A Guide to FrAternity And Sorority LiFe - Virginia Tech

PORTICO 

2009-2010 

A Guide to 

FrAternity And 

Sorority LiFe 

virGiniA poLytechnic inStitute And StAte univerSity

GREEK LIFE 

portico 2009-2010 

A MeSSAGe FroM the univerSity preSident 

Welcome to Virginia Tech! Being part of the largest university in the state means 

you have the opportunity to become involved with your choice of literally hundreds 

of organizations that will complement your academic life and round out your 

educational experience. Achieving balance in life is essential, and part of our vision at 

Virginia Tech is to educate the whole person. 

Students often tell me that, for them, joining a Greek organization was the key to 

transforming this vast campus into a community. The American Fraternity Movement at 

Virginia Tech is currently thriving with about 3,500 members. 

While each chapter has a somewhat different focus, they all share some fundamental 

goals: promoting superior scholarship, promoting high social and moral standards, 

developing leadership skills, and performing community outreach. The latter could include 

working with a literacy organization, the American Cancer Society or Leukemia Society, or 

with organizations that aid the homeless or underprivileged children, just to name a few. 

The Greek organizations also play a significant role in the “Big Event,” a tremendously 

successful community service event that is held each spring. Not surprisingly, the vast 

majority of Virginia Tech’s student leaders are members of collegiate fraternal societies. 

I encourage you to explore the opportunities the Greek system has to offer. Make new 

friends, discover new talents and interests, and refine your leadership skills. Your diploma 

will be invaluable, but don’t miss the opportunity to take with you so much more. 

Sincerely, 

Charles W. Steger 

President

Dear Potential MeMber: 

GREEK LIFE 

Greetings and welcome to Fraternity and Sorority Life at Virginia Tech! We are very proud to have a strong community that offers 

myriad experiences to each member. We have the fourth largest Greek community in the United States, so you are sure to find a 

chapter to enhance your collegiate experience. It is our sincere hope that you will become part of our future and leave your legacy at 

Virginia Tech. 

Fraternity and Sorority Life advises four councils that govern our chapters. Each council has a different focal point, operational 

structure, and history. Chapters range in size from three to 160 members, some housed and some not. 

There are a wealth of opportunities and activities going on every day of the semester. Academically, fraternities and sororities are 

frequently above the all-university average, and members comprise the vast majority of leadership positions on campus. We raise 

large amounts of donations for an assortment of philanthropic causes; many of our chapters participate in community service projects 

throughout the year as well. There are educational programs, speakers, discussions, and a host of leadership opportunities to be had. 

You will have the ability to get involved in many aspects of campus life, including intramurals, religious services, academic support, 

cultural programming, personal and professional development, and leadership development. In short, Fraternity and Sorority Life 

offers a one-stop opportunity to experience every aspect of what Virginia Tech has to offer. 

It is our hope that you will take the time to research all that our chapters have to offer. With over 60 chapters to choose from, you 

will certainly find a place to call home. Remember, fraternity and sorority membership is a life-long commitment—not just something 

you will experience for your undergraduate days. We hope to see you at our events and look forward to welcoming you into our family 

as we congratulate you on your membership in one of our esteemed chapters. There is no time like the present to leave a legacy… 

GO GREEK! 

Fraternally yours, 

The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life 

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MISSION STATEMENT 

The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life strives to empower students in the creation of the 

preeminent fraternity and sorority community in North America through continued assessment 

and enhancement of our standards and philosophies in providing: 

1. Comprehensive experiences that build community among all fraternity and sorority 

members and that emphasize our founding principles of: 

Scholarship 

Service/philanthropy 

Leadership 

Brotherhood/sisterhood 

2. Quality undergraduate experiences for the fraternities and sororities and individual 

members. 

3. Programs committed to the enhancement of a global community through professional 

and career development, establishment of networks, and building partnerships 

and relationships. 

4. Proactive strategies to address issues of safety and security and the betterment of 

an active, involved, and engaged community of learners. 

5. Commitment to the fraternity and sorority movement embodied by research, 

assessment, teaching, strategic planning, conference attendance and presentations, 

and national leadership.

CONTENTS 

GREEK LIFE 

FRATERNITY ANd SORORITY LIFE ....................................................................................................................2-10 

Mission Statement ........................................................................................................................................2 

Staff ............................................................................................................................................................4 

Fraternity and Sorority Life ............................................................................................................................5 

The Councils ................................................................................................................................................6 

Programs and Activities .................................................................................................................................7 

Fraternity and Sorority Housing ......................................................................................................................8 

It’s All Greek to Me ..................................................................................................................................9-10 

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL .........................................................................................................................11-55 

Brotherhood ...............................................................................................................................................13 

Academics .................................................................................................................................................13 

Service ......................................................................................................................................................14 

Athletics ....................................................................................................................................................14 

Leadership .................................................................................................................................................15 

Social Activities ..........................................................................................................................................15 

Homecoming Week .....................................................................................................................................16 

Greek Awards .............................................................................................................................................16 

Fraternity Recruitment ...........................................................................................................................17-18 

Frequently Asked Questions .........................................................................................................................19 

IFC Formal Recruitment ..............................................................................................................................20 

Chapters ...............................................................................................................................................21-54 

NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL ...............................................................................................................55-64 

Chapters ...............................................................................................................................................57-64 

PANHELLENIC COUNCIL ................................................................................................................................65-94 

Sorority Life ...............................................................................................................................................69 

Sisterhood and Friendship ...........................................................................................................................70 

Scholarship and Academics .........................................................................................................................71 

Social Activities ..........................................................................................................................................71 

Service and Philanthropy .............................................................................................................................72 

Leadership and Involvement .......................................................................................................................73 

Finances and Housing .................................................................................................................................73 

Living in the House .....................................................................................................................................74 

Recruitment Information .............................................................................................................................75 

Tools of Successful Recruitment ...................................................................................................................76 

FAQs .........................................................................................................................................................76 

Potential New Member Guidelines ................................................................................................................77 

Potential New Members Bill of Rights ...........................................................................................................78 

What to Wear .........................................................................................................................................79-80 

Informal Recruitment ..................................................................................................................................81 

Chapters ...............................................................................................................................................82-94 

UNITEd COUNCIL OF FRATERNITIES ANd SORORITIES ................................................................................95-102 

Chapters ............................................................................................................................................97-102 

UNCOUNCILEd FRATERNITIES ANd SORORITIES ..............................................................................................103 

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STAFF 

The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life is staffed by dedicated student affairs professionals 

who are committed to the values and principles of the American Fraternity 

Movement. The team consists of a director, two assistant directors, a community director 

for fraternity and sorority housing, an administrative assistant/office manager, and two 

graduate assistants. 

aDaM cantley 

assistant Director 

KatHy lloyD 

community Director 

branDon laMMa 

Graduate assistant 

lauren Harris 

assistant Director 

JuDy Duncan 

administrative assistant 

Jenna vercillo 

Graduate assistant

FrATErNITy ANd SOrOrITy LIFE 

GREEK LIFE 

Virginia Tech is proud to host one of the largest fraternity and sorority communities in America, one that continues to grow rapidly. 

Over 3,500 students participate in the 35 National Interfraternity Conference affiliated fraternal organizations, the 13 National Panhellenic 

Conference sororities, all eight of the National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities and sororities, and the seven organizations 

in the United Council of Fraternities and Sororities. About 15 percent of Virginia Tech’s undergraduates are members of a general 

fraternity or sorority. 

Greek life is one of many campus involvement opportunities at Virginia Tech that helps students make a large university seem smaller. 

While some fraternities and sororities offer housing options for their members, all Greek-letter organizations provide academic support, 

lifetime friendships, career networking, intramural athletic competition, community service, philanthropic opportunities, social activities, 

and outstanding leadership opportunities for their members. Students develop a strong sense of belonging to their organization—a true 

home away from home—and a strong loyalty to Virginia Tech through the Greek community. Membership is life-long, and alumni activities 

are numerous at both the local and national levels. 

The opportunities for personal, professional, and most importantly, academic success are phenomenal. If you think you are prepared to 

be a leader in the Virginia Tech community and a leader in your life, consider joining a fraternal organization. It will be an experience 

you will never forget. 

DiD you Know? 

48 percent of all U.S. presidents were Greek. 

42 percent of all U.S. senators are Greek. 

30 percent of U.S. congressmen and congresswomen are Greek. 

40 percent of all U.S. Supreme Court justices are Greek. 

30 percent of Fortune 500 executives are Greek. 

10 percent of those listed in Who’s Who among American Universities and Colleges are Greek. 

Greeks make up only 3 percent of the United States population. 

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ThE COuNCILS 

The four governing councils that make up the Virginia Tech fraternity and sorority community serve to coordinate and provide structure 

to the chapters they represent. Each governing council is unique in its operation and organization, and serves its chapters according to 

individual philosophy, purpose, and values. The councils consist of the Interfraternity Council (IFC), the National Pan-Hellenic Council 

(NPHC), the Panhellenic Council (PHC), and the United Council of Fraternities and Sororities (UCFS). 

interfraternity council 

Virginia Tech’s largest governing council governs more than 30 chapters of the campus’ traditional-majority men’s general fraternal 

organizations. The IFC plans and implements various educational and leadership programs for its member chapters, while also providing 

administrative guidance for policy, procedure, recruitment, academic issues, and governance. 

national Pan-Hellenic council 

The NPHC is the governing and coordinating council for the nine traditionally African-American national collegiate fraternal organizations. 

NPHC chapters may either be chartered at Virginia Tech, or share charters with neighboring Radford University. NPHC plans and 

implements numerous programs for its chapters and the community at large, including traditional step shows, educational programming, 

and community service events. 

colleGiate PanHellenic council 

PHC is the governing council responsible for supporting the 13 National Panhellenic Conference chapters at Tech. These groups represent 

the traditional-majority general women’s fraternities and sororities. PHC operates on a system of mutual cooperation in order to advance the 

sorority community in the best way possible. The council is responsible for the implementation of educational programming, the coordination 

of the annual formal sorority recruitment program, leadership development initiatives, and philanthropic and service efforts. 

uniteD council of fraternities anD sororities 

UCFS is the youngest governing council at Virginia Tech, having been officially founded in 2004. The council brings together multicultural 

and special-interest fraternities and sororities. Specifically, UCFS chapters fall into many areas including racial/ethnic, religious/ 

faith-based, and/or service oriented. UCFS has proven to be the fastest-growing council, with new chapters being added regularly to 

provide additional specialized interest areas. 

6 Portico 2009-2010

PrOgrAMS ANd ACTIvITIES 

GREEK LIFE 

On such a lively campus, Fraternity and Sorority Life offers many resources to the entire student body, both members and prospective 

members. The office promotes, sponsors, and coordinates various programs and activities throughout the year. These events aim to bring 

together faculty, staff, students, and the entire community. 

GreeK weeK 

Greek Week is a time in the spring semester when the members of the fraternity and sorority community come together during a variety 

of events such as community service events and events that celebrate the Greek community. Traditionally, fraternity and sorority chapters 

are paired into teams that compete to win points to determine the Greek Week champions. Points are determined by who wins events 

and/or who has the highest participation and contributes the most to the community. 

Events in the past have included a Kick off Concert, President’s Gala, Greek Olympic Field Games, Greek Sing, Greek Awards, and the 

crowning of Greek God and Goddess. In 2009, members of the Greek Community raised $7,000 for Relay for Life. 

HoMecoMinG weeK 

The office oversees a week-long series of events to celebrate homecoming week at Virginia Tech. These events are open to all four governing 

councils and their member chapters and have included a Greek Sing competition, powder puff tournament, and chapter mixers. 

leaDersHiP traininG anD DeveloPMent 

The office hosts a number of programs not only to help the executive officers become better leaders, but also to help in the individual 

development of all members. Events include executive retreats, leadership programs, officer transition and training, and orientation to 

fraternity and sorority life. In addition, office staff members teach two academic classes each semester. 

oaK lane tricK-or-treat 

The PHC and the Oak Lane Community Council partner to provide a safe space for local elementary-age children to participate in trickor-treating 

at the Oak Lane Community. Children come in for a night of fun, games, candy giveaways, and face painting, while parents 

are treated to a relaxing environment including raffles with prizes donated by local businesses. 

roanoKe street clean-uP 

Partnering with the town of Blacksburg, IFC chapters set aside a Saturday each semester to conduct a clean-up of Roanoke Street. 

Chapter members clean up neighbors’ yards and public spaces in an effort to give back to the community. 

town Hall MeetinGs 

Twice per semester, the office hosts town hall meetings that focus on specific topics pertinent to the fraternity and sorority community. 

The meetings are a way in which we try to reach out to all students to hear their ideas, concerns, and suggestions. 

town anD Gown 

The four governing councils partner with the Town of Blacksburg in monthly meetings to develop a better sense of community. 

Many more activities that happen throughout the year help to further promote the value of the fraternity and sorority life experience to 

the university and community partners at Virginia Tech. 

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FrATErNITy ANd 

SOrOrITy hOuSINg 

Housing options for chapters here at Virginia Tech are as varied as the chapters themselves. 

There are 19 chapters that live in our Oak Lane Community on campus, while 18 chapters 

live in off-campus houses in Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and Montgomery County. Many 

chapters have no official residence, but members may choose to live with each other on or 

off campus. Housing occupancy ranges between four and 36 members. 

Residency requirements vary from chapter to chapter. Make sure you ask about the residency 

policies of the chapters you are interested in. In addition, you should ask about 

costs associated with living in the chapter house. 

toDay’s GreeK coMMunity 

127 fraternities and sororities 

70 NIC men’s fraternities 

26 NPC women’s fraternities 

9 NPHC groups 

22 National Association of Latino Fraternal Organization groups 

9 million members 

750,000 undergraduate members 

12,000 chapters 

Located on 800 campuses in the United States and Canada

IT S ALL grEEk TO ME... 

Active: A fully initiated member of a fraternity or sorority 

Alumni: Sorority or fraternity members who are no longer active members of a collegiate chapter 

Associate/New Member: An uninitiated member of a fraternity or sorority 

Badge: The fraternity or sorority membership insignia 

Bid: An invitation to join a sorority or fraternity 

Big Brother/Big Sister: Active member assigned to be the personal mentor for a new member 

Chapter: A membership unit of a national or international sorority or fraternity 

Charter: documentation that an individual chapter is recognized and operates according to the national organization 

GREEK LIFE 

Colony: A newly formed affiliate of a national organization that has not yet received its charter. The organizing members of a colony are 

often referred to as founders 

Continuous Open Bidding (COB): Process of extending bids on an individual basis that begins immediately following the formal 

recruitment program 

Formal Sorority Recruitment: A membership recruitment period during which a series of organized events are held by each National 

Panhellenic Conference sorority; organized and implemented by the Panhellenic Leadership 

Fraternity: A group of men or women who are bound together by ritual ties, beliefs, and common goals and values 

Fraternity and Sorority Life: A department of Student Programs at Virginia Tech. It comprises four Virginia Tech umbrella organizations: 

Interfraternity Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, the United Council of Fraternities and Sororities, and the Panhellenic Council 

Interfraternity Council (IFC): The representative governing body of all men’s NIC fraternities 

Initiation: A traditional ritual that brings an associate/new member into full membership of the fraternity or sorority 

Intake: The membership recruitment and induction process for the National Pan-Hellenic Council and some United Council of Fraternities 

and Sororities chapters 

Legacy: Someone whose mother, father, sister, or brother is a member of a particular Greek-letter organization 

Line: Term sometimes used by various culturally based Greek organizations to refer to the members who join during the same semester 

National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations (NALFO): The representative body for the traditionally Latin fraternities 

and sororities 

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC): The representative governing body for the nine traditionally African-American fraternities 

and sororities 

National Panhellenic Conference (NPC): The conference composed of 26 national women’s fraternities, each of which is autonomous as a 

general, Greek-letter society of college women, undergraduates, and alumnae 

New Member: A woman who has accepted a sorority bid, but is not yet an initiated member 

New Member Educator: A liaison between the new members and the chapter who is responsible for implementing and monitoring the 

new member program and preparing the new members for initiation 

North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC): The conference for the 72 collegiate general fraternities 

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tHe GreeK alPHabet 

A Alpha 

B Beta 

G Gamma 

D Delta 

E Epsilon 

Z Zeta 

H Eta 

Q Theta 

I Iota 

K Kappa 

L Lambda 

M Mu 

N Nu 

X Xi 

O Omicron 

P Pi 

R Rho 

S Sigma 

T Tau 

U Upsilon 

F Phi 

C Chi 

Y Psi 

W Omega 

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IT S ALL grEEk TO ME...CONTINuEd 

Panhellenic Association: The cooperative campus organization of Virginia Tech’s National 

Panhellenic Conference sororities 

Panhellenic Council (PHC): A council of elected officers and delegates from all 13 of Virginia 

Tech’s National Panhellenic Conference sororities. The Panhellenic Council governs 

the Panhellenic Association 

Philanthropy: Charitable projects, events, or donations 

Potential New Member (PNM): A student who is not yet affiliated with a chapter 

Preferential Bidding: A system used at the conclusion of formal recruitment to match 

sorority and Potential New Member preferences 

Probate: A potential member going through the intake process 

Recommendation/Reference: A letter or form written by an alumni/alumna member recommending 

a Potential New Member to a sorority. Recommendations are generally not 

required at Virginia Tech 

Recruitment: Sometimes called rush, this is the membership recruitment process. Potential 

New Members are sometimes referred to as rushees 

Recruitment Counselor (Rho Gamma): A Panhellenic representative who has no contact 

with her own chapter during a period surrounding formal recruitment and is selected to 

assist and counsel Potential New Members through formal recruitment 

Ritual: The secret tradition that ties together the beliefs and standards of a 

fraternal organization 

Sorority: A Greek-letter sisterhood (also may be called a fraternity) 

United Council of Fraternities and Sororities (UCFS): The council that governs our multicultural 

and special-interest fraternities and sororities

IFC AAA 

INTErFrATErNITy COuNCIL 

Welcome to Virginia Tech. There are many opportunities this school has in store for you. Early in your college career, you will be faced 

with numerous decisions that will change the course of your future. Among the decisions that you will face is whether or not to join a 

fraternity. You are encouraged to carefully weigh your alternatives and the decision to join. If you decide to participate in recruitment, you 

will soon discover that it is one of the best decisions you will ever make. 

Membership in a fraternity will greatly enhance your life and leave you with many fond memories when you graduate. Fraternities not 

only provide you with social opportunities, but also allow for personal development, close friendships, leadership opportunities, academic 

achievements, and athletic competitions. In general, each fraternity offers a unique experience that cannot be matched. 

We welcome your decision to explore fraternity life, and hope that you strongly consider becoming a part of one of the various organizations 

reviewed in this guide. Keep in mind that participating in recruitment does not mean you must join a fraternity; it just means you 

are exploring the option. However, we do hope that you decide to become a part of the proud Greek tradition here at Virginia Tech. 

Read on to discover the benefits of joining a college fraternity. 

IFC 

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IFC 

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Dear fellow HoKies, 

First off, I would like to congratulate each of you for making an excellent decision by 

choosing to attend Virginia Tech. Looking back, my years here at the university seem 

brief and I am glad that I was able to make the most of them. You are taking a step in the 

right direction by opening this book and learning about how rewarding Greek life can be 

here at Virginia Tech. With over 60 fraternities and sororities, our campus has something 

to offer everyone. 

When you make the decision to become involved in Greek Life, you have the opportunity to 

experience many of the things that the school and community have to offer. Our chapters 

all participate in a wide variety of community service projects, philanthropic events, 

athletic competitions, and fundraisers to benefit the community. Being part of a Greek 

letter organization can help provide you with skills that you will need in the real world, as 

well as friendships that will last a lifetime. By working within a Greek community, many 

of the brothers and sisters of Virginia Tech Greek life have been able to experience the 

satisfaction of being part of something larger than themselves. 

I have seen many young Virginia Tech students grow and mature into responsible adults 

because of the opportunities that membership in a Greek organization afforded them. I can 

say confidently that going Greek has been one of the most beneficial and enjoyable decisions 

I have made thus far in my life, and it has helped me to grow personally every day. 

Joining any student organization here at Virginia Tech allows you to grow as a person and 

become a better man or woman. Pouring my heart into the Greek community has helped 

me realize accomplishment beyond my wildest dreams. When I put on my cap and gown 

in May, I will not look back and wish I had done more with my time in college, because I 

will know that Greek life allowed me to give back so much to the university. I encourage all 

of you to reach your potential as students and individuals and come to realize that taking 

advantage of the opportunities within Greek life can help you reach your goals. 

Lastly, good luck to all of you with your schoolwork. Hopefully I will see you all in the 

coming year as proud members of Virginia Tech’s Greek community. 

Matt Penny 

President 

Interfraternity Council of Virginia Tech

BrOThErhOOd 

The bond of friendship between brothers is strengthened throughout their college careers 

and remains strong throughout their lifetimes. This unity and friendship not only exists 

within the local chapters, but also spreads to chapters and alumni across the country. As 

the bond is not by birth, but by choice, the friendship and dedication are even stronger. 

Fraternities strive to combine the common goals and ideals of brotherhood with the unique 

experiences of the individual to create a meaningful whole. 

ACAdEMICS 

Academics are your first priority as a student at Virginia Tech. A common concern of many 

students is that joining a fraternity may take away from study time. In actuality, fraternities 

help create academically successful students. Fraternity membership helps keep students 

in college. Research conducted by the National Interfraternity Council found fraternity 

membership increased the student graduation rate by about 20 percent. 

Fraternities set strict guidelines for their members, and to help make these goals attainable, 

the organizations offer help in the form of support, personal guidance, and incentives. In 

addition, IFC encourages academic excellence through scholarship programs, individual 

awards, and chapter awards. The Virginia Tech IFC requires a minimum 2.25 GPA and 12 

credits for a new member to be initiated into a fraternity. 

Questions to asK DurinG recruitMent: 

Does your chapter require study hours for members? 

What is the minimum GPA requirement? 

Are there current brothers in my major who could help me with classes? 

What is your chapter’s academic plan? 

How do you reward strong academic performances? 

How do you work with members who are struggling academically? 

IFC 

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IFC 

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SErvICE 

One of the most meaningful and rewarding aspects of Greek life is assisting others through 

community service projects. Service offers a sense of true satisfaction that can come only 

from helping others, and helps create strong brotherhood ties. Greeks raise money and 

contribute their time to various organizations, such as the Children’s Miracle Network, the 

American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and 

the Special Olympics. In fact, most fraternities host philanthropies on a continuing basis. 

These organizations greatly appreciate the 15,000 volunteer hours they receive each year 

from Greek organizations at Virginia Tech. 


