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Written By: Summer Clarkson 
For Darien Ketterer (Penn College ’17), Sigma Pi was more than just a fraternity—it was the community that shaped his college experience and laid the foundation for his future success. Now, as a dedicated donor, Ketterer reflects on how his time in the Fraternity transformed his life and why he’s committed to giving back to support current and future members.
Finding a Brotherhood at PCT
As a student at Pennsylvania College of Technology (PCT), Ketterer’s college journey didn’t start as smoothly as he had hoped. After many of his first-semester friends left the college, he felt the need to find a more permanent support system. During his second semester, he discovered Theta-Phi Chapter—and everything changed.
“I needed to find people and a community that was going to be with me for my college career,” Ketterer shared. “I found that with the brothers of Theta-Phi Chapter.”
From that point forward, Ketterer embraced everything Sigma Pi had to offer, building friendships and memories that would last a lifetime.
Memories That Shaped a Lifetime
Ketterer vividly recalls the two Mid-Year Leadership Conferences he attended in 2018 and 2019. These events weren’t just an opportunity to grow as a leader; they also connected him with like-minded brothers from across the country. “Sharing and exchanging ideas and views across the Fraternity makes you feel like part of a big community,” he said.
Another highlight of his active years was participating in community service events. “We’d joke and bust each other’s chops during those early mornings while helping out for a good cause. There was never a dull moment.”
Lessons in Leadership and Empathy
Ketterer credits his Sigma Pi experience with helping him grow as a leader and learn how to navigate diverse perspectives. “It taught me to understand the different possible views people may have and the root causes behind them before taking action in haste,” he explained.
The brothers of Theta-Phi also played a key role in helping him build confidence and skills that have carried over into his professional life. One brother, Jake Turnitza (Penn College ’17), left a particularly lasting impression. “Jake’s high energy and passion for the Fraternity were contagious. His motivation kept me wanting to push the Chapter to do better.”
Paying It Forward
Now a successful process engineer, Ketterer is committed to supporting the Fraternity that helped shape him. “To give back to the organization that gave me the opportunity to crack my shell feels like the right and moral thing to do,” he said.
Ketterer’s first job after graduation was the result of a brother, Luke Orzechowski (Penn College ’15), recommending him for the position. This connection not only launched his career but also allowed him to establish a habit of giving back. “When you can give back to something you put so much time and effort into to keep it sustaining, it feels great.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Through his contributions, Ketterer hopes to enhance the college experience for current and future brothers. “I just want my donations to be used by the actives in a way that enriches their lives and makes their time at college unforgettable,” he said. His ultimate goal is for brothers to pass on their experiences and knowledge to continue the Fraternity’s legacy.
A Career Built on Brotherhood
Since graduating in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Plastic and Polymer Engineering Technology, Ketterer has built a successful career in engineering. After starting as a Field Service Engineer at Leistritz Extrusion, he advanced to roles at Sukano Polymers and now serves as a Process Engineer II at LG Chem.
For Ketterer, the impact of Sigma Pi extends far beyond his college years. His dedication to the Fraternity is a great example of what it means to live out the values of Sigma Pi, long after graduation. Through his generosity, Ketterer continues to build a brighter future for the brotherhood he cherishes.