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Sigma Chi - AU Chapter
Building a Legacy of Leadership
for Over 100 Years!
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Brothers,
As things heat up and we usher in a the summer months, we hope you enjoy this mid-year edition of the TSF newsletter.
In this issue you will:
- Meet AU's amazing 2023-2024 Consul and 2025 Exemplar Award winner
- Ride along with AU Alums on the annual Goat Road Trip
- Discover how one Alpha Upsilon brother is changing lives with an innovative, new social media platform
- Learn how to get your copy of The Proud History of the Trojan Sigs
- Celebrate the incredible generosity of brothers and supporters who are helping usher in a new era of Trojan Sigs by supporting the Four Pillars Capital Campaign
In Hoc,
Trojan Sig foundation Board of Directors:
Kerry McCluggage, '76
Jim Burk, '74
Chip Herman, '78
Matt Matteson, '81
Bob Vogelzang, '81
Kendall Young, '83
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Ben Feldman 2023-2024 Consul and 2025 Exemplar Award Recipient: A Journey of Brotherhood, Growth, and Lifelong Purpose
Raised in a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia for the first seven years of his life, Ben Feldman’s story unfolds like a cross-country journey of curiosity, ambition, and achievement. He and his family lived in North Carolina, Washington, New York, and most recently, Florida, which helped to shape Ben’s adaptable and grounded perspective. His high school experience was equally dynamic, split between Bellevue High School in Washington and Horace Mann in New York City. A varsity basketball player and honor student who was recognized both academically and for community service, Ben developed a strong work ethic early on. Supported by a loving family, Ben is one of three triplets. His brother and sister recently graduated from the University of Miami and the University of Colorado, respectively, adding even more pride to the family legacy. “We definitely kept our parents busy,” said Ben.
USC was the only west coast university that Ben applied to, and while it may have been unexpected, his decision to become a Trojan proved to be life-changing. Drawn by the university’s stellar academic reputation and robust real estate curriculum, one of the few in the country, Ben saw a clear pathway to a career inspired by his family’s background in development. The weather, athletics, and vibrant campus life sealed the deal. A 2024 Spring Admit, Ben started his college journey abroad in Paris, an experience he is grateful for and remembers fondly.
He describes his USC experience, as a culture of shared ambition and mutual support. Joining Sigma Chi expanded and deepened this feeling. As an AU Sig, he found himself among brothers who motivated one another not only to succeed but to become better men. Being part of that environment raised his own standards and brought out his best self. Some of his most lasting memories are found in the everyday rituals: shared meals on the porch, workouts and sauna sessions with his senior year roommates, and late night Ace tournaments on the backyard sand court.
For him, it was never just about the activities but the brothers who made those moments unforgettable. Serving as Consul stands out as one of the most remarkable and beneficial experiences of his time at USC. Leading the chapter while living with 30 to 40 close friends taught him lessons in responsibility, humility, and connection that he will carry forward for the rest of his life. "The relationships I built with fellow brothers and alumni are more than friendships. They are lifelong bonds."
Now, as he looks toward the next chapter, Ben is heading to New York City to join J.P. Morgan in their Global Alternatives Division, focusing on Real Estate Acquisitions. He credits the brotherhood of Sigma Chi for helping him prepare for this journey, not only because of the practical advice and professional network it provided but because of the core values it instilled.
Working hard, being kind, and lifting others up are the principles that define Ben and will continue to shape his future. As he steps into this new stage of life, one thing is clear. The experiences, values, and friendships gained through Sigma Chi and the Trojan Family have given Ben a foundation that will last a lifetime.
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Advisory Board Member, Gene Erbstoesser, '70 Presenting the Award to Ben Feldman, '25
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Annual Goat Road Trip Gallops to La Quinta
On May 14–15, the legendary “Goats” of the Alpha Upsilon Chapter descended upon La Quinta, CA for the Annual Goat Road Trip, bringing their signature blend of camaraderie, competitiveness, brotherhood, and (occasional) bogeys.
With sunshine overhead and plenty of sunscreen below, the herd teed off under desert skies, showing off a wide-range of golf skills – and impressive feat, as it’s never easy gripping a club with hooves... but somehow, these brothers made it work.
Organized once again by Dan Plunkett, ’79, goat golfing trips continues to unite Trojan Sigs from pledge classes spanning 1973 to 1981. It’s a testament to the enduring bond of Sigma Chi that year after year, these brothers return for the fairways and stay for the fellowship.
| | Here’s to the Goats, still swinging strong and having a blast doing it! May they graze the fairways for many years to come. | | |
Shining a Light on Doing Good: Brother John Cervenka, '83 Launches Social Media Platform with a Mission
Leave it to a Trojan Sig to shake up social media for the greater good.
John Cervenka, 83, CEO and co-founder of Starfish Social Media, is making waves with a bold vision: to create a global platform that celebrates what makes us truly unique... our humanity. Headquartered in Newport Beach, Starfish is already making an impact in 172 countries, empowering tens of thousands of users (and counting!) to highlight their good deeds and support causes they care about.