What are your fraternity’s philanthropic/community service projects? 

Do you participate in other organizations’ philanthropies/service projects? 

In what community service events do you participate? 

AThLETICS 

Here at Virginia Tech, we have a diverse, competitive intramural program that both Greeks 

and non-Greeks enjoy. Many fraternities participate in football, soccer, water polo, softball, 

and basketball, just to name a few. Traditionally, the Greek teams have been among 

the strongest on campus in these sports. Through athletics, the bond of brotherhood is 

strengthened as the men compete together to reach a common goal. In addition, the 

Interfraternity and Panhellenic Councils, along with the individual Greek organizations, 

sponsor many athletic events and tournaments in which Greeks compete. 

Every year the Interfraternity Council hosts five all-Greek tournaments: basketball, flag 

football, softball, soccer, and volleyball. The competition in these tournaments is fierce; 

the drive to succeed transfers to the university’s intramural system and shows the excellence 

Greeks strive for in all aspects of life. 


In what intramural sports does your chapter participate? 

Do you have any varsity athletes? 

In what wellness programs do you participate?

LEAdErShIP 

Leadership ability was the number one quality named as “what businesses want” in a 

survey conducted by the College Review Board. Fraternities foster the necessary leadership 

skills to produce active and effective leaders. Fraternity men hold leadership positions in 

many student organizations. In fact, Greeks hold more than half of all student leadership 

positions across campus! As a result, Greeks dramatically improve campus life for all 

students. This year, leadership positions such as the Student Government Association 

president, class of 2010 president, class of 2012 president, orientation leaders, and 

student government committee chairs are all held by fraternity men. 

Greek chapters are self-governing. This means there are many opportunities for students 

to be involved in the decision-making processes and the management of their chapters. 

Leadership positions exist in every chapter and give members enhanced leadership experience, 

which will assist students after graduation when looking for a job. Chapters also open 

doors to other opportunities across campus, including a chance to become one of the 13 

IFC executive officers. 


What leadership opportunities does your chapter provide? 

In what other kinds of organizations are your members involved? 

What leadership positions do your members hold on campus? 

SOCIAL ACTIvITIES 

Sitting alone in your room does not lead to many lasting memories of college. There 

are many social activities and ways for fraternity men to become involved. For example, 

intramural sports are an integral part of the fraternity experience. Whatever your skill or 

interest, there is a team for you. do you like being around a lot of people? There are social 

activities for you. Prefer to interact in smaller groups? Many activities are geared toward 

you as well. It is through these activities that you get connected to your fraternity, the 

Greek community, and the campus. 

One of the most enjoyable parts of Greek life at Tech is the social life. Fraternities regularly 

attend formal dances, events with sororities, informal socials, themed events, tailgates, and 

outdoor activities. This offers members a welcome relief from their academic studies. These 

events also help build and maintain meaningful personal relationships. Even more importantly, 

Greeks are able to learn the social graces that will benefit them for years to come. 


In what regular social activities does your chapter participate? 

Which chapters have you had events with in the past year? 

IFC 

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IFC 

hOMECOMINg WEEk 

Homecoming week is one of the most anticipated times of the fall semester for Greeks. Chapters are matched up with each other and 

spend the week together going out and doing activities, such as casino nights, bonfires, cookouts, and more. For those organizations 

that have a candidate on the Homecoming court, the week includes going to the pep rally, a concert, and the Homecoming parade, as 

well as campaigning for their brother or sister all week. The Greek presence is felt at halftime of the Homecoming football game when 

the candidates are introduced and the king and queen are announced on the field. Since the majority of the candidates on the court are 

Greeks each year, the Greek population stands out. 

Homecoming weekend attracts Virginia Tech fraternity alumni from all over the country. Their presence adds to the excitement of 

Homecoming week. This also provides an excellent networking opportunity for brothers that will continue to benefit them even after 

graduation. Homecoming week provides some of the best memories for Greeks and creates many new friendships. This year’s festivities 

are guaranteed to exceed your expectations. 


Does this fraternity participate in Homecoming? 

What kinds of events do you have planned? 

16 Portico 2009-2010 

grEEk AWArdS 

In an effort to standardize the many programs, policies, and expectations securely 

grounded in the Virginia Tech Greek community, the Standards of Greek Excellence 

were created. The standards serve to challenge the organizations to meet their stated 

high ideals, tenets, and beliefs. In the spirit of cooperation, and in support of the 

collegiate fraternity system, an award system has been set up to recognize those going 

above and beyond the minimum standards. 

The following areas are critical to the success of the entire Greek community at Virginia 

Tech: academic performance, leadership, service, membership development and education, 

and chapter operations and management. 

These areas have been broken up into more specific categories, and awards are given for 

those fraternities that excel in these categories. 

If a chapter has met and exceeded expectations in all five program areas, that chapter will 

be eligible for induction into the Academy of Excellence.

FrATErNITy rECruITMENT 

Look for information in the Collegiate Times, on residence hall fliers, dining center table cards, and the IFC website, www.vtifc.com, for 

up-to-date recruitment information. 

Why be Greek? Go Greek for friendship, campus involvement, Virginia Tech pride, leadership opportunities, alumni contacts, and community 

service. Joining any student organization is a way to make Tech a little bit smaller and more personal. It is a way to find your 

niche at a large institution. Explore the opportunities yourself and find out how joining the Fraternity and Sorority Life community might 

interest you. 

GPa reQuireMent 

There is no university minimum GPA requirement to participate in a fraternity. However, in order to be initiated, the Interfraternity Council 

Virginia Tech requires a 2.25 or higher GPA with at least 12 credit hours. Some chapters have their own higher minimum GPA requirements. 

Credits and grades will be verified through the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life. 

recruitMent Process 

Fraternity recruitment is the process by which prospective members are introduced to the fraternity community. This introduction will 

include a recruitment fair, a recruitment kick-off event, informational sessions, and an opportunity to get to know many of the chapters. 

It is important that you take advantage of all these opportunities so that you are able to make an informed choice when deciding to join 

a chapter. 

during the two weeks from kick-off to bid delivery, individual fraternities conduct formal recruitment in which they host several sessions 

and brotherhood-like activities to get to know the prospective members. This period is “dry,” meaning that alcohol cannot be present. 

These activities enable both the fraternity and the prospective members to draw some conclusions about fit, interest, and congruence 

with stated goals and values. 

At the end of the two-week period, individual fraternities decide who should participate in an invitation-only recruitment event. Prospective 

members can attend any number of invitation-only events, but this event is typically more formal and offers a final opportunity to 

ask questions and get answers. 

After this event, fraternities vote to decide to which students to offer bids. In order to be offered a bid, the prospective member must 

complete a recruitment registration form, available at www.vtifc.com. All bids will go out on the same night, and acceptance is normally 

held two days later. Prospective members have no obligation to accept bids extended to them. If they do accept a bid or defer acceptance, 

they will be “bound” to that organization for the remainder of the semester. This means that they cannot join another general fraternity 

for that time period, should they decide that they do not wish to continue their membership. 

IFC 

Portico 2009-2010 

17

IFC 

MEN S rECruITMENT IS INFOrMAL 

This means that, with the exception of the two-week formal recruitment period, fraternities can extend invitations to join at any time, 

365 days a year. Some fraternities conduct summer recruitment events in addition to the traditional formal fall and spring recruitment 

periods. The Greek 101 Kick-off and chapter informational sessions provide opportunities to learn about the Greek system without having 

to visit all of the chapters individually. 

There are differences among the fraternities, so be sure to fully investigate the groups that interest you. You can start by reviewing the 

chapters section in this guide. Contact the Interfraternity Council if you want to be listed on the potential member database. You can also 

complete the registration form online at www.vtifc.com. Remember that no student can be initiated into a collegiate fraternal organization 

at Virginia Tech without a 2.25 GPA and 12 credits. 

be sure to asK yourself: 

Why do you want to join a Greek organization? If it is to party and re-create scenes from Animal House, then please 

rethink your priorities. 

do you understand that you will be joining this organization for life? 

do you know the financial requirements of membership? 

Will you have the time to participate in chapter leadership positions, chapter meetings, service events, intramurals, 

and other chapter activities? 

What is the GPA of the chapter? 

What is the GPA for the most recent new-member class? 

does the chapter have a written program for academics? 

does the chapter disclose the contents of its pledge/new member 

program? 

does the chapter tell you the date of initiation up front? 

What is the percentage of members involved in student organizations? 

What is the percentage of chapter members that graduate? 

If the chapter has a housing facility, is it well kept and clean? 

What awards and honors has the chapter won? 

do all members participate equally in community service? 

What alumni connections are available through the organization? 

Will this organization help build your résumé for a successful career 

after you graduate? 

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, what group do you “fit in” with and feel the most comfortable around? 

18 Portico 2009-2010

FrEquENTLy ASkEd quESTIONS 

Q: will i be hazed? 

A: Hazing has no place in our fraternity community. You absolutely should not be hazed. You should never participate in any activity 

that makes you feel uncomfortable, or may make others uncomfortable. If you are ever in doubt, know that you can contact the Office of 

Fraternity and Sorority Life or your fraternity headquarters for more information or clarification. 

Q: How do i know if my son is being hazed? 

A: Keep the lines of communication open and make sure that you ask what activities he is participating in. If he hesitates or says he cannot 

tell you, probe a little further. Except for the ritual, he should be able to describe everything. Some signs to look for: missing classes, excessive 

tiredness, change in regular communication habits, exclusive focus on the fraternity, and radical appearance changes. 

Q: How do i know if i am being hazed? 

A: You should never be made to do anything that makes you or others feel uncomfortable, causes you pain or anguish, or makes you 

question your personal, emotional, or physical well-being. 

Q: what are the total costs to be a member of a fraternity? 

A: Each fraternity’s dues structure is different. Cost will depend on the fraternity’s activity level and whether everything is included up 

front. Joining a fraternity will usually require a one-time fee. Additional costs will depend on whether or not the fraternity has a house. 

Insurance will also be a major expense. do not forget regular dues. The dues and fees should not pay for alcohol. 

Q: How will my grades be affected? 

A: Ideally, your grades should improve. Academics must be your first priority. The fraternity can offer support in time management, 

tutoring, study enhancement and incentives, and class assistance. It is up to you to make sure that you do well and that you ask your 

chapter about available academic resources. 

Q: what will i get out of this? 

A: You will be amazed at what you will get from your fraternity commitment. Joining a fraternity rounds out the collegiate experience. 

In a fraternity, you get a complete education. Fraternities offer lifelong friends, leadership opportunities, social and athletic activities, 

academic support, and networking opportunities. Check out www.fraternityinfo.com for more information. 

Q: Do i have to live in the fraternity house? 

A: It depends on the chapter. It is likely that you will want to live in the house to take advantage of the opportunities it presents. Living in 

the house may provide some of your best memories. You should make sure that the house has passed its safety inspections and is clean. 

Talk to the men who currently live in the house to gain more information about what it is like to live there. Make an unannounced stop 

during the week to get a sense of how the brothers live. 

Q: if i have questions about fraternity and sorority life, where do i go? 

A: You can always contact the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life. You may e-mail us at gogreek@vt.edu or you can visit the website at 

www.studentprograms.vt.edu/greeklife. If we cannot answer your questions, we can certainly refer you to those who can. Our office has many 

resources and information available to help our students succeed. 

IFC 

Portico 2009-2010 

19

IFC 

IFC FOrMAL rECruITMENT 

what is ifc formal recruitment? 

IFC formal recruitment is the organized period of time when general fraternities on this campus recruit new members. Official formal 

IFC recruitment lasts for 12 days, the last two of which are closed recruitment, where potential members attend only events they are 

specifically invited to. The day immediately following official recruitment is called bid extension day. This is the day when fraternities 

extend bids to individuals to join their organizations. This is followed by 48 hours of silence in which students make their decisions. 

After this is bid acceptance, when students inform the fraternity that they intend to affiliate with. This ends the official recruitment 

period for the fall. 

How do i register for formal recruitment? 

Visit the Interfraternity Council website at www.vtifc.com and fill out the registration information. Without this information, your registration 

is not complete, and you will not be allowed to join a fraternity through the Interfraternity Council. 

when is formal recruitment? 

You can find the dates for this year’s rush, as well as the dates for other fraternity and all-Greek events, on the Interfraternity Council 

calendar on the website (www.vtifc.com). 

what formal recruitment events are mandatory? 

There are no mandatory recruitment events. You may go to as many or as few as you want. All open events can be attended by anyone. 

Closed rush events are private and attended only by those students specifically invited. 

if i attend, do i have to affiliate and join? 

Absolutely not. The formal recruitment period is your time to see what chapters of our national fraternities are recognized on this campus, 

and it gives the fraternities a time to show interested students what they are all about. If you participate in this recruitment program, you 

are in no way obligated to affiliate with any fraternity, even if you receive an offer of membership from that chapter. However, if you want 

to join a fraternity, it is strongly recommended that you participate in the formal recruitment program. 

who should i contact for more information? 

Contact information for the director of recruitment for IFC can be found at www.vtifc.com. 

20 Portico 2009-2010

ALPhA EPSILON PI 

exPenses: 

New Member, First Semester dues: 

$360 

Fall Semester dues: $400 

Spring Semester dues: $375 

acaDeMics: 

GPA New Member Initiation 

Requirement: Not Provided 

GPA Active Membership 


Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity, the Jewish Fraternity of North America, was founded to provide 

opportunities for a Jewish man seeking the best possible college and fraternity experience. 

AEPi has maintained the integrity of its purpose by strengthening its ties to the Jewish 

community and serving as a link between high school and career. Alpha Epsilon Pi develops 

leadership for the future of the North American Jewish community. Tomorrow’s Jewish 

leaders are in our chapters today. 

IFC 

AEP 

Nickname: aePi 

National Founding Date: 

november 7, 1913 

National Website: 

www.aepi.org 

National Chapters: 134 

Chapter Name: 

sigma alpha 

Virginia Tech 

Chartering Date: 

May 25, 1969 

Local Website: 

www.vtaepi.org 

Motto: “no one could 

tell Me where My soul Might be. 

i searched for God, 

but He eluded Me. 

i sought My brother out 

and found all three.” 

Active Members: 29 

Chapter House: yes 

On/Off Campus: off 

Housing Requirements: none 

Philanthropy: 

chai lifeline 

Famous Members: 

Gene wilder 

Mark Zuckerber 

art Garfunkel 

James brooks 

robert novak 

Jerry lewis 

fred silverman 

Portico 2009-2010 

21

IFC 

AGR 

Nickname: aGr 


april 4, 1908 


www.alphagammarho.org 


Chapter Name: beta eta 



May 17, 1975 


www.vtagrs.com 

Motto: 

“to Make better Men” 




Housing Requirements: 

required to live in house 

Philanthropy: 

Harvest Havoc 


orville redenbacher 

Jay Poole 

22 Portico 2009-2010 

ALPhA gAMMA rhO 

exPenses: 


$600 

Fall Semester dues: $2,400 

(includes all living expenses and meals) 

Spring Semester dues: $2,400 

(includes all living expenses and meals) 

acaDeMics: 


Requirement: 2.7 



If you have an agricultural interest, regardless 

of your major, AGR is the place for you. 

Alpha Gamma Rho is a close-knit family of 

34 brothers, all of whom live in the house. 

With family-style sit-down dinners five 

days a week, brothers enjoy the traditions 

of a real family. This fraternity has been at 

Virginia Tech for over 30 years. In those 

30 years, it has initiated over 580 brothers. 

Alpha Gamma Rho, Virginia Tech’s social 

and professional agricultural fraternity, 

is very active on and around campus. The 

members participate in many philanthropy events and help out around the community. 

They are active with many campus clubs, such as Block and Bridle, dairy Club, Agronomy 

Club, Poultry Club, Horticulture Club, Young Farmers, Ag Econ/NAMA Club, and Alpha 

Zeta Honors Fraternity. While not on campus, many brothers enjoy farming, hunting, fishing, 

firefighting, sports, and other outdoor activities.

ALPhA SIgMA PhI 

exPenses: 


$332 



acaDeMics: 





Alpha Sigma Phi was nationally founded in 1845 at Yale College, and locally chartered in 

1995. Five friends started this chapter at Tech, and tragically, while the fraternity was still 

an interest group, one of them (Jeff Walker) died in an accident. Since then Jeff’s family 

has taken the entire fraternity as their own sons, and the members visit the family every 

semester to pay their respects and celebrate Jeff’s life. This principle of family is what 

Alpha Sigma Phi is still based on. 

Alpha Sigma Phi enthusiastically participates 

in philanthropies, sporting events, 

socials, homecoming, and parties, but 

what sets the members apart is their 

sense of brotherhood. They take camping, 

spring break, and road trips as a means 

of fostering a deep bond between each 

other. Their biggest brotherhood event 

is their yearly trip to Northern Virginia. 

Alumni and brothers bond that weekend 

and share stories of their experiences at 


IFC 

ASF 

Nickname: alpha sig 


December 6, 1845 


www.alphasigmaphi.org 


Chapter Name: 

Delta upsilon 



september 23, 1995 


www.vtalphasigs.com 


“the cause is Hidden, 

the results well-known” 





Philanthropy: 

Montgomery county 

Humane society 


warren buffet 

willard scott 

vincent Price 

c. everett Koop 

tom watson 

Portico 2009-2010 

23

IFC 

ATW 

Nickname: ato, tau 




www.ato.org 

National Chapters: over 250 

Chapter Name: theta Delta 





www.vtato.com 


“by faith and work” 





above GPa 3.0, no judicial 

referrals, active member 

Philanthropy: 

alpha tau omega and 

theta chi host a benefit for the 

homeless called “octoberfest” 


Guy fieri 

cris collinsworth 

Joe Girardi 

24 Portico 2009-2010 

ALPhA TAu OMEgA 

exPenses: 


$300 



Alpha Tau Omega began at Virginia Military 

Institute in 1865. It was the first fraternity 

established after the Civil War and the first 

fraternity founded as a national fraternity. 

ATO was based on Christian values, not 

Greek mythology; its purpose was to heal the 

wounds created by the Civil War. ATO does 

not discriminate based upon religion. 

acaDeMics: 





Virginia Tech’s ATO chapter believes in 

strong brotherhood ties and developing 

great leadership abilities. ATO participates 

in many activities, Greek and non-Greek, including parties, socials, dances, community 

service, philanthropies, and many different sporting events. The Virginia Tech chapter even 

takes trips to visit other ATO chapters around the country every semester.

BETA ThETA PI 

exPenses: 


$150 



acaDeMics: 





Beta Theta Pi was founded in 1839 in Oxford, Ohio on the campus of Miami University. 

There are more than 125 chapters nationwide and in Canada. Over the years, Beta 

Theta Pi has initiated more than 160,000 members. Our members share the common 

belief in academic excellence, sense of tradition, brotherhood, and unsullied friendship. 

While brotherhood serves as the cornerstone of Beta, this lasting bond of friendship is 

cultivated by being part of a group of individuals who share the same goals and values. 

The Alpha Phi chapter here at Virginia Tech 

was founded in 1877, and re-colonized in 

the fall of 2003. Since then, Beta Theta Pi 

has increased from 26 to 60 men, becoming 

the fastest growing fraternity here at Tech. 

The men of Beta Theta Pi have exercised 

academic excellence by consistently finishing 

No. 1 or No. 2 in grades since 2003. 

during the fall of 2005, Beta Theta Pi organized 

“The World’s Largest Pillow Fight” on 

the drillfield to raise money for Hurricane 

Katrina victims. Appearances were made by Frank Beamer, Seth Greenberg, and the Hokie- 

Bird. Beta Theta Pi was able to collect over $2,000 in 2005. The men of Beta Theta Pi also 

have socials with sororities on a weekly basis. 

The spring semester of 2006 was the first time Beta Theta Pi was eligible for Greek Awards 

since re-chartering. Beta Theta Pi took the Greek Awards by storm, being a finalist for 22 of 

the 24 awards and winning the Outstanding Risk Management Program, Outstanding Philanthropic 

Participation, Outstanding Athletics Participation, Outstanding Parent/Alumni 

Programming, Outstanding Chapter Involvement, and Outstanding Fraternity Partnership 

awards. Brother Steve Brylski received the title of Greek Man of the Year, the biggest award 

at Greek Awards. 

IFC 

BQP 

Nickname: beta 


august 8, 1839 


www.betathetapi.org 


Chapter Name: alpha Phi 



March 10, 1877 


www.beta.org.vt.edu 

Motto: “our Defense 

is brotherhood” 





Philanthropy: 

beta bowling 

world’s largest 

Pillow fight 


sam walton 

adam west 

John wooden 

Mike schmidt 

Portico 2009-2010 

25

IFC 

CF 

Nickname: chi Phi 




www.chiphi.org 


Chapter Name: 

Delta Phi sigma 



april 23, 2005 


www.chiphi.org.vt.edu 


“a Man’s word 

is His bond” 





Philanthropy: 

virginia women’s breast cancer 

association 


walter cronkite 

James robinson iii 

26 Portico 2009-2010 

ChI PhI 

exPenses: 


$75 



acaDeMics: 





In the fall of 1854, just one year after 

the 1853 opening of the newly merged 

Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, 

Pennsylvania, Gustavus W. Mayer and John 

MacLean Jr., of the Princeton Chi Phi Order, 

formed the Lancaster Chapter of Chi 

Phi by initiating eight students. They were 

Joseph H. dubbs, Calvin M. duncan, John 

Ault, Alfred B. Schwartz, William Leaman, 

Augustus J. Cover, Jeremiah M. Mickley, 

and William S. Stenger. The initiation ceremonies 

of these charter members were 

held in the recitation room of the professor of mathematics in the old college buildings on 

Lime Street, the key having been purloined for the purpose. According to tradition, dubbs 

was the first initiate. On May 29, 1867, the chapter united with the Hobart Chi Phi to form 

the Northern Order, and it became the Zeta Chapter of Chi Phi on January 10, 1886. 

The Chi Phi Fraternity is a values-based organization founded on the basis of truth, honor, 

and personal integrity. These are timeless values that guide the fundamental purposes of 

the fraternity.

dELTA kAPPA EPSILON 

exPenses: 


$300 



acaDeMics: 





delta Kappa Epsilon Fraternity was founded on June 22, 1844, by 15 students at Yale 

University in New Haven, Connecticut. The fraternity carries the open motto of “Friends 

from the Heart, Forever.” 

delta Kappa Epsilon is a social fraternity 

dedicated to the development of the individual 

according to the deke Prerequisite: 

“Gentlemen, Scholars, and Jolly Good Fellows.” 

