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Written By: Summer Clarkson 
If you know a volunteer, undergraduate, or would like to nominate your chapter to be recognized in the Quarterly, fill out this simple form. The volunteer recognition is not limited to Chapter Advisors and Province Archons, and the undergraduate recognition is not limited to Sages.
Chapter of the Quarter
Theta Chapter Joins a New IFC
In July 2025, The Pennsylvania State University suspended Theta Chapter indefinitely in response to allegations of misconduct and hazing; Acacia’s Penn State chapter faced a similar suspension two months prior. As an alternative path forward, both groups joined the State College Interfraternity Council, an organization independent of the University. This brings the SCIFC to five members total, including Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi, and Tau Kappa Epsilon.
Neither the SCIFC nor its member chapters are recognized by the University, but Theta Chapter is in good standing with the Sigma Pi Executive Office, as are the other chapters with their respective organizations.
“The Executive Office has been supportive of our Chapter’s decision,” says Theta Chapter Sage Shane Bockrath (State College, PA ’24). “We’ve maintained regular communication with them and have worked to ensure everything we do aligns with national policies. They’ve recognized that our leadership team is acting responsibly and with the best interest of the Fraternity in mind.”
Bockrath joined Sigma Pi on the promise of genuine brotherhood and a strong sense of purpose. Before his election as Sage, he served Theta Chapter by helping manage recruitment and risk initiatives. He now oversees all Chapter operations and represents Theta in external affairs (including with the SCIFC), ensuring Sigma Pi values and policies are upheld.
A Unique Path
While campus Interfraternity Councils typically include top-down control from a university, the SCIFC is run entirely by its fraternity chapters. The entity focuses on collaboration and accountability, placing emphasis on community involvement and responsible self-governance.
“Theta Chapter wanted to operate under fair, transparent expectations while continuing to prioritize brotherhood and accountability,” Bockrath explained. “The SCIFC helps us maintain autonomy, keep strong ties with our alumni, and function responsibly – without unnecessary restrictions that don’t align with our actual Chapter values and practices.”
Bockrath believes that the SCIFC members already benefit from this partnership. The chapters enjoy stronger communication with one another, shared resources, and a more unified fraternal community. All participants work together to raise standards, promote philanthropy, and advocate for fair treatment in the State College community.
“My hope is that this partnership helps Theta build an even stronger reputation in State College, one that reflects our values and our commitment to doing things the right way,” he said. “I want to see our Chapter continue to grow, give back to the community, and set a positive example for what Fraternity life should look like.”
Bockrath is a business analytics major, and after graduating, he plans to pursue a career in project management or construction management, building on the leadership and organizational experience he has gained through Sigma Pi.
“I’m proud of how far our Chapter has come,” he added. “The brothers have worked hard to maintain our traditions while adapting to change responsibly. The SCIFC is helping redefine what fraternity life can look like: student-led, accountable, and community-focused. I’m grateful to be part of that movement.”