By: Greg Ward, Alabama

Warrensburg, MO – Past National President Michael Schermer, Illinois State, was honored last week at Illinois State University. He joins an elite group, as he was inducted into the Illinois State University Hall of Fame. Schermer was one of only five individuals chosen this year for this honor.

Schermer attended Illinois State after graduating from Limestone Community High School, in Bartonville, Illinois. He decided to attend Illinois State because just one year earlier, his best friend at the time became a part of the Redbird family.

Schermer earned a B.S. in education in 1973 and M.S. in education in 1978. Soon after earning his undergraduate degree, he received a position at Illinois State as the Assistant to the Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs. He worked for Illinois State for 36 years before retiring in 2010. During his time at the University, he was the Director of Student Life, Student Government Advisor, and he also served as the Director of the Career Center from 2002 until his retirement in 2010. He served the local community as a member of the Miller Park Zoo Advisory Board, as well as the Normal Theater Board, working on the renovation and operations of the historic theater.

As the Director of Student Life, Schermer brought LeaderShape and the Alternative Spring Break Program to ISU. He supported Jen Cowsert, former Student Body President in transitioning the Women’s Transit Authority from the Red Tassel Mortar Board to Nite Ride, utilizing the Bloomington/Normal Transit Authority.  Michael co-founded the Safe Zone Program for Faculty/Staff, a program to educate Faculty/Staff about being an ally to LGBT students. He supported Charlie Biondolillo, former Student Body President, in reinstituting the Homecoming Student King and Queen.

While accomplishing all of this, he has continued to stay involved with Sig Tau. He was initiated in 1978 as an alumnus and was the local chapter advisor for 30 years. Schermer was a Board of Directors Member from 1988-2000, and was elected the 28 National President in 1994. He has also served on the Foundation Board of Trustees and was President of the Foundation from 2008 – 2014.

Congratulations to Brother Schermer on his worthy achievement!