On July 18, 2026, Kappa Sigma Fraternity announced Brother Patrick M. Hafner (Delta-Zeta, University of New Mexico, ‘93) as the 2026 Kappa Sigma Man of the Year. Brother Hafner was initiated into the Delta-Zeta Chapter at the University of New Mexico in 1993 and is the 93rd Kappa Sigma to receive the honor of being named Kappa Sigma Man of the Year. The Man of the Year Award is presented annually, in recognition of extraordinary professional success and societal impact.
Brother Hafner serves as the Executive Vice President, President of Outback Steakhouse, where he oversees and leads the development and domestic operations for nearly 700 Outback Steakhouse restaurants. Brother Hafner is a member of the executive leadership of Bloomin’ Brands, the company behind restaurants like Outback Steakhouse and Carrabba’s Italian Grill, where Brother Hafner previously served as President and Vice President of Operations.
Brother Hafner is a 1993 Initiate of the Delta-Zeta Chapter at the University of New Mexico, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration from the UNM Anderson School of Management. During his time as an undergraduate at the University of New Mexico, Brother Hafner served the Delta-Zeta Chapter as Grand Master.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Kappa Sigma Man of the Year Award. Kappa Sigma’s values of leadership and service have defined my career, the causes I support, and the success I’ve found along the way. Kappa Sigma has had a lasting influence on my life, and the leadership experiences, friendships, and values I gained as a Brother have guided me throughout my career in hospitality. This is an honor I will always cherish.” – Patrick M. Hafner
Brother Hafner started his career at Outback Steakhouse as an undergraduate Brother, starting as a cook and server in 1996. His success in every subsequent position, including Manager, Managing Partner, Joint Venture Partner, and Regional Vice President laid the groundwork for Brother Hafner to become President of Outback Steakhouse almost thirty years later. This example of dedication, leadership, and hard work is an example of what Kappa Sigma strives to teach and inspire in our members, and has made Brother Hafner a true inspiration to his Fraternity Brothers.
“Brother Hafner represents the best of Kappa Sigma. His career reminds our Undergraduate and Alumni Brothers that no opportunity is too small to approach with purpose and that ambition and determination can open doors few imagine at the outset. We are proud of the example he has set through his character, leadership, and commitment to his profession,” said Adam Poe, President of Kappa Sigma’s International Board of Directors.
Brother Hafner’s tenure at Bloomin’ Brands has been characterized by a passion for taking care of people with great food, and optimizing results through team empowerment. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Feeding Tampa Bay, in an effort to stay involved and give back to his community. Feeding Tampa Bay serves hundreds of thousands of people across West Central Florida through food distribution, disaster relief, and community partnerships.
Brother Hafner’s commitment to excellence and service to others embodies the values of Kappa Sigma, and brings great pride to the Fraternity and its members. The Supreme Executive Committee of Kappa Sigma is proud to name Brother Patrick M. Hafner as the 2026 Kappa Sigma Man of the Year.
Brother Hafner will be honored in the coming months with a Man of the Year Banquet to celebrate this award. Details will be announced on the Fraternity’s website.
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