Chicago Society End of Summer Edition

We appreciate everyone who has contributed to our journey over the years to establish and activate the Chicago Society. Here's to many more vibrant years ahead! Enjoy this summary of recent happenings and look forward to upcoming events.

The Brother Who Always Picked Up: Remembering Joel Saslaw

We are not the only ones transitioning into the fall semester differently than years past. As a fraternity and society housing guru -- many looked to Joel for support and guidance as student return to campus. We remember Joel as the brother how always picked up. Read the full article remembering Brother Saslaw.

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You're Invited: 5th Annual Palm Springs Bromo Weekend, October 9-12, 2026

Every October, GBTQ+ SigEp brothers, partners, and allies from chapters across the country come together in Palm Springs for a long weekend of real brotherhood — no formal agendas, no suits, no over-programmed itineraries. Just good people having a great time together.

Last year brought brothers from 9 chapters, drag bingo, pool days, demon twinks at the Ace Hotel, a home-cooked brunch, go-go's, and lots of iconic banter and brotherhood.

🗓️ Mark your calendars for Oct 9–12, 2026

🏡 Hotel and house rentals around the valley

👫 Singles and couples welcome — brothers, husbands, partners, and their people

✅ No experience necessary — first-timers always find their people

🏳️‍🌈 All GBTQ+ SigEp brothers (and their people) welcome, regardless of chapter

This year we're working with Brother Kevin Koerner to plan activities and want your input.

Fill out this 2-minute survey — shopping, drag show, casino night, dance clubs, Joshua Tree, and more are all on the table.

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Continued Scholarship in Brother McCleary's Honor

As shared before, our collective efforts have made it possible to establish the Donald McCleary Memorial Leadership Endowment, a permanent fund that will support our deserving GBTQ+ undergraduate brothers.

For the second year in a row, we are looking forward to awarding two $500 scholarships this upcoming academic year to two of our outstanding SigEp undergraduates.

Your philanthropy helps the Chicago Society achieve its of expanding the number and size of scholarships we can provide. Thank you for helping make this vision a reality.

👉 Please consider supporting our scholarship through a recurring monthly gift to the Donald McCleary Memorial Leadership Endowment.

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Volunteer Opportunities - Get Involved!

We need your help to continue building the future of the Chicago Society!

Open Opportunities:

• Scholarship Review Committee – 3 more volunteer spots are available where you'll review and select recipients for next year's scholarship cycle.

• Scholarship Director – Supported by the Chicago Society Directors, you'll lead the scholarship process, coordinate the committee, and ensure a fair and impactful selection process for next year's scholarship cycle.

• Content Creation Team – Help develop newsletters, manage social media, and gather stories from brothers.

If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact sigepchicagosociety@gmail.com.

Your involvement keeps our brotherhood thriving!

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Thank You to Our Supporters

A heartfelt thank you to all who have given their time, talent, and treasure to strengthen the Chicago Society and our mission:

Ron Binder

Mitchel Burkholder

Scott Dudis

Adam Fowler

Troy Hanson

Grahaeme Hesp

Tyler Laughlin

Chad Mandala

Nate Peters

Cody Rapp

Darren Rodgers

Isaac Roman

Matt Rowe

Chris Sacra

Josh Schien

Scott Schwartz

Paul Seymour

Chuck Stegman

Steve Sutow

Luis Enrique Fernández Torres

Nick Warrington

Carrie Whittier

Eric Wright

Thea Zunick

Your generosity continues to shape lives and strengthen our brotherhood.

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Join Us in Phoenix in 2027!

Thank you to everyone who joined us during the last two Conclaves and Chicago Society Receptions —whether it was at our Friday evening reception or in our suite, your presence made the weekend unforgettable. We’re already looking forward to reuniting in Phoenix in 2027 for the next Conclave celebration!

Fraternally,

The Chicago Society Leadership Team