1. A Look at Sigma Alpha Epsilon, by Marco Bitran
On March 9, 1856, the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa introduced the first chapter of Sigma Alpha
Epsilon. Over the past 160 years, this fraternity has welcomed 245 chapters, including 17 colonies, and
inducted more than 300,000 men, over half of whom are still living. Additionally, it runs the Sigma Alpha
Epsilon Foundation, an 85-year-old group that accepts donations and maintains its headquarters, the
Levere Memorial Temple in Evanston, Illinois.
Since 1899, Sigma Alpha Epsilon has operated under the creed of “The True Gentleman,” and it inspires
its members to live a life of good will and self-control. Further engaging with this mission, in 2002, the
organization developed the True Gentleman Day of Service where hundreds of chapters across the
country engage in philanthropy. Also affiliated with National Youth Service Day, this fraternity places
heavy emphasis on the values of Honor, Loyalty, Friendship, and Fraternity.
About the Author:
A financial executive responsible for raising millions of dollars in venture capital, Marco Bitran received a
Master’s of Business Administration from Harvard Business School. As an undergraduate, Bitran
attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science in
Electrical Engineering, graduated with a 5.0 out of 5.0 Grade Point Average, and was elected Vice
President of its Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter.