Tennessee Sigma’s Return Marks a Powerful New Chapter at Memphis

The return of Tennessee Sigma at the University of Memphis proves what can happen when a small group of men commits to building something bigger than themselves.

What began in 2022 with only six members has now grown into an official chapter of 29 men. After years of hard work, Tennessee Sigma achieved charter status on April 11, 2026, marking a major milestone for Sigma Alpha Epsilon at the University of Memphis.

For Eminent Archon Mohammad Kahok, the experience was deeply personal.

“Bringing TN Sigma back has been one of the most meaningful and rewarding experiences of my life,” shared Kahok. “It was never something that happened overnight. It took sacrifice, long nights, setbacks, faith, and a group of men who believed in something bigger than themselves.”

In the early days, the chapter focused on creating a culture built around leadership, brotherhood, and shared purpose. With a small group and a big vision, the men committed themselves to steady growth and building a chapter that could leave a lasting impact on campus.

“There were times when it felt difficult, but we kept pushing because we knew what this chapter could become,” Kahok said. “More than anything, I saw the true meaning of brotherhood throughout this process.”

That commitment quickly began to show results. Tennessee Sigma saw strong recruitment classes, became heavily involved in campus life, and established itself as one of the fastest-growing organizations within the IFC community. The chapter also made a significant impact through philanthropy, particularly with the National Marrow Donor Program and their annual Paddy Murphy Week efforts that raised thousands of dollars for charitable causes.

At the same time, the chapter earned recognition for academic success, including leading the IFC in GPA while continuing to grow membership.

Still, the chartering ceremony itself became the defining moment for many of the brothers.

“The energy in the room was something I will never forget for the rest of my life,” Kahok said. “It was emotional, powerful, and full of pride. You could feel how much that moment meant to every single person there because it represented everything we had worked for.”

One moment during the ceremony stood above the rest.

“My favorite moment of the day was being able to honor Noah’s legacy in front of his family,” shared Kahok. “That was the most meaningful part of everything for me. In that moment, it felt bigger than just a ceremony.”

Now officially chartered, Tennessee Sigma is focused on what comes next. The chapter has ambitious goals for continued growth, academic excellence, and campus leadership.

“We’re looking forward to competing for Fraternity of the Year, continuing to lead the IFC in grades and new member classes, and growing in a way that makes the people who believed in us proud,” Kahok said. “But more than awards or recognition, what matters most is protecting what we built and making sure this chapter continues to stand for something real.”

Located in the heart of Memphis, the University of Memphis is home to more than 21,000 students and over 250 student organizations, creating an active and competitive campus environment. Tennessee Sigma’s return adds another chapter to SAE’s long history of developing leaders and building lifelong brotherhood.

For Kahok and the men of Tennessee Sigma, though, this milestone is about far more than numbers or recognition.

“I’m beyond proud to be an SAE,” he said. “This chapter is more than letters to me. It represents sacrifice, brotherhood, resilience, and legacy. To see TN Sigma return in such a meaningful way is something I will never take for granted.”