Sigma Phi Epsilon’s Washington Gamma chapter at Eastern Washington University celebrated a milestone evening on October 16, 2026, bringing together students, alumni, families, and volunteers for the annual Balanced Man Scholarship Banquet and the chapter’s 35th Anniversary Celebration.
For more than a decade, Washington Gamma has hosted the Balanced Man Scholarship at Eastern Washington University, recognizing outstanding students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, and personal development. The annual scholarship reflects SigEp’s commitment to developing balanced men through the pursuit of a Sound Mind and a Sound Body, an ideal rooted in ancient Greek philosophy and embraced by Sigma Phi Epsilon since its founding.
This year’s banquet awarded $3,000 in scholarships to three exceptional students whose accomplishments and character exemplify SigEp’s cardinal principles of Virtue, Diligence, and Brotherly Love.
View and download photos from the 2026 Balanced Man Scholarship Banquet in our event photo gallery.
Celebrating Three Outstanding Scholarship Recipients
Gabriel Cabello-Preciado – Virtue Scholarship ($500)
Gabriel, a Construction Management Technology student at Eastern, graduated from Omak High School and attended Wenatchee Valley College through the Running Start program. During his time at Wenatchee Valley College, Gabriel and his twin brother founded Community Engaged Knights, a club dedicated to community involvement. He also helped organize Scholarships and Sushi, an event connecting students with scholarship opportunities tailored to their backgrounds and academic goals. His initiative and commitment to helping others reflect the integrity and character at the heart of Virtue.
Matheus De Moraes – Diligence Scholarship ($1,000)
Originally from Brazil, Matheus moved to the United States three years ago to pursue his education and athletic career. At Wenatchee Valley College, he served as soccer team captain and a resident adviser before transferring to Eastern Washington University to study Finance. His journey reflects perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to personal growth. Matheus hopes to become a financial advisor while continuing to develop personally and professionally.
Jaret Pearman – Brotherly Love Scholarship ($1,500)
Jaret, a Secondary Math Education student, transferred to Eastern from Spokane Falls and has dedicated himself to mentoring and developing young people. A former Male Scholar Athlete of the Year, Jaret has spent the past three seasons coaching baseball at Ferris High School and will continue coaching at Cheney High School. He also volunteers playing guitar at his church and has served as a summer camp counselor. Guided by his philosophy to “Live your life for others,” Jaret exemplifies the compassion, selflessness, and service that define Brotherly Love.
In addition to the scholarship awards, every Balanced Man Scholarship finalist received a $50 gift card to the EWU Bookstore in recognition of their accomplishments and continued academic pursuits. The chapter was proud to recognize the exceptional achievements of all its finalists, whose dedication to academics, leadership, athletics, and community service made this year’s selection process especially meaningful.
35 Years of Brotherhood at Eastern Washington University
The evening also marked 35 years of Sigma Phi Epsilon at Eastern Washington University. Since its establishment, Washington Gamma has built a legacy of leadership, mentorship, friendship, and service that extends well beyond graduation.
Today, Washington Gamma stands as the longest-lasting fraternity at Eastern Washington University with consistent recognition and endorsement from both the university and Sigma Phi Epsilon’s national organization. The chapter’s continued presence reflects the dedication of generations of alumni, volunteers, and undergraduate brothers who have invested in its future.
The anniversary celebration honored those who came before while recognizing the responsibility of today’s members to continue building a chapter that will serve future generations of Eastern students.
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