Indianapolis, Jan. 10, 2017—After five years as Sigma Alpha Epsilon Executive Director—during which he led the fraternity’s evolution in critical areas—Blaine Ayers will join the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) staff in the role of Vice President of Campus Operations, Southeast.
Blaine has been a change leader for Sigma Alpha Epsilon,” said NIC President & CEO Judson Horras. “His skills, experience, and approach with students and alumni makes him the perfect person to support campuses in the Southeast.”
Under his direction, Sigma Alpha Epsilon implemented the True Gentleman Experience, shifting from pledge education to a holistic member development program. He made diversity and inclusion a key priority for the organization, hiring a full-time director to oversee new initiatives—the first staff position of its kind for an NIC fraternity. Ayers also delivered record growth to SAE, all while overseeing the Fraternity, Foundation, and Financial & Housing Corporation.
Prior to his role as Executive Director, Ayers served as the fraternity’s Associate Executive Director of Chapter and Alumni Services, as well as a Regional Director. He also worked as Assistant Dean of Students at University of Kentucky, where he advised fraternities and sororities.
Ayers will join the NIC team later this year after guiding Sigma Alpha Epsilon through its executive transition. His roots as an undergraduate Interfraternity Council (IFC) President and his contributions to the larger fraternal movement create a strong foundation for his new role.
It’s easy for me to believe in what the NIC is trying to accomplish—I believe in the same principles and values,” said Ayers. “I am hopeful my experiences from my undergraduate time until now will benefit the fraternity communities I work with.”
At the NIC, Ayers will deliver campus support to colleges and universities in the Southeast. To increase alumni, undergraduate and IFC effectiveness, he will establish relationships with campus professionals and NIC stakeholders to coordinate an education and advocacy strategy. He will work alongside Will Foran and Rick Barnes, the existing VPs of Campus Operations, further strengthening the capacity and impact of the NIC’s Campus Support team.
Ayers joined Sigma Alpha Epsilon while attending University of Kentucky, and he earned his master’s degree from Spalding University. He looks forward to moving to Nashville, Tennessee, where he, his wife and four kids will be closer to family, and where he will work from home.
