We are excited to introduce a new fraternity to American University’s campus, Sigma Tau Omega. Sigma Tau Omega is an independent, social fraternity that puts an emphasis on service. It was founded in 2003 in St. Paul, Minnesota, and is quickly expanding throughout the country. The members of Sigma Tau Omega proudly present themselves as ‘men of tradition’. The brothers of Sigma Tau Omega are well rounded, confident leaders. They can survive in the woods for days on end and return in time to look great in a suit for a formal event. Their cornerstones include leadership, brotherhood, wilderness and citizenship. They respect nature and humanity, and understand there are greater causes in life than one’s self.
Meet AU’s Founding Members:
Casey Ek is a pure bred Minnesotan. He is a sophomore studying broadcast journalism with an international studies minor. As an aspiring musician, you can often find him performing live at the Perch. Casey transferred from University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, where he pledged Sigma Tau Omega as a freshman and left while serving as the fraternity’s Rush Chairman.
Ian Winick hails from Silver Spring, Maryland. Ian is a political science major and hopes to one day work in the political arena. He transferred from the University of Pittsburgh, where he spent his time losing games of FIFA and sitting on the Governmental Relations committee for the fraternity.
Sean Ryan, born and raised in the great state of New Hampshire, is currently residing in AU’s School of Arts and Sciences. He is also a transfer student. At the University of Rhode Island, he was famous for his efforts in local ghost hunting. He was also known for being way too competitive in intramural sports.
Her Campus AU: What made you want to bring Sigma Tau Omega to American?
Casey Ek: I knew how successful it was at St. Thomas and knowing the caliber of guys that attend AU, Sigma Tau Omega would be a positive addition to the campus. Based on the merits of Sigma Tau Omega, I know that we can do great things on campus, in D.C. and abroad.
HCAU: What made you decide to join Sigma Tau Omega?
Sean Ryan: When I first arrived to AU, I wasn’t convinced that I wanted to get involved with fraternity life. However, after talking with Casey about it, his enthusiasm and love for it really sold it for me. I am excited to be involved with such a great organization and all of the things it offers.
HCAU: How did you find out about it?
Ian Winick: I initially found out about it through Casey, since he’s my roommate, when he asked if I would be interested in it. Since then, we have had a couple of meetings with the former President of the St. Thomas chapter, who is local, and then we had a meeting with the founder of the fraternity.
HCAU: What future events or fundraisers are you planning?
CE: The main focus of Sigma Tau Omega’s philanthropic work is to be hands on. We plan on introducing our prospective members to the legislative process and taking advantage of D.C. and its vast array of resources. Also, we are planning an array of outdoor activities including camping trips, white-water rafting, kayaking and KanJam tournaments. Previously at St. Thomas we worked with Urban Homeworks. It was an organization that renovated houses for people in need. Since I have gotten to AU, I have been in contact with Martha’s Table, a local organization that provides food, clothing,and opportunities for underprivileged D.C. residents.
HCAU: What types of pledge candidates are you appealing to?
All: We are interested in people who love America and want to be a part of something greater than themselves; individuals who are looking for bonds with friends that will last a lifetime. Members of Sigma Tau Omega should have an interest in becoming a man in every aspect of their lives. Members of Sigma Tau Omega should demonstrate a unique forte as a combination of Bear Grylls [from the well known TV series Man vs. Wild] and James Bond.”
HCAU: What is the next step in the process of this chapter?
All: The recruitment process is ongoing. We are planning to have our first pledge class in the spring semester. We are also currently looking for men interested in being involved in the ground work needed to complete the ‘founding’ of this chapter.
AU is always excited to see the start-up of a new fraternity or sorority on campus. Everyone has the opportunity to be involved in this start-up, whether planning to pledge the fraternity or simply providing them with support. They have big plans, so keep your eyes out for Sigma Tau Omega members around campus and feel free to introduce yourself as the next new member of Sigma Tau Omega!
Photo Credits:
Grace Cassidy