It is intentionally a smaller fraternity 

than most, allowing members to forge strong 

and lasting bonds of brotherhood. Its recently 

renovated house hosts the many social events 

dekes hold throughout the year for dates and 

friends. Come learn more about the tie that 

binds—true brotherhood. 

IFC 

DKE 

Nickname: Deke 


June 22, 1844 


www.dke.org 


Chapter Name: 

sigma alpha 



february 6, 1971 


www.vtdke.com 


“friends from the Heart, forever” 





Philanthropy: 

relay for life 


President George w. bush 

President George H. w. bush 

President theodore roosevelt 

President rutherford b. Hayes 

President Gerald r. ford 

Joe Paterno 

George steinbrenner 

Portico 2009-2010 

27

IFC 

DSF 

Nickname: Delta sig 




www.deltasig.org 


Chapter Name: Kappa Delta 



March 20, 1999 


www.vtdsp.com 


“challenging each Man to 

a Greater Good” 





chapter officers live in house 

Philanthropy: 

american red cross 


Mike shanahan 

Mike Duke 

leon Hess 

28 Portico 2009-2010 

dELTA SIgMA PhI 

exPenses: 


$440 



acaDeMics: 





Live. Learn. Grow. delta Sigma Phi: a 

brotherhood of men who promote intellectual 

growth, personal development, and a 

healthy lifestyle to its members. delta Sigma 

Phi is seeking men who have the character 

and strong desire to support its core values. 

The Kappa delta Chapter of delta Sig comprises 

high-potential men who welcome the 

opportunity to take on new challenges in 

areas such as scholarship, athletics, community 

service, philanthropy, leadership, 

and social activity. Because of its focus on these areas, brothers are extremely involved in a 

wide variety of organizations throughout the campus and community and represent a diverse 

blend of Virginia Tech men.

dELTA TAu dELTA 

exPenses: 


$280 



acaDeMics: 





delta Tau delta was founded nationally in 1858 at Bethany College in Bethany, West 

Virginia. It currently has 121 undergraduate chapters and colonies with 5,850 undergraduate 

members. It has 139,000 total initiates and 106,768 living alumni. The national 

headquarters are located in Fishers, Indiana. The fraternity was founded to right an unjust 

situation; delta Tau delta was born of the knowledge that integrity is essential. 

The Iota Zeta chapter of delta Tau delta 

was colonized on Virginia Tech’s campus 

in the fall of 2000. On November 16, 

2002, Virginia Tech’s colony became the 

chartered Iota Zeta chapter. It is a valuesbased, 

social fraternity whose brothers 

continually strive to commit themselves 

to excellence in every endeavor. This is 

exemplified through its award-winning commitment to academics, nationally recognized 

involvement in philanthropic activities, unparalleled leadership, and, of course, its socials. 

The brothers have laid the foundation of greatness, now you have the opportunity to build 

the traditions. 

IFC 

DTD 

Nickname: the Delts 


January 1, 1858 


www.delts.org 


Chapter Name: iota Zeta 





www.hokiedelts.org 

Motto: “committed to 

lives of excellence” 



On/Off Campus: on 

Housing Requirements: n/a 

Philanthropy: 

adopt-a-school 


Drew carey 

will ferrell 

John elway 

Mike Mussina 

Matthew Mcconaughey 

Portico 2009-2010 

29

IFC 

FARMHOUSE 

Nickname: fH 

National Founding Year: 

april 15, 1905 


www.farmhouse.org 


Chapter Name: 

n/a 


www.vtfarmhouse.org 


“you can’t build men by 

tearing down boys.” 


Chapter House: no 

Philanthropy: relay for life 


rich barnes 

Jack nicklaus 

30 Portico 2009-2010 

FArMhOuSE FrATErNITy 

exPenses: 


$64 



acaDeMics: 





do I have to be a farmer to join FarmHouse? No, we welcome men of all majors who 

possess good moral character and a commitment to academics. As the name suggests, 

agriculturalists founded FarmHouse, and we continue to hold their values of faith, 

ambition, reverence, morality, honesty, obedience, unity, service and excellence in 

highest esteem. 

Is FarmHouse a real fraternity? Yes! FarmHouse is a social fraternity without a Greek name 

and has developed men just like you for over 100 years. We are the “Builder of Men.” That 

sounds good on paper, but what does it really mean? 

FarmHouse strives to develop the whole man using a four-fold approach: intellectually, 

physically, socially, and spiritually. Members compete in the university’s intramural 

sports programs, and develop their own work-out routine. While in FarmHouse men learn 

rules of table etiquette and the art of chivalry. We encourage everyone to attend a church 

of their choosing, and to participate in Bible studies and spiritual discussions held by 

the chapter. 

How has FarmHouse successfully built men when other groups have failed? We firmly 

believe that, “You can’t build men by tearing down boys,” and adhere to a policy of no 

hazing which means that every part of our new member education program is suitable to 

video and show parents. Another key to the success of FarmHouse lies in our alcohol-free 

chapter housing. dry housing ensures that our chapter always remains focused on the 

primary reason you traveled to Blacksburg, getting an education.

kAPPA ALPhA OrdEr 

exPenses: 


$375 



acaDeMics: 





Kappa Alpha Order is one of the most distinguished fraternal societies in the American collegiate 

system. It is a men’s social fraternity that has defined the southern gentleman since 

1865. Founded by four men at Washington College (now Washington and Lee University) 

in Lexington, Virginia, Kappa Alpha’s ideals are based on its spiritual founder, Robert E. 

Lee. More than 120,000 men have chosen KA. The brothers of Kappa Alpha take part in 

many intramural activities and work to improve their education. 

The chapter at Virginia Tech is tightly knit. 

The brothers take part in many philanthropy 

events around campus and raise money 

for their national philanthropy, Muscular 

dystrophy Association. They also enjoy the 

friendship of other fraternities and sororities 

at Virginia Tech. They are a part of a 

community that involves much more than 

a university. Academics are the first priority 

for the chapter. It takes the ability to prioritize 

and a willingness to work to achieve greatness. Kappa Alpha Order strives to make you 

a successful individual who will accomplish prestige upon entering the real world. 

IFC 

KA 

Nickname: Ka 




www.kappaalphaorder.org 


Chapter Name: epsilon eta 



april 8, 1877 


www.ka.org.vt.edu 


“Dieu et les Dames” 





Philanthropy: 

Muscular Dystrophy association 


Gen. George s. Patton 

J. edgar Hoover 

Portico 2009-2010 

31

IFC 

KDR 

Nickname: KDr 


May 17, 1905 


www.kdr.com 


Chapter Name: 

Gamma beta 



april 7, 1989 


www.kdrgb.com 


“Honor Super Omnia” 



Philanthropy: KDr Kids 

32 Portico 2009-2010 

kAPPA dELTA rhO 

exPenses: 


$250 



acaDeMics: 





Kappa delta Rho fraternity was founded on 

May 17, 1905 by 10 men at Middlebury 

College in Middlebury, Vermont. These 

10 men began their journey to establish a 

new standard of excellence and something 

different on the Middlebury campus. They 

adopted the motto “Honor Super Omnia” 

(Honor Above All Things) and their officers 

took on Roman titles instead of Greek Republic 

titles as other fraternities had. This was done not only to distinguish themselves from 

the other fraternities but also to emulate the Romans’ stern virtues. 

The Gamma Beta chapter at Virginia Tech is one of the newest fraternities on campus, 

having re-chartered in March of 2009. The founders of the Virginia Tech chapter examined 

fraternity life on campus and were not satisfied. Just as the original founders, they wanted 

something different. 

KdRs from around the country are impressed with the outstanding men of the Gamma Beta 

chapter, and they have lent their support. This is a fraternity on the rise, striving to be the 

best chapter on campus. Now is an incredible time to be a brother of KdR. Their youth as 

a chapter allows them to determine their own destiny and build the fraternity in their vision. 

This vision is clear: The brothers of Kappa delta Rho strive to place “Honor Above All 

Things,” to be successful gentlemen in all walks of life, and to form relationships that will 

enrich their future.

kAPPA SIgMA 

exPenses: 


$150 



acaDeMics: 





Founded in 1971, the Nu Prime chapter of Kappa Sigma has since been a noteworthy 

student organization at Virginia Tech. Among many other Greek organizations on campus, 

Kappa Sigma has distinguished itself as a leader and example to others. Its members strive 

for excellence in all they attempt, from academics to intramural athletics. The end result 

of this brotherhood is a more rewarding stay in college and a more fulfilling path through 

life. Membership in Kappa Sigma is not merely for a day, for a week, or a college term, 

but for life. 

IFC 

KS 

Nickname: Kappa sig 




www.kappasigma.org 


Chapter Name: nu Prime 



June 17, 1874 


www.kappasigma.net 

Motto: “a.e.K.D.b.” 




Jimmy buffett 

robert redford 

Mike o’Malley 

ted turner 

sam Donaldson 

Jerry Jones 

bob Dole 

Portico 2009-2010 

33

IFC 

LCA 

Nickname: lambda chi 




www.lambdachi.org 


Chapter Name: 

sigma lambda 



april 28, 1973 


www.vtlambdachi.org 


“strength through brotherhood” 





Philanthropy: 

watermelon bash 


President Harry s. truman 

Kenny chesney 

william e. rasmussen 

chris Klein 

rick Pitino 

cobi Jones 

larry brown 

Mark brunell 

34 Portico 2009-2010 

LAMBdA ChI ALPhA 

exPenses: 


$375 



Lambda Chi Alpha is an international 

fraternity that was founded at Boston 

University in 1909. In October of 1958, 

Sigma Omega Tau was founded at Virginia 

Tech, and it became the 232nd chartered 

chapter of Lambda Chi Alpha on April 28, 

1973. Since its founding, the fraternity 

has had more than 600 brothers come 

through its doors. 

acaDeMics: 





Today, the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity 

is one of the largest men’s general fraternities in North America, with more 

than 258,000 initiated members and more than 200 active chapters at colleges 

and universities. 

Lambda Chi Alpha serves as a co-curricular experience to complement higher education by 

providing young men with opportunities for academic achievement, leadership development, 

and lifelong friendships. Lambda Chi is not just a fraternity, but a true brotherhood.

PhI dELTA ThETA 

exPenses: 


$285 



acaDeMics: 





Phi delta Theta was founded by six men of the cloth on december 26, 1848, at Miami 

University in Oxford, Ohio. Robert Morrison and fellow senior John McMillan Wilson invited 

John Wolfe Lindley, Robert Thomson drake, Andrew Watts Rodgers, and Ardivan Walker 

Rogers to join them in forming this secret society. They drafted and amended a constitution 

over the following days, ultimately producing the Bond of Phi delta Theta, a document 

that has remained principally unchanged since its creation. 

Phi delta Theta quickly spread across the country, becoming the first fraternity to expand 

west of the Mississippi. In 1902 Phi delta Theta became the first international fraternity 

when a chapter was established at McGill University in Quebec. The fraternity now has 

156 chapters in 44 states and five Canadian provinces. The fraternity has initiated nearly 

223,000 men since 1848. 

The Virginia Eta chapter of Phi delta Theta traces its roots back to the local nonaffiliated 

fraternity, Sigma Alpha Kappa, which was founded on February 19, 1967, as a group of 

27 young men. On April 29, 1972, soon after Virginia Tech fraternal groups were permitted 

to be affiliated nationally, it received its official charter from Phi delta Theta general 

headquarters in Oxford. Since 1972, the Virginia Eta chapter has initiated 491 brothers, 

who live their lives according to the three cardinal principles of Phi delta Theta: friendship, 

sound learning, and moral rectitude. 

IFC 

FDQ 

Nickname: Phi Delt 




www.phideltatheta.org 


Chapter Name: 

virginia eta 



april 29, 1972 


vt.phideltatheta.org 


“we enjoy life by the Help 

and society of others” 



Philanthropy: 

national als foundation 


neil armstrong 

benjamin Harrison 

frank lloyd wright 

lou Gehrig 

burt reynolds 

Detlef schremph 

Portico 2009-2010 

35

IFC 

FIJI 

Nickname: fiJi 


May 1, 1848 


www.phigam.org 


Chapter Name: rho alpha 





www.vtfiji.com 


“friendship, the 

sweetest influence” 



On/Off campus: off 


Philanthropy: 

fiJi run across virginia 


President calvin coolidge 

Jack nicklaus 

Johnny carson 

Dean smith 

Phillip Knight 

Matthew fox 

36 Portico 2009-2010 

PhI gAMMA dELTA 

exPenses: 


$120 



acaDeMics: 





Phi Gamma delta (FIJI) is dedicated to 

developing men of character within the 

academic setting, with the aim that they 

will become fully contributing members 

of society. In pursuit of this mission, 

the Fraternity promotes five core values: 

Friendship, Knowledge, Service, Morality 

and Excellence. FIJI is a thriving force 

in the Greek Community here at Virginia 

Tech. We realize that our primary reason 

for coming to college is to receive a 

quality education. Founded on the principles of “Scholarship, Fraternity, Self”, we have 

consistently been ranked #1 in grades out of over 30 fraternities. For the past six years 

we have put on our annual “FIJI Run Across Virginia” philanthropy which is one of Virginia 

Tech’s highest grossing philanthropies by any one student organization. This past 

year we raised over $33,000 and in six years we have broken the $200,000 total mark. 

Our motto, “Friendship, the sweetest influence,” shows that through the close bond of 

our brotherhood, we can accomplish anything. Also, FIJI is always active in the areas of 

intramural sports, leadership opportunities, career development and networking outlets. 

Although we do focus a large part of our attention on our scholarship, our philanthropy, 

our service, and our quality, we still provide a vibrant social scene. We enjoy gathering 

together as a brotherhood and providing social functions with our own brothers, our 

friends, and Virginia Tech’s finest sororities. In all, we, the brotherhood of Phi Gamma 

delta, strive for excellence in every aspect of our lives here at Virginia Tech.

PhI kAPPA PSI 

exPenses: 


$400 



acaDeMics: 





Phi Kappa Psi was founded as a national 

fraternity on February 19, 1852, at Jefferson 

College in Cannonsburg, Pennsylvania. 

It was formed under the ideal of serving others 

and to assemble the most outstanding 

individuals from colleges and universities 

throughout the nation. The local chapter 

at Virginia Tech was founded on November 

13, 1976. Today Phi Psi has more than 

4,000 undergraduate members; more than 

60,000 living alumni; and more than 90 

groups in 34 states around the country. Phi Kappa Psi also has many undergraduate 

leadership training opportunities and a large endowment scholarship for undergraduates, 

both of which are unparalleled in the interfraternity community. 

Phi Kappa Psi is a strong brotherhood of diverse individuals who participate in numerous 

events throughout the year including socials with sororities, intramural sports, tailgates, 

formal events, Homecoming, international travel, and community service projects. For 

community service, the brotherhood aims to complete 500 hours each semester. Phi 

Kappa Psi also has a long history of famous alumni, including people in high governmental 

and corporate positions. 

IFC 

FKY 

Nickname: Phi Psi 




www.phikappapsi.com 


Chapter Name: 

virginia Zeta 





www.vtphipsi.com 


“live ever, Die never” 



On/Off campus: off 


Junior year 

Philanthropy: 

boys and Girls clubs of america 


President woodrow wilson 

Michael bloomberg 

Mark spitz 

Zach braff 

Portico 2009-2010 

37

IFC 

FKT 

Nickname: Phi tau 


March 17, 1906 


www.phikappatau.org 


Chapter Name: 

epsilon chi 





www.vtphitau.com 


“the force of Many, 

the Power of one” 





Philanthropy: 

Hole in the wall 

Gang camps 


Paul newman 

Patton oswalt 

38 Portico 2009-2010 

PhI kAPPA TAu 

exPenses: 


$300 



acaDeMics: 





Phi Kappa Tau was founded in the Union Literary Society Hall of Miami University’s Old 

Main Building in Oxford, Ohio, on March 17, 1906. The four founders are Taylor Albert 

Borradaile, Clinton dewitt Boyd, dwight Ireneus douglas, and William Henry Shideler. 

Founded as the Non-Fraternity Association to give Miami’s non-fraternity men a voice 

in campus political affairs, the organization changed its name to Phrenecon on March 

6, 1909, because the name Non-Fraternity Association seemed too negative. Phrenecon 

became national in 1911 when a second chapter was formed at Ohio University. 

Additional chapters were established at Ohio State University, Centre College (danville, 

Kentucky), Mount Union College (Alliance, Ohio), and the University of Illinois. At Miami, 

the chapter began to have difficulty retaining members by the early ‘teens. Often, men 

joined Phrenecon, then later dropped their membership and joined Greek-letter fraternities. 

For that reason, the Miami chapter of Phrenecon withdrew from the National Phrenecon 

and adopted the name Phi Kappa Tau on March 9, 1916. The rest of the chapters agreed 

to the name change in december of that year and invited Miami to return to the national 

organization as the Alpha chapter of Phi Kappa Tau. 

Comprising a diverse group of men of the highest character, Phi Kappa Tau, one of Virginia 

Tech’s newest fraternities, offers the best opportunities in social, academic, and athletic 

experiences to its members. Its commitment to excellence and strength in its brotherhood 

separates Phi Kappa Tau as one of the most honored organizations on Virginia Tech’s 

campus. Some of its achievements include 2006 IFC President, New member Chair, and 

IFC Public Relations Chair; 2003 Academy of Excellence Nominee; 2003 Neighborhood 

Enhancement Award for Best Greek House; 2002 Greek Man of the Year; Greek Week 

Winners (two consecutive years); two Homecoming court members; Highest New Member 

Grades 2001; Best Alcohol-Free Programming; and Best New Greek Advisor. It features 

off-campus housing.

PhI SIgMA kAPPA 

exPenses: 


$100 



acaDeMics: 





Founded in 1873 at the University of Massachusetts, Phi Sigma Kappa has long been a 

leader among Greek organizations. Strengthened by a merger with Phi Sigma Epsilon in 

1985, the fraternity has a total membership of more than 120,000 and can be found on 78 

campuses nationwide. For more than 130 

years, members of Phi Sigma Kappa have 

followed the golden rule: “do unto others 

as you would have them do unto you.” 

Phi Sig provides young men the opportunity 

to forge lifelong friendships, which 

are enhanced through athletics, leadership 

opportunities, brotherhood retreats, and 

social events. Being a brother means more 

than just being a member of the fraternity. Our cardinal principles: to promote brotherhood, 

to stimulate scholarship, and to develop character, lead brothers to a successful life 

personally and professionally. 

IFC 

FSK 

Nickname: Phi sig 


March 15, 1873 


www.phisigmakappa.org 


Chapter Name: 

epsilon Hexaton 



May 13, 1972 


www.vtpsk.org 

Motto: “Damn Proud” 





Philanthropy: 

special olympics 


John f. brock 

Jack f. welch 

Don Knolts 

Dan Patrick 

frank Gifford 

cheech Marin 

Portico 2009-2010 

39

IFC 

PKA 

Nickname: Pike 


March 1, 1868 


www.pikes.org 


Chapter Name: epsilon 





www.vtpikes.org 

Motto: “scholars, leaders, 

athletes, Gentlemen” 





Philanthropy: 

Pi Kappa alpha 

firemen’s challenge 


Jon stewart 

Jeff taylor 

Jeremy Piven 

bobby bowden 

Horace Grant 

Gus frerotte 

steve Prefontaine 

strom thurmond 

tim McGraw 

scott van Pelt 

40 Portico 2009-2010 

PI kAPPA ALPhA 

exPenses: 


$415 



acaDeMics: 





Pi Kappa Alpha is a general, international, Greek-letter, secret, social, non-hazing fraternity. 

It was founded at Virginia Tech in 1873, and was Virginia Tech’s first social organization. 

Since recolonizing in 2001, Pi Kappa Alpha has been the most dominant and successful 

fraternity at Virginia Tech. 

The Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity was founded in 1868 by six gentlemen at the University of 

Virginia. Today the fraternity’s membership has grown to initiate over 210,000 men and 

has expanded to over 220 colleges and universities throughout North America. 

Pi Kappa Alpha is dedicated to developing men of integrity, intellect, and high moral 

character and to fostering a truly lifelong fraternal experience. To fulfill this mission, Pi 

Kappa Alpha provides innovative services and programs designed to enrich the lives of 

undergraduates, alumni, and communities. The fraternity values academic achievement 

and integrity. It is through these standards of life that allow the men of Pi Kappa Alpha to 

truly be scholars, leaders, athletes, and gentlemen. 

Annually, Pi Kappa Alpha offers 11,000 brothers the opportunity for leadership development 

via Pike University, a premier leadership school for fraternity men. Every year, Pike 

University hosts eight events for undergraduate and alumni members: 

Six Leadership Summits, located in major U.S. cities 

Chapter Presidents Conference and Rush Summit 

Officers Leadership Academy (odd-numbered years) and International Convention 

(even-numbered years) 

Pi Kappa Alpha is governed by an international convention primarily composed of undergraduate 

delegates, and between conventions by a volunteer board known as the 

Supreme Council. 

Over 112 chapter scholarships are offered by the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity Educational 

Foundation. Pike University grants are given to each chapter.

PI kAPPA PhI 

exPenses: 


$475 



acaDeMics: 





For more than 100 years, Pi Kappa Phi has been building better men on college campuses 

across the country. From our humble roots at the College of Charleston in South Carolina to 

over 130 campuses today, Pi Kappa Phi stands for a commitment to fundamental values. 

We are a first-CLASS fraternity who firmly believes 

in the tenets of Character, Leadership, 

Academics, Sportsmanship, and Service. 

These principles are not only valued, but 

instilled through leading-edge educational, 

service, and leadership opportunities. 

We are “Leaders by Choice.” 

The delta Alpha Chapter at Virginia Tech 

was formed on May 8, 1971. After more 

than 30 years on Tech’s campus, the chapter continues to rank in the top fraternities on 

campus in overall grade point average. Along with academics, Pi Kappa Phi also places 

a huge emphasis on philanthropies. Pi Kappa Phi is the only national fraternity to own 

and operate its own national philanthropy, Push America, which works with people with 

disabilities. In addition to its own philanthropy, Pi Kappa Phi is also a major contributor to 

sorority philanthropies on campus, winning all philanthropic competitions that it entered 

during Fall 2008. 

