A Bold New Direction: Inside the Learning and Development Department’s Transformation to Better Serve the Next Generation of True Gentlemen

For nearly 170 years, Sigma Alpha Epsilon has been dedicated to developing men who embody the ideals of The True Gentleman, leaders of character committed to honor, integrity, and lifelong growth. As today’s students, campuses, technology, and society continue to evolve, so too must the way we prepare members to lead. That commitment to continuous improvement is driving an exciting new chapter at the Fraternity Service Center.

As part of this evolution, the Education Department is becoming the Learning and Development Department. The change is more than a new name; it reflects a renewed philosophy. While “education” focuses on the transfer of knowledge, “learning and development” represent the lifelong process of building character, strengthening leadership, and cultivating the values that define a True Gentleman. Becoming a man of honor is not a single educational experience; it is a continual journey, and this new identity reinforces SAE’s commitment to developing principled leaders for life.

How We’re Raising the Bar

Raising the bar requires more than new programs; it requires a new approach to learning. The Learning and Development Department is evolving into the central hub that connects, designs, and elevates the learning experience across every stage of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon journey. Rather than delivering isolated educational programs, the department is creating a unified, lifelong learning ecosystem that equips members, volunteers, and staff with the knowledge, skills, and character needed to succeed.

This vision is built around three strategic areas of focus:

• First, is the onboarding process. Onboarding Learning ensures every Candidate for Membership, collegian member, officer, volunteer, staff member, and alumnus begins with a consistent, high-quality foundation.
• Second, is continuing learning. Continuing Learning provides ongoing leadership development and educational resources for collegians, alumni, and Chapter Service Consultants, reinforcing that growth does not end after initiation or graduation.
• Lastly, there is experiential learning. Experiential Learning expands development through national events, on-demand learning opportunities, and educational initiatives that address the evolving needs of higher education and the fraternal experience.

As the learning experience design hub for SAE, the department will collaborate with subject matter experts from across the Fraternity Service Center, alumni volunteers, peer organizations, university professionals, and educational leaders to create relevant, engaging, and impactful learning experiences. By aligning expertise from across the organization and educational field, Learning and Development is not simply delivering education; it is building a culture of continuous learning that prepares members to lead with confidence, uphold the ideals of The True Gentleman, and strengthen SAE for generations to come.

This Year’s Focus:

This academic year, the Learning and Development Department is raising the standard through three bold priorities:

• Expanding Leadership School and the DeVotie Ritual Institute with a goal of engaging more than 500 participants representing over 189 chapters
• Piloting a comprehensive Candidate for Membership onboarding experience while enhancing the Phoenix Member Education Program
• Investing in the future of learning through new technology that delivers more engaging, interactive educational content

To further elevate the member experience, the department is increasing the number of specialized speakers at national events, expanding facilitation training on the curriculum for alumni and collegians, and creating stronger feedback channels to ensure that the voices of collegians, alumni, volunteers, and staff directly shape future programming.

Curriculum and educational experiences are also being developed through collaborative work groups comprising collegians, alumni, volunteers, and subject-matter experts, ensuring that programs and curriculum reflect the needs of today’s students while preserving SAE’s values.

Staffing Updates:

Raising the bar begins with building the right team. To support this renewed vision, the Learning and Development Department has welcomed two new staff members who bring extensive experience in education, instructional design, and student development, and possess a deep appreciation for and knowledge of Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s Ritual, history, and values. Their addition expands the department to its largest size in the Fraternity’s history, dedicated exclusively to learning and development, strengthening SAE’s ability to deliver innovative educational experiences, develop impactful programming, and better serve members at every stage of their lifelong journey.

Dr. Scott Slechta (Iowa Sigma, Simpson College ’80) is serving as the Curriculum Design Specialist. Dr. Scott Slechta brings more than four decades of educational excellence to the Learning and Development team. Holding a B.A. from Simpson College, an M.A. from the University of Northern Iowa, and an Ed.D. from Walden University, he has taught at every level, from K–12 to collegiate, and is a National Board Certified Teacher. Dr. Slechta has been recognized nationally for his impact on education, including engagements with the White House, the Hunt-Kean Institute, and educational leaders nationwide. His nationally recognized expertise in curriculum development, instructional design, and educator training will strengthen the Fraternity’s commitment to delivering exceptional educational experiences for members.

Aldrian ‘Al’ Smith (Louisiana Chi, Nicholls State University ’17) is serving as the Coordinator of Learning & Development. Aldrian brings a unique combination of educational expertise, leadership development experience, and firsthand SAE experience to the Learning and Development team. With nearly a decade as an educator, instructional coach, adjunct professor, and student leadership advisor, Smith has dedicated his career to creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire growth and develop emerging leaders. “Al” brings a proven record of excellence in education and leadership development to the Learning and Development Department. Named both H.L. Bourgeois High School Teacher of the Year and Terrebonne Parish District High School Teacher of the Year in 2024, he has demonstrated a commitment to creating transformative educational experiences for students and emerging leaders.

While the addition of two exceptional new staff members raises the bar, Sigma Alpha Epsilon is equally fortunate to retain two nationally respected pioneers whose expertise, leadership, and influence continue to shape the future of higher education and fraternity learning.

Dustin Stewart (Georgia Rho, Georgia Southern University, Armstrong Campus ’17) is continuing in his role as the Director of Program Innovation. Dustin’s continued leadership within the Learning and Development Department provides SAE with a proven leader who combines deep fraternity experience, advanced education, and a data-informed approach to organizational improvement. Throughout his career, Dustin has consistently leveraged evidence, technology, and measurable outcomes to redesign programs, strengthen chapter support, and create sustainable improvements. His ability to analyze trends, identify opportunities, and translate data into actionable strategies ensures that SAE’s educational initiatives continue to evolve and deliver meaningful impact.

Hannah Blenden (Alpha Epsilon Phi) is continuing in her role as Director of Educational Operations. Hannah has been a driving force behind the transformation of SAE’s educational experiences, dedicating years of service to rebuilding programs that create lasting impact for members. Through her leadership, she has revitalized cornerstone programs such as the John O. Moseley Leadership School and expanded the DeVotie Ritual Institute into a premier educational experience centered on leadership competencies and the Fraternity’s values. Hannah brings extensive expertise in higher education and fraternity/sorority life, earning her Master of Education in Higher Education from Indiana University while working with Fraternity and Sorority Life initiatives in the Student Life and Learning office. Her extensive experience in research, facilitation, and leadership within fraternity and sorority life has established her as a respected thought leader, trusted advocate, and knowledgeable voice in higher education. Her continued commitment ensures SAE maintains the consistency, quality, and operational excellence needed to deliver meaningful development opportunities.

In Closing:

The transformation of the Learning and Development Department represents more than an investment in programs; it is an investment in the future of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. With a renewed vision, an expanded team of experienced educators and fraternity professionals, and a commitment to data-informed, innovative, and lifelong learning, SAE is positioned to redefine what fraternity education can become.

The journey to becoming a True Gentleman does not end with initiation, graduation, or a single experience; it is a lifelong pursuit of growth, leadership, and service. Through this bold new direction, the Learning and Development Department will continue to inspire members, empower leaders, and strengthen the bonds that have defined Sigma Alpha Epsilon for nearly 170 years, ensuring that the next generation of True Gentlemen is prepared to lead with purpose, integrity, and impact.