Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity

Overview

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ) is a North American Greek-letter social college fraternity. Founded on March 9, 1856, at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, it is one of the oldest and largest fraternities in the United States. As of 2021, it operates over 215 active chapters and 21 colonies across the U.S. and Canada.

History

Sigma Alpha Epsilon was established in an era of growing sectional tensions in the United States. Its founders, Noble Leslie DeVotie, Nathan Elams Cockrell, Samuel Marion Dennis, John Barrett Rudulph, Abner Edwin Patton, Wade Hampton Foster, Thomas Chappell Cook, and John Webb Kerr, played significant roles in shaping the fraternity. DeVotie led the group, writing the ritual and choosing the name. Rudulph designed the fraternity badge. Initially, the fraternity's growth was concentrated in the Southern states.

By the end of 1857, Sigma Alpha Epsilon had grown to seven chapters, with its first national convention held in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, in 1858. The fraternity expanded to fifteen chapters by the early 1860s. During the American Civil War, SAE's membership significantly contributed to both the Confederate and Union forces, with notable losses. The fraternity's survival was largely due to its revival after the war, led by the founding of the University of Georgia chapter in 1865.

In the late 19th century, the fraternity underwent a renaissance led by brothers Harry and George Bunting. Their efforts led to an expansion of nearly fifty chapters. William Collin "Billy" Levere, initiated by Harry Bunting in 1894, took leadership roles, significantly contributing to SAE's growth over the next decades.

Levere Memorial Temple

The fraternity's national headquarters, the Levere Memorial Temple, was established in Evanston, Illinois. Construction began in 1929 and was completed by the end of 1930. This building serves as both a headquarters and a memorial to deceased SAE members.

Governance and Structure

Sigma Alpha Epsilon is governed by a five-person Supreme Council elected at biennial conventions. The fraternity operates across 29 regions (provinces), each overseen by regional volunteers known as province archons. Chapters are required to have active chapter advisers.

Mission and Programs

The fraternity's mission is to promote the highest standards of friendship, scholarship, and service for its members. It is known for its Creed, known as "The True Gentleman," written by John Walter Wayland. SAE offers various educational programs, including the True Gentleman Initiative and a comprehensive member education curriculum.

SAE Foundation

Established in 1927, the SAE Foundation supports academic and personal development through scholarships and educational programs.

Symbols and Traditions

• Colors: Royal purple and old gold.
• Symbol: The lion.
• Flower: The violet.
• Roman Divinity: Minerva.

Prominent Alumni

Sigma Alpha Epsilon counts numerous distinguished alumni, including U.S. President William McKinley, NFL coaches Pete Carroll and Mack Brown, and notable figures such as David Spade and William Faulkner.

Impact and Challenges

Sigma Alpha Epsilon has faced challenges related to hazing and alcohol misuse, leading to reforms such as eliminating pledging and banning hard alcohol from events. Despite these challenges, the fraternity remains dedicated to fostering leadership and personal growth among its members.