CARMEL, INDIANA – When Brother Christian Ely, Gamma Phi ’12, joined Sigma Tau Gamma, he was simply looking to meet people and become more involved on campus. Fourteen years later, as delegates gather for the 2026 Grand Conclave in Charlotte, he will be installed as the Fraternity’s 43rd National President; a journey that reflects a lifelong commitment to serving Sigma Tau Gamma and the men it impacts.

For Brother Ely, Sig Tau was more than a college experience. It helped shape the man he is today. “I am the person that I am because of the experiences of Sigma Tau Gamma and I wanted to ensure future generations of men have access to the same opportunities that made such an impact on my life” he shared.

As a founding father of Gamma Phi Chapter at the University of Southern Indiana, Brother Ely quickly developed a passion for leadership and service. His first Grand Conclave as a freshman proved to be a defining moment. Seeing the scale of the Fraternity’s mission and its impact on men across the country inspired him to stay involved beyond his undergraduate years.

Since then, he has not missed a Grand Conclave, has served on committees, facilitated educational programs, and was elected president-elect at the 2024 Grand Conclave in Houston.

As he prepares to be the 43^rd National President, Brother Ely views the role as both an honor and a responsibility. His advice for members is simple: remember your “why” and stay involved. “Keep focused on why you joined and how you can help the brothers around you become better men.”

In recognition of Pride Month, Brother Ely also reflected on the importance of belonging and authenticity within Sigma Tau Gamma. “Home might not be where everybody agrees about everything, but it’s where you’re loved and accepted no matter what,” he said. “When people feel comfortable being their authentic selves, they can give their best selves to the world.”

Looking ahead, Brother Ely hopes every member leaves Sigma Tau Gamma better than when they joined and that the Fraternity continues to be a place where men can grow, lead, and become the best versions of themselves.

From founding father to president-elect, Brother Ely’s journey demonstrates the lifelong impact of Sigma Tau Gamma and the power of investing in future generations of Noble Men.