brothers to carry themselves with pride and confidence in their worth:

“We have to believe in ourselves. We have to sell ourselves, because we are worthwhile.”

Echoing the timeless themes at the heart of the Quest experience, Tragos left attendees with a powerful reminder:

“Love yourself. Love each other. And I love you.”

And finally, he challenged all in attendance to continue the journey of growth well beyond their days in college:

“Keep learning, all your life. Keep a sound mind, sound body. You’re at the beginning of your journey — make it a fun one.”

The Quest challenges brothers to see the world — and themselves — differently. Through deep discussions on Greek philosophy, governance and the arts, scholars reflect on SigEp’s core values and the origins of the Balanced Man Ideal. With the guidance of alumni mentors and university faculty, they return with a stronger sense of purpose and a lifelong bond with their fellow Questers.

The Tragos Quest to Greece remains one of SigEp’s most transformative programs — a true reflection of the Fraternity’s commitment to building balanced men for a lifetime.