SIGEP COMPRISES ONE-THIRD OF THE STUDENT SENATE

By Luis Cuevas, Washington State, ‘13 and James Kent, Washington State ‘14

As winter sets in over Pullman, Washington, and the fall leaves scatter across the Northwest, Sigma Phi Epsilon turns up the heat over the campus of Washington State University.

Washington Alpha has its finger on the pulse of university activity now that seven members were elected to Associated Students of Washington State University (ASWSU) Senate positions this semester. Three other members serve in the executive branch of the ASWSU: President Jake Bredstrand, ‘10, Director of Communications Kyle Nelson, ‘11, and Director of Legislative Affairs Jeremy Trevino, ’11. Such influence over university affairs secures a respected name for Sigma Phi Epsilon across campus.

As Washington State’s student government, ASWSU is nationally renowned for its accomplishments and personnel. SigEp’s impact on this organization is significant. The Senate of ASWSU is comprised of only 18 members, elected from each residential area on campus. That gives SigEp over one-third of the seats. The Washington Alpha Chapter uses its influence to make a real difference for its school.

While the chapter has a history of campus leadership, this year is by far the largest group. Jonathan Osman, ‘13, a current Senator, says, “ASWSU has given me the opportunity to enact actual change in my university, while allowing me to interact with other groups, gain knowledge regarding governmental processes, and learn more about myself as a leader.” Osman is also the chapter chaplain.

The current SigEp representatives have engaged in many efforts to make a difference in the lives of students. They have helped introduce several sustainability efforts, such as an optional green program fee, a bike check-out program, and artificial turf on all main athletic fields. They have also set an example by giving back to the university through community service—an example many of their chapter brothers have followed this semester.

Members of Sigma Phi Epsilon are called to live with integrity and commitment, and to set examples for others. Campus leaders have the ability and experience to make an impact on a university campus, elevate the reputation of our Fraternity and inspire all of their brothers to give back. “It's a great honor to represent your entire student body,” Bredstrand said. “Being able to work closely with my brothers while I serve as president is a pretty unique experience. Our representation gets noticed every day, and our community knows that SigEps make things happen on the WSU campus.”

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