IFC 

PKF 

Nickname: Pi Kapp 




www.pikapp.org 


Chapter Name: 

Delta alpha 



May 8, 1971 

Motto: “we will lead” 





one year 

Philanthropy: 

Push america 


tommy lasorda 

randy owen 

Portico 2009-2010 

41

IFC 

PLF 

Nickname: Pi lam 


March 21, 1895 


www.pilambdaphi.org 


Chapter Name: 

virginia omicron Zeta 



May 26, 1984 


www.vtpilam.com 


“Nostros Amemus” 

and “not four years 

but a lifetime” 



Philanthropy: 

March for babies 


Kevin James 

Mark cuban 

sandy Koufax 

ryan reynolds 

lewis black 

rafer Johnson 

42 Portico 2009-2010 

PI LAMBdA PhI 

exPenses: 


$350 



acaDeMics: 





Pi Lambda Phi is one of the finest social fraternities at Virginia Tech. It is small in 

size, but is a top-tier academic and athletic fraternity. The cumulative chapter GPA is 

currently over 3.0. There are brothers pursuing future careers in chemistry, law, business, 

engineering, and medicine, among many others. Every brother in Pi Lambda Phi 

participates in intramural athletics, and members are strong competitors in every sport. 

Pi Lam brothers are leaders, role models, and a part of the tightest-knit group of friends 

on Virginia Tech’s campus.

SIgMA ALPhA EPSILON 

exPenses: 


$225 



acaDeMics: 





The Virginia Zeta chapter of Sigma Alpha 

Epsilon was founded at Virginia Tech in 

1975. The goal of this fraternity is to 

teach and emulate four basic principles: 

scholarship, leadership, citizenship, 

and friendship. This chapter’s strength 

shows not only through the awards and 

achievements it has accomplished both 

campus-wide and nationally, but also 

through its presence as “true gentlemen.” 

Their letters are worn with pride by only 

the best. With 107 active members, the fraternity continuously strives for excellence, 

both as a group and as individuals, never ceasing to better themselves or those around 

them. While they are proven leaders both on campus and off, it is their brotherhood 

that attracts men to SAE. 

IFC 

SAE 

Nickname: sae 


March 9, 1856 


www.sae.net 


Chapter Name: 

virginia Zeta 



august 14, 1972 


www.vtsae.com 


“the true Gentlemen” 





Philanthropy: 

flex out Hunger 


william McKinley 

Phil Jackson 

william faulkner 

Pete carroll 

Mack brown 

Portico 2009-2010 

43

IFC 

SBR 

Nickname: sig rho 


august 16, 1996 


www.sigmabetarho.com 


Chapter Name: 

virginia tech colony 



May 29, 2004 


www.sigmabetarho.com/vtech 


“brotherhood beyond barriers” 





Philanthropy: 

youth education Development 

44 Portico 2009-2010 

SIgMA BETA rhO 

exPenses: 


$100 



Sigma Beta Rho was founded on August 

16 1996 at the University of Pennsylvania 

in Philadelphia. The founders came 

together with a vision of an organization 

for the betterment and preservation of 

diversity in fraternal organizations. In 

order for their vision to become reality, 

they needed to spread their principles 

and ideals to other college campuses and 

establish a nationwide network. 

acaDeMics: 





Sigma Beta Rho is one of the fastest growing fraternities with over 45 chapters and 

colonies that stretch across the nation. Together the branches work to establish the 

nationwide network that was envisioned by their founding fathers. The ideals that this 

fraternity was founded upon are society, brotherhood and remembrance, which help 

create strong leaders for the community. 

Currently, Sigma Beta Rho at Virginia Tech consists of 10 members, mainly from the 

eta class. The fraternity continues to uphold the ideals that were established by the 

alphas in 2004. With an emphasis on quality over quantity, the Virginia Tech colony 

of Sigma Beta Rho strives to achieve the high goals set forth by its nationals. As this 

organization continues to grow, the future grows brighter. Roheen Mehra, the current 

president, looks forward to an exciting 2009 year and hopes to continue the expansion 

of quality members and serve the community through our “Sig Rho for Kids” campaign 

with Blacksburg’s Harding Elementary.

SIgMA ChI 

exPenses: 


$450 



acaDeMics: 





In the winter quarter of 1969, dave Sever, Olin Greene, and Andy Webster originated Pi 

Sigma Tau and involved their friends on February 5, 1969. The group adopted the name 

Lambda Chi. The chapter brotherhood began with a membership of 22. On November 

13, 1971, Lambda Chi affiliated itself with and became part of the Sigma Chi fraternity. 

Installed by Grand Historian Robert LeClerg, the Eta Lambda chapter of Sigma Chi was 

charted, with the Tau chapter of Roanoke College being appointed advising chapter. The 

following year, Eta Lambda’s first derby days was held in Blacksburg at chapter adviser 

Frank “Coach” Teske’s farm. In a spirit of fun and competition, Eta Lambda brought 

together 13 sororities from the Virginia Tech and Radford campuses to raise money for 

Sigma Chi’s national philanthropy, the Children’s Miracle Network. The tradition of derby 

days is ongoing; each year seems better as derby days become one of the focal points of 

Greek activity. 

The Eta Lambda chapter of Sigma Chi seeks to enlighten members through friendship, 

justice, and learning. The brotherhood’s practice of these ideals makes for a rewarding 

undergraduate experience through Sigma Chi. Sigma Chi offers college men an opportunity 

to become leaders, scholars, philanthropists, and athletes. The brotherhood helps redefine 

these qualities by seeking men of different temperaments, talents, and convictions. As 

a social fraternity, the members celebrate their brotherhood and ritual. Sigma Chi helps 

balance members’ social side with the serious side, namely brotherhood and ritual. 

IFC 

SC 

Nickname: sigma chi 


June 28, 1855 


www.sigmachi.org 

National Chapters: 

226 undergraduate, 149 alumni 

Chapter Name: 

eta lambda 





www.vtsigmachi.org 


“In Hoc Signo Vinces” 





one year 

Philanthropy: 

Derby Days 

(children’s Miracle network) 

Huntsman Golf tournament 

(Huntsman cancer institute) 


David letterman 

John wayne 

brad Pitt 

Drew brees 

urban Meyer 

woody Harrelson 

Mike Ditka 

Portico 2009-2010 

45

IFC 

SN 

Nickname: snuggets 




www.sigmanu.org 


Chapter Name: theta xi 





www.vtsigmanu.org 


“love, Honor, truth” 





Philanthropy: 

cystic fibrosis foundation 


archie Manning 

eli Manning 

bob barker 

Harrison ford 

Paul rudd 

boyd tinsley 

Pat riley 

charles schwab 

46 Portico 2009-2010 

SIgMA Nu 

exPenses: 


$220 



It was a moonlit October night in 1868 

when our founding fathers made their 

purpose clear—to create a fraternal organization 

unlike any other, one that held 

the personal honor and integrity of its 

membership in the highest regard. Their 

idea has since become a tradition no one 

individual could possibly imagine—a legacy 

of honor, unparalleled in scope, that 

continues strong today. 

acaDeMics: 





Since our founding, Sigma Nu Fraternity 

has initiated over 200,000 Knights into the Legion of Honor and has established over 

250 chapters and colonies across North America. Clearly, this tradition of honor created 

by our founders over 135 years ago has the ability to change lives. does it have the ability 

to change your life, too?

SIgMA PhI dELTA 

exPenses: 


$80 



acaDeMics: 





Sigma Phi delta is an international professional and social engineering fraternity founded 

at the University of Southern California on April 11, 1924. As “The Premier International 

Fraternity of Engineers,” it is the only professional fraternity that draws its membership 

exclusively from male engineering students at ABET-accredited colleges and universities. 

Sigma Phi delta enjoys a close working relationship with its female counterpart, Alpha 

Omega Epsilon Sorority. It is a relatively young fraternity and thus a small fraternity in 

number of chapters and total membership, but remains well organized, and chapters are 

carefully supervised by the national officers and by faculty and alumni advisors. 

SPd is a new and original fraternity on the Virginia Tech campus, and it is striving to 

become well established and accepted in both the engineering communities and the Greek 

community alike. 

Sigma Phi delta was organized to promote the advancement of the engineering profession; 

to foster the advancement of Engineering Education; to instill a greater spirit of cooperation 

among Engineering students and organizations; to inculcate in its members the highest 

ideals of virtuous manhood, good citizenship, obedience to law, and brotherhood; and 

to encourage excellence in scholarship. 

IFC 

SFD 

Nickname: sPD 


april 11, 1924 


www.sigphi.org 


Chapter Name: 

sigma Phi Delta 





www.spd.org.vt.edu 


“Pro Bono professionis,” 

(for the good of the profession) 



Philanthropy: 

not Provided 

Portico 2009-2010 

47

IFC 

SFE 

Nickname: sig ep 




www.sigep.org 


Chapter Name: 

virginia Kappa 



april 25, 1970 


www.sigepvt.org 


“virtue, Diligence, 

and brotherly love” 





Philanthropy: 

Queen of Hearts 

arK Project 


John Goodman 

orel Hershiser 

rich Gannon 

Dave thomas 

theodore “Dr. seuss” Geisel 

48 Portico 2009-2010 

SIgMA PhI EPSILON 

exPenses: 


$350 



Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity was founded 

on November 1, 1901, by 12 men at 

Richmond College, later known as the 

University of Richmond. While in the formative 

stages, the six original members 

found six others who also were searching 

for a campus fellowship that neither the 

college campus nor the existing fraternity 

system could offer. Soon there were 12 

members, and they held their first meeting 

in Ryland Hall, the birthplace of 

Sigma Phi Epsilon. 

acaDeMics: 





The Virginia Kappa colony of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity was started when 16 friends 

decided they wanted something more than just a drinking club. These friends met together 

in Cullen Hackler and Mike Farley’s residence hall to discuss plans for starting a national 

fraternity on campus. On April 29, 1969, the Sigma Phi Epsilon colony was established 

at ceremonies held in the northwest branch of the Blacksburg National Bank; on April 25, 

1970, it received its charter and subsequently moved into its house, which was formerly 

part of Mountain View Estate. 

Not only does this distinction give the 

fraternity a rich and plentiful history, it 

allows it to pass on the achievements of 

Virginia Kappa to its new members. First, 

the fraternity strives to increase the values, 

substance, and character of its members. 

Secondly, it endeavors to become the finest 

chapter that it can be, through philanthropy, 

academics, recruitment, alumni relations, 

and social events. Finally, it seeks to provide 

lifelong assets to its members through 

unforgettable experiences, strong ethics, 

and invaluable friendships.

TAu kAPPA EPSILON 

exPenses: 


$100 



acaDeMics: 





Tau Kappa Epsilon was founded on January 

10, 1989, in Bloomington Illinois, at 

Illinois Wesleyan University. Five friends, 

C. Roy Atkinson, Joseph L. Settles, Owen 

I. Truitt, James C. McNutt, and Clarence 

A. Mayer, gathered on a cold and rainy 

Tuesday to form the Knights of Classic 

Lore. Shortly thereafter, James J. Love 

joined them to become the first associate 

member. The Knights of Classic Lore 

became Tau Kappa Epsilon in 1907, and 

the fraternity has since grown to be one of the largest international fraternities with active 

chapters at 270 colleges and universities, and more than 230,000 members. The 

brothers choose their members “not for wealth, rank, or honor, but for personal worth 

and character.” The core values they instill and encourage in all of their members are 

love, charity, and esteem. The TKE mission is to aid men in their mental, moral, and 

social development for life. 

In 1969, Bobby Altizer and Taylor Martin started a local society of Hokie men that 

became affiliated with Tau Kappa Epsilon. The Xi Omega Chapter was officially chartered 

membership to TKE international on April 14, 1973 by Former National Prytanis 

Lenwood S. Cochran and members of the Mu-Tau Chapter at James Madison University. 

Tau Kappa Epsilon’s vision is to create lifelong relationships that enhance educational, interpersonal, 

community, and professional success. Tekes around the world act as a network 

of friends, which can be very beneficial both personally and professionally to our members. 

TKE provides its members with educational opportunities that foster scholarship, character, 

leadership, teamwork, service, and brotherhood. TKE contributes to the advancement 

of society through the personal growth of our members, and service to others. 

IFC 

TKE 

Nickname: teKe 




www.tke.org 


Chapter Name: xi omega 



april 14, 1973 


www.tke.org.vt.edu 


not Provided 





Must be a member of tKe 

Philanthropy: 

ronald reagan 

alzheimer’s association 


President ronald reagan 

Phil simms 

ray Jones Jr. 

les Paul 

willie nelson 

elvis Presley 

terry bradshaw 

Mike Huckabee 

Portico 2009-2010 

49

IFC 

QC 

Nickname: theta chi 


april 10, 1856 


www.thetachi.org 


Chapter Name: eta lambda 



March 25, 1972 


www.thetachi.org.vt.edu 

Motto: “Helping Hand” 





Philanthropy: 

white ribbon campaign 

Hokies for the Homeless 


stephen spielberg 

al saunders 

50 Portico 2009-2010 

ThETA ChI 

exPenses: 


$200 



acaDeMics: 





Theta Chi Fraternity was founded at Norwich University in Norwich, Vermont, on April 10, 

1856, by Arthur Chase and Fredrick Norton Freeman. From there, it has established 211 

chapters internationally and has initiated more than 150,000 brothers. 

The Eta Lambda chapter of Theta Chi was founded March 25, 1972, at Virginia Tech. 

After searching for four years, the Eta Lambda chapter moved into its current house at 296 

Jennelle Road in Christiansburg. This chapter has initiated more than 700 brothers.

ThETA dELTA ChI 

exPenses: 


$175 



Since its founding in 1847, Theta delta 

Chi has offered young men the opportunity 

to enjoy lifelong friendships and develop 

important academic, business, and social 

skills that will prepare them for a lifetime 

of success. Also, various fundraising events 

allow the fraternity to maintain some of the 

lowest dues on campus. Those who have 

already experienced the bonds of Theta 

delta Chi understand what an important 

role brotherhood can play in your life. 

acaDeMics: 





IFC 

QDC 

Nickname: tDx 


october 31, 1847 


thetadeltachi.net 


Chapter Name: nu triton 





www.tdx.org.vt.edu 


“our Hearts are united” 



Philanthropy: 

american cancer society 

american Heart association 


robert frost 

James woods 

Portico 2009-2010 

51

IFC 

QX 

Nickname: the taxi 


april 29, 1864 


www.thetaxi.org 


Chapter Name: beta omega 



april 6, 1972 


www.vt.thetaxi.org 

Motto: “Juncti Juvant,” 

(united they serve) 





Philanthropy: 

Multiple sclerosis 

Habitat for Humanity 


Dr. Mark G. Mcnamee 

52 Portico 2009-2010 

ThETA XI 

exPenses: 


$350 



Theta Xi Fraternity is one of North America’s 

oldest and most prestigious national 

fraternities with a rich and proud history. 

Founded April 29, 1864, we are the only 

collegiate fraternal organization founded 

during the American Civil War. The Beta 

Omega Chapter serves to lead our Brotherhood 

at Virginia Tech under the auspices 

of our National Motto, “Juncti Juvant” 

(United They Serve). Our selective brotherhood 

is always in search of members that 

will best represent our values of serving our 

chapter, college, community, and country. 

acaDeMics: 





Theta Xi was founded by men who were opposed to drinking clubs, but believed in a 

fraternity of men who stand for the highest principles and character. Our patron saint is 

Benjamin Franklin, patriot, founding father of the United States of America, and original 

leader of the abolitionist movement. As a secret society, our patriotic brotherhood excels 

in developing top leaders in all professions across the country and globe. Our alumni 

association is both active nationally and engaged in supporting our on-going efforts to 

excel academically, in campus and community leadership, on the athletic field of competition, 

in outstanding citizenship, and in the establishment of a life-time of fantastic social 

experiences, exceptional career connections, and true friendships. We invite all men of 

strong moral character who believe in our mission and values to consider membership in 

our life-time national Brotherhood.

ZETA BETA TAu 

exPenses: 


$475 



acaDeMics: 





The Zeta Beta Tau fraternity is a brotherhood 

of respect. In 1989, the national 

organization revoked the practice of pledging 

because it believes that a pledge is a 

type of second-class citizen. When you accept 

your bid you become a brother, not a 

pledge! ZBT has a tradition of excellence. 

We take academics seriously because 

scholarship is one of your first (but not 

only) priorities, as a student. Brothers are 

constantly helping each other with studies 

and academics in general. Of course, there 

is also the social aspect. As fraternity members, we participate in activities that range from 

tailgates and road trips to formals, and—of course—sorority events. We also participate in 

many different sports events. 

Zeta Beta Tau is, at heart, a true brotherhood. 

All brothers are equal from the very 

beginning. We are active in the community, 

university, and Greek system. Our 

brotherhood is focused on leadership. 

Members are pushed to the limit and allowed 

to grow as individuals. This is how 

the fraternity thrives. 

IFC 

ZBT 

Nickname: Zbt 




www.zbt.org 


Chapter Name: Delta xi 



april 26, 1972 


www.vtzbt.com 


“a Powerhouse 

of excellence” 





Philanthropy: 

children’s Miracle network 


stanley Marcus 

David werblin 

Howard cossell 

Portico 2009-2010 

53

IFC 

ZY 

Nickname: Zete 


June 1, 1847 


www.zetapsi.org 


Chapter Name: alpha Pi 


Founding Date: 

april 24, 1975 


www.zetapsi-vt.org 


not Provided 





none, $315/month 

for rent if live-in 

Philanthropy: 

Miss virginia tech 

roanoke street cleanup 


red Grange 

Henry ford ii 

eric Molson 

brian roberts 

54 Portico 2009-2010 

ZETA PSI 

exPenses: 


$100 



acaDeMics: 





Since its beginnings at New York university, Zeta Psi has worked to be a pioneer in 

the Greek community. It was the first fraternity to stretch from coast to coast, the first 

international fraternity, The first fraternity to be present in all Ivy League schools, an the 

first national or international fraternity on a dozen campuses. It has intentionally focused 

on upper-tier schools in order to ensure continuation of its innovative spirit. By providing 

support and an environment for social learning at school, the fraternity aims to turn out 

self-respecting, original-thinking, self-controlled, purposeful gentlemen.

NPHC 

NATIONAL PAN hELLENIC 

COuNCIL 

NPHC 

The National Pan-Hellenic Council is made up of nine distinct chapters: Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega 

Psi Phi, delta Sigma Theta, Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta, Sigma Gamma Rho, and Iota Phi Theta; however, our goals as Greeks are 

the same. Since 1930, the intent of the National Pan-Hellenic Council has been to bring together our organizations in the understanding 

that we all possess a different perspective of the same vision. The stated purpose of the National Pan-Hellenic Council is “Unanimity of 

thought and action as far as possible in the conduct of Greek-lettered organizations.” Invariably, we must strive for the unity of purpose 

that our differing letters seem to discourage. To achieve unanimity, we, the individual members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, 

must overcome what divides us and forge a unity whole-heartedly dedicated to the principles of service, education, and leadership. To 

ignore these duties is to deny the very foundation of our collective and individual existence. 

The purpose of the National Pan-Hellenic Council shall be to create and maintain high standards in the life of fraternities and sororities 

by addressing, coordinating, and developing actions strategic on matters of mutual concern to the affiliate organizations, such as community 

service, educational programming, and the promotion of student leadership; and to serve as a conduit for such action plans, as 

may be developed to perpetuate constructive fraternity and sorority relations. 

Portico 2009-2010 

55

NPHC 

56 Portico 2009-2010 

fellow HoKie, 

Virginia Tech is a community made great by its tradition and by the legacy left 

behind by its alumni. It has produced some of the finest leaders in today’s 

society, and those who have been fortunate enough to walk this campus have 

left with a lifetime of great memories. The very same thing can be said of Greek 

Life here at Virginia Tech. We have produced leaders, provided memories, and 

are deeply rooted in the traditions of both our organizations and the campus. 

The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) is the governing body of the nine 

historically black Greek-letter organizations, known as the “divine Nine.” Each 

of our proud organizations are built around scholarship, community service, 

personal development, and most importantly, forging lifelong bonds with those 

who enter into our Greek family. Our histories reach back as far as 100 years 

and are intertwined with the struggles, passions, and accomplishments of a 

people. We are open to all individuals of any race, creed, or color and take pride 

in the diversity of our membership both nationally and internationally. 

The Virginia Tech National Pan-Hellenic Council sponsors an opportunity 

for non-affiliated students to learn about and ask questions of the different 

fraternities and sororities are the beginning of each semester. Those aspiring to 

become members of one of the nine organizations are encouraged to research 

all of them. Requirements vary, so be sure to visit the organizations’ websites, 

both local and national, for specific information. 

Each fraternity and sorority will conduct an informational session each semester 

for those wanting a more in-depth look at the organizations. Information on how 

to obtain and complete a membership application is available at these sessions. 

Those seeking membership with a specific organization should only express 

their interest to a member of that organization. Each fraternity and sorority 

will require proof of achievement of the organization’s minimum standards for 

academics, community service, and leadership. Approval process varies from 

organization to organization, but all include graduate chapters and advisors in 

the review and evaluation process. 

Greekdom here at Virginia Tech is an excellent way to enhance your collegiate 

experience and we hope that you take a further look into the offerings of our 

organizations. We look forward to embracing, developing, and working with the 

next generation of Hokies. 

Best Regards, 

Nigel Wray 

President, National Pan-Hellenic Council of Virginia Tech

ALPhA kAPPA ALPhA 

exPenses: 


Provided at Interest Meeting 

Fall Semester dues: 


Spring Semester dues: 


acaDeMics: 





Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., was the first Greek-letter organization established for 

and by college educated African American women. It was founded on January 15, 1908 

on the campus of Howard University by a group of nine distinguished women: Ethel Hedgeman 

Lyle, Anna Easter Brown, Beulah Burke, Lille Burke, Marjorie Hill, Margaret Flagg 

Holmes, Lavinia Norman, Lucy Slowe, and Marie Woolfolk Taylor. 

The mission and purpose of Alpha Kappa Alpha is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic 

and ethical standards, to promote unity and friendship among college women, to study 

and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women, to promote a progressive interest 

in college life, and to be of service to all mankind. Alpha Kappa Alpha seeks to uplift the 

community through programs and service focusing on five platforms: 

Non-traditional entrepreneurship 

Economic keys to success 

The economic growth of the black family 

Economic educational advancement through technology 

Health resource management and economics 

Since its charter on May 4, 1974, the Theta Phi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha has empowered 

the community through exemplary service initiatives and progressive programs. Today, 

the chapter has an ongoing relationship with the Blacksburg Special Olympics, where they 

volunteer weekly. They also host programs on the Virginia Tech campus that encompass the 

five platforms and help to educate students on keys to being successful in their education 

and workplace, issues concerning the community, and health and safety issues. 

Membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha is a life-long commitment to the standards and principals 

of the organization. Members continue past the undergraduate experience to lead an 

“extraordinary service program” and to be of supreme service to all mankind. 

