Sigma Phi Epsilon at Marshall University is making an impact on campus and in the community through its dedication to philanthropy, emphasizing service as a core component of its mission.
“Our philanthropic efforts act as a forefront for recruitment,” said Ken Johnson, Sigma Phi Epsilon’s chapter president. “We actively recruit individuals that enjoy the type of work put into philanthropy and understand its importance.”
The fraternity’s philanthropic focus is on Big Brothers Big Sisters, an organization that aligns with Sigma Phi Epsilon’s values.
“It was chosen because it aligns with our core values of virtue, diligence and brotherly love,” said Jacob Walker, Sigma Phi Epsilon’s vice president of programming, who oversees all philanthropic efforts.
Sigma Phi Epsilon has taken a creative approach to engaging the campus community in philanthropy. One of their signature events, the Self-Love Carnival, was held on Feb. 17 in collaboration with Marshall’s Wellness Center. The event raised awareness about self-care and suicide prevention while encouraging student participation through interactive games and activities.
“Having games at some of our philanthropic events makes it fun for our guests that come to support,” Walker said. “We look at the attendance of the event from people who are not a part of our chapter, and we also like to conduct an after-action report to see what we can do better next time.”
Beyond campus events, Sigma Phi Epsilon extends its outreach to the broader Huntington community. Future plans include a “Raise Your Barber” event at Huntington City Mission, which will provide free haircuts to those in need, and an autism awareness training event benefiting Community Autism Resources & Education Systems.
“Being able to help the community in any way changes the way I have an outlook on life,” Walker said. “We as a chapter have worked together to support causes that we care about.”
Sigma Phi Epsilon’s commitment to service is deeply rooted in its fraternity values. Johnson emphasized that philanthropy embodies the fraternity’s three tenets by instilling virtue, promoting diligence in service and fostering brotherly love beyond the chapter.
“Giving back to those less fortunate is not only an expression of good, virtuous behavior, but it is an example of brotherly love towards the community,” he said.
While philanthropy remains at the heart of Sigma Phi Epsilon’s identity, organizing successful events comes with its challenges. Finding an optimal time to maximize brother participation is one of the primary logistical hurdles. Additionally, planning requires reaching out to businesses for support and securing necessary resources.
Despite these challenges, the fraternity remains focused on growing its impact.
“Find a cause that means something to you,” Walker said. “Push to see the change in the world that you want.”
After a rebuilding period in 2016, the fraternity has expanded significantly, allowing for larger-scale philanthropic initiatives. With a focus on personal development and community service, the brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon aim to leave a lasting mark at Marshall and beyond.
“We hope the events we’ve held prior have left positive marks on the community, and we look forward to the future and new ways we can help,” Johnson said.
Tally Mamula can be contacted at [email protected].
