ΣΑΕ hosts Paddy Murphy week, celebrating the strength of brotherhood

Campus members can vote for their favorite design by donating money, and the winner’s design will be displayed on Wednesday during Paddy’s funeral.

The Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter at OU has begun its first-ever Paddy Murphy week to honor its late brother and hero and to raise money for its national philanthropy, Children’s Miracle Network.

The fraternity had days and parties in honor of Murphy in the past, but this is the first time an entire week of events was organized.

“Traditionally, it has been a week-long event; it just hasn’t been implemented at Oakland,” ΣΑΕ member, philanthropy and Murphy chair Andres Morales said. “The chapter is always growing in number and size so it makes it easier and more plausible to do week-long events where we can celebrate a traditional holiday for ΣΑΕ.”

Murphy, a ΣΑΕ legend, was a college graduate and successful business man who was killed by gangster Al Capone.

Capone instructed him to kill someone and Murphy refused after he saw a ΣΑΕ badge on the intended victim, meaning he was his brother.

“We live strongly by a code called ‘being your brother’s keeper’,” Morales said. “It is a value that we as a fraternity look highly on, the idea of brotherhood.”

Morales said members of the Greek community want those who are not involved in Greek life to still participate in the events they hold.

President of ΣΑΕ Ryan Fabian said he encourages the support of OU students and Oakland County members as the national chapter honors its legendary brother.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Monday, March 16: Sororities coffin-decorating contest

Sororities Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Sigma Tau, Phi Sigma Sigma and Gamma Phi Beta were given a coffin-shaped wooden board to decorate to the best of their abilities.

Tuesday, March 17: Tabling in the Oakland Center to vote for best design

The four coffins will be displayed in the Oakland Center. Campus members can vote for their favorite design by donating money, and the winner’s design will be displayed on Wednesday during Paddy’s funeral. All donations go directly to the Children’s Miracle Network and those who donate will receive a wristband.

Wednesday, March 18: Paddy’s funeral

Members of ΣΑΕ will meet in between North and South Foundation Halls in front of the Oakland Center at noon and walk through campus with a coffin in honor of Paddy.

Participation is open to all students and funeral attire is recommended but not required.

Thursday, March 19: Ultimate Frisbee tournament

An ultimate Frisbee tournament will begin at 5 p.m. in the Upper Fields. Everyone is welcome and teams will be put together upon arrival.

Friday, March 20: POST-PONED

This was originally  supposed to be Lady ΣΑΕ, but due to scheduling conflicts, the event has been moved to Saturday, March 28.

Saturday, March 21: Paddy Murphy party at Mustang Janes

The doors open at 10 p.m. for the St. Patrick’s themed party at Mustang Janes in Pontiac. The cover fee is $5 and all proceeds go towards the Children’s Miracle Network.