NPHC 

AKA 

Nickname: aKa 




www.aka1908.com 

National Chapters: 975+ 

Chapter Name: theta Phi 



May 4, 1974 


“by Merit and culture” 

National Programs: 

educational advancement 

foundation 

leadership fellows Program 

youth authors Program 


soror rosa Parks 

soror coretta scott King 

soror Michelle obama 

soror alicia Keys 

Portico 2009-2010 

57

NPHC 

AFA 

Nickname: Mighty t.i. 




www.alphaphialpha.net 


Chapter Name: theta iota 





www.aphia.org.vt.edu 


“first of all, servants of all, 

we shall transcend all” 


Project alpha 

a voteless People is a 

Hopeless People 

voter education 


brother Martin luther King Jr. 

brother w.e.b. Dubois 

brother stuart scott 

58 Portico 2009-2010 

ALPhA PhI ALPhA 

exPenses: 



Fall Semester dues: 


Spring Semester dues: 


acaDeMics: 





Since its founding on december 4, 1906, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., has supplied 

voice and vision to the struggle of African-Americans and people of color around the world. 

Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African- 

Americans, was founded at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., by seven college men who 

recognized the need for a strong bond of brotherhood among African descendants in this 

country. The visionary founders, known as the Jewels of the fraternity, are Henry Arthur 

Callis, Charles Henry Chapman, Eugene Kinckle Jones, George Biddle Kelley, Nathaniel 

Allison Murray, Robert Harold Ogle, and Vertner Woodson Tandy. 

The fraternity initially served 

as a study and support group 

for minority students who 

faced racial prejudice, both 

educationally and socially, at 

Cornell. Early leaders of the 

fraternity succeeded in laying 

a firm foundation for Alpha Phi 

Alpha’s principles of scholarship, 

fellowship, good character, 

and the uplifting of humanity. 

Alpha Phi Alpha chapters were 

developed at other colleges and 

universities—many of them historically 

black institutions—soon after the founding at Cornell. While continuing to stress 

academic excellence among its members, Alpha also recognized the need to help correct the 

educational, economic, political, and social injustices faced by African-Americans. 

On January 29, 1973, the Theta Iota chapter was established as the first black Greek 

organization at Virginia Tech by a group of ambitious black men known as the Fine Nine. 

On April 17, 1992, the Interfraternity Council and Student Affairs Council recognized the 

Theta Iota chapter as a positive fraternal influence on the campus of Radford University. 

Since then many Radford men have continued to develop the tradition of a unified joint 

chapter with their brothers at Virginia Tech. 

The Theta Iota chapter has set precedence at Virginia Tech by being identified as leaders 

in community service. Since foundation in 1973, the chapter has won numerous awards, 

including its highest honor in 1981 as Alpha Phi Alpha National Chapter of the Year, 

Outstanding Fraternity Awards 2001-2005 from Radford University, and most recently, 

Most Improved Chapter GPA for 2005-2006.

IOTA PhI ThETA 

exPenses: 



Fall Semester dues: Provided at 

Interest Meeting 

Spring Semester dues: Provided at 


acaDeMics: 





Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., was founded September 19, 1963 at Morgan State College 

in Baltimore, Maryland during the heart of the Civil Rights Movement. The fraternity was 

founded by 12 men: Albert Hicks, Lonnie Spurill Jr., Charles Briscoe, Frank Coakley, 

John Slade, Barron Willis, Webster Lewis, Charles Brown, Louis Hudnell, Elias dorsey 

Jr., Charles Gregory, and Michael Williams. These men were considered “non-traditional” 

students due to factors such as their age, maturity, and heightened responsibility. Many 

of them had families, full-time jobs, and some were service veterans. Because of these 

factors, the founders held a different perspective on the fraternal experience than the 

normal college student. 

Because Iota is a social service fraternity, it has several philanthropies with the purpose of 

improving different areas of society. The National Iota Foundation is a non-profit organization 

with the purpose of obtaining funds for charitable organizations. The I.O.T.A. Youth 

Alliance is a youth mentoring program, and the digital Heritage Initiative is an African 

American History Education Program. The Afya Njema Program is a physical, mental, and 

spiritual health program and the developing Better Fatherhood Project is an initiative to 

combat the problem of fathers not staying in the lives of their children. 

The Virginia Tech Colony of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., was chartered on december 

28, 2006 by four men. These men, like the fraternity founders, had a vision to positively 

impact the community while embodying the principles of scholarship, leadership, citizenship, 

fidelity, and brotherhood among men. 

As Iota Phi Theta continues to grow and strengthen, so will its commitment to make 

meaningful contributions to society in general, with particular emphasis on the African 

American community. The fraternity is, and shall forever remain, dedicated to its founders’ 

vision of “building a tradition, not resting upon one!” 

NPHC 

IFQ 

Nickname: iotas 




www.iotaphitheta.org 


Chapter Name: 






“building a tradition, 

not resting upon one” 


the i.o.t.a. 

youth alliance 

afya njema 

Developing better 

fatherhood Project 


brother elvin Hayes 

brother t.c. carson 

brother Dave leitao 

Portico 2009-2010 

59

NPHC 

KAY 

Nickname: Kappa 




www.kappaalphapsi1911.com 

National Chapters: approx. 500 

Chapter Name: theta Psi 



april 1, 1977 


“achievement in every field 

of Human endeavor” 


Guide right 


brother Kevin Jones 

brother arthur ashe 

brother wilt chamberlain 

brother Johnnie cochrane 

brother bill russell 

60 Portico 2009-2010 

kAPPA ALPhA PSI 

exPenses: 







Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., was 

founded on January 5, 1911, in Bloomington, 

Indiana on the campus of Indiana 

University. 

acaDeMics: 





In essence, Kappa Alpha Psi is a college 

fraternity that comprises functioning 

undergraduate and alumni chapters on 

major campuses and in cities throughout 

the country, and is the crystallization of a 

dream. It is the beautiful realization of a vision 

shared commonly by the late founders 

Elder Watson diggs, “The dreamer;” John Milton Lee; Byron K. Armstrong; Guy Levis Grant; 

Ezra d. Alexander; Henry T. Asher; Marcus P. Blakemore; Paul W. Caine; Edward G. Irvin; and 

George W. Edmonds. The fraternity’s fundamental purpose is achievement. 

Virginia Tech’s Theta Psi chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi was founded on April 1, 1977, by 

five strong and ambitious black men seeking achievement. Seven years later in 1984, the 

chapter’s charter was extended to include Radford University. The joint chapter still stands 

to this day, uniting college men of culture, honor, and patriotism in a bond of fraternity. 

Membership in Kappa Alpha Psi is a lifelong dedication to the ideals and lofty purposes 

of Kappa Alpha Psi. Membership is considered only for those aspirants whose personal, 

social, and academic qualifications are acceptable to both the college and fraternity.

OMEgA PSI PhI 

exPenses: 







acaDeMics: 





On Friday evening, November 17, 1911, three Howard University undergraduate students, 

with the assistance of their faculty advisor (Ernest E. Just), gave birth to the 

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. The three liberal arts students were Edgar A. Love, Oscar 

J. Cooper, and Frank Coleman. From the initials of the Greek phrase meaning “friendship 

is essential to the soul,” the name Omega Psi Phi was derived. The phrase was selected 

as the motto. Manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift were adopted as cardinal 

principles. A decision was made regarding the design for the pin and emblem, and thus 

ended the first meeting of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. 

The Eta Lambda chapter of the Omega 

Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., was founded on 

September 22, 1979. The chapter has 

eight charter members: Barry Griffin, 

d.K. Brockett, Stan Harris, Rick Monroe, 

Larry Fallen, dennis Scott, Peter Holmes, 

and Wayne Robinson. Over the years Eta 

Lambda has been instrumental in the 

leadership and founding of black organizations 

on the campus of Virginia Tech. 

The chapter holds members who were the first founding chair person of the Black Student 

Alliance, founder of the NAACP chapter, the founding chair person of Black Organizations 

Council, the first African-American elected class president, the first African-American on 

the Student Budget Board for Virginia Tech, and the designer for the Black Cultural Center. 

The chapter has been recognized as national and district chapter of the year several times 

and has had the national and district scholar of the year several times. The Eta Lambda 

chapter will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, and will continue to carry on the 

legacy of its founders and alumni. 

NPHC 

WYF 

Nickname: bruhz 




www.oppf.org 


Chapter Name: 

eta lambda 





www.omegapsiphi.org.vt.edu 


“friendship is essential 

to the soul” 


achievement week 

social action Programs 

talent Hunt Program 

High school essay contest 

reclamation and retention 

black Male forum 


brother ronald Mcnair 

brother charles r. Drew 

brother langston Hughes 

brother carter G. woodson 

brother lawrence 

Douglas wilder 

Portico 2009-2010 

61

NPHC 

FBS 

Nickname: sigmas 




www.pbs1914.org 


Chapter Name: Mu nu 



May 15, 1980 


sigmablog14.wordpress.com 


“culture for service and 

service for Humanity” 


bigger better business 

education, social action 


brother Dr. George 

washington carver 

brother roger Paige 

brother blair underwood 

brother emmitt smith 

brother James weldon Johnson 

62 Portico 2009-2010 

PhI BETA SIgMA 

exPenses: 







Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., was 

founded at Howard University in Washington, 

d.C., on January 9, 1914, by three 

young African-American male students. 

The founders, Honorable A. Langston 

Taylor, Honorable Leonard F. Morse, and 

Honorable Charles I. Brown, wanted to organize 

a Greek-letter fraternity that would 

truly exemplify the ideals of brotherhood, 

scholarship, and service. 

acaDeMics: 





The founders deeply wished to create an organization that viewed itself as “a part of” 

the general community rather than “apart from” the general community. They believed 

that each potential member should be judged by his own merits rather than his family 

background or affluence…without regard to race, nationality, skin tone, or texture of hair. 

They wished and wanted their fraternity to exist as part of a greater brotherhood that would 

be devoted to the “inclusive we” rather than the “exclusive we.” 

From its inception, the founders also conceived 

Phi Beta Sigma as a mechanism to 

deliver services to the general community. 

Rather than gaining skills to be utilized 

exclusively for themselves and their immediate 

families, the founders of Phi Beta 

Sigma held a deep conviction that they 

should return their newly acquired skills 

to the communities from which they had 

come. This deep conviction was mirrored in 

the fraternity’s motto, “Culture for Service 

and Service for Humanity.” 

Today, Phi Beta Sigma has blossomed into an international organization of leaders. No 

longer a single entity, the fraternity has now established the Phi Beta Sigma Educational 

Foundation, the Phi Beta Sigma Housing Foundation, the Phi Beta Sigma Federal Credit 

Union, and the Phi Beta Sigma Charitable Outreach Foundation. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, 

Inc., founded in 1920 with the assistance of Phi Beta Sigma, is the sister organization. No 

other fraternity and sorority is constitutionally bound like Sigma and Zeta. They both enjoy 

and foster a mutually supportive relationship.

SIgMA gAMMA rhO 

exPenses: 







Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., was organized on November 12, 1922 in Indianapolis, 

Indiana by seven schoolteachers: Mary Lou Allison Little, dorothy Hanley Whiteside, 

Vivian White Marbury, Nannie Mae Gahn Johnson, Hattie Mae dulin Redford, Bessie M. 

downey Martin, and Cubena McClure. The group became an incorporated national collegiate 

sorority on december 30, 1929, when a charter was granted to the Alpha chapter 

at Butler University. 

From seven young teachers, Sigma Gamma Rho has become an international service organization 

composed of women from every profession. Sigma Gamma Rho offers members 

opportunities to develop their unique talents through leadership training and involvement 

in sorority activities. Sorority activities develop friendships and professional contacts leading 

to bonds that last a lifetime. 

Sigma Gamma Rho’s aim is to enhance 

the quality of life within the community. 

Public service, leadership development, 

and education of youth are the hallmark of 

the organization’s programs and activities. 

Sigma Gamma Rho addresses concerns 

that impact society educationally, civically, 

and economically. With over 500 chapters 

and 85,000 members in the United States, 

Bermuda, the Virgin Islands, Bahamas, and 

Germany, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., 

is committed to improving the quality of life 

from its members and the society it serves. 

acaDeMics: 





The Kappa Psi chapter facilitates activities on the Virginia Tech campus that encourage 

and promote high scholastic attainment, develop leadership abilities and individual 

talents, help to develop equal opportunity for its minority, channel the dynamic energies 

of the young people on campus and within Montgomery County, and emphasize the value 

of poise and personal dignity. Major projects include toy drives to benefit the Montgomery 

County Christmas Store, the annual Heritage Hall Valentine’s day Project for which sorors 

deliver cards to each resident at the Heritage Hall Nursing home, and the donation of 

gently used prom dresses for area high schools. 

NPHC 

SGR 

Nickname: sGrho 




www.sgrho1922.org 


Chapter Name: Kappa Psi 



april 20, 1985 


“Greater service, 

Greater Progress” 


operation bigbookbag 

Project weesaver 

Project reassurance 


soror Kelly Price 

sorror vanessa bell armstrong 

soror Hattie McDaniels 

soror tonya lee williams 

Portico 2009-2010 

63

NPHC 

ZFB 

Nickname: Zetas 




www.zphib1920.org 


Chapter Name: 

upsilon lambda 



May 22, 1982 


www.zetaphibeta.org.vt.edu 


“community-conscious, 

action-oriented” 


March of Dimes (walk for babies) 


soror Zora neale Hurston 

soror Madame cJ walker 

soror vanessa williams 

soror Dionne warwick 

64 Portico 2009-2010 

ZETA PhI BETA 

exPenses: 







Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., was founded 

on January 16, 1920, on the campus of 

Howard University in Washington, d.C. by 

five women: Arizona Cleaver, Myrtle Tyler, 

Viola Tyler, Fannie Pettie, and Pearl A. 

Neal. These women dared to depart from 

the traditional coalitions for black women 

and sought to establish a new organization 

predicated on the ideals of scholarship, service, 

sisterly love, and finer womanhood. 

acaDeMics: 


Requirement:2.5 



Since its inception, the sorority has expanded to encompass more than 500 graduate and 

collegiate chapters around the world, including locations in the Caribbean Islands, West 

Africa, and Germany. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., was the first to charter a chapter in Africa; 

to centralize its operations in a national headquarters; to form adult and youth auxiliary 

groups—the Amicae, Archonettes, Amicettes, and Pearlettes; and is the first and only sorority 

to be constitutionally bound to a brother fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. 

Zeta Phi Beta’s national and local programs 

include endowment of its National 

Educational Foundation and involvement 

with the March of dimes, Stork’s Nest, and 

Z-HOPE. As part of a nonprofit organization, 

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., chapters 

and auxiliary groups have given numerous 

hours of voluntary service to educate the 

public, assist youth, provide scholarships, 

support organized charities, and promote legislation for social and civic change. Zeta Phi 

Beta’s plan of action includes education, community volunteerism, drug and substance 

abuse prevention, health and wellness awareness, economic development, governmental 

affairs, and chapter management. 

The illustrious Upsilon Lambda chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., was founded on 

the Virginia Tech campus on May 22, 1982, by seven young women. Today, the Upsilon 

Lambda chapter still excels as a community-conscious, action-oriented organization. As 

the chapter continues to grow, the women of the Upsilon Lambda chapter strive on a daily 

basis to uphold the values that make Zeta Phi Beta unique. The ladies of Zeta serve the 

Virginia Tech community through various Z-HOPE events, the Big Event, Relay for Life, 

Walk for Cystic Fibrosis, American Heart Association, the Red Cross, and donations to local 

charities, as well as clothing and canned food drives.

PHC 

PANhELLENIC COuNCIL 

PHC 

The National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), founded in 1902, is the umbrella organization for 26 national and international women’s fraternities 

and sororities. Members are represented on more than 620 college campuses in the United States and Canada, and in more than 3,500 

alumnae associations. Established NPC chapters and alumnae associations are comprised of more than 3.5 million women worldwide. 

When you join one of the 13 National Panhellenic Conference sororities at Virginia Tech, you also become a member of the Panhellenic 

Association. The Panhellenic Association and its sororities are led by Virginia Tech’s Panhellenic Council (PHC), which is made up of 

elected officers and delegates from all sororities. 

The Virginia Tech NPC is the governing body for the 13 chartered Panhellenic sororities at Virginia Tech, and is responsible for organizing 

activities of mutual concern and interest to all the sororities. 

The National Panhellenic Conference was founded on the principles of cooperation and mutual assistance. At the first meeting in 1902, 

chapters worked together to establish guidelines and recommendations for acquiring and educating new members, as well as chapter 

policy and procedure. Together the 26 recognized organizations were able to establish a policy of governance for and with one another 

that would last for more than 100 years. 

Portico 2009-2010 

65

PHC 

tHe PanHellenic 

creeD 

We, as undergraduate members 

of women’s fraternities, stand for 

good scholarship, for guarding of 

good health, for maintenance of fine 

standards, and for serving, to the best 

of our ability, our college community. 

Cooperation for further fraternity life, in 

harmony with its best possibilities, is 

the ideal that shall guide our 

fraternity activities. 

We, as fraternity women, stand for 

service through the development of 

character inspired by the close contact 

and deep friendship of individual 

fraternity and Panhellenic life. The 

opportunity for wide and wise human 

service, through mutual respect and 

helpfulness, is the tenet by which we 

strive to live. 

66 Portico 2009-2010 

The 26 member organizations of NPC have unanimously agreed to pursue certain procedures 

and standards under a common code of ethics. Each national president has signed 

unanimous agreements, indicating that every alumna and collegiate member will abide 

by and honor these policies. These agreements must be incorporated into college and 

alumnae Panhellenic procedures, and are binding to all chapters of NPC member groups. 

The National Panhellenic Conference’s mission is to support its women’s fraternities, commonly 

known as sororities, by promoting values, education, leadership, friendship, cooperation, 

and citizenship. NPC supports its Collegiate Panhellenic chapters in all endeavors. 

Annually, 552 recognized Collegiate Panhellenics contribute approximately 330,000 service 

hours and collectively raise more than $5.2 million for community projects. In addition, the 

213 Alumnae Panhellenic chapters give more than $325,000 in grants and scholarships to 

more than 390 women in chapters all over the country each year. 

The Collegiate Panhellenic Association at Virginia Tech is the largest women’s organization 

on campus, with more than 1,800 members. 

Collegiate Panhellenics are established on campuses with at least two Panhellenic chapters 

and exist to maintain fraternity life and interfraternal relations. Through all-sorority 

programming efforts, leadership development, and academic support, the Virginia Tech 

Collegiate Panhellenic Association strives to assist all members in becoming informed, 

well-rounded women. 

The Panhellenic Council is made up of 13 officers and one delegate from each of the 13 sorority 

chapters. Through a committee structure, the Panhellenic Council is able to effectively 

organize and assist in events of mutual concern to all sorority women. Panhellenic helps to 

support events such as the Fraternity and Sorority Life awards, community service projects, 

academic initiatives, Greek Week, Homecoming week, and formal sorority recruitment. 

Once a year, Virginia Tech’s Panhellenic Council attends the Mid-American Greek Council 

Association, during which members are able to share ideas and attend sessions with 

speakers who are passionate about the affairs of women in Greek life. This past year the 

Virginia Tech Panhellenic Council was recognized as the Top Sorority Council with 10-15 

chapters. They also received awards in programming, recruitment, risk management, and 

community involvement. 

Panhellenic Council is an excellent way for the women of Virginia Tech’s NPC sororities to 

get involved on campus. delegates are the voting members of their chapters on all community-wide 

issues. Elected and appointed officers are able to provide leadership for different 

programs and work with women from all chapters to plan activities of mutual concern 

and interest to all sororities. Panhellenic Council also gives women unique opportunities to 

work with many officials on campus and throughout the Blacksburg community. Panhellenic 

Council gives women the chance to be involved, not just in their individual chapter but also 

in the entire community.

Dear HoKie woMen, 

Welcome to Virginia Tech and congratulations on making the decision to become a Hokie! 

I hope you are enjoying your new college life and are taking advantage of Virginia Tech’s 

many opportunities to get involved. With over 26,000 students, making Virginia Tech your 

home away from home can sometimes be difficult. However, our campus boasts many 

opportunities for its students to learn more about themselves and do things they enjoy. 

Joining the Greek community is one of the best ways to enhance your college experience. 

Our community promotes scholastic achievement, encourages community service 

and philanthropy, fosters leadership experience, provides social opportunities, and, most 

importantly, builds lifelong friendships. 

The Panhellenic community on our campus consists of 13 sororities and about 1,800 

amazing and well-rounded women. When you choose to join a sorority, you are not only 

becoming a member of your chapter, but also a member of this outstanding community 

Panhellenic women find academics, philanthropy, and sisterhood to be priorities. Sorority 

women are given the opportunity to expand their college experience by attending speakers 

and programs on a variety of different topics: study habits, healthy living and relationships, 

risk management, career planning, and global affairs. In addition, sororities hold annual 

philanthropy events to raise money for their national philanthropies. Together, the Virginia 

Tech Panhellenic community raises more than $30,000 each year to support various charitable 

organizations. 

This coming year the Panhellenic Council will be hosting numerous events you are invited 

to attend to learn more about being a part of our Greek community. These events allow 

you to take a glimpse into Greek life and understand first-hand the countless possibilities 

it creates. In addition, we have created an e-mail list where you can sign up to learn more 

about Greek life. Please watch for information and plan to attend these events to educate 

yourself on Virginia Tech Greek life and meet some of our wonderful women. 

Please read through the following pages to familiarize yourself with our organizations. In 

addition, we invite you to visit our Panhellenic Council website at www.vtphc.com. You 

may also sign up for our Greek interest listserv at our website. If you have any questions, 

please feel free to personally contact me. 

I wish you all the best of luck in your coming years at Virginia Tech. I truly hope you take 

advantage of the amazing opportunity of going through recruitment and meeting all of the 

phenomenal Panhellenic women. There is a sisterhood waiting for you. 

Let’s go Hokies! 

Sincerely, 

Camille Waldron 

President 

Panhellenic Council of Virginia Tech 

PHC 

Portico 2009-2010 

67

PHC 

68 Portico 2009-2010 

Dear HoKies, 

Welcome to Virginia Tech on behalf of the Panhellenic community! We hope that life as 

a Hokie has been enjoyable thus far and that you are ready to explore all the possibilities 

for involvement at the university. We are so fortunate to have such an extensive array of 

opportunities on our campus, including a strong and growing Greek community. Thousands 

of students on our campus have already discovered this unique experience and we are 

excited for you to do the same. 

during the recruitment process, we hope to show you just what is so special about Greek 

life at Virginia tech. The experience of being Greek is one that you will take with you, even 

after you graduate. The memories and friendships you will make during formal recruitment 

and as a member of the Greek community are everlasting and unforgettable. We hope that 

your decision to become a member of our community will enhance your college experience 

in all areas including academics, leadership, and community involvement. 

