THE HISTORY OF KO
The Kappa Omicron chapterof Sigma Chi, initially known as The Shield, started out much like that of theSigma Chi International Fraternity. In 1991, two Brothers, Bill Scharing andLevi Sutter, decided that no fraternity at Pepperdine University matched thegoals, ideals and values that they held dear. Having previously been exposed toSigma Chi and having found it to exemplify their high ideals, they decided towork to found a chapter of Sigma Chi at Pepperdine.
Sigma Chi believes itsmembers should have "different temperaments, talents and convictions,"as did Scharing and Sutter. Sigma Chi maintains the idea that its members sharea "common belief in an ideal," and, most importantly, that"genuine friendship can be maintained without surrendering the principleof individuality or sacrificing one's personal judgment." By sharing thesebeliefs with friends two members became seven, seven became fifteen, fifteenbecame twenty-five. What was originally called The Shield and started with twopeople, is now the Kappa Omicron chapter of the Sigma Chi InternationalFraternity and has become a group of brothers committed to all that being aSigma Chi demands.
An important part of TheShield's history is our belief, instilled from our founding, is our completeopposition to hazing. We follow that principle on the belief that Brothers canshare the meaning of Brotherhood only through example. Therefore, activeshumble themselves before the pledges, rather than forcing the lessons ofBrotherhood through subservient acts.
Members of the KappaOmicron chapter, and more generally, all Sigma Chis, strive to act on highprinciples. We believe that if a Brother is hungry, get him something to eat. If a Brother is thirsty, get him something to drink. If a brother iscold, get him a blanket.
The Principle ofMembership: saying a prospective Brother's name should makethe hair on the back of your neck stand on end.
The Principle ofFriendship: Brothers should never be afraid to greet eachother with a handshake and hug, no matter what the time or place.
ThePrinciple of Brotherhood: When we get to heaven,the first people that we will look for, and the first people that will find us,will be our Brothers.