A recent Montana State University graduate has received two national honors from Sigma Nu Fraternity. Jacob Zink, who completed degrees in business management and political science at MSU this spring, was awarded both the Man of the Year Award and the Alpha Alumni Chapter Affiliate Award for the 2024-25 academic year.
The awards are given to students who demonstrate ethical leadership and excel academically as well as in extracurricular activities. Each year, up to 10 seniors receive the Alpha Alumni Chapter Affiliate Award, while the Man of the Year is selected as the top senior among them. Zink was chosen for both after a competitive selection process.
Steve Swinford, vice president for student success at MSU, nominated Zink for these recognitions. Swinford said, “In my 29 years working with students in my various roles at Montana State University, I have never encountered a stronger leader than Jacob. He is highly respected by his peers, who recognize him as a leader with their best interests and welfare in mind.”
Zink is originally from Gig Harbor, Washington. At MSU he was active in several leadership roles within Zeta Nu, the university’s chapter of Sigma Nu. His positions included community service and philanthropy chairman, risk reduction chairman and sentinel. He also served two terms as student body president with the Associated Students of MSU and was vice president of communications for the Interfraternity Council. In addition to his campus involvement, Zink acted as a collegiate adviser on Sigma Nu’s board of directors and received an undergraduate award of distinction from the North American Interfraternity Conference.
Matt Caires, dean of students at MSU, commented on Zink’s impact: “Jacob is simply one of the most outstanding and articulate student leaders I have worked with during my time at Montana State University. He is the definition of a servant leader, and he demonstrates honor and integrity during every interaction I have with him.”
Following graduation, Zink remained in Bozeman where he now works as a legal assistant for the Gallatin County Attorney’s Office.
Reflecting on his achievements, Zink said: “I am deeply honored to receive these awards but, above everything, I am humbled by the support of the mentors, friends, and communities that have invested in me during my time at Montana State. My hope is to pay that forward as an alumnus by helping create opportunities for other students to grow and lead our campus.”
