CARMEL, INDIANA – Richard Harguindeguy, Beta Omicron ’75 (Northland College), entered Chapter Eternal on January 26th, passing away peacefully in his home. A dedicated member of Sigma Tau Gamma, he served as the Fraternity’s 36th National President from 2010–2012 and leaves behind a remarkable legacy of leadership, generosity, and brotherhood that shaped generations of Sig Taus.

Initiated into the Beta Omicron Chapter in 1975 and graduating in 1978, Brother Harguindeguy went on to serve the Fraternity at nearly every level. He served as Mid Atlantic District Director (1982–1986), Regional Vice President of the Atlantic Coast Region (1986–1990), Chapter Counselor for Delta Omicron at Christopher Newport University (1994–1998), President of the Washington, D.C. Alumni Chapter, and elected to the Board of Directors in 2002. His distinguished service to the Sigma Tau Gamma Foundation included roles as a Trustee and Secretary.

In 2019, Brother Harguindeguy was inducted into the Society of the Seventeen, one of the Fraternity’s highest honors, recognizing his impact on the organization. Even after retirement, he returned once more to serve the brotherhood he loved, joining the Headquarters Staff in 2023 as the Transformational Gift and Development Manager. In that role, he worked to expand the Foundation’s donor base, strengthen alumni engagement, and support long-term organizational growth.

A loyal donor for decades, Brother Harguindeguy was a Principal Fellow of the Wilson C. Morris Fellowship, a level reserved for those who have given $25,000 or more over their lifetime. He was a consistent annual donor since 1979 and a proud member of the 100 Noble Men.

Throughout his life, Brother Harguindeguy was honored with many of Sigma Tau Gamma’s awards, including the Outstanding Regional Director Award in 1986, the Winebrenner Distinguished Fraternity Service Award in 1991, and the Marvin Millsap Distinguished Foundation Service Medal in 2002.

One of Brother Harguindeguy’s most meaningful responsibilities within the Society of the Seventeen was organizing the annual tradition of sending a dozen white roses to the widows of deceased Society Brothers each Valentine’s Day. He took great pride in this, ensuring these special women continued to feel remembered, valued, and connected to Sig Tau. 

Brother Harguindeguy often hosted traveling staff and accompanied them on chapter visits, always inspiring conversations about how to improve and enhance the Sig Tau experience. One moment of inspiration occurred during a visit with Brother Ron Erickson when Brother Erickson was National President. Brother Erickson shared an idea with him: bringing Chapter Presidents to Warrensburg for a training program. Brother Harguindeguy immediately encouraged the concept, believing it would transform undergraduate leadership development. That conversation became the foundation of the President’s Boot Camp, first held in December 1985 and today known as the Earl A. Webb Academy of Principled Leaders, the Fraternity’s most impactful educational program.

Outside of his Fraternity service, Brother Harguindeguy built a successful career in retail, holding sales and management positions at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. 

He is remembered with love by his husband, Rick Reed, as well as by his sister Martine Bohn and her family.

Brother Harguindeguy’s legacy is the true embodiment of a Sig Tau for Life—rooted in selfless service, steadfast leadership, and an unwavering love for Sigma Tau Gamma. His influence will continue through the countless brothers he mentored, the programs he helped shape, and the memories he created across a lifetime of dedication.

Read Richard Harguindeguy’s complete obituary here.

Sigma Tau Gamma is gathering stories and memories to honor him. Please send yours to noblemen@sigtau.org so we may continue to celebrate the life and legacy of Richard Harguindeguy.

Written condolences or remembrances can be sent to the Fraternity:
Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity
880 Monon Green Blvd. | Suite #101
Carmel, Indiana 46032

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ABOUT SIGMA TAU GAMMA FRATERNITY

Founded at the University of Central Missouri on June 28, 1920, Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity will celebrate its 105th year of Brotherhood this summer. Since its Founding, the organization has called 197 campuses home and has more than 77,000 initiated Members. The Headquarters, which is home to the Fraternity, Foundation and WPN National Housing Company, is located in Carmel, Indiana.  Visit https://sigtau.org for additional information.