Sigma Phi Epsilon was founded on the basis of love, and the Florida Gamma Chapter consistently exemplifies just that. From February 28th to March 5th, SigEp will be displaying its love for Philanthropy at UM’s annual Greek Week. Typically occurring around this time during the Spring Semester, Greek Week is an entire week dedicated to Philanthropy. It is a time for the entire Greek community to come together to raise money for charitable causes. 

     Greek Week reminds us of our basic principles, motives, and capabilities as a fraternity, especially concerning Philanthropy. In recent years, SigEp has many backed charities focused on mental health awareness and suicide prevention such as The Trevor Project. Active Minds will be SigEp’s focus to raise money for in this year’s Greek Week. The organization was founded by Alison Malmon following the suicide of her brother, Ben. Ben was a college student, same as all those who will be participating in raising money for the cause, so the charity is close to heart. “Changing the Conversation About Mental Health ” has been Active Minds motto since 2003.  Their goal is to influence the way mental health is handled and cared for in the United States for the better. Many college students struggle to express their troubles and hardships. According to the Active Minds website, suicide is the #2 leading causes of death among young adults and 67% of young adults tell a friend they are feeling suicidal before telling anyone else. Active Minds is working to mitigate suicides by young adults and motivate them to speak out, and with SigEp’s help at this year’s Greek Week, the organization can continue to push forward towards their goals.

     The pandemic has changed an incredible number of operations at the university, but current Greek Week Co-Chair and brother of SigEp, Billy Hoy, is looking forward to the week. He shared, “There will be both virtual and in-person events, but I am so glad the week can still occur in spite of COVID.” Billy said the most anticipated event this year and every year is OCheer, the week’s finale of dance performances. Only adding to the excitement, UM’s starting quarterback D’Eriq King will be one of the judges and the event will be March 5th at the Lakeside Patio stage. One of Billy’s favorite events is Greek Row, which will occur March 3rd at the Lakeside Patio. In recent years, SigEp has seen tremendous success in this event, earning consecutive wins. Along with Billy, another brother, Sonny Stevenson, will be running Greek Week as a board member. With the devotion of SigEp’s members to philanthropy, this year’s Greek Week is looking to be a huge success and a great time for all participants.