In this Q&A, we sit down with Mark Formosa, a standout leader at the University of Detroit Mercy and a proud brother of Sigma Pi Fraternity, Gamma Alpha Chapter. Mark’s time in Sigma Pi has been marked by personal growth, leadership development, and a commitment to community. Beyond his fraternity, he has served in several key leadership roles on campus, including Student Government Association (SGA) President. In this interview, Mark reflects on how his fraternity experience shaped him, the leadership skills he gained, and how his brothers supported him during his campaign for student body president.
How would you describe your fraternity experience?
“My experience at Sigma Pi, Gamma Alpha Chapter, has been all about growth. When I became a brother two years ago, I didn’t fully understand what I was getting myself into. Now, through the strength of our brotherhood, I’ve grown into a better friend, brother, and man.”
Did you serve in any leadership positions within your chapter?
“I served as our chapter’s Second Counselor (Vice President) and currently serve as the First Counselor (Sergeant-at-Arms).”
How did those positions prepare you for future work in your career or on campus?
“Being a brother helped me develop my communication skills, which has been invaluable both on campus and in my career. Spending time with my brothers taught me how to connect with people based on their personalities and emotions. They’ve also shared their life experiences and perspectives with me, which has enriched my own outlook.”
What other involvements did you have on campus?
“I was Student Government Association (SGA) President for two years, SGA Vice President for one year, President of the College of Business Student Advisory Board for two years, and Honors Ambassador for three years. I also served as President of Beta Alpha Psi, and I’m a member of Alpha Sigma Nu, Alpha Iota Delta, and the Global Jesuit Business Student and Alumni Association.”
Did your fraternity help you in your race for student body president?
“My fraternity was a huge help in the final days of the election. They advocated for me to their friends and colleagues. I remember one of my brothers, Privat, going into the library an hour or two before the election closed, telling students why they should vote for me. Just like other moments in our brotherhood, my brothers were there when I needed their support the most.”
What were some of your achievements as student body president?
“Two key achievements stand out from my time as SGA President. First, I was part of the team involved in the rebranding of the University of Detroit Mercy. Our Senate worked with the administration to provide input on creating a more vibrant campus. We introduced new murals, signs, paintings, and banners throughout the McNicholas Campus, and I had the privilege of working with great minds like Marlena Peleo-Lazar, creator of McDonald’s ‘I’m Lovin’ It’ campaign.
Additionally, our SGA administration worked on restructuring Student Government, which will have a lasting impact on future SGA leaders. We introduced new executive board positions, redefined the roles of our Senators, and promoted our mission of shared governance between students, the Senate, and the administration.”
