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Brothers,
Spooky season is upon us, and the holidays are just around the corner!
In this special Halloween edition of the Trojan Sig Foundation newsletter, we've got some thrilling updates to share. Get ready for stories about Alpha Upsilon’s Fall Pledge Class initiation, a fun-filled evening with Trojan Sig families, and the well-deserved recognition of two outstanding Brothers receiving the prestigious Seven Lights Award.
Plus, you’ll discover fascinating Sigma Chi facts, dive into the impressive achievements of our featured October alum, and get the latest on the exciting progress of the Four Pillars Capital Campaign!
As always, thank you for your ongoing support.
In Hoc,
Kerry McCluggage, AU '76
President, Trojan Sig Foundation
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It's Official!
Facilitated by members of the Alumni Advisory Board, Alpha Upsilon and the initiated 49 new Trojan Sig Brothers this month. Since some things shall remain sacred, no pictures of initiation are allowed. Welcome to the brotherhood, new initiates!
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Sigma Chi Family Night
On Friday, September 27, the Parent’s Club kicked off USC’s Family Weekend with cocktails and dinner at the beautiful 1923 Club in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. It was a spectacular evening and merits a huge thank you to the Parents' Club for all their hard work and dedication to bringing EX families together.
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Andy Jessup Jr., '88 and Kim Bowman, Jr., '06
Receive Seven Lights Alumni Award
On Thursday, October 24th Trojan Sigs gathered at the Newport Harbor Yacht Club to celebrate the latest recipients of Sigma Chi’s prestigious Seven Lights Alumni Award: Andy Jessup Jr. and Kim Bowman Jr., recognizing their years of dedicated service to the Alpha Upsilon chapter.
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Andy Jessup, Jr., AU '88
Andy Jessup, Jr. is part of a Sigma Chi Legacy that goes "seven deep". In fact, the Jessup Seven are part of a 90-year-old legacy:
- Grant Jessup Glessing, AU '23 (nephew of Andy Jessup, Jr.)
- Drew Jessup III, AU ‘21
- Tim Jessup, AU, ‘91 (Chapter Eternal)
- Charles “Woody” Dutton III, AU ‘90
- Andy Jessup Jr., AU ’88 (Drew's dad)
- Andrew Jessup, Sr. Alpha Chapter '55
- Charles Woody “Booie” Dutton, BE ’26 (Chapter Eternal)
“I was raised surrounded by Sigs, and the values and honor of being a Sigma Chi were instilled early in my life,” said Andy. He currently serves as a member of the Trojan Sig Alumni Advisory Board, is well-known to many as the dedicated Sig and president of Jessup Auto Plaza in Cathedral City. The thriving 80-year-old company is a third-generation family business, further underscoring his values.
In addition to Drew, Andy and his wife, Andree (a USC Theta), are very proud of their 29-year-old daughter, Adelaide (also a USC Theta), who lives in the Hamptons and works in commercial real estate. Andy and Andree live in Rancho Mirage with their two, sweet dogs, Clarkster and Nelson.
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Kim Bowman, Jr., BE '06
In addition to his many Sigma Chi accomplishments and contributions, Kim Bowman, Jr. was Chapter Advisor for the Alpha Upsilon Chapter, Grand Praetor for the states of Utah and Nevada, President and General Counsel for the Beta Epsilon House Corporation, and a multi-year training workshop facilitator, and Pro Consul at Beta Epsilon.
In addition, Kim is the Mayor Pro Tem of La Cañada Flintridge, a major in the United States Air Force, a nonprofit attorney who is an advocate for older adults who is working to improve the community to make sure it remains inclusive for people at every stage of life. He is also the past president of the LA County Commission for Older Adults, a former La Cañada Flintridge Parks and Recreation commissioner, co-organizer of the La Cañada Flintridge Welcome Association, and is a Lecturer in Law at the University of Southern California, Gould School of Law.
Kim is married to Cynthia Nguyen, M.D., a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at a nonprofit children’s hospital in Pasadena. Kim and Cynthia, their children Alice and Colette, and their three cats make their home together in La Cañada Flintridge.
