The Quarterly

The brothers of the Eta Chapter at Mercer University turned up the heat for a good cause on April 10, hosting their annual Hot Ones-style spicy wing-eating challenge in support of the Ryan Bartel Foundation. Fueled by generous donations, and perhaps a little enthusiasm for watching participants endure increasingly spicy wings, the event raised more than $1,000 to support the foundation’s mission of preventing teen suicide and promoting mental health awareness among young people. The chapter extends its appreciation to Francar’s Wings for providing the wings, Zero FG Energy for donating refreshments, and everyone who participated or contributed to the fundraiser.

On March 21, brothers of the Eta Chapter at Mercer University participated in the university’s Spring into Service community service initiative. Volunteers spent the day serving at Reconciliation House by organizing equipment sheds, raking leaves, and clearing debris to help improve the facilities. The chapter was proud to support the effort and grateful to the Mercer Merserve Board for coordinating another successful day of service.

Brother Amann Patel of the Eta Chapter at Mercer University was recently selected to receive a Hertog Fellowship and accepted into the highly competitive Humanities at Hertog program. Offered by the Hertog Foundation, the program provides an intensive seminar-based study of classical literature and enduring philosophical questions. A junior philosophy major on the pre-medicine pathway, Brother Patel is an active campus leader who serves as alumni relations and marketing chairman for Sigma Nu and vice president of the philosophy honor society Phi Sigma Tau. Following graduation, he plans to attend medical school and pursue a career in family medicine focused on serving underserved communities.

Originally established during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to reengage Eta Chapter alumni and rally support for outstanding active brothers, the Wink Harris Scholarship honors the legacy of a truly once-in-a-generation Sigma Nu. Brother Harris remained deeply committed to Eta Chapter well beyond his collegiate years, generously giving his time, mentorship, and financial support to uplift future generations. Named in his honor, the scholarship is presented annually to a graduating senior who exemplifies academic excellence, campus involvement, and a sincere commitment to serving his community. This past December, the chapter proudly awarded the Wink Harris Scholarship to Brother Evan Abbott in recognition of his dedication to personal growth, his service to the chapter, and his meaningful contributions to the Mercer University community.