Epsilon Sigma Chapter Restored at West Florida

On Friday, October 13th, 2023, Knight Commander King V. Aiken, Jr. (Kappa–Mercer ’83) re-issued the Epsilon Sigma Charter to the gentlemen of the University of West Florida Provisional Chapter. The ceremony and banquet were held in the Emerald Coast Room at the Hilton Pensacola Beach in Los Pensacola Beach, Florida, and were well attended by alumni, parents, staff, and volunteers.

Since the provisional chapter was established on September 27, 2021, the provisional chapter has worked to recruit thirty-two (32) members while achieving a 3.08 Spring 2023 grade point average. Members have been involved with philanthropy and service efforts within the Pensacola community and on campus. Throughout the course of the last academic year, the members have completed an estimated 565 hours of service with organizations including KeepPensacola Clean, and participated in various blood drives. The chapter has raised more than $1,400 for the Independence Fund and MDA. Members of the UWF Provisional Chapter are involved on campus in various clubs and organizations. Organizations for which members serve on an executive board include the Interfraternity Council, Campus Activity Board, Freshman Orientation Board, and E-sports Club. Other organizations in which members participate include Lacrosse Club, STEM Scholars, Jiu-Jitsu Club, Argo First LivingCommunity, UWF Singers, Orientation Leaders, and Esports.

At the banquet Executive Director Larry Stanton Wiese (Gamma Omega–Midwestern State ’87) welcomed all attendees and gave opening remarks, former Associate Director for Chapter Services Steven L. Gros (Delta Xi–McNeese State ’16) led the pledge of allegiance, and L. Blair Bailey (Gamma Eta–Florida State ’88), a member of the Order’s Executive Council, gave the invocation.  Following dinner,  Number I Christian A. Padron (Epsilon Sigma–West Florida ’23) gave an address from the Chapter, and Senior Councilor James M. Schmuck (Alpha Eta–Westminster ’69) installed the chapter officers with Crawford Province  Commander Hon. P. Michael Ruff (Gamma Eta–Florida State ’67) presented them with their officer jewels. To conclude the evening, Knight Commander Aiken gave his remarks and presented the Epsilon Sigma Charter, and Province Commander Ruff gave the benediction.

View photos from the banquet on KA’s Facebook page.

The Chapter Members were initiated on October 6th and 7th on campus at West Florida by members of the Zeta Nu Chapter at the University of North Florida. 

Re-founding Brothers of Epsilon Sigma Chapter