September 2024 – Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity was proud to announce Michael P. Krasny (Rho, [University of Illinois,] ’73) as the 2024 Achievement Award recipient during Convention in New Orleans. The Sigma Alpha Mu Achievement Award is presented annually to one member whose outstanding achievements, apart from fraternity activities, are deemed worthy of the highest recognition by the Fraternity. Previous honorees include Congressmen, Ambassadors, industry leaders, and even a Nobel Prize Winner.
This year, Sigma Alpha Mu honors Michael Krasny for his exceptional contributions to the business world and philanthropy. Krasny founded CDW in 1984 at the age of 29. Under his leadership as Chairman and CEO, he grew CDW into a Fortune 500 company and the nation’s largest direct marketer of multi-brand computer products for business. By 2007, when CDW was sold to a private equity firm for $7.3 billion, it employed more than 5,600 people.
Krasny’s success extends beyond business. He established the Circle of Service Foundation, a private foundation that supports community services, medical research, Jewish community initiatives, and education. His philanthropic work continues to uplift and provide opportunities to underserved populations.
“Sammys changed my life,” Krasny shared when reflecting on the significance of accepting this award, a rare departure from his habit of declining public recognition. Throughout his career, Michael has humbly downplayed his achievements, letting his impact speak for itself. But as the first-ever Rho chapter member to receive this prestigious honor, Krasny’s fraternity brothers knew this moment was something special.
