Written By: Summer Clarkson 
In a world that often feels disconnected, Sigma Pi is taking a bold step forward with a new initiative, Sigma Pi Engage. Designed to provide members with transformative opportunities to learn, connect, and interact, Engage aims to bridge the gap between chapters, individuals, and the distance between them. This innovative program is set to revolutionize the fraternity experience, empowering chapter leaders and creating lifelong connections that extend far beyond the confines of the campus.
Engage is founded on the belief that education and engagement are at the heart of a well-rounded fraternity experience. It provides a platform for chapter leaders to expand their knowledge, develop essential skills, and establish meaningful relationships with alumni and nearby chapters within their province. Through regional-based educational programming, Engage brings together like-minded individuals who share a common purpose: to elevate their education and make a positive impact on those around them.
The program covers a wide range of vital topics that equip chapter leaders with the tools they need for success. From reporting and recruitment strategies to onboarding best practices, officer transitions, and risk management, Engage addresses the critical aspects of chapter operations. By sharing expertise, fostering collaboration, and providing resources, the program ensures that chapter leaders are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead their chapters effectively.
One of the key selling points of Engage is its regional-based approach. The extensive travel for national events makes attending those events more difficult for our young members. Instead, this new structure allows chapter leaders to take part in educational programming that is conveniently located within their province. This regional focus not only minimizes travel expenses and time commitments but also strengthens the connections between neighboring chapters. It provides a unique opportunity for collaboration and the exchange of ideas, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie that extends beyond individual chapter boundaries.
Director of Support Services Jake Reed (Arkansas ‘19) believes that Engage could make an immediate impact on the Fraternity: “The unique opportunity provided by Sigma Pi Engage allows for undergraduates to network & learn leadership development traits with high-level executives, allows alumni to reconnect with each other and the organization, and allows Sigma Pi itself to continue providing value to members across the board. The focus is to not only strengthening the bonds within the regions, but within the brotherhood as a whole.”
After a challenging period marked by virtual interactions and social distancing, Engage heralds an exciting return to in-person programming outside of Convocation. Members will once again have the opportunity to engage face-to-face, to network, and to build the kind of relationships that have always been at the heart of Sigma Pi. Through immersive experiences, participants will forge bonds that transcend collegiate life, creating lifelong connections that will continue to enrich their personal and professional journeys.
In support of Engage, a re-imagining of the province structure has taken place. Previously, chapters were placed in 22 provinces throughout North America. Now, a more streamlined approach aligns all chapters and colonies within ten provinces. Those provinces are as follows: Appalachian, Founders’ Valley, Great Lakes, Greater New Jersey, Midatlantic, New England, Ozark, Pacific Northwest, Southeast, and Southwest.
This new structure allows Sigma Pi to focus on a strength: dedicated volunteers leading the provinces, ensuring impactful support and guidance for the chapters within each region. These volunteers, driven by a shared passion for Sigma Pi, will play a crucial role in fostering an environment that nurtures personal growth, leadership development, and lifelong connections.
The first official Engage event took place in Chicago, Illinois on July 22, 2023. This specific event was centered around two provinces: Founders’ Valley and Great Lakes. For this event, 21 of the 22 chapters in those provinces were represented, and the success of the event was evident from the excitement and engagement that took place. Comments from participants further illustrate the profound impact of Sigma Pi Engage. Chance Bezeau (Michigan State ’22) had this to say about the event: “This experience opened my eyes to how my chapter is a bigger chapter, and all of our smaller chapters operate a little bit differently [than us]. However, at the end of the day, we all have the same goal in mind, and we are all doing the same thing, which is pretty cool.”
The involvement of alumni serves as a cornerstone of Engage. Alumni are not only encouraged to participate as speakers and facilitators, but they also play a vital role in re-engaging with the Fraternity and showcasing the value of a lifelong membership. By sharing their experiences, insights, and professional expertise, alumni demonstrate the enduring impact of Sigma Pi and inspire the younger generation to fully embrace the Fraternity’s ideals.
“Engage is an excellent opportunity for members across the country, both undergraduates and alumni, to take in what being a member of this Fraternity is,” said Director of Programs Alexander Pettigrew (Indiana of Pennsylvania ’15). “They’re going to get a real chance to connect with their peers – whether it be other undergraduate leaders, Fraternity staff, Grand Council members, volunteers, or alumni brothers.”
Alumni involvement isn’t just for speakers and facilitators. Each Engage event will also involve an alumni experience where local alumni within the region are invited to network and connect with each other, as well as the undergraduate attendees of the educational sessions.
Engage is more than just a program; it is a catalyst for creating a supportive community within the province. It aims to empower individuals to make a positive impact on their surroundings, to build bridges between chapters, and to forge relationships that will extend far beyond their collegiate years. This community-driven approach emphasizes the Fraternity’s commitment to lifelong development and serves as a testament to the enduring values that define Sigma Pi.
Sigma Pi Engage is an invitation for chapter leaders to embark on a transformative journey of education, engagement, and connection. By participating in this innovative program, they will gain the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to lead their chapters with confidence and make a lasting impact within their province. Engage is a testament to the Fraternity’s unwavering commitment to support the lifelong development of our brothers. Together, we will shape the future of Sigma Pi and make a positive difference in the lives of countless individuals.