Centenary College Leader, West Point Cadet, and WWII Veteran Leaves Enduring Legacy
The Kappa Alpha Order Educational Foundation (KAOEF) is honored to announce the receipt of a significant estate gift from the late Col. William E. Steger (Alpha Iota–Centenary 1938). His planned gift of more than $350,000 will provide lasting support for scholarships, leadership development, and educational initiatives through the KAOEF’s 1865 Trust, ensuring future generations of KA brothers are equipped to lead with honor.
Brother Steger’s commitment to Kappa Alpha Order began at Centenary College, where he was initiated by Alpha Iota Chapter during a formative period in the chapter’s history. Contemporary issues of The Kappa Alpha Journal frequently reference Steger as a central figure in chapter life. He served as Number I (chapter president), was elected president of the Louisiana State Convention, and was repeatedly recognized by his peers for leadership, character, and versatility.
The Journal accounts note that Steger was selected as a “Centenary Gentleman” in a campus-wide popularity and leadership contest, an honor reflecting the high regard in which he was held not only by his brothers, but by the broader college community. His family’s connection to Centenary and KA also ran deep—his father, Dr. S. A. Steger, who served as head of the English department, had become acquainted with many members of the Order and was specially initiated by the chapter in 1942
Following his undergraduate years, Brother Steger entered the United States Military Academy at West Point. While there, he distinguished himself academically and militarily, leading his mathematics class and earning singular recognition as the only cadet in his class to receive an award for outstanding military efficiency and leadership. During World War II, The Kappa Alpha Journal records that he was among those answering “duty’s call,” beginning a military career that would span decades.
During World War II, he served in the United States Army Air Corps, earning his wings and flying combat missions as a pilot, beginning a military career that would span decades and culminate in the rank of Colonel.
After World War II, Steger returned to civilian life and furthered his education, earning a law degree from Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law in 1950. He went on to build a successful legal career, establishing a practice marked by professional excellence and sustained civic involvement.
Throughout his life, Col. Steger’s influence extended well beyond his professional accomplishments. He was known for his commitment to community service, his devotion to family, and his enduring support of educational and charitable causes. His generous estate gift reflects a deep loyalty to the Order and a desire to invest in its future.
“Col. Steger’s life reminds us that the impact of Kappa Alpha Order extends far beyond the undergraduate years,” said Ben Satcher, Former Knight Commander and Executive Vice President of the KAOEF. “Through this gift, his legacy will continue to shape young men long after his own time of service.”
The KAOEF is profoundly grateful to Col. Steger and his family for this remarkable expression of commitment. His generosity ensures that the values he embodied will continue to guide future KA leaders.
Read Col. Steger’s obituary HERE.
To learn more about planned giving opportunities through the 1865 Trust, visit 1865Trust.com.