Forget the corporate resume scroll of LinkedIn. Starfish flips the script by giving users, whether individuals, nonprofits, or businesses, a dynamic space to showcase the heart behind the hustle. Of course, John is using the platform to spotlight the values and brotherhood of Alpha Upsilon. He’s created a place where AU Sigs can share memories, celebrate wins, and connect over the legacy of Sigma Chi. Even better? Starfish makes it safe and simple to donate to any of the 1.9 million registered nonprofits in the U.S. including our very own Trojan Sig Foundation's Four Pillars Capital Campaign!
At a recent luncheon honoring The Lott IMPACT Trophy, named for Trojan football legend Ronnie Lott, 77, John caught up with fellow Trojan Jeff Bitetti, '83 and former NFL linebacker-turned-broadcaster Josh Perry. Bitetti, a board member of the Lott IMPACT Trophy, is another shining example of an AU brother who's doing WELL by doing GOOD.
Ready to dive in? Join the Starfish movement today, and add the Trojan Sig Foundation to your profile as a cause you support, and consider making a gift to help us keep Alpha Upsilon at the top where it belongs.
| Jeff Bitetti, '83, John Cervenka, '83, Josh Perry | |
Let’s show the world what it means to be a Trojan Sig!
🌍 www.starfishapp.com
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Inaugural Mentoring Event Huge Success
On April 22, nearly 70 Sigma Chi brothers gathered for the inaugural Alumni Mentoring Mixer, sponsored by the Trojan Sig Housing Corporation and organized by Dan Vogelzang, '78.
Held at The Lab Gastropub, the event connected undergrads with alumni to discuss careers, life, and Brotherhood. “The undergrads really appreciated the alumni who attended and their willingness to network and offer guidance,” said outgoing Consul Teddy Dobos. Bob Vogelzang, '81 added, “It was nice from my perspective to see all of the alumni mixing with undergrads. I think they were very interested in talking not only about mentoring and internships, but also about what’s going on at the house.”
Dan summed it up with, “We had a great time, and everyone enjoyed it.
The goal is to make this an annual tradition that reminds actives we’ve got their backs with insight, support, and professional connections."
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Join the Four Pillars Capital Campaign Book Club!
The exclusive Four Pillars Capital Campaign Book Club is reserved for our most dedicated alums who contribute $25K or more to help build the new Alpha Upsilon Chapter House! As a member, you'll receive your own copy of "The Proud History of the Trojan Sigs: Alpha Upsilon Chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity" by renowned author, Jeff Burnside, '79. But that’s not all... your generous gift will leave a lasting mark on our chapter’s proud history, helping make the Alpha Upsilon "Legacy of Leadership" a reality for generations of Sigs to come. Make history with us, and become a member today!
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Building Our Legacy:
The Four Pillars Capital Campaign
With over 40% of funds raised to build a new chapter house, we are well on our way to securing the legacy of AU alums and building a future for incoming Trojan Sigs. The house will be built to the highest contemporary standards so that our investment will serve the Chapter for many years to come and secure our place as the most prestigious and sought-after fraternity at USC.
Additionally, all donors will be invited to these ceremonies to celebrate being a part of the over 100-year history of the Alpha Upsilon chapter of Sigma Chi.
Brothers, this is where you step up. This is where you make history. This is where your name gets added to the Alumni Donor Wall as one of the men who helped usher the new Alpha Upsilon Chapter House into its next, proud era.
| | A HUGE AND GRATEFUL THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE DONATED! | | |
Four Pillars Society $1M+
David Pyle, '80 (Executive Board &
Founder's Room)*
1889 Society $250K+
Kerry McCluggage, '76
Jordan Standard Society $100K+
The Ginger and Tony Allen Family Foundation
Tony '59 and Ginger Allen, Scott Allen, '82,
and Steve, '83 and Tracy Friedmann
Jim Connelly and Family, '77
Rick John, '80
Stephen Krach, '11
Matt Matteson, '81
Jon Muller, '84
Norman Shield Society $75K+
Scott Burnham, '79
Rick Myers, '79
Cardinal & Gold Society $50K+
Anonymous (Fitness Center)*
Pledge Class of 1978 (Volleyball Court)*
Mike Femino and Family, '92 (Study Lounge)*
John Geisbush, '78
Chip Herman, '78
Bill Holl, 79
Dr. Paul Olivera, '78 (Foyer &Library)*
Tom Ralphs, '75
Dan Smith, '85