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From L to R: Gene Erbstoesser, '70, Andy Jessup, Jr. ', Kim Bowman Jr. '06, and Harry Palmer II, '75 Grand Praetor, Los Angeles Costal Province | |
Congratulations to our brothers, Andy and Kim! | |
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Did You Know...?
The Alpha Upsilon Chapter has a long, and interesting history. Each month we'll share some fun and compelling facts about the Trojan Sig legacy and why it continues to be the most sought-after fraternity for incoming USC freshmen.
- Sigma Chi has an impressive list of brothers in the sports and entertainment industries, including: Drew Brees, Tom Brokaw, Bill Buckner, Luke Bryan, Ty Burrell, Brian Dennehy, Mark DeRosa, Woody Harrelson, Mike Holmgren, Kerry McCluggage, Ted McGinley, David Letterman, Jim Palmer, Brad Pitt, Tom Selleck, Cole Swindell, Andy Rooney, Bobby Valentine, and John Wayne, to name a few.
- There are three key organizations that work together to support Sigma Chi’s mission at USC. First, the Trojan Sig House Corporation owns and manages the chapter's property, ensuring a solid foundation for the fraternity’s home. The Trojan Sig Foundation plays a crucial role in fundraising, providing financial support both to the House Corporation and the Chapter itself. Lastly, the Alumni Advisory Board—which includes the Chapter Advisor, the regional Grand Praetor, and several distinguished Alpha Upsilon alumni—oversees the chapter’s operations. They work closely with Chapter Officers throughout the academic year, offering guidance and ensuring that the fraternity thrives.
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In the summer of 2022, the Alpha Upsilon Chapter, along with other fraternities, disaffiliated from the university-sponsored IFC and formed an independent organization known as the "University Park IFC." This council operates entirely outside of USC's control, meaning the university no longer has authority over its member fraternities. A total of 15 fraternities, including Sigma Chi, made the decision to disaffiliate and join the new council. As expected, Alpha Upsilon plays a key role in the leadership of the University. Henry Roth, an undergraduate member of Alpha Upsilon, was decisively elected as Executive VP – Judicial of the University Park IFC, with his one-year term beginning on January 1, 2024.
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Bill Buckner, AU '73 (Chapter Eternal) | |
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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 Jeff Burnside. But that’s not all... your generous gift will leave a lasting mark on our chapter’s legacy, helping make the "Legacy of Leadership" a reality for generations of Sigs to come. Make history with us, and become a member today!
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A few of the current Four Pillars Capital Campaign Book Club Members - from left to right: Scott Mullins, '93, Kerry McCluggage, '76, Rick John, '80, Jim Connelly, '77, Kendall Young, '83, and Chip Herman, '78.
See below for the full list.
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Alumni Spotlight on Rich Miailovich, AU'62:
Rich Miailovich came to USC in 1958 from San Francisco, California, as the recipient of a General Alumni Scholarship. After pledging Sigma Chi in 1959, he was initiated into the brotherhood in 1960.
During his time at USC, Rich made a lasting impact within Sigma Chi, serving two terms as Quaestor and two terms as Consul (President), while living in the chapter house. In 1961, Rich showcased his leadership and creativity by directing the Sigma Chi/Delta Gamma Songfest Sweepstakes-winning production, Mob Scene, performed at the Hollywood Bowl. That same year, he earned the title of "Mr. Trojanality" and was elected as USC's "Yell King" through a write-in campaign, cementing his legacy in Trojan lore and history.
After earning his Bachelor of Arts degree from the USC School of Letters, Arts & Sciences in 1962, Rich married his high school sweetheart. Their 62-year marriage has blessed them with four children, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Reflecting on his time at USC and in Sigma Chi, Rich says, "My USC and Sigma Chi experience had a direct effect on my successful 34-year career in the soft drink industry." Rich retired in 2020 as Vice President of Franchise Relations for Pepsi-Cola.
