Flying down the chimney of Edgewood Community Elementary School, the Sigma Santas jollily arrived bringing joy to all second graders. Derek Russell, Alex McCarthy, Nick Wiley, Sam Kratz, Tim Taylor, James Connolly, Niels Goossens and Andrew Phillips partook in Sigma Pi’s first major philanthropic event: Sigma Santa. Because the event was scheduled during winter break, many of the brothers were unable to partake. However, the members who were lucky enough to attend were extremely excited about the opportunity to do something great for the community, and in the process get the Sigma Pi name recognition. Nobody knew how an elementary school would react to seeing a bunch of fraternity men.

The group was initially apprehensive after hearing the kids of Mrs. Shirk’s second grade class had just finished with a professional story teller; their fears were calmed when they were greeted with smiles and laughter from the children. The Sigma Santas brought along books, drawing materials, and presents for the kids to enjoy. Breaking the children up into smaller groups, each Sigma Santa read the children a story. The stories were accompanied with singing and dancing, followed by coloring and drawing. As everyone was busy drawing holiday pictures, the brothers of Sigma Pi were fully engaged in deep conversation with the second graders. Conversations ranged from different theme park rides to what would happen if dinosaurs were around today.

After Niels muddled the words to Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, the members of Sigma Pi moved on to handing out presents consisting of pencils, erasers, play-dough and small chocolates. The smiling Sigma Santa’s reluctantly left the smiling students.

Mrs. Shirk sang praises to Sigma Pi in her weekly newsletter sent to parents of the children.

The Oregon colony’s first philanthropy was an overwhelming success. It was a great learning experience for the kids and brothers and will become an annual event for years to come.