In the fall of 1959, a group of young men and women from Logan and beyond arrived at Utah State University, quickly forging friendships that would last a lifetime. They became a tight-knit crew, spending their days exploring Logan Canyon, Bear Lake, and even Jackson Hole, Wyoming. What began as a circle of friends calling themselves “the Gang” soon took on a life of its own, culminating in 1962 with the official formation of the Sigma Zonk Fratority — a brotherhood (and sisterhood) rooted in camaraderie, adventure, and an unshakable sense of belonging.
For over six decades, the Sigma Zonk Fratority has remained a defining thread in the lives of its members. From reunions in Las Vegas, Reno, and Mesquite, Nevada, to gatherings at national parks and even an Alaskan cruise, the Zonkers — fondly known as such — continued to celebrate their friendships. But as time passed, they also sought a way to give back, ensuring that future students at Utah State could benefit from the same opportunities they once had.
In 2007, the Core Zonks—Jack ’65 and Dee Christiansen; Barbara ’66 and Quentin Covert; Mel ’65 and Linda Fonnesbeck; Jon ’69 and Maridee ’66 Fulkerson; Ron ’64 and Bonnie Hadfield; Paul ’62 and Bev Murray; Merlin ’62, ’71 MS and Susan ’62 Olsen; Grant and Diane Phillips; and Ted and Dixie ’91 Wilson — decided to establish the Sigma Zonk Endowed Scholarship. It was a way to pay forward the support they had wished for as students struggling to afford tuition. Four of the Core Zonks, and a number of other members, still reside in Logan and attend Aggie Athletics and other USU activities.
Since its founding, the Fratority has grown to include more than 200 members, with more than 40 being graduates of USU, and many more members attending but moving out into the world before graduating.
“None of us were high-grade students,” recalled Ron Hadfield. “We could all meet the requirements, but we weren’t coming in on scholarships. A lot of us were struggling just to keep up with tuition, even back when it wasn’t that much. That’s why we wanted this scholarship to go to students like us—people who need it.”
Barbara Covert echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of supporting students in need.
“Having gone through school, there are maybe a lot of students that could use a helping hand,” Barbara said. “Most of us were in that situation, and the availability to tap into that just seems like a good way to give back.”
The scholarship prioritizes students who are academically qualified but face financial hardships. Special preference is given to those returning to school later in life due to health, financial, or personal challenges. Reflecting the very essence of Sigma Zonk, applicants must also submit a one-page essay on the topic, “What friendship means to me.”
Jon Fulkerson, one of the original Zonkers, remembers the group’s humble beginnings and its deep impact on his life.
“I was one of the people gathered together when we thought it up that night,” Jon said. “It started on a lark, but as we grew through the years, got married, and built careers, we remained close. We trusted each other. We cared about each other’s families. That’s what friendship ought to be — something that lasts.”
Quentin Covert reflected on the uniqueness of the group’s bond and the importance of its core members.
“We have fun every time we get together, even though we are older now and have been together for so long,” Quentin said. “We’ve all heard the same stories over and over, but the core group of us has been really close from the beginning. Over the years, our shared USU experiences have been the heart of our organization.”
At the 60th Sigma Zonk anniversary in 2022, the group celebrated an incredible milestone — 31 students had already benefited from the scholarship. The impact was clear, and it resonated deeply with the Zonkers, many of whom had faced similar struggles as young students. By June 2024, the endowment had grown to $256,630.
“It’s gratifying to see how this scholarship has helped so many students,” Hadfield reflected. “We want this to be our legacy — we want future students to have the opportunities we had, even when things get tough.”
The years since the formation of the Fratority have brought inevitable change — many beloved members have passed, and current Zonkers are in their 70s and 80s. The gatherings have grown smaller, but the heart of Sigma Zonk remains steadfast. Reunions continue, memories are shared, and those Zonkers now in memoriam are remembered with the aphorism: “You are never gone when you live on in the hearts of others.” And the scholarship ensures that the name and spirit of Sigma Zonk will be permanently etched into Utah State University’s history.
Barbara described the enduring friendships that have formed within the group.
“It takes somebody that is willing to put in a little bit of time, but we all have a good time when we are together,” Barbara said. “Lifelong friendships have formed — people you never get tired of talking to or seeing. It’s a friendship that has held on through the years, and we truly enjoy each other’s company.”
For Jon, the group has been a lifeline through life’s joys and hardships.
“We have stood by each other,” Jon recalled. “When my wife Maridee got cancer and was unable to travel, we missed the 55th reunion. The following year, the Hadfields, Coverts, and Phillips made a trip to Reno to see her before she passed. That’s the kind of friendship we built — one that never fades.”
The Zonkers believe that friendship is a bond that endures through all times and all things. Thanks to the Sigma Zonk Scholarship, that spirit of friendship will continue to support Aggies for generations to come.
Many Utah State students balance classes, work, and family responsibilities while striving to earn their degrees — many as first-generation college students. Endowed scholarships provide lasting support, ensuring students can focus on academic and professional growth without financial barriers. Your gift helps fund experiential learning, internships, and essential resources, shaping future leaders and creating generational impact. Create Your Aggie Impact by supporting the student-focused area that inspires you most, making a difference through the power of philanthropy.
Contact
Ryan McLane
Senior Development Director, University Wide
ryan.mclane@usu.edu