Mac Epley memorial Award Recognizes outstanding alumni

Brother Bob Hastings (L) received the first annual award at the 100th Anniversary.

The process of planning and managing everything that went into our rechartering made us appreciate all of the alumni who give of their time, expertise and money to continue the tradition of the Oregon Alpha Chapter. But we realized we didn’t have a way to show our appreciation to those who go above and beyond, so we created the Mac Epley Memorial Award for outstanding alumni.

Mac Epley was initiated in 1947, graduated with a degree in Journalism, and went on to a successful career in advertising and marketing in the timber products industry. He was always the leader of his group of peers in the fraternity, organizing lunches, keeping in touch with brothers, and seeking to help the fraternity in any way he could. In the mid-1990s, Mac led the organization of the 75th Anniversary celebration which drew 225 brothers to Eugene in an event much like the recent 100th.

Mac was the first one to offer help as the chapter — and the Greek system in general — struggled in the late 1990s. Even in the face of tough circumstances, he was always optimistic and kept working for the good of the chapter. He was very involved in the community around him, receiving numerous awards for his work and generosity. Mac was also a rabid Duck fan — rarely appearing in public without wearing some type of Duck clothing.

Although we lost Mac to the chapter eternal in 2019, his spirit of service lives on today. In his memory, we created the Mac Epley Memorial Award, to be given annually to an alumnus who demonstrates that same spirit. The first winner of the award, given at the 100th Anniversary dinner, is Bob Hastings (’74-897), who co-chaired the 75th with Mac and organized the recent 100th Anniversary event. Bob has always shown his commitment to the fraternity, and possesses that same spirit of service that Mac Epley embodied.

“This award means a lot to me because of the person it represents,” said brother Hastings. “As a Phi Psi, I’m very proud to say Mac Epley was my brother. He was a man I loved and appreciated so very much.” The second winner was announced on Founders Day, which is when the award will be presented on an annual basis.

Brother Brian Thompson (’91-1311) was announced as the 2024 winner for his longtime dedication and tireless work as the House Corporation President from 2013-2023, and his continued service as an at-large member of the board.

We miss you, Mac.