Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity

History

Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity was founded on November 26, 1909, at the College of the City of New York. The fraternity came into existence when eight sophomores met to discuss plans for class redemption, evolving into a shared desire to form a new fraternity. The original founders were Lester Cole, Hyman I. Jacobson, Adolph I. Fabis, Samuel Gaines, Abram N. Kerner, Jacob Kaplan, Ira N. Lind, and David D. Levinson[1][2].

Initially considering the name "Kappa Phi Omega" for a "Cosmic Fraternal Order," the group ultimately chose Sigma Alpha Mu with a motto that reflected their ideals. Two years later, the fraternity began expanding, first to Cornell University, and then nationwide[2].

Mission and Values

Sigma Alpha Mu is committed to fostering the development of collegiate men through instilling strong fraternal values. Its mission includes promoting social and service opportunities, encouraging academic excellence, and teaching leadership skills. The fraternity welcomes men of all beliefs but emphasizes its heritage as a fraternity originally associated with Jewish men[5].

Philanthropy and Educational Support

Sigma Alpha Mu has a strong history of philanthropy and educational support. Notably, it was the first college fraternity to award a scholarship to the Hebrew University in Palestine in 1929[2]. The fraternity also supports various charitable causes, including The Judy Fund for Alzheimer's Association[5].

Organization and Expansion

Today, Sigma Alpha Mu boasts 49 active chapters across the United States, with over 2,900 undergraduate members. The fraternity supports its members with scholarships, including the Guller Scholarship Program, which awards funds to new members with high GPAs[5].

Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation

Established in 1944, the Sigma Alpha Mu Foundation supports the fraternity's educational and philanthropic initiatives. It manages a significant scholarship program, with over 200 endowed funds providing annual scholarships[3]. The Foundation also oversees the Annual Appeal, soliciting donations to support fraternity operations and educational grants[3].

Symbols and Traditions

• Colors: Purple, White, and Gold
• Symbols: Fleur de lis, Octagon
• Motto: True Manhood. Democracy. Humanity.

Sigma Alpha Mu continues to grow, emphasizing values of loyalty, service, and leadership within its brotherhood.

[1] https://sam.org/fraternity/history/the-founders/ [2] https://sam.org/fraternity/history/ [3] https://www.sam-fdn.org/history [4] https://fsaffairs.illinois.edu/organizations/fraternities/SigmaAlphaMu [5] https://greeklife.uconn.edu/sigma-alpha-mu/