Joe Wirht, '81
907 Society $25K+
Jeff Armour, '77
Jim Burk, '74
Jeff Gill, '78
Andy Gilmour, '76
Andy Jessup, Jr. '88
Craig Johnson, '91
Sean Kell, '91
Kent Lucas, '78
Brad McCroskey, '77
Jim Morouse, '83
Hon. Victor Person, '68
Mike Severson, '84
Dennis Slattery, '67
Joe Tavarez, '78
Garrett Van Konynenburg, '23
Nelson Wheeler, '77
Brett White, ZK, '81
Dana Woudenberg, '68
Kendall Young, '83
$10K+
Gerald Anderson, '87
Gene Erbstoesser, '67
Dr. G Wayne Gertmenian, '62
Kirk Jensen, '78
Andrew Jessup, Alpha Chapter, '55, "In
honor of my son and our Brother,
Timothy (Tim) Dutton Jessup, AU '91,
Chapter Eternal, '05"
Jim Mitchell, '72
Dan Plunkett, '79
William Rakow, '68
John Scudder, '68
Rick Sullivan, '80
Dan Vogelzang, '78
Billy Walk, '02
$5K+
Chuck Fry, '81
Larry Hall, '76
Lacy Marlette, '68
Doug May, '81
Rich Miailovich, '62 (Miailovich Family Foundation)
Bob Vogelzang, '81
$1K+
Kory Arntson, '91
Hunt Barnett, '80
W. Brockermeyer, '93 (Brockermeyer Family Fund)
Tod Byers, '81
James Carreon, '89
Mike Cobo, '78
Doug Hadnot, '68
Joe Hillings, '59
Kory Arntson, '91
Hunt Barnett, '80
James Carreon, '89
John Cervenka, '82
Mike Cobo, '78
Doug Hadnot, '68
Joe Hillings, '59
Gordon Jennings, '69
Kevin Jones, '08
Stephen Kiefer, '78
William Kiefer, '81
Greg Martin '86
Jeff Morton, '71
Scott Mullins, '93
Fred O'Banion, '69
Robert Olive, '69
Jeff Olson, '81
Tom Pecht, '74
Bill Rakow, '68
Blake Rosendin, '10
Max Rosendin, '07
Raymond Rosendin, '51
Ron, Russ, '72
Jimmy Slusher, '08
Stephen L. Smith, '70
Thomas Smith, '68
John Sorgenfrei, '76
Tony Tootell, '01
Craig Waite, '81
William Waller, '17
Bruce Watson, '81 In memory of Jack Watson, '53
Jim York, '70
Up to $1K
Anonymous
Dan Bozo, '80
Blake Brewer, 09
Richard Cottrell, '83
Dylan Dann, '11
Peter Doder, '81
Matt Douglas, '19
Daniel Durfey, '59
Robert Eres, '02
Shane Foley, '91
Robert Hendershot, '74
Mark Hochgesang, '68
Marc Kazarian, '78
John Miller, '69
Mark Muller, '81
Michael O'Toole, '82
Gary Potter, '63
Spiro Psaltis, '81
Robert Renouard, '85
Parker Reuter, '15
Maxxwell Sellers, '21
Jeffrey Schwartz, '88
Jim Scofield, '71
Robert Skoro, '77
Bruce Smith, '76
Scott Spearman, '90
Jim Sprinkel, '74
Ed Stanton, '90
Jeff Swan, '81
Brian Ulf, '80
Derek Westervelt, '78
Mark Whiting, '07
*Naming Rights
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HELP BUILD OUR LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP
Naming opportunities are going fast. Don't miss out on being a part AU history!
All donors will be recognized as noted below. In Hoc!
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NAMING OPPORTUNITIES
Chapter House - $3M
Pillar #1 Friendship - $1M
Pillar #2 Justice - $1M
Pillar #3 Learning - $1M
Pillar #4 Leadership - $1M
Executive Board Room and Founder’s Room - $1M (David Pyle, '80)
Chapter Room - $200K+
Dining Room & Kitchen -$150K+
Leadership Training Room - $75K+
Study Lounge- $50K+* (Mike Femino, '93 and Family)
Foyer & Library - $50K+* ( Dr. Paul Olivera, III, '78)
Fitness Center - $50K+* (Anonymous)
Basketball Court - $50K+
Volleyball Court - $50K+* (Pledge Class of '79)
Courtyard - $25k+
GIVING SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP
Four Pillars Society - $1M+
Craig Nason Jr. Society - $500K+
1889 Society - $250K+
Jordan Standard Society - $100K+
Norman Shield Society - $75K+
Cardinal & Gold Society - $50k+
907 Society - $25K+
To secure Naming Rights for a given room or space in our new Alpha Upsilon Sigma Chi Chapter house, contact TSF President, Kerry McCluggage, '76 kerry@craftsmanfilms.com or Executive Director, Four Pillars Capital Campaign, Lisa Dulyea ldulyea@outlook.com. Naming Rights will be granted on a first come, first served basis.
The Trojan Sig Foundation is 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and all gifts are tax deductible and can include one-time gifts, matching funds or pledges of up to three years. Non-cash assets (like equity stocks or bonds), in-kind gifts, and more are appreciated as well. If you'd like to donate using our secure online portal, follow this link https://www.uscsigmachi.org/donate-to-four-pillars or scan the QR code below. If you prefer to send in a check, or make a pledge via U.S. mail, please fill out the Donor Form on our website https://www.uscsigmachi.org/
*Naming Rights Assigned
| | All gifts to the Trojan Sig Foundation's (a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization) Four Pillars Capital Campaign are tax- deductible and can include one-time gifts, matching funds or pledges of up to three years. Non-cash assets (like equity stocks or bonds), in-kind gifts, and more are appreciated as well. | | | | |