As you engage in recruitment, I encourage you to take advantage of the wonderful opportunity 

to meet women from all of our chapters. Remember to keep an open mind, ask lots of questions, 

and enjoy the experience. With 13 different chapters, Greek life at Virginia Tech has 

a lot to offer each and every woman. Each chapter has a wide variety of women, all proud to 

represent their own affiliations and community. We look forward to sharing your experiences 

during sorority recruitment and welcoming you into our fraternity and sorority community. 

For more information about the Panhellenic recruitment program, please visit the Panhellenic 

Council’s website at www.vtphc.com. Please remember that we are here to help with 

any questions you may have! 

Sincerely, 

KC Rismiller 

Vice President of Recruitment 

Panhellenic Council of Virginia Tech

SOrOrITy LIFE 

In a Panhellenic sorority at Virginia Tech, you can be anything you want to be! You will have 

an opportunity to make your goals a reality and share them with many friends. Membership 

in a sorority provides you with an opportunity for personal growth and individual achievement. 

The feeling of being part of a sorority is incomparable to anything you have ever 

experienced before. 

For years, a common perception outside the Greek community was that sorority women 

join the groups only for the social aspects, such as weekend parties and associating with 

fraternity men. However, this uninformed opinion is beginning to lose its support. 

Involvement in Greek and campus activities is an important part of sorority life. The wide 

variety of projects in which you can become involved gives everyone something to enjoy. 

Community service, the Big Event, Homecoming, intramurals, Greek Week, Campus Clean- 

Up, Kipps Elementary Adopt-a-School, dance Marathon, Peer Educators, Relay For Life, 

Sister Sororities, Student Government, Residence Life, Mid-American Greek Conference, 

Month of the Scholar, Fraternity and Sorority Life awards, philanthropy, and social events 

with fraternities are just some of the activities in which sorority women are involved. 

The Panhellenic Association and individual chapters also sponsor educational programs 

and speakers on current topics, such as women’s issues, career planning, financial independence 

after college, wellness, sexual assault awareness, risk management, and leadership 

development. The most important thing to remember is that there is always something 

to do and always a place for you! 

PHC 

reality: 

Sororities are uniquely positioned to identify and develop women leaders within our college community today and in 

the local, national, and global communities of tomorrow. 

reality: 

Sororities are unified in their day-to-day operations and activities; members can identify and affect the social, 

economic, and political issues concerning the rights and progress of women in society. 

reality: 

Sororities lay the foundation for networking opportunities, the critical interdependence of women who rely on 

one another’s resourcefulness and who pull together for academic achievement, the success of the chapter, and 

contacts in the professional world. 

reality: 

Sorority women join together to identify matters in the women’s community that are relevant and significant to a 

women’s organization. 

Portico 2009-2010 

69

PHC 

GreeK weeK 

One of the most visible events planned 

each year by fraternity and sorority 

members is Greek Week, held during 

the spring semester. The office of 

Fraternity and Sorority Life begins 

planning in August for a series of events 

held in April. Past events have included 

swimming events, chariot races, 

concerts in downtown Blacksburg, 

talent shows, field games, and various 

competitions that build character 

and teamwork among the members of 

different chapters. Each Greek Week 

also includes a community-wide 

philanthropy event to raise money for a 

common cause. 

70 Portico 2009-2010 

SISTErhOOd ANd FrIENdShIP 

Joining a sorority is the beginning of a new experience with new friends and a “home away 

from home.” Although each chapter’s new-member program begins immediately following 

recruitment, each program extends for a different length of time. Some may continue 

throughout the entire spring semester, while some may be completed in four to eight weeks 

following bid acceptance. 

Asking questions about each chapter’s program content during the recruitment process 

will help you make the decision that best satisfies your needs. during the first semester of 

your association, all the activities are designed to orient you with your sorority’s history and 

goals, while working toward initiation. Activities such as retreats, service projects, meetings, 

study hours, and philanthropy participation will help you build a strong foundation 

for sorority life. 

Although each sorority differs in the specifics of its new-member period, they all have one 

basic goal in common: demonstrating what it means to be a sister! One of the most enjoyable 

parts of joining a sorority involves making new friends and forming bonds that will last long 

after college. Not only will you learn to live with others, you also will develop a very special 

closeness to those around you by sharing the same experiences, environment, and interests. 

As friends, they will share in your success, excitement, anguish, and happiness. As sisters, 

they will become a family to you, embracing both your weaknesses and your strengths, and 

standing beside you. 

Sisterhood means more than wearing Greek letters, attending meetings, and going to 

events. It is a feeling of unconditional friendship that comes from being respected for your 

individuality. It is being loved for who you are. Sisterhood is the making of friendships 

that will last a lifetime, and it will help you through both good and bad times. It is having 

women there to support you through your college and life transitions. Whether it is your 

“big sister,” your roommates, or your new-member class sisters, you will find many women 

you can count on to be there during one of the most important times in your life.

SChOLArShIP ANd ACAdEMICS 

PHC 

Academics and grades are the mainstays of college life, and the sororities at Virginia Tech recognize the importance of integrating 

scholarship and the sorority experience. The Panhellenic Council requires a 2.0 GPA and 12 completed college hours to participate in 

formal recruitment. Each of the individual sororities has its own requirement to join and be initiated. The GPA requirement for a first-year 

student to join ranges from 2.2 to 2.6, depending on the national organization. Please visit the Panhellenic Council website at www. 

vtphc.com, or look through the chapter pages in this guide for individual chapter GPA requirements. It is important to understand that if 

your GPA is below a chapter’s requirements, your chances of joining will be significantly decreased. 

Virginia Tech sorority women want their members to do well academically, and there are many programs in place to help. A number of 

chapters have study hall hours to assist in time management, test files that are approved by professors to help you prepare for exams, 

and tutor programs to create an environment in which members can excel. The Panhellenic Council offers academic scholarships each 

year, as do many of the individual chapters and their national organizations. 

Collegiate fraternal organizations were founded on the principle of successful scholarship. The academic performance of each chapter 

is tabulated every semester to determine overall chapter rankings. The all-sorority average has traditionally been higher than the undergraduate 

all-women’s average. 

For the past several years, the Virginia Tech Panhellenic Association has been recognized by the National Panhellenic Conference for having 

superior scholarship programming. They have also been awarded the prestigious Scholarship Award by the NPC, which acknowledges 

those schools that consistently raise their all-sorority grade point average. 

SOCIAL ACTIvITIES 

Social activities can vary largely from chapter to chapter, but they are great opportunities for a sorority to develop sisterhood and friendships. 

Chapters work year-round to plan events with other organizations on campus to strengthen the bonds between their members. 

The Panhellenic chapters of Virginia Tech are proud of the bond between the more than 2,000 sisters involved. Panhellenic takes 

an active interest in building well-rounded women and sponsors many programs on campus to cultivate character, integrity, and 

the ability to work well with others. Many times, a chapter will co-sponsor an event brought to campus by a sorority to show its 

support for the sisters and its cause. 

Sorority chapters often sponsor sister socials with other Panhellenic or NPHC organizations. For instance, sisters from different 

chapters often host socials with movies or cookouts at Oak Lane. Often, new-member classes will put on such events to bond with 

their class and visit with women from other chapters whom they met during the recruitment process. Chapters also organize events 

with the men’s organizations on campus, ranging from socials in the community to movie nights to making dinner together in the 

chapter house. One of the most prominent sorority and fraternity collaborative events is Homecoming. Each year, sororities are 

paired with different fraternities to plan a week’s worth of events leading up to Homecoming day. The week ends with a parade 

through downtown. 

Chapters plan many events for members only, as well. Events such as sisterhood retreats at the beach, white-water rafting weekends, 

member sleepovers in the house, and date parties are some of the events sorority social life has to offer. Each year, chapters 

host special formal and semi-formal events for their members, and most have weekends planned for parents and family to visit and 

see how sorority involvement is positively affecting their Hokies’ lives. 

Through the planned and spontaneous events that come along with a sorority experience, many women find some of their lifelong 

best friends. Sisters are often found spending time in the chapter house and getting ready for events together, and often end up 

living together during and after college. Being part of a sisterhood at Virginia Tech means discovering a home away from home and 

making a large campus seem a great deal smaller. Opportunities to make memories and friendships that will last a lifetime are 

brought to your fingertips when you join a Panhellenic organization. 

Portico 2009-2010 

71

PHC 

On numerous occasions, the Virginia 

Tech Panhellenic Association has 

been recognized by the National 

Panhellenic Conference as having 

a GPA above that of the all-women’s 

average at Virginia Tech. 

Every year, national organizations 

and their local chapters award 

scholarships to women, as does the 

Panhellenic Council. 

Each October, every Panhellenic 

Association across the country 

celebrates the Month of the Scholar, 

recognizing those women who excel 

academically and honoring those who 

contribute to their successes. 

72 Portico 2009-2010 

SErvICE ANd PhILANThrOPy 

Sorority women’s interests and concerns go far beyond the confines of campus life. Sororities 

sponsor a multitude of activities each year to affect the local community and earn 

money for special philanthropies. Every chapter volunteers time to a particular project. At 

least once a year, each sorority holds a Panhellenic Association-wide event that involves 

other sorority and fraternity chapters in raising money for their specific causes. 

Each year, the Panhellenic Council fills campus and community needs through its sponsorship 

and support of events such as clothing drives, canned food drives, toiletry drives, and 

more. They also take part in the Montgomery County Christmas Store and host a children’s 

trick-or-treat program with the help of fraternities in the Greek residential housing community, 

Oak Lane. 

Many individual sorority women volunteer in local programs, such as Big Brothers/Big 

Sisters, the YMCA, Take Back the Night, and Head Start. Others are directly involved in 

the Virginia Tech Volunteer Program. 

The opportunities you encounter to contribute to your community, both locally and nationally 

will be endless. Not only do sorority members give their individual time and effort, but 

they also see a huge success through the large group participation that goes into each and 

every project. Last year, the fraternity and sorority community raised more than $100,000 

and put in more than 60,000 hours of community service for various philanthropies. The 

ability to give of oneself is probably one of the most important qualities a woman will 

develop through sorority life. 

Last year, the Fraternity and Sorority community raised more than $87,000 and 

put in more than 60,000 hours of community service for various philanthropies. 

The Panhellenic Council sponsored the Up ‘Til dawn event, raising over $64,000 this 

year alone.

LEAdErShIP ANd INvOLvEMENT 

Membership in a sorority provides numerous opportunities for students to become involved 

in leadership roles. As a chapter officer or coordinator of a chapter event or community service 

project, you can develop valuable leadership skills within your sorority. Each chapter 

has committee structures that allow members to be a part of many operational aspects of 

the sorority. Chapters provide educational programming in areas such as time management, 

leadership, communication, networking, and other relevant topics. Greek women 

participate in many campus leadership activities. 

An individual chapter is a stepping stone to getting involved in larger leadership roles. 

Sorority membership automatically gives you the opportunity to become a part of the 

Panhellenic Council’s executive board or delegation. By working with the women in your 

chapter, you will be exposed to numerous campus-wide organizations, such as new student 

orientation, Student Government Association, class officers, the Collegiate Times, and 

hundreds of special-interest clubs. This is evident by the large number of Greeks representing 

the most influential groups on campus. 

Being Greek provides a resource network when looking for employment. Greek alumnae 

understand the experience of being a team player while maintaining individuality. The 

desire to excel, both in and out of the classroom, and commitment to the betterment 

of the community are traits that employers look for and recognize as attributes of Greek 

members. For these reasons, sorority life offers an excellent opportunity for networking. In 

our changing and competitive world, it is important to establish relationships with people 

beyond the university. Knowing and interacting with sorority alumnae can help build this 

crucial bridge to success. 

FINANCES ANd hOuSINg 

Just as it is important to be informed of the costs associated with a college education, we 

feel it is equally important to understand the costs of joining a sorority. We are delighted to 

say that our dues at Virginia Tech are some of the lowest in the country, especially among 

southern universities. 

Each individual sorority has different financial obligations associated with membership 

in its chapter. You should plan to ask questions on how the sororities schedule payment 

and for what else, outside of dues; you will be expected to pay. Many sororities do not 

assess, which means they will never ask for additional payment once you have paid dues 

for that semester. 

The most important thing to keep in mind regarding finances is that you will never feel as 

though your money is going to waste while you are a part of the Panhellenic Association. 

With all the opportunities provided by sorority membership, we guarantee that you can get 

more out of your money than you put in! 

PHC 

sorority finances 

(Per seMester) 

Sister 

Range $200–$450 

Average $360 

New Member 

Range $545–$820 

Average $640 

wHere is My 

Money GoinG? 

Philanthropy events 

National dues 

Sorority pin and initiation 

materials 

Parents’ weekends 

Tailgates 

Formal and semi-formal 

dances 

Founders Day banquets 

Recruitment activities 

Sisterhood retreats 

Socials 

Date parties 

Sisters-only events 

Portico 2009-2010 

73

PHC 

74 Portico 2009-2010 

LIvINg IN ThE hOuSE 

Most sororities require each member to live at least one year in the chapter house. Every 

sorority has its own system of filling the house each year, whether on a volunteer basis, 

through officer obligation, or by some other method. This will be important for you to 

inquire about while going through this formal recruitment program. 

All the Panhellenic Council sororities at Virginia Tech have houses in the on-campus Oak 

Lane Community, which also houses six fraternities. This area is set behind the golf course 

and duck Pond, but it is still within walking distance of campus. There is a bus that runs 

to and from campus every eight minutes on weekdays. While living in one of these houses, 

women are able to purchase a commuter pass that allows them to drive to class and an 

on-campus dining plan that will let them retain regular dining center usage. 

The Oak Lane sorority houses sleep either 32 or 36 sisters in double bedrooms. Each house 

has some storage, a great room for meetings and social events, and amenities ranging from 

study rooms to gyms. Each of the Oak Lane houses also employs a house supervisor, who is 

a sister of the chapter trained as a resident advisor. The houses of Oak Lane allow chapters 

to have a place of their own while still enjoying many of the conveniences of on-campus 

life. The houses are owned and inspected by the university twice a year and are decorated, 

maintained, and enhanced by the individual chapters. 

Living in the house is one of the best experiences to have while in a sorority at Virginia 

Tech. Not only are you surrounded by a large number of your sisters on a daily basis, but 

you are situated at the center of your sorority. The house is the hub of sorority life, and living 

there gives you even more opportunities to get involved with whatever events are going 

on. From rounding up your sisters to hang out, to having a sleepover in the great room, to 

getting a group together in the study lounge before a huge exam, countless memories will 

be made simply by living in the house.

ECruITMENT INFOrMATION 

forMal recruitMent 

The formal recruitment program is the primary way the Panhellenic sororities acquire new 

members. It will take place over two weekends in January. This period consists of a Go 

Greek Kick-off Orientation Program and four rounds of events that allow Potential New 

Members the opportunity to learn about each sorority at Virginia Tech, as well as what 

it means to be involved in sorority life. These events will give you the opportunity to ask 

questions, from what each of the sororities require to what a member’s personal experience 

has been. 

It is important to recognize that this is a mutual selection process. After each round, you 

will be asked to release a certain number of sororities, and each sorority will be expected 

to release a certain number of women. Participation does not obligate you to join a sorority, 

nor does it guarantee membership in one. However, we truly believe that as long as you go 

in with an open mind, you will find your place in one of our amazing sororities and be very 

happy at the end of the program. 

reGistration 

To participate in formal recruitment, a woman must be a full-time, undergraduate student 

at Virginia Tech who has achieved 12 credits and at least 2.0 GPA. The online registration 

form must be filled out and turned in with a $75 registration fee (checks made payable to 

Treasurer of Virginia Tech) and are due by the date indicated on the council website (www. 

vtphc.com). After that date, the registration fee will be $85. You can get registration information 

at one of the many tables set up around campus during the month of November or at 

the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life in suite 117, New Hall West. Registration should be 

completed online. Potential new members are encouraged to register as early as possible to 

ensure a smooth and quick set up. 

recruitMent counselors 

Every woman who registers for formal recruitment will be assigned a recruitment counselor 

(Rho Gamma). These women serve as counselors up to and during the events of formal 

recruitment. They will help you understand the specifics of the process and act as mentors 

while you make important decisions. These women are returning sorority members who are 

temporarily disaffiliated from their organizations for this purpose. By not representing a 

sorority, they will be able to give you unbiased and honest support. 

Approximately 25 women will be assigned to each recruitment counselor, and this will 

make up your recruitment group. These women will be going through the process with 

you, so you begin to feel connected right away. Many women become close to the women 

in their groups, regardless of whether or not they end up joining the same sorority. This 

aspect makes formal recruitment very enjoyable and begins to show you how Fraternity and 

Sorority Life can provide ways to build lasting friendships. 

PHC 

DiD you Know? 

During your new-member period, 

you will receive a “big sister” who 

will guide you through the process 

and become a fabulous part of your 

sorority experience! 

The average chapter size after 

formal recruitment is 128 members, 

including a new-member class of 

over 40 women. There are more than 

620 college and university Panhel- 

lenic Associations and more than 

5,300 alumnae associations, making 

up more than 3.5 million sorority 

women worldwide. 

Portico 2009-2010 

75

PHC 

TOOLS OF SuCCESSFuL rECruITMENT 

Meals 

All women going through recruitment will go out to dinner with their recruitment group at the beginning of the process. This meal is 

usually paid for by the woman and not by the Panhellenic Council. Lunch during recruitment days will be provided, at no cost, during the 

break in parties. All other formal meals during formal recruitment will be the responsibility of the potential new members. 

transPortation 

Potential new members (PNMs) will not be permitted to park at the Oak Lane Community during the formal recruitment program. Therefore, 

buses designated for this process will pick up PNMs at various stops around campus to transport them to Oak Lane. Likewise, the 

buses will drop off PNMs at those same stops at the end of each night. The stops will be in a variety of places, including residence hall 

areas and parking lots. 

FAqS 

if i go through recruitment, do i have to join a sorority? 

Participation in recruitment does not obligate you to join. You may withdraw at any point. This process is a time for you to meet people, 

evaluate an opportunity, and make a decision that is best for you. 

Do i need any recommendations or letters of reference? 

Some chapters may review letters of reference from alumnae members recommending a potential new member. However, a letter of reference is 

not required by the Virginia Tech Panhellenic Council. A letter of reference does not guarantee full membership in a sorority, nor is it necessary 

for acceptance. 

i’m a legacy to a sorority. is there anything special that i should know? 

Each sorority views legacy status differently. Some consider only daughters or sisters of alumnae, while some extend it to granddaughters, 

nieces, and cousins. Every potential new member is evaluated individually. Therefore, no chapter is obligated to extend membership to 

a legacy. Likewise, you should not feel pressure to join a certain sorority because of your legacy status. 

what should i talk about? 

It is important to be yourself during recruitment and let the conversation flow naturally. don’t be afraid to ask questions—it is as important 

for you to get to know the sorority members as it is for the members to get to know you. Some questions you might ask are: 

What are the expectations of your new member program? 

What is your philanthropy? 

What kind of academic programs do you have? 

In what types of campus and community activities are your sorority members involved? 

when will i get my recruitment counselor? 

After you register for recruitment, you will be contacted by your recruitment counselor (Rho Gamma), who will assist you up to and 

throughout the week of formal recruitment. Women will be contacted at different times depending on when they registered and when 

their recruitment counselor is assigned. 

76 Portico 2009-2010

POTENTIAL NEW MEMBEr 

guIdELINES 

1. Registering for formal recruitment does not guarantee a bid for possible membership. 

2. Recruitment registration fees are nonrefundable. 

3. A woman is eligible to participate in formal recruitment if she is enrolled at 

Virginia Tech as a full-time student with at least 12 credit hours, and a 2.0 GPA. 

4. A potential new member may continue through formal recruitment until she receives 

no further membership invitations. 

5. The university requires 12 hours and a 2.0 grade point average for a first-year student 

to be initiated as a member of a Greek organization. 

6. A woman who has pledged a sorority at another school, but has not been initiated 

into that organization is eligible for formal recruitment at Virginia Tech. The 

transfer has automatically made her eligible. 

7. Incompletes and grade changes will be honored only if they are submitted to the 

office of Fraternity and Sorority Life by Friday, January 8, 2010. 

8. Each potential new member must attend all sorority recruitment parties that 

she is invited to throughout the week. The only exceptions will be conflicting 

classes or illnesses. These exceptions must be documented in the form of a 

letter presented to the Rho Gamma. If a woman “skips” a party she will be 

dismissed from recruitment. 

9. Potential new members will wear name tags throughout the week, provided by 

the Panhellenic Council. 

10. A potential new member will not leave any party with anything she did not bring 

with her. 

11. Any potential new member who wishes to submit an explanation for low grades 

in order to be considered by sororities with higher GPA requirements must fill 

out a form provided by her recruitment counselor. However, you must have a 

2.0 GPA and 12 hours to attend formal recruitment. Chapters can not consider 

a woman for membership if she does not meet that standard. These will be 

considered by the sorority only on the basis of extreme illnesses or family emergencies 

that occurred in the previous semester. It is EXTREMELY important to 

ensure you have a solid academic first semester if you want to consider joining 

a sorority. 

12. No refunds will be given after a potential new member registers for the formal 

recruitment program. 

PHC 

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77

PHC 

POTENTIAL NEW MEMBErS 

BILL OF rIghTS 

Potential new MeMbers Have tHe riGHt to: 

1. Be treated as an individual. 

2. Be fully informed about the recruitment process. 

3. Ask questions and receive objective answers from the PHC recruitment leadership team, Panhellenic executive officers, and 

recruitment counselor. 

4. Be treated with respect. 

5. Be treated as a capable and mature person without being patronized. 

6. Ask how and why, and receive honest answers. 

7. Have and express opinions to a recruitment counselor. 

8. Have inviolable confidentiality when sharing information with a recruitment counselor. 

9. Make informed choices without pressure from others. 

10. Be fully informed about the binding agreement implicit in the preference card signing. 

11. Make their own choices and decisions, and accept full responsibility for the results of their decision. 

12. Have a positive, safe, enriching recruitment and new member education experience. 

78 Portico 2009-2010

WhAT TO WEAr 

The purpose of this section is to give you an idea of what most women will be wearing during each round. 

We want you to be dressed as comfortably as possible during formal recruitment. 

