The beginnings of the chapter can be traced to Phi Alpha Epsilon, a local fraternity which was founded at Rockhurst in 1969. This chapter was organized for the express purpose of obtaining a charter from Sigma Alpha Epsilon, which came to fruition in 1972. Since that time the chapter has initiated over 700 brothers.
"Being an SAE means always striving to be the best in everything one does; through this diligence he commands respect, through respect he is a leader."
At Rockhurst University, SAE's members have strived to maintain this tradition of excellence. Throughout it's history the chapters members have prided themselves on being recognized as campus leaders in academics, athletics, and character. They have modeled their lives after the principles contained in John Walter Wayland’s poem, the True Gentleman. It is these principles that have transformed the fraternity’s undergraduate members into leaders in their respective communities.
The Lion, The Flag & The Seal
The symbols of Sigma Alpha Epsilon have specific and important meaning to it's members.
These links provide you with a little background on a few of our national symbols. For a closer view of some of our local historical icons click on the small thumbnail photos below:
As with many Greek organizations, Sigma Alpha Epsilon is proud of it's many traditions. Without question one of the favorites is the regular gathering to sing the traditional songs of SAE. Missouri Delta takes great pride and enjoyment in singing both "National" and "Local" songs before many of our favorite events. Click the media player below to hear a traditional rendition of "Come Sing", the National 'call to sing' of Sigma Alpha Epsilon.
Many who are new to the Rockhurst community may not realize that the Missouri Delta chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon recently returned to the Rockhurst Greek community after a two year suspension for rules violations. During that period (Feb. 2001- 2003) and for one year following the suspension (at our request), the SAE Alumni Foundation examined the strengths and weaknesses of the Chapter and set about working on changes that would return SAE to its traditional place of prominence among Greek organizations at Rockhurst.
As a group, the Alumni recognized the need for changes in some areas of the fraternities operation. Similarly, they recognized the positive aspects of the Chapter and the many outstanding achievements of its members throughout the years. When taken as a whole, the Foundation felt that SAE at Rockhurst could be strengthened through changes in chapter function while maintaining the substance that produced so many leaders and true gentlemen.
A few of the changes in chapter function include the following initiatives:
Improved Alumni/Active communication and interaction – It is roundly accepted in all quarters that one of our chapter’s greatest strengths is the Alumni membership. By establishing mentorship, advisory and joint philanthropic programs we have been able to bring the strength of our past into the present. Undergraduate members of SAE are now virtually guaranteed to develop long-lasting relationships both in the house and among many generations of Alumni.
Renew our strong relationship with the RU faculty & administration - As an undergraduate organization, a positive and open relationship with the faculty and staff of the University is crucial. Both our Actives and Alumni continue to work closely with the University to improve the Greek system at Rockhurst. Simply put, we feel that a strong Greek system depends on the bond between our organizations and the University of which we are a part.
Assist our graduates with bridging the gap between college & career – At Missouri Delta our career mentorship resources are without equal among Greek organizations at Rockhurst! The close work and social relationships resulting from our effort to bring Alumni & Actives together has fostered career enhancing opportunities that had previously gone unrealized.
The Actives you see around campus today are taking the first steps toward continuing more than 30 years of Sig Alph excellence at Rockhurst! For proof of this historical excellence we invite you to visit the Greenlease Library and browse through the yearbooks - - we have no doubt you'll see the historical strength of our chapter both in terms of campus involvement and the long term retention of our members.
With renewed dedication and involvement from our Alumni, the Chapter is determined to restore that strength! The formative years of the Chapter’s rebirth offer the right kind of man an opportunity to make his mark on the proud history of our fraternity!
If you have questions about the Chapter's history, or would like to be part of the rebirth of SAE at Rockhurst, head over to our 'Rush' page or feel free to contact one of the following individuals:
Foundation Chairman & leading member of the founding class, Jerry Bales ('71)
Chapter Rush Chairman, David Reyes
Vice President of the re-founding class & current Chapter Advisor, Michael Perry (’05)
Jerry Bales ('71)
David Reyes
Michael Perry ('05)
Missouri Delta Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity
1100 Rockhurst Road
Massman 1
Kansas City, MO 64110
