Note: This story was originally published in the spring 2026 issue of Wisconsin Beta’s SigEp Badger Beat newsletter as part of SigEp’s Alumni Communication Program.

David Haug, Wisconsin ’99, had no interest in fraternities, despite his older brother being chapter president at Wisconsin Beta; he wanted to get good grades and avoid distractions. When he accepted his brother’s invitation to recruitment events, he realized SigEp would provide exactly the foundation he needed in college. “I was surrounded by high-quality people who were all inspiring and had unique stories,” he said. “I realized I could picture a lot of friends in this group.” 

Fraternity life taught David countless life and work skills, and taking on leadership roles as an undergraduate shaped him dramatically. The most impactful role was chaplain, in which he was responsible for conducting the Ritual and leading the standards board. The chapter’s philanthropy work led to one of David’s favorite college memories when they raised $20,000 for the University of Wisconsin Children’s Hospital. Appearing on local TV, the brothers got a signed football from Coach Barry Alvarez at Camp Randall in Madison and then biked that football all the way to Iowa City, Iowa, to raise the money. Over 80 brothers made the trip together.

“The more you learned about what our Fraternity stands for — Virtue, Diligence and Brotherly Love — the more you understood our entire lives should be built upon those high ideals. It’s a foundation for life, not just college.”

The right fit

As the current chapter counselor, David serves as a liaison between Wisconsin Beta’s undergraduates, the alumni and volunteer corporation (AVC), and Headquarters. He spends most of his time mentoring the chapter’s executive committee and helping identify areas of need. A top area of focus in January 2026 was spring recruitment and forming a team to make it a success.

“I’ve been volunteering since 1999 — held nearly every AVC position possible — and this is my favorite one by far; it gives me a direct mentor relationship with the undergraduates,” David said. “I got so much out of SigEp that I’ve spent my life trying to give back to it, and in my opinion, this is the best role to do that.”

Today, Wisconsin Beta is privileged with a tremendous volunteer base both locally and nationally. David believes if alumni are mindful of how much time they can give, they can find a way to be involved. A board position can take as little as an hour a month, or local brothers can offer more time and resources if they have it. One-time speaking roles at the chapter house are also welcome.

“Volunteering should come from the heart from those who genuinely want to give back. Think about your best assets and what drives you — there may be opportunities to share that with the chapter.”

Beyond SigEp, David has run his own firm, Lighthouse Commercial Real Estate, for over 20 years in the greater Madison area. He has a family of six. “I guess by spending decades mentoring hundreds of young men in the Fraternity, the good Lord decided to balance things out a little bit. I’ve got four beautiful daughters!”