PHilantHroPy rounD, sunDay 

In the morning, you will receive your schedule for the day from 

your recruitment counselor. You will visit a maximum of nine 

chapters at your scheduled time. You will spend 30 minutes at 

each chapter event to learn about their individual philanthropies 

and community service activities. Remember to stay comfortable 

for this round and keep in mind that you may be sitting on the 

chapter house floor for their presentations. 

suGGestions: 

Nice jeans, khakis, Oxford shirt, sweater, blouse, boots. Remember 

it will be cold, please bring appropriate clothes to stay warm 

when you are outside. 

PHC 

oPen House rounD, 

friDay & saturDay 

during the open house round event, you will be able to visit all 13 

sororities. Spending 20 minutes in each chapter will give you the 

opportunity to meet as many women as possible and inquire about 

aspects of all of the NPC chapters. This day is focused on all the fun 

things that sororities partake in, such as their community involvement, 

school spirit, socials, and scholarship within each chapter. 

This day is very relaxed, so have fun and dress comfortably! 

suGGestions: 

Nice jeans, cotton sweater, button-down shirt, Oxford shirt, loafers, 

boots. Remember it will be cold, please bring appropriate 

clothes to stay warm when you are outside. 

Portico 2009-2010 

79

PHC 

sisterHooD rounD, friDay 

Again, you will receive your schedule for the evening from your recruitment 

counselor. You will visit a maximum of five chapters. With 

45 minutes at each chapter house, you will get the opportunity to 

begin to understand what it means to be a sister of each chapter. 

This night is more serious and, in many cases, more emotional. In 

most houses, you will see a video or presentation about the sisterhood. 

This is an ideal time to ask questions about sisters’ personal 

experiences. The attire is a little dressier for this round. 

suGGestions: 

dress pants, winter skirt, dressy blouse, heeled boots. Remember 

it will be cold, please bring appropriate clothes to stay warm when 

you are outside. 

80 Portico 2009-2010 

Preference rounD, saturDay 

You will receive your schedule for the evening from your recruitment 

counselor. You will visit a maximum of three chapters. The 

hour-long event at each chapter house may include personal 

testimonies from sisters, or you may be invited to participate in 

a chapter ritual. This evening allows you to get even closer to 

women you have met in each chapter. This is the time to start 

thinking about which chapter you feel most comfortable in and 

where you can see yourself for life. This night is the most formal 

and, consequently, the dressiest. 

suGGestions: 

dress/suit pants, cocktail blouse, cocktail dress, sleeved dress, 

closed-toed sandals/dress shoes. Remember it will be cold, please 

bring appropriate clothes to stay warm when you are outside.

INFOrMAL rECruITMENT 

Although the formal recruitment program is our largest means of bringing new members 

into our organizations, we also have a period called informal recruitment that takes place 

each fall semester and after formal recruitment in the spring. There are many differences 

between formal and informal recruitment that are important to keep in mind. 

Many women find the informal, relaxed atmosphere of open recruitment as a less 

stressful and more enjoyable way to take part in Greek Life at Virginia Tech. Like formal 

recruitment you must have at least 12 hours and a 2.0 GPA before a sorority can 

extend you an invitation to join. Therefore, first semester freshmen cannot participate 

in informal recruitment. 

There are many differences between formal and informal recruitment that are important 

to keep in mind: 

1. Informal recruitment usually does not involve all of the sororities. Those who do 

take part usually have only a few spots open for new members. Since you will 

not be meeting all of our chapters it is important you know you feel comfortable 

with the chapter you are considering during informal recruitment. If you want 

the chance to explore all sororities, formal recruitment is the place for you. 

2. Next, informal recruitment is a much less structured process. You do not get the 

overall view of Greek life, nor do you see what each sorority is about. Because of 

this limited spectrum, most of the women who go through informal recruitment 

already have a better feel for which sororities they would be comfortable joining. 

3. Lastly, because most sororities do not accept many women during informal 

recruitment, you experience a different “new member period” than the majority 

of women in sororities have. Many times these are smaller new member classes. 

However, you still have the same opportunities to bond with your new member 

class as a group. 

PHC 

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81

PHC 

ACW 

Nickname: alpha chi 




www.alphachiomega.org 


Chapter Name: 

epsilon tau 



March 31, 1973 


www.vtalphachiomega.org 


“together, let us 

seek the Heights” 




Housing Requirements: 1 year 

Philanthropy: 

victims of Domestic violence/ 

alpha chi omega foundation 


condoleeza rice 

trista rehn sutter 

82 Portico 2009-2010 

ALPhA ChI OMEgA 

exPenses: 


$745 



Alpha Chi Omega is a sorority founded 

upon values, leadership, academics, and 

above all, friendship. The bond its sisters 

hold will be with them during their college 

years and throughout their lives. 

acaDeMics: 





Alpha Chi Omega was founded on October 

15, 1885, at dePauw University in Greencastle, 

Indiana. Professor James Hamilton 

Howe, dean of the Music School, invited 

seven young women to attend a meeting 

for the purpose of forming a society, and 

Alpha Chi Omega was born. The founders chose “Alpha,” the first letter of the Greek alphabet, 

because they were the first fraternity in the School of Music. They thought they also 

might be the last such fraternity, therefore “Omega,” the last letter of the Greek alphabet, 

seemed appropriate. “Chi,” meaning “and,” brings the name to mean “The first and the 

last.” Alpha Chi Omega’s colors, scarlet red and olive green, were chosen to commemorate 

the fraternity’s autumn founding. The opening motto, “Together, let us seek the heights,” 

exemplifies their unity and passion for exceeding excellence. 

The Epsilon Tau chapter of Alpha Chi Omega is dedicated to Virginia Tech and the surrounding 

community. Its sisters are involved in organizations such as club sports, community 

service organizations, and professional clubs. Alpha Chi Omega takes great pride in their philanthropy, 

supporting victims and survivors of domestic violence. Each year, Alpha Chi holds 

Mock Rock to raise money for the Women’s Center of the New River Valley and Alpha Chi 

Omega Foundation. Sisters visit the Women’s Center shelter every year to help families who 

have been abused and are in need of positive support. Alpha Chi Omega recently received 

the Academy of Excellence Award as well as Outstanding Philanthropic Participation. 

From socials to volunteering, date parties to tailgates, formals to philanthropy events, the 

sisterhood of Alpha Chi continues to grow strong.

ALPhA dELTA PI 

exPenses: 


$769 



On May 15, 1851, at Wesleyan Female College in Macon, Georgia, six young women 

desiring to enhance themselves mentally, morally, and socially, came together and founded 

Alpha delta Pi, the first secret society for college women. 

The Eta Pi chapter was chartered at Virginia 

Tech on April 21, 1990. Each year 

it contributes to AdPi’s international philanthropy, 

the Ronald Mcdonald House, 

through a week-long event known as Safari 

Hunt. This past year, over $4,000 was 

raised to benefit the Ronald Mcdonald 

House in Roanoke, Virginia. 

The Eta Pi chapter has received much national 

and local recognition for strengths 

and accomplishments. Alpha delta Pi has been recognized by the Greek community for 

Best Sisterhood, Highest GPA, and has also received the Panhellenic Cup of Excellence 

Award, the most prestigious award a chapter can receive from Panhellenic Council at 


Nationally, it has been recognized with the Excellence Award, given to chapters that show 

outstanding accomplishments with leadership, member education, finance, and campus 

involvement. It is currently striving to become a Golden Lion Hall of Fame chapter, the 

most prestigious national award for Alpha delta Pi chapters. 

Alpha delta Pi’s mascot is Alphie the lion, 

and its flower is a Woodland Violet. The 

official badge consists of a black enamel 

diamond displaying clasped hands, two 

stars, and its Greek letters. Its open motto, 

“We live for each other,” truly displays the 

founding principles of Alpha delta Pi, with 

which come the never-ending feelings of love, 

friendship, and sisterhood that will continue 

to grow forever. 

Alpha, delta, Pi: What do these three 

words mean to you? To thousands of women 

internationally, they mean the beginning 

of something new, the opportunity for lifechanging 

experiences, and the relationships 

which have changed their lives forever. 

acaDeMics: 





PHC 

ADP 

Nickname: aDPi 


May 15, 1851 


www.alphadeltapi.org 


Chapter Name: eta Pi 



april 21, 1990 


www.adpivirginiatech.com 

Motto: “we live for each other” 





Philanthropy: safari Hunt 


Michelle Pfeiffer 

emily Proctor 

Deana carter 

Kathy bates 

Jean smart 

Portico 2009-2010 

83

PHC 

AGD 

Nickname: alpha Gam 


May 30, 1904 


www.alphagammadelta.org 


Chapter Name: 

theta chi 


Founding Date: 

april 29, 2006 


www.alphagam.org.vt.edu 


“inspire the woman, 

impact the world” 





Minimum one year 

Philanthropy: 

alpha Gamma Delta foundation 

Diabetes research 

and treatment 


rita coolidge 

fran allison 

Donna fargo 

amber brkich 

Dorothy Provine 

84 Portico 2009-2010 

ALPhA gAMMA dELTA 

exPenses: 


$695 + the purchase of badge 

Fall Semester dues: $420 in 

house/$520 out of house 

Spring Semester dues: $420 in 

house/$520 out of house 

More than 100 years ago, 11 young women 

at Syracuse University chose to dream 

big and impact the world. These women 

founded Alpha Gamma delta. 

Guided by its purpose, Alpha Gamma 

delta continues to progress as a premiere 

women’s group. With 182 installed collegiate 

chapters, more than 250 alumnae 

groups, and over 140,000 initiated sisters, 

the sorority empowers members to strive to 

embody its values and ideals. 

acaDeMics: 





With each new sister, the dream of the founders continues to thrive. Much like the petals 

of a rose, each sister contributes her unique skills, personality, and talents, helping the 

rose grow larger and more beautiful. The fraternity makes a unique, lifelong impact on 

its members. No matter where life takes an Alpha Gam, she will always find herself surrounded 

by sisterhood. 

Benefits of Alpha Gam membership are endless—from leadership opportunities and 

scholarship incentives to personal development and, most importantly, sisterhood. Alpha 

Gamma delta provides its members memories that will last a lifetime and the skills to help 

them be successful women. Its sisters believe in the importance of contributing to their 

community and to the world. 

Alpha Gams grow more and more each year by having a strong bond of sisterhood, trust, and 

friendship within the chapter, as well as with those outside of Alpha Gamma delta. The sisters 

are involved in many organizations: ROTC, Panhellenic Council, Virginia Tech Union, Hokie 

Ambassadors, individual school organizations, and scholastic honors organizations. While they 

like to have fun, Alpha Gamma delta also values scholastics and education. They place high 

expectations on all members to do their best with academics, be involved in the chapter and 

the community, and most importantly, strive to be the best woman they can be!

ALPhA PhI 

exPenses: 


$726 

Fall Semester dues: $295 in house 

and $395 out of house 

Spring Semester dues: $295 in house 

and $295 out of house 

Alpha Phi has a long and proud history. 

It exists today because of the vision and 

ideals of its founders. Its future depends 

on how its members understand and 

invest in the idea that women bound together 

in sisterhood provide the strength 

and support that fosters achievement. 

Alpha Phi as a whole has made its mark 

in gaining women’s rights on college 

campuses and shaping Greek systems 

around the world. Alpha Phi milestones 

remind its members that a group of 

women bound by sisterhood seeking 

higher ideals can make a difference. 

acaDeMics: 





The objectives of the chapter at Virginia 

Tech are the promotion of growth in character, 

unity of feeling, sisterly affection, 

and social communion among members. 

In all that its members do, they try to 

obey God’s principles of justice and right. 

The members have banded together to 

improve their minds and hearts, and they 

seek to aid each other through constant 

care always given in love. They believe 

they are sincere searchers for truth. 

Members seek the highest ideal of womanhood 

and try to gain this ideal by cultivating 

not only the power and passion 

for seeking intellectual development, but 

also the spirit of love and charity. They 

are united under a solemn pledge to lend 

a helping hand to one another. 

The chapter upholds pride, excellence, and charisma. It is a group of women who 

actively contribute to the Greek community at Virginia Tech. They are devoted sisters 

and lifelong friends. “We believe in ourselves, we believe in each other…we believe in 

Alpha Phi.” 

PHC 

AF 

Nickname: a Phi 




www.alphaphi.org 


Chapter Name: 

eta omicron 


Chartering Year: 

1989 


www.vtalphaphi.com 


“union Hand in Hand” 





executive committee 

Philanthropy: 

say what Karaoke 

Move your Phi’t 

red Dress Gala 

Famous Alumnae: 

Jeri ryan 

Kimberly williams-Paisley 

virginia Patton Moss 

Janet Murguia 

Portico 2009-2010 

85

PHC 

CW 

Nickname: chi o 


april 5, 1895 


www.chiomega.com 


Chapter Name: 

sigma lambda 





www.vtchiomega.org 


“real women, 

real sisterhood, 

real fun” 




Housing Requirements: yes 

Philanthropy: 

flag football 

capture the flag tournament 


Harper lee 

lucy liu 

sela ward 

86 Portico 2009-2010 

ChI OMEgA 

exPenses: 


$450 + $145 for house corporation 

Fall Semester dues: $265 + $145 for 

house corporation 

Spring Semester dues: $265 + $145 

for house corporation 

acaDeMics: 





On the evening of April 5, 1985, five founders (Jean Vincenheller, Ina Mae Bowles, Jobelle 

Holcombe, Alice Simonds, and Charles Richardson) met in secret to plan for a new organization 

at the University of Arkansas. Chi Omega has since grown more than 17 chapters 

nationwide with eight chapters in Virginia and more than 300,000 initiates. Its members 

are proud to be a part of the nation’s largest women’s fraternity and the realization of their 

founders’ dreams. Since its beginning, Chi Omega has nurtured its members by providing 

them with unique opportunities in leadership, scholarship, and lifelong friendship. 

The Sigma Lambda chapter was founded at Virginia Tech in 1987. Chi Omegas pride 

themselves on having a wide range of involvement and a diverse group of sisters. Sisters 

are involved with class offices, the corps of cadets, campus ministries, university employment, 

sports teams, Panhellenic Council, and judicial board. 

The Make-A-Wish Foundation is the beloved philanthropy of Chi Omega. Its sisters host 

a capture-the-flag tournament in the spring, and a flag football tournament in the fall to 

raise money. For the first time, Chi Omega participated in the walk for wishes, raising the 

most money and helping to grant two wishes. They continue to set higher goals and strive 

for new things each year. 

Chi Omegas take pride in and live by a creed called the Chi Omega Symphony that has 

inspired not only the sisters, but the people around them: “To live constantly above snobbery 

of word or deed; to place scholarship before social obligation and character before 

appearances; to be, in the best sense, democratic rather than ‘exclusive’ and loveable 

rather than ’popular’; to work earnestly, to speak kindly, to act sincerely, to choose thoughtfully 

that course which occasion and conscience demand; to be womanly always; to be 

discouraged never…”

dELTA dELTA dELTA 

exPenses: 


$661 


(no assessing) 


(no assessing) 

acaDeMics: 





A delta delta delta lady is someone who truly feels comfortable in her own skin. She is 

a part of a diverse group of sisters who come together to create something unique and 

special. She enjoys an incredible sisterhood that is exemplified by a strong network of 

friendship, support, and understanding. A Tri delta never finds herself without a friend to 

laugh with and cry with, and most importantly, share the ups and downs of life with. 

delta delta delta was founded on Thanksgiving eve in 1888 at Boston University. Its 

mascot, the dolphin, is symbolic of clear skies and smooth sailing. The symbols of delta 

delta delta are the pearl, the pine, and the pansy. Each symbol carries special meaning 

to different stages of Tri delta membership. The pearl was chosen to represent the new 

member because it is the only jewel that grows, developing from a tiny nucleus into a 

thing of great beauty. The pine is a symbol of strong character and guides active collegiate 

members, along with their devotion to Tri delta and their faithfulness to her precepts, to 

develop into womanhood. The pansy represents alumnae, and suggests tenderness and 

friendship, while the varied colors represent the differing personalities within each chapter 

and throughout all Tri deltas nationwide. 

The purpose of delta delta delta is to establish a perpetual bond of friendship among members, 

develop a strong and womanly character, broaden the moral and intellectual life, and 

assist its members in every possible way. Tri delta promotes unselfish leadership among 

its members. Its ideals encourage members to assume the highest responsibility of college 

women while preserving integrity and devotion to moral and democratic principles. 

PHC 

DDD 

Nickname: tri Delta 




www.tridelta.org 


Chapter Name: beta nu 



May 5, 1973 


www.vtdeltas.com 


“let us steadfastly 

love one another” 





executive officer residency 

Philanthropy: 

st. Jude’s children’s 

research Hospital 


Katie couric 

Molly sims 

Hoda Kotb 

Portico 2009-2010 

87

PHC 

DG 

Nickname: DG 




www.deltagamma.org 


Chapter Name: Delta rho 





www.dgvt.net 

Motto: “Do Good” 

Active Members: 

121 in fall 2009 




Philanthropy: 

anchorsplash (service for sight) 


Julia louis Dreyfus 

Patricia Heaton 

sabrina bryan 

88 Portico 2009-2010 

dELTA gAMMA 

exPenses: 


$775 



delta Gamma was founded in 1873 in 

Oxford, Mississippi at the Lewis School 

for Girls near the University of Mississippi. 

The early growth for delta Gamma 

was confined to southern women’s colleges. 

Within a few years, delta Gamma 

was established in other regions of the 

United States. delta Gamma was one of 

the seven charter members of the National 

Panhellenic Conference when the first 

inter-sorority meeting was held in Boston, 

Massachusetts in 1891. 

acaDeMics: 





The delta Rho chapter of the delta Gamma fraternity began as delta Rho Sorority. Six 

women of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University founded the sorority in the 

spring of 1966. delta Rho petitioned delta Gamma fraternity after Marsha Strickland, then 

the fraternity’s national president, visited in the winter of 1971. The Virginia Tech colony 

was chartered on October 16, 1971 as the 99th chapter of delta Gamma. delta Rho was 

the second chapter in Virginia to receive its charter. 

Our sisters come together from various backgrounds to form the diverse group of women 

that make up delta Gamma today. They unite over the common desire to form lasting 

friendships that will take them beyond their college days. Sisterhood offers the strength of 

a friend who will walk with you throughout life. Experiences within delta Gamma are one 

of a kind.

dELTA ZETA 

exPenses: 


$650 



acaDeMics: 





In 1902, Miami University admitted women to full status as students in university courses. 

The newly installed president of Miami University offered his support and assistance to six 

ambitious women who were interested in forming a sorority, thus giving Miami University 

its feminine counterpart to the three national fraternities that had been founded there. 

delta Zeta sorority was founded on October 24, 1902, and within the following 18 years, 

had enough members to be qualified for the National Panhellenic Conference. Its founders 

dedicated their lives to the realization of high ideals they selected as their personal goals 

and the goals of the sorority. They made delta Zeta a vital, growing organization, which has 

become a strong national sisterhood of more than 95,000 young women and 190 chapters 

representing colleges and universities across the United States. 

delta Zeta gave Virginia Tech its first sorority on campus. Since its local founding in 1971, 

delta Zeta keeps growing stronger. 

A delta Zeta is a woman who knows the importance of sisterhood. She finds strength in 

the 130 amazing sisters that stand by her side when she needs it the most. A delta Zeta 

knows she is creating friendships that will last far beyond her college years. She knows 

throughout the course of her years at Virginia Tech that she is forming bonds with her 

sisters. A delta Zeta knows she belongs to one of the most social sororities on campus, but 

she never loses sight of her academic integrity. She upholds a unique personality that sets 

her apart from the thousands of women on the Virginia Tech campus. A delta Zeta is like 

no other; she’s proud to be a dee Zee. 

PHC 

DZ 

Nickname: Dee Zee 




www.deltazeta.org 


Chapter Name: 

Kappa theta 



March 6, 1971 


www.deltazeta.org.vt.edu 


enriching each other’s lives 





Philanthropy: 

ΔZ Classic 


courtney cox 

Meg ryan 

lilly Pulitzer 

Portico 2009-2010 

89

PHC 

KD 

Nickname: Kaydee 




www.kappadelta.org 


Chapter Name: epsilon Pi 



april 7, 1979 


www.kd.org.vt.edu 


“let us strive for that 

which is Honorable, 

beautiful, and Highest” 





Philanthropy: 

Prevent child 

abuse america 

Dove campaign 

for real beauty 

Girl scouts of america 

richmond children’s Hospital 


ali landry 

Georgia o’Keefe 

90 Portico 2009-2010 

kAPPA dELTA 

exPenses: 


$560 



acaDeMics: 





It was because of the desire to have a genuine circle of friends, all striving for the honorable 

values in life, that the founders started Kappa delta at Longwood University in 

Farmville, Virginia in 1897. The ideals of friendship, fellowship, and sisterly love have 

remained constant and strong for more than 100 years, just as the founders envisioned in 

the beginning. 

Over 200,000 members strong nationwide, Kappa delta joins with other sororities, campus 

organizations, university administrators, women’s groups and the community to make 

great things happen in the lives of others. Through programs and events such as “Stand 

Up! Stand Out!,” National Women’s Friendship day, and partnership with American Girl 

in the Anti-Bullying Campaign, Kappa deltas around the country are motivated to make a 

difference in the world. 

Virginia Tech’s chapter of Kappa delta is now 30 years old and has certainly made its mark 

on the university. Local members are actively involved in campus leadership, service to the 

community, and giving back to the organization that has given them so much. The local 

symbol is the woodstock, and the national symbols are the teddy bear, the dagger, and 

the nautilus shell. Kappa delta’s jewels are the diamond, emerald, and pearl. Memphis, 

Tennessee, hosts its headquarters. 

Imagine being part of a group that gives you an overpowering feeling of welcome, and 

love that you cannot describe. Imagine a circle of friendship based on the values of truth, 

honor, and duty. Imagine a sisterhood that makes you a better person by encouraging you 

to reach your full potential. Imagine laughter, tears, fun, and happiness. Imagine all of 

this…imagine Kd.

kAPPA kAPPA gAMMA 

exPenses: 


$690 



Kappa Kappa Gamma has carried on a 

tradition of leadership, scholarship and 

service since it was founded at Monmouth 

College in Monmouth, Illinois in 1870. 

Kappa’s six founders sought a place to 

pursue knowledge and friendship together 

with equality and excellence, believing that 

“In union, there is strength.” They began 

a community based on common interests 

and values that have lasted for more than 

a century. Since its beginning, Kappa has 

expanded to 134 chapters and more than 

300 alumni associations. 

acaDeMics: 





Since Kappa Kappa Gamma’s founding at Virginia Tech in 1985, the chapter has sought 

to uphold the ideals and values created by the founding members. Kappa strives for excellence 

in every part of the college experience, especially in academic, philanthropic, and 

social endeavors. Kappa at Virginia Tech has been recognized locally and nationally for its 

achievements in numerous areas. 

