Game Time: SIFE Present at Nationals

Hundreds of miles from campus, Saint Anselm College’s SIFE chapter prepares to introduce Philadelphia to a taste of Benedictine hospitality.

Sharply dressed in matching blue shirts and black suits, the team resembles seasoned business professionals as they huddle outside the presentation room. Moments before game time, co-president Tom Cullen offered final words of encouragement and Dr. Fitzpatrick led a team cheer.

Rooted in business etiquette, SIFE competition is highly structured. The team has exactly 24 minutes to describe the chapter’s service projects and impact in the local and international community, followed by a brief question and answer period.

After the team introduced themselves to each of the 12 judges, Cullen began the presentation, describing the demographics of the Saint Anselm College community.

The presentation touched on projects such as Pennies for Peace, micro-lending, the Relay for Life, and the winter warm coat drive. SIFE’s endeavors raised over $10,000 to construct a school in rural Afghanistan, provided loans for struggling entrepreneurs in developing nations, supported the American Cancer Society, and collected second-hand coats for poor children, respectively.

Each student spoke with conviction, emphasizing the chapter’s commitment to establishing sustainable projects and lasting relationships with the community.

Additionally, the team highlighted future projects, such as next year’s partnership with Heifer International, supporting a holistic approach to combat hunger around the world.

Nick Provost ’10 described SIFE’s significance around campus, mentioning SGA’s recent appropriation, Crier articles, and the paparazzi (yours truly!) shadowing the team during the team’s adventure in Philly.

Outside the presentation room, the weight lifted from the team’s shoulders is evident. The team agrees their execution could have been sharper; yet, they continue to hope the judges will acknowledge the scale of their projects and the chapter’s progress.

Although the presentation is complete, the day is far from over. The group scoped out the competition and checked out the career fair, before heading to the opening rounds awards ceremony.

After wearing restricting heels and ties all day, the SIFE team is already salivating, dreaming of dinner.

Read about the SIFE team's first day in Philadelphia and their win at regional competition.

Additional photos are available on our Flickr photo sharing site.