Sigma Alpha Mu: A Historical Fraternity for Modern Men

Overview

Sigma Alpha Mu (ΣΑΜ) is an international social fraternity for Jewish men, founded in 1909 at the College of the City of New York (CCNY). It is the second-oldest Jewish fraternity in the United States and has grown to over 280 active chapters and colonies at universities throughout the world.

Mission and Values

Sigma Alpha Mu’s mission is to provide Jewish men with a place to connect, build lifelong bonds, and develop as individuals and leaders. The fraternity emphasizes:

• Brotherhood: Fostering a strong sense of community and support among members.
• Scholarship: Encouraging academic excellence and providing resources for academic success.
• Philanthropy: Supporting local and national causes that benefit the Jewish community and society as a whole.
• Leadership: Developing members’ leadership skills and preparing them for success in their personal and professional lives.

History

Sigma Alpha Mu was founded on November 26, 1909, by a group of Jewish students at CCNY. The fraternity’s early years were marked by a strong emphasis on Jewish identity and religious observance. However, as the fraternity grew, it evolved to become more inclusive and welcoming to Jewish men of all backgrounds.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Sigma Alpha Mu experienced significant growth, expanding its presence to campuses across the United States and internationally. The fraternity played a significant role in the civil rights movement, supporting the desegregation of universities and advocating for social justice.

Structure and Organization

Sigma Alpha Mu is governed by a Grand Council, which includes elected officers and representatives from each chapter. The fraternity’s international headquarters is located in Carmel, Indiana.

Chapters of Sigma Alpha Mu are typically organized into local houses, which provide members with a place to live, study, and socialize. The fraternity also operates national leadership conferences, regional retreats, and other programs for its members.

Impact

Sigma Alpha Mu has made a significant impact on the lives of its members and on the Jewish community as a whole. The fraternity has produced numerous successful alumni in fields such as business, law, medicine, and politics.

Sigma Alpha Mu’s philanthropic efforts have raised millions of dollars for various causes, including Jewish charities, scholarships, and disaster relief efforts. The fraternity also participates in numerous community service projects, including volunteering at homeless shelters, mentoring at-risk youth, and advocating for social justice.

Membership Profile

Sigma Alpha Mu seeks men who are:

• Of Jewish descent
• Enrolled in a full-time undergraduate program
• Committed to academic excellence
• Interested in developing their leadership skills
• Passionate about giving back to their community

Rituals and Traditions

Sigma Alpha Mu has a rich tradition of rituals and ceremonies that foster a sense of brotherhood and unity among members. These rituals include:

• New Member Education: A structured program that introduces new members to the fraternity’s history, values, and traditions.
• Initiation Ceremony: A formal ceremony in which new members are welcomed into the fraternity.
• Installation: A ceremony that marks the establishment of a new chapter.
• Annual Convention: A national gathering of members from all chapters to discuss fraternity matters and honor outstanding members.

Notable Alumni

Sigma Alpha Mu has a long and distinguished history of notable alumni, including:

• Dr. Jonas Salk: Inventor of the polio vaccine
• Dr. Benjamin Spock: Pediatrician and child care expert
• Harold Kushner: Author and rabbi
• Mort Zuckerman: Business magnate and publisher
• Richard Ravitch: Former U.S. Transportation Secretary and Lieutenant Governor of New York

Future of Sigma Alpha Mu

Sigma Alpha Mu is well-positioned for continued growth and success in the future. The fraternity is committed to providing its members with the tools and resources they need to succeed in their personal and professional lives.

Sigma Alpha Mu is also exploring new ways to engage with its members and contribute to the Jewish community. The fraternity has launched a number of new initiatives, including:

• The Sigma Alpha Mu Innovation Fund: A fund that supports cutting-edge research and programs that address the changing needs of Jewish college students.
• The Sigma Alpha Mu Leadership Academy: A program that provides members with advanced leadership training and professional development opportunities.
• The Sigma Alpha Mu Tikkun Olam Initiative: A program that encourages members to engage in social justice and community service projects.

Conclusion

Sigma Alpha Mu is a dynamic and vibrant fraternity that has had a profound impact on the lives of its members and on the Jewish community as a whole. The fraternity’s commitment to brotherhood, scholarship, philanthropy, and leadership continues to inspire and motivate young Jewish men around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the qualifications for membership in Sigma Alpha Mu?

To be eligible for membership in Sigma Alpha Mu, a man must be of Jewish descent, enrolled in a full-time undergraduate program, committed to academic excellence, interested in developing his leadership skills, and passionate about giving back to his community.

2. What are the benefits of joining Sigma Alpha Mu?

Members of Sigma Alpha Mu enjoy a wide range of benefits, including:

• Lifelong brotherhood and friendships
• Access to academic support and resources
• Opportunities for leadership development and personal growth
• Involvement in a vibrant and active Jewish community
• A commitment to giving back to the community through philanthropy and service

3. How do I join Sigma Alpha Mu?

To join Sigma Alpha Mu, interested men should contact the fraternity’s national office or visit the website at www.sigmaalphamu.com. The recruitment process typically involves completing an application, meeting with members of the fraternity, and participating in a new member education program.

4. How much does it cost to join Sigma Alpha Mu?

The cost of joining Sigma Alpha Mu varies depending on the chapter and location. However, most chapters charge a one-time initiation fee and annual dues.

5. Is Sigma Alpha Mu a safe organization?

Yes, Sigma Alpha Mu is a safe organization that is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members. The fraternity has a zero-tolerance policy for hazing and other forms of misconduct.

6. Does Sigma Alpha Mu have a presence on my campus?

To find out if Sigma Alpha Mu has a presence on your campus, you can visit the fraternity’s website at www.sigmaalphamu.com or contact the national office.

7. Can I join Sigma Alpha Mu if I am not Jewish?

Sigma Alpha Mu is a Jewish fraternity that requires all members to be of Jewish descent.

8. Can I join Sigma Alpha Mu if I am a graduate student?

Sigma Alpha Mu is an undergraduate fraternity and does not accept graduate students as members.

Tables

Table 1: Sigma Alpha Mu Statistics

Table 2: Sigma Alpha Mu Notable Alumni

Table 3: Sigma Alpha Mu New Initiatives

Table 4: National Headquarters of Sigma Alpha Mu