Kappas can be found in organizations all around the Virginia Tech community, including 

dance Company at Virginia Tech, All-Girl Cheer, Student Alumni Associates, Relay for Life 

Executive Council, Virginia Tech Union, Student Government, Hokie Ambassadors, and 

many honors fraternities. Kappas’ bond as sisters is one that can never be broken. 

Kappa is a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen, a laugh when you need one the most, and a 

hand to guide you forward. Kappa is individuality and diversity. Kappa is love, friendship, 

and faith. Most of all, it is a place to call home. The sisters of Kappa Kappa Gamma look 

forward to meeting the future women of the Virginia Tech Greek community. 

PHC 

KKG 

Nickname: Kappa 




www.kkg.org 


Chapter Name: Zeta Mu 





www.kkgvt.org 


“tradition of leadership” 





Philanthropy: 

reading is fundamental (rif) 

rose McGill fund 

Kappa Kappa Gamma 

foundation 

caitlin M. Hammaren Memorial 

scholarship fund 


Kate spade 

ashley Judd 

lo bosworth 

Portico 2009-2010 

91

PHC 

PBF 

Nickname: Pi Phi 


april 28, 1867 


www.pibetaphi.org 


Chapter Name: virginia Zeta 





www.pibetaphi.org/vt 


revealed upon initiation 





Philanthropy: 

first book 

champions are readers 

arrow in the arctic 

arrowmont 


barbara bush 

Jennifer Garner 

92 Portico 2009-2010 

PI BETA PhI 

exPenses: 


$672.50 



Pi Beta Phi Fraternity was founded at Monmouth 

College in Monmouth, Illinois, on 

April 28, 1867, as I.C. Sorosis. Pi Beta Phi 

was the first national secret college society 

of women to be modeled after the Greekletter 

fraternities of men. during a time 

when few women were admitted to colleges 

and universities, Pi Beta Phi created a feeling 

of unity among pioneering women. 

acaDeMics: 





The Virginia Tech Zeta Chapter was chartered 

in May of 1981 with 66 charter 

members. It was the eighth national sorority at Virginia Tech and the 166th Pi Beta Phi 

chapter internationally. 

Just when you think you are alone, you find a sister. In Pi Beta Phi, you share more than 

letters, you share experiences that will shape you into the woman you were meant to 

become and the woman you always wanted to be. Through socials, philanthropies, retreats, 

formals, and simply having the best friends of your life always by your side, Pi Beta Phi will 

leave you with the memories of a lifetime. Pi Beta Phi knows that each sister must travel 

her own path; the sisters are just fortunate to travel into their futures together.

SIgMA kAPPA 

exPenses: 


$550 



acaDeMics: 





For more than a century, Sigma Kappa Sorority has been uniting women in lifelong friendships. 

It has more than 200,000 members and 260 collegiate and alumnae chapters 

spanning from Maine to California. 

The Virginia Tech chapter was founded in 

1972, and is a strong member of the Panhellenic 

community. Sigma Kappa is proud to 

have received the Three Stars of Excellence 

four years in a row, which is the highest 

award a chapter can receive nationally. The 

chapter is also recognized locally for its 

achievements and is involved in a number 

of activities including pre-professional and 

business organizations, honor societies, 

publications, and athletics. 

The sisters of Sigma Kappa have great pride in their social, academic, and philanthropic 

success. The chapter hosts an annual prom at the local nursing home, Warm Hearth 

Village, and also has a team for the Alzheimer Association’s Memory Walk. Both events 

raise money for Alzheimer’s disease research, Sigma Kappa’s national philanthropy. Sigma 

Kappa’s greatest quality is its remarkable sisterhood. Though each sister’s dreams and 

goals are unique, their strength lies not in the differences, but in the bond created by 

Sigma Kappa. 

PHC 

SK 

Nickname: sigma Kay 




www.sigmakappa.org 


Chapter Name: 

epsilon chi 



May 20, 1972 


www.vtsigmakappa.org 


“one Heart, one way” 





Philanthropy: 

alzheimer’s Disease research 

Maine seacoast Mission 

inherit the earth 


linda cross Dowdy 

rhea sheddon 

Margaret chase smith 

Portico 2009-2010 

93

PHC 

ZTA 

Nickname: Zeta 




www.zetataualpha.org 


Chapter Name: eta xi 



april 29, 1972 


www.zetahokies.net 


“seek the noblest” 





Philanthropy: 

breast cancer awareness 

and education 


erin andrews 

faith Daniels 

94 Portico 2009-2010 

ZETA TAu ALPhA 

exPenses: 


$521 



acaDeMics: 





From its founding in 1898, the core meanings 

of Zeta Tau Alpha fraternity have remained 

unchanged through the preservation 

of and respect for its rituals. Members 

and chapters celebrate the founding of 

Zeta Tau Alpha on October 15 each year. 

The Founder’s day service offers remembrance; 

turquoise and gray ribbons worn 

under the badge show each member’s 

commitment to the founding ideals. Zeta 

Tau Alpha Women’s Fraternity was founded 

at Longwood College in Farmville, Virginia. 

Nine young women with a special friendship wanted to create some kind of club that would 

unite them forever. These nine women created a Greek fraternity that today has chapters 

in all parts of the United States and Canada. Today, ZTA has 238 links. The fraternity 

holds the only charter ever granted by a special act of the state legislature and is the first 

fraternity to be chartered in the state of Virginia. 

Zeta Tau Alpha was charted on Virginia Tech’s campus on April 29, 1972, making it one 

of Tech’s oldest sororities and Zeta’s 157th link. Virginia Tech Zetas take pride in working 

together to achieve common goals. Zetas are represented throughout all aspects of campus 

and community life with involvement in the Residence Hall Federation, High Techs, 

Student Alumni Association, Student Government Association, Relay For Life committee, 

club sports, and numerous academic and Greek honor societies, to name a few. ZTAs 

frequently socialize at campus events, football tailgates, sports games, and community 

service projects, as well as with other campus organizations. 

Success opens doors; friends open hearts. Whether you are looking for opportunities in 

leadership, scholastics, and service, or you just want to make new friends and have some 

laughs, you will find it in Zeta Tau Alpha.

UCFS 

uNITEd COuNCIL OF 

FrATErNITIES ANd 

SOrOrITIES 

UCFS 

The purpose of the United Council of Fraternities and Sororities is to unify the undergraduate branches of Greek organizations with an 

established religious/faith-based, cultural/ethnic, or service-related focus at Virginia Tech and the surrounding communities. In addition, 

UCFS encourages and fosters the networking, collaboration, and advancement of its member organizations. 

Portico 2009-2010 

95

UCFS PHC 

96 Portico 2009-2010 

GreetinGs! 

Welcome to Blacksburg, home to Virginia Tech and its population of more than 30,000 

students. In a sea of so many people, it is easy to get lost and difficult to find people who 

share your passions and interests. The United Council of Fraternities and Sororities is here 

to help bring together people who are passionate about racial/ethnic, faith-based, and/or 

service-oriented issues through established Greek organizations. 

As a council, we have participated in community projects such as the Big Event, Relay for 

Life, Latino Education Advocacy day, and the Gateway Project. Each year we set up fundraisers 

and participate in showcases. Just as we work together to impact the community, we also 

attend social events to enjoy quality time and get to know one another and our community. 

On many occasions, our organizations have collaborated with Greek and non-Greek organizations 

for both progressive and social events. Many of our members are highly involved in 

other non-Greek organizations and even hold leadership positions in these organizations. We 

represent ourselves in various shows and competitions, such as the annual Latin Link show, 

Unity Stompfest, Vermonster Eating Contest, and Celebration of diversity. As a council, we 

strive to assist and uplift our community in all that we do. 

We look forward to meeting you and helping you to make a positive impact on the campus 

and community. You are invited and encouraged to look at our individual websites and seek 

out the brothers or sisters of the organization in which you are interested. It is imperative 

for our future members to show an interest in the organization of their choice by getting in 

touch with the organization and attending its interest meetings. Please take the opportunity 

to get to know your community, become a leader, and leave a legacy. 

The United Council of Fraternities and Sororities welcomes you! 

Sincerely, 

Andrew Ton 

President 

Virginia Tech United Council of Fraternities and Sororities

ALPhA kAPPA dELTA PhI 

exPenses: 


$100 



acaDeMics: 





Alpha Kappa delta Phi was established at 

the University of California, Berkeley in 

the Fall of 1989 and was recognized by 

the College Panhellenic Association on 

February 7, 1990 by founding sisters Susan 

Kim, Fannie Pon, Jill Yoshimura, and 

Reina Yuan. They dedicated themselves to 

establishing a strong and lasting organization 

that would provide Asian American 

women the opportunity to participate in 

the Greek system. Soon after being recognized 

by the College Panhellenic Association, the founding sisters brought together a 

diverse group of women who shared the goals of sisterhood, scholarship, and leadership. 

These ideals were to later set the foundation for Alpha Kappa delta Phi’s purpose. 

In the Spring of 2001, the Virginia Tech 

interest group for Alpha Kappa delta Phi 

developed to provide Asian American women 

with a source of sisterhood, leadership, 

scholarship, and service. Following months 

of hard work, on April 14, 2002, the ladies 

of SISTAS proudly became the 32nd chapter 

of the nation’s largest and most prestigious 

Asian American sorority. Now loving and devoted 

sisters of Alpha Kappa delta Phi, the 

Virginia Tech Colony Chapter continues to 

grow as individuals and as sisters, through love and everlasting friendship. 

Alpha Kappa delta Phi proudly promotes its National Philanthropy, Breast Cancer Awareness, 

a project dedicated to increasing public knowledge about the early detection of breast 

cancer. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women in America; however, 

early detection and prompt treatment can significantly reduce the suffering and death 

caused by this disease. Nationwide, this organization has raised and donated over $25,000 

to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation. Every chapter dedicates at 

least one service project in the month of October to Breast Cancer Awareness and hosts a 

Breast Cancer Awareness forum, workshop, or informational booth on their campus. 

UCFS 

AKDF 

Nickname: aKDPhi 




www.akdphi.org 


Chapter Name: 




april 14, 2002 


www.akdphi.org.vt.edu 


“timeless friendship 

through sisterhood” 

Philanthropy: 

susan G. Komen foundation 

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97

UCFS 

LFE 

Nickname: lambdas 




www.lambdaphiepsilon.com 


Chapter Name: 






www.vtechlambdas.com 


“to be leaders among Men” 

Philanthropy: 

cammy lee leukemia 

foundation 


yul Kwon 

Matthew Muckey 

Jacob Hsu 

DJ Jtrix 

98 Portico 2009-2010 

LAMBdA PhI EPSILON 

exPenses: 


Not Provided 



acaDeMics: 





Lambda Phi Epsilon was founded on February 25, 1981, by Craig Ishigo and 18 dedicated 

men at University of California, Los Angeles. The founders sought to draw their membership 

from all of the diverse segments of the Asian American community. Their vision 

was that members would eventually become leaders in their respective communities and 

bridge gaps fragmenting the Asian American community through their affiliation with a 

common organization. Unknowingly, their efforts had set the stage for the emergence of 

the largest organization of its kind. 

By 1990, six chapters had formed at the Universities of California at Los Angeles, 

davis, Santa Barbara, Berkeley, and Irvine and at the University of Texas at Austin. In 

order to facilitate future growth, these six chapters joined to form Lambda Phi Epsilon 

National Fraternity. 

On May 28, 1990, a national governing body was established at the first National Convention. 

On September 8, 1990, the national organization was admitted to the National 

Interfraternity Conference, making Lambda Phi Epsilon the first (and still only) nationally 

recognized Asian American interest fraternity in the United States. Over the years, Lambda 

Phi Epsilon has grown to include 48 chapters in the U.S. and Canada. 

The driving force behind the emergence of the Lambdas at Virginia Tech was a group of 

six men: Jonathan Keam, Long Tran, Kevin Lieu, Allan Chang, Samuel Lee, and daniel 

Wai. Their leadership was instrumental in beginning the first successful Asian American 

fraternity on campus. Unsatisfied with the existing Greek and Asian American student 

organizations, these men sought to create an organization that would better serve the growing 

Asian American community at Virginia Tech. With the help of Alpha Epsilon Chapter 

(State University of New York, Stony Brook), Lambda Phi Epsilon was firmly established at 

Virginia Tech on december 21, 2003.

LAMBdA SIgMA uPSILON 

exPenses: 


$300 

Fall Semester dues: None 

Spring Semester dues: None 

acaDeMics: 





In the spring of 1979, a group of students of Latino descent began talking about creating an 

organization that would meet the needs of the Latino student population on campus, help students 

achieve their goals, and provide a sense of family to those away from home. They would 

achieve goals and meet regularly at a student center, where others would join in Lambda Sigma 

Upsilon discussions. Soon this small group of men reached 20 members. Some of these men 

recognized each other from political protests and realized they had something in common and 

that, united as a group, they would be able to best work for the needs of their fellow students. 

After discussing a formal organization for a number of weeks, they suggested that the group form 

its own brotherhood, a Latino social fellowship. The excitement of the founders grew daily, and 

they conducted regular meetings to formalize the fellowship. Finally, in Tillett Hall at Rutgers 

University, Livingston Campus, on April 15, 1979, Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Social Fellowship, 

Inc., was established. The official motto of the fellowship is “Latinos Siempre Unidos” 

(“Latinos Always United,” or “LSU”). 

Proudly, this social fellowship 

was able to facilitate effective 

changes as a liaison between 

Latino students and university 

bureaucracy. Throughout the 

1980s, Lambda Sigma Upsilon 

enjoyed steady growth, 

incorporating chapters throughout 

the state of New Jersey. In 

the fall of 1986, a group of 10 

men at the New Jersey Institute 

of Technology established 

the Pioneros chapter. The men 

who established this chapter 

were determined to ensure that 

Lambda Sigma Upsilon would continue to be a force on college campuses across the country 

for many years to come. 

Since April 15, 1979, Lambda Sigma Upsilon has dedicated itself to preserving cultural heritage, 

being a role model to the community, and promoting academic excellence and brotherhood. 

Today, Lambda Sigma Upsilon aims to spread the message of the founders to other parts 

of the country. 

Ricardo Agudelo began the search for a fraternity that would help the Latino presence here at 

Virginia Tech. Later, a group of six young Latinos—two Colombians, two Bolivians, a Panamanian, 

and a Mexican—thought their heritage and culture were not fully valued nor understood. 

All six men became serious about the need for a Latino fraternity in order to bring unity and 

recognition of the Latino culture to campus. Through hard work and teamwork, they established 

a strong foundation for the fraternity. On April 6, 2002, these six young men accomplished 

their goal to promote cultural diversity at Virginia Tech. The local chapter’s history is now being 

written. It is here for the pride of being Latino and also for all to recognize the unique culture 

that Latinos carry through their blood. 

UCFS 

LSU 

Nickname: the upsilions 


april 15, 1979 


www.lsu79.org 


Chapter Name: seneca 



april 6, 2002 


www.seneca.org.vt.edu 


“latinos always united” 

Philanthropy: 

Hiv & aiDs research 


Jose sabater 

Hector estrada 

angel Melendez 

roberto Muniz 

Portico 2009-2010 

99

UCFS 

SAEP 

Nickname: sigma 

National Founding Year: 



www.sigmaaepi.com 


Chapter Name: Zeta 





www.saepi.org.vt.edu 


“spirit, strength, sisterhood” 

Philanthropy: 

vermonster 


first season of Mtv’s 

sorority life 

100 Portico 2009-2010 

SIgMA ALPhA EPSILON PI 

exPenses: 


$90 



Sigma Alpha Epsilon Pi was founded 

October 1, 1998 at the University of California, 

davis. The Zeta chapter at Virginia 

Tech currently has 30 sisters. Organizational 

activities range from formal and 

semi-formal dances, to its philanthropy (a 

campus-wide ice cream-eating contest for 

charity), to movie nights, pumpkin picking, 

socials, and much more. 

acaDeMics: 





The “Sigma” in our name is meant to represent 

“sisters of,” making us the sisters 

of Alpha Epsilon Pi, to honor the contributions made in creating this sorority. Sigma is 

also the 18th letter of the Greek alphabet, and in Jewish tradition, the number 18 means 

“chai” (life), adding even more meaning to the name. 

The Sigma Alpha Epsilon Pi mission statement 

is as follows: The purpose of this organization 

shall be to promote unity, support, and a Jewish 

awareness, as well as to provide a Jewish 

experience for ourselves, our members, and 

the community as a whole. This organization is 

devoted to friendship, motivation, opportunity, 

leadership, and well-being. 

The five core values are: Exemplifying Jewish 

values, unity, trust, strength, and sincere 

sisterhood. These values are at the core of Sigma; they define the sorority as a community. 

Members strive, as individuals and as a collective, to live these values both in and out of 

the context of Sigma. No value should be sacrificed for the sake of another; they are all 

equally important. 

Philanthropy proceeds go to the sorority’s national charity organization: Mazon. Mazon is a 

Jewish nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting world hunger and its causes.

hErMANdAd dE 

SIgMA IOTA ALPhA, INC. 

exPenses: 


$315 



acaDeMics: 





Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc., is a Latina-based sorority. Although the sisterhood’s 

history can be traced to 1985 in Troy, New York, the sorority was founded on September 

29, 1990. Thirteen inspiring women from State University of New York, Albany; SUNY, 

Stony Brook; SUNY, New Paltz; and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute founded the precious 

and rare hermandad. 

SIA is more than a sorority. It is a family and network of professional, strong, and dedicated 

women leaders. Its founders set out to create an organization that would meet their needs, 

help their communities, unite all women, and uphold a set of distinct goals. The goals of 

this organization are to constantly strive toward increased awareness of Latino cultures; 

to promote sisterhood and leadership among themselves; and to serve as models of excellence 

in academics and achievements among women. 

Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha’s national philanthropy is One Heartland. This is a national 

nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of children infected with and affected 

by HIV/AIdS through year-round support, advocacy, recreational programs, and community 

AIdS awareness efforts. Every chapter sponsors a Latin-American child through Children 

International, in addition to local community service projects. 

In the spring of 2002, a group of women at Virginia Tech began to search for a Latina 

sorority that would meet their needs and the needs of their campus and community. There 

was no organization at Tech that met all the needs of Latina women, such as cultural 

awareness, community involvement, and unity through sisterhood. After much research, 

these women found that Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc., had all the qualities they 

desired, so they began the process of establishing a chapter at Virginia Tech. 

The Virginia Tech colony of Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha was founded on April 25, 

2004, by four determined women of diverse backgrounds. 

UCFS 

SIA 

Nickname: sigma 




www.hermandad-sia.org 


Chapter Name: 




april 25, 2004 


www.hermandad-sia.org 


“Semper Unum et Inseparabilis,” 

(always one and inseparable) 

Philanthropy: 

one Heartland 

special olympics 

children international 

Portico 2009-2010 

101

UCFS 

SYZ 

Nickname: sigmas 


March 23, 1994 

National website: 

www.sigmapsizeta.org 


Chapter Name: 

Kappa 





www.sigmapsizeta.org.vt.edu 


“true the colors red and Gold, 

sisters forever Heart and soul” 

Philanthropy: 

combat Domestic violence 

102 Portico 2009-2010 

SIgMA PSI ZETA 

exPenses: 


Not Provided 

Fall Semester dues: Not Provided 

Spring Semester dues: Not Provided 

acaDeMics: 





In the fall of 1993, a group of young undergraduate women came together from different 

cultural backgrounds. They believed that a sorority built on their friendships 

and sharing their vision could address a gap that existed on the State University of 

New York, Albany campus. These women believed that a sorority built on their friendships, 

laughter, strengths, and dedication would be a formidable force. 

On February 28, 1994, the founding mothers of Sigma Psi Zeta aimed to establish an 

organization that encompassed the strength of today’s Asian-American woman and her 

potential for making an impact on the world. They came together as friends, realizing the 

apathy toward Asian women and the dual disadvantage for being “The Silent Minority.” 

The national philanthropy of Sigma Psi Zeta is to combat violence against women 

and children, including rape, incest, domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, 

exploitation, the trafficking of women and children, the abuse of migrant workers, 

intimidation at work, child abuse, harassment, and spousal abuse. Any kind of physical, 

emotional or mental duress constitutes violence. 

In the spring of 2000, four strong women—San-Young Hwang, Elaine Kwan, An Tran, 

and Van Tran—joined together on a mission to bring unity, sisterhood and Asian 

awareness to the Virginia Tech campus. They started off as an interest group called 

the Multi-Cultural Asian Sorority. Through hard work, determination, and dedication, 

the women of MCAS became the Kappa Charter of Sigma Psi Zeta sorority. 

The Kappa Charter was founded on January 7, 2001 and is the first established 

multicultural/Asian interest sorority recognized at Virginia Tech. Members work with 

other organizations such as the Asian American Student Union, the United Council 

of Fraternities and Sororities, and the Student Life and Advocacy Office to help bring 

diversity and cultural awareness to Virginia Tech and the Blacksburg community.

ALPhA OMEgA EPSILON 

exPenses: 


$75 



acaDeMics: 





Alpha Omega Epsilon is a professional social sorority that focuses on promoting 

women in engineering and technical sciences. The sorority was founded on November 

13, 1983, and four months later, on March 22, 1984, it became a recognized organization 

on the Marquette University campus in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

AOE is the first sorority of its kind on Virginia 

Tech’s campus and strives to develop 

a professional recognition among peers. 

Women in the engineering and technical 

sciences: the members wish to extend 

the bonds of sisterhood to you. Join their 

extensive social, philanthropic, and 

professional activities at Virginia Tech 

and in the surrounding community, and 

make your mark on a diverse, growing 

engineering community. 

UNCOUNCILED 

AWE 

Nickname: aoe 



National website: 

www.aoesorority.org 


Chapter Name: 

alpha omega epsilon 



May 1, 2005 


www.aoe.org.vt.edu 

Philanthropy: 

Juvenile Diabetes 

research foundation 

Portico 2009-2010 

103

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants for admission or 

employment on the basis of race, gender, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, 

sexual orientation, or political affiliation. Anyone having questions concerning discrimination 

should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity. If you have a disability and desire accommodations, 

contact the Office of Student Programs, (540) 231-6207 or 711 for individuals with 

speech or hearing limitations. VT/800/0609/6M/100038

A Guide to FrAternity And Sorority LiFe - Virginia Tech

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