Brother Zink is a recent graduate of the Zeta Nu Chapter at Montana State University. He is a winner of Sigma Nu’s highest collegiate honor for the 2024-2025 academic year - Man of the Year.
1. As you look back on your collegiate experience, is there a memorable moment or achievement during your time as a collegiate member that significantly impacted you?
One of the most memorable moments of my collegiate life was coming together with the MSU Greek community to form the Stop-Hazing Montana coalition. Motivated by the knowledge that our state was one of six that lacked laws criminalizing hazing, I led a group of students to work with a state representative to introduce the first bill criminalizing hazing in the state's history. This success has shifted the conversation around hazing in our community by positioning fraternity and sorority members to be stewards and advocates for a hazing-free experience at Montana State.
2. How did you balance your commitments to the Fraternity with your academic, professional, and personal responsibilities?
I have always been a “doer,” but, from time to time, things would slip through the cracks. When these moments occurred, I found myself reflecting on the activities I was involved in and how they each contributed to filling my "bucket" and how they were providing meaning to my life. I understood that I needed to be critical and honest about when I was taking on too much or when I was merely going through the motions instead of being fully present.
3. This past year, you had the opportunity to serve as a Collegiate Advisor to the High Council. Can you share how that experience has shaped your view of our lifelong commitments to the Legion of Honor and how we work to advance our honorable Mission?
When first stepping onto the board, I had no idea how an organization as large as Sigma Nu managed to pay attention to the unique needs of every chapter. But soon after becoming a Collegiate Advisor, I learned that the High Council, Headquarters staff, and Foundation DO know what is happening with our collegiate chapters and carefully consider how the resources, time, and attention of the Fraternity can be directed towards the chapters, programs, and initiatives that need them most. There are no blindfolds and dartboards, but rather strategic planning to ensure every ounce of energy is spent to ensure Sigma Nu continues to fulfill its mission.
4. Through roles like Founder and President of the Stop-Hazing Montana Club and MSU Student Body President, you’ve worked to influence campus culture. What cultural shifts at MSU are you most proud to have been part of?
As Student Body President, I was a steadfast champion of the student voice. Whenever possible, I advocated for students to have a seat at the table, whether it was an advisory committee on the art installations on campus or the policy governance council that set university-wide policy; a seat for a student was always non-negotiable. After working with administrators and students to realize the value of this shared-governance model, the voice of students became truly elevated, allowing students to have a hand on the steering wheel of the university. This culture shift eventually transcended to the state-level when we worked with the Montana Board of Regents and the state legislature to preserve the student voice on the board during a time in which a group of legislators aimed to eliminate it.
5. What advice would you give to a newly initiated Fraternity member to ensure they make the most of their collegiate experience?
Be selfish with your time. Your collegiate experience is finite, and how you choose to spend each minute matters. Whether it's taking on a new leadership role in your chapter or taking an hour out of your Sunday to invite a brother to lunch, use your time in a way that is meaningful and fulfilling.