Sigma Alpha Epsilon

Legacy That Leads

Where values, accountability, and brotherhood come first.

From the beginning, SAE has asked more of its members. We learn from those who came before us, are inspired by those making an impact today, and work to carry our values forward. We are committed to doing what is right, supporting one another, and leading with purpose on campus and in life.

170 Years Of Brotherhood

From one chapter at the University of Alabama to more than 200 chapters and colonies across the U.S. and Canada, SAE’s story reflects growth, resilience, and impact.

historical drawing of early SAE brothers

March 9, 1856

The Founding of Sigma Alpha Epsilon

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣAE) was founded on March 9, 1856, at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Founded by Noble Leslie DeVotie and seven others to create a bond of brotherhood.

December 1860

Early Growth and Expansion

Sigma Alpha Epsilon boasts 15 chapters within four years of its founding. All but one will become extinct due to the death toll of the American Civil War.

January 1866

Rebuilding

The Mississippi Gamma chapter at Ole Miss becomes the first new chapter started after the Civil War.

May 1, 1868

Lucy Pattie

After being trusted to protect the secrets of the Fraternity during the war and ensuring SAE’s survival, Lucy Pattie becomes the only woman member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon.

July 9, 1877

National Network

The Richmond Convention, called for by the collegians, became known as an impromptu Convention that saved the fraternity from extinction with the implementation of a national dues structure, along with suggestions for open lines of communication to keep chapters connected.

Fall 1886

Finding a home

Tennessee Omega at Sewanee: The University of the South becomes the first to boast a chapter house.

historical drawing of Bunting brothers in front of a portrait drawing

1887

Bunting Expansion

In the 1870s and early 1880s, more than a score of new chapters were formed. During this time, three brothers (The Buntings) were initiated. They strongly advocated expansion, including writing articles in our quarterly magazine, The Record. By the late 1890s, their efforts were directly responsible for the expansion of an additional 50 chapters.

December 28, 1930

The Levere Memorial Temple

With construction now complete, the Levere Memorial Temple is dedicated during the 75th Anniversary Convention. An immense German Gothic structure located near Lake Michigan and across from the Northwestern University campus, the Temple was designed to serve the men of our Fraternity.

first leadership school historical photo

August 26, 1935

Leadership School Begins

In 1935, SAE was the first Fraternity to develop and implement a national Leadership School for our members.

the levere memorial temple

A living monument to brotherhood

Dedicated in 1930, the Levere Memorial Temple in Evanston, Illinois, stands as the fraternity’s headquarters and a tribute to William Collin “Billy” Levere. It remains a place where history, tradition, and community come together.

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Digital Archives

Preserving Our Past, Inspiring Our Future

SAE’s history lives on through photos, letters, publications, and artifacts carefully preserved in our digital archives. Explore the stories, milestones, and moments that have shaped generations of True Gentlemen.

Explore the Archives Publication history

Stories of SAE History

Every era of SAE tells a story worth remembering. From the courage of our founders to the generations of brothers who carried our values into new campuses, careers, and communities, these stories reveal the character of The True Gentleman lived out across decades.

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Hidden History: Tiffany Windows at Levere Memorial Temple

Foundation

Hidden History: Tiffany Windows at Levere Memorial Temple

February 17, 2021

September 26, 2025

News From HQ

The Legacy of James Gamble Nippert

In the heart of the University of Cincinnati’s campus stands a testament to the enduring power of brotherhood. Nippert Stadium, a centerpiece of Bearcat pride for a century…

January 17, 2020