A dedicated Brother and proud alumni of USC, Rich proudly served as Co-Chair for the Class of 1962's 50th Reunion class gift. As a lifelong Sigma Chi, he has remained deeply engaged and committed including as a White Cross donor to the Sigma Chi Foundation and his enthusiastic support of the Trojan Sig Four Pillars Capital Campaign.
Rich Miailovich’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and generosity have left an indelible mark on both Sigma Chi and USC. His enduring commitment to the fraternity and his remarkable achievements continue to inspire and set a standard of excellence for all who follow in his footsteps.
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Rich Miailovich "Yell King" | |
Rich with his lovely wife, Pat | |
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Four Pillars Capital Campaign Update
The Four Pillars Capital Campaign continues to gather momentum and positive response to its mission of rebuilding the current chapter house and creating an endowed scholarship fund for deserving EX undergraduates.
With nearly $5M already either pledged or donated, two $1M+ commitments are in active discussions and we are continuing to contact Alpha Upsilon alumni, Sigma Chi parents and other supporters of our effort. Please feel free to contact us (before we call you…) to join us in this important effort.
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Huge and grateful thank you to the generosity of the following brothers who have already stepped up and contributed to preserving the AU chapter legacy for decades to come! | |
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Four Pillars Society $1M+
Anonymous (Executive Board &
Founder's Room)*
1889 Society $250K+
Kerry McCluggage, '76
Jordan Standard Society $100K+
Jim Connelly and Family, '77
Rick John, '80
Keith, '79 and Metta Krach
Matt Matteson, '81
Jon Muller, '84
Scott Mullins, '93 (in-kind
donation)
Norman Shield Society $75K+
Scott Burnham, '79
Rick Myers, '79
Cardinal & Gold Society $50K+
Mike Femino and Family, '92
(Study Lounge)*
John Geisbush, '78
Chip Herman, '78
William 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
Mike Severson, '84
Dennis Slattery, '67
Joe Tavarez, '78
Garrett Van Konynenburg, '23
Nelson Wheeler, '77
Dana Woudenberg, '68
Kendall Young, '83
$10K+
Gerald Anderson, '87
Gene Erbstoesser, '67
Dr. G Wayne Gertmenian, '62
Kirk Jensen, '78
Dan Plunkett, '79
Rick Sullivan, '80
Dan Vogelzang, '78
Billy Walk, '02
$5K+
Lacy Marlette, '68
Doug May, '81
Rich Miailovich, '60 (Miailovich
Family Foundation)
Bob Vogelzang, '81
$1K+
Kory Arntson, '91
Hunt Barnett, '80
James Carreon, '89
Mike Cobo, '78
Doug Hadnot, '68
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$1K+ Cont...
Joe Hillings, '59
Kory Arntson, '91
Hunt Barnett, '80
James Carreon, '89
Mike Cobo, '78
Doug Hadnot, '68
Joe Hillings, '59
Kevin Jones, '08
Stephen Kiefer, '78
William Kiefer, '81
Greg Martin '86
Scott Mullins, '93
Fred O'Banion, '69
Jeff Olson, '81
Bill Rakow, '68
Jimmy Slusher, '08
Stephen L. Smith, '70
Thomas Smith, '68
John Sorgenfrei, '76
Tony Tootell, '01
William Waller, '17
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
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
Hon. Victor Person, '68
Gary Potter, '63
Spiro Psaltis, '81
Robert Renouard, '85
Parker Reuter, '15
Jeffrey Schwartz, '88
John Scudder, '68
Robert Skoro, '77
Bruce Smith, '76
Scott Spearman, '90
Jim Sprinkel, '74
Brian Ulf, '80
Derek Westervelt, '78
Mark Whiting, '07
| Cheers to everyone who is helping take this campaign all the way to victory! FIGHT ON! | |
To join your your fellow Trojan Sigs and learn more about making a donation to the campaign or underwriting any of the highly coveted and prestigious Four Pillars naming opportunities, click below. | |
Stay Connected on Social Media | |
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. | | | | |
