From Michigan State to Atlanta, Robby Kukler’s forty-year career transformed dining. By prioritizing employee-centric culture and mentorship at South City Kitchen, this decorated leader proves that emotional intelligence drives sustained success.
Building a Legacy
In Fall 2025, Delta Chi surged to 105 chapters, initiating over 1,000 members. Driven by recruitment and values-based engagement, the Fraternity achieved an average chapter size of 56, ensuring sustainable growth. 10
From Riverside to National Labs
Skeptical of Greek life, Quinten Yurek joined Delta Chi for its academic focus. Leadership and scholarships fueled his materials science PhD, launching a successful research career at Sandia National Labs.
12
Delta Chi and a Guinness World Record
Rooted in lifelong values of brotherhood and networking, Pat O’Mara leveraged strong relationships and a dedicated team to deliver 32 impromptu speeches, successfully breaking a Guinness World Record.
Delta Chi: Building Future Brotherhood.
The past year was remarkable for Delta Chi in many ways. We are growing and shaping a Fraternity that is member-focused, valuesdriven, and prepared for the future.
At our recent Regional Leadership Academy, the Fraternity’s leadership shared the latest information on the State of the Fraternity. The message was clear: Delta Chi is GROWING...Delta Chi is MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT...Delta Chi is STRONG...Delta Chi is READY FOR THE NEXT CHALLENGE
Here are a few highlights from the State of the Fraternity.
A Brotherhood That Matters
Research from the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) continues to affirm what we know through lived experience: fraternity membership makes a meaningful difference in the lives of young men.
Fraternity members report stronger mental health and wellness. Members are more likely to feel satisfied with their lives, maintain close friendships, seek mentorship, and give back to their communities and alma maters. In a time when many young men face loneliness and uncertainty, a fraternity can be part of the solution, offering a sense of belonging, accountability, and purpose. Delta Chi is proud to be part of that solution.
Historic Growth and Strength
At the conclusion of the fall 2025 semester, we stood at historic highs:
• 5,873 undergraduate members - the most ever
• 105 active chapters
• An average Chapter size of 56—the highest in our history
• 1,500 new Associate Members were welcomed in the Fall of 2025
While the number of chapters has streamlined in recent years, our chapters are stronger, larger, and more sustainable than ever before. We have reestablished chapters at Michigan State and Ohio State and are continuing expansion efforts at Troy University.
Successful chartering at Coastal Carolina, South Caroline, Tennessee in the Fall of 2025, and Purdue and Utah this spring, with Indiana celebrating in early Fall 2026.
Growth is not simply about numbers; it is about healthy growth.
Delta Chi is investing in recruitment systems through PhiredUp and the Delta Chi Dale Carnegie Scholars partnership to ensure our chapters receive best-in-class education and training opportunities.
Elevating the Member Experience
At the heart of Delta Chi’s strategic priorities is our commitment to the Member Experience.
In 2025, we fully implemented our 35-day Associate Member Education Program, In the Bond, along with a reimagined Mentor Program designed to foster intentional academic, personal, and professional development. For the first time in our history, Delta Chi has a comprehensive, standardized onboarding program across the Fraternity.
Feedback is important, and we are listening and learning. We have
begun simplifying administrative processes, increasing program delivery flexibility, and clarifying accountability expectations. This is a living, evolving system—and your voice matters in shaping it.
Our award-winning Dale Carnegie Scholars Program continues to grow, with almost 300 graduates over the past four years. The data now confirms what we have observed: Scholars demonstrate stronger speaking confidence, political and people skills, and a sense of duty. These are the traits that prepare Delta Chi men to lead in their chapters, careers, and communities.
Through our Membership Experience Survey in partnership with Dyad Strategies, we have seen measurable increases in Brotherhood, Belonging, and Trust across stakeholders. Hazing tolerance has decreased. Accountability is stronger. Our culture is healthier. That is progress worth celebrating.
Engaging a Lifetime of Brotherhood
Delta Chi does not end at graduation. With more than 105,000 living alumni worldwide, Delta Chi is committed to strengthening lifelong connections. The creation of the Vice Regent role has enhanced communication and mentorship between the International Fraternity, alumni volunteers, and undergraduate leaders. Alumni receptions across the country have reconnected and engaged hundreds of brothers. A new alumni directory will be published in 2026, renewing our shared history and relationships.
Delta Chi is building not just a four-year experience but lifetime opportunities for brotherhood and engagement.
A Commitment to Accountability
With growth comes responsibility. In recent years, chapters have been closed for violations of behavior and standards. Conduct decisions are never made lightly. They are made because Delta Chi’s values of Friendship, Character, Justice, and Education must be more than words.
Adam Oakes
This February marked the fifth anniversary of Adam Oakes’s death. We are committed to honoring the life of Adam, whose tragic death reminds us why hazing prevention and responsible conduct are non-negotiable. Our commitment to transparency, accountability, and safety is unwavering. Brotherhood must be built on respect and integrity. We celebrate our wins, but we do not ignore our obligations.
Living
the Opportunity
Founder Albert Sullard Barnes reminded us that: “Delta Chi is not a weekend or once-a-year affair but a lifelong opportunity and privilege.” Today, this statement has never been more relevant. Delta Chi today is:
• At its largest membership in history.
• Delivering its most comprehensive educational programming.
• Strengthening alumni engagement across generations.
• Backed by research that confirms the value of Fraternity in the lives of young men.
There is no stopping Delta Chi, not because of numbers alone, but because of the men who choose to live its values every day. Thank you for the role you play in this story. Whether you recruit a new member, mentor a younger brother, give your time and resources, support a philanthropic effort, or uphold our values in your daily life, you are advancing the Brotherhood of a Lifetime.
Let us continue to learn, to lead, to listen, and to build something worthy of those who came before us and those who will follow.
In the Bond,
WELCOME
64th international convention to Delta Chi’s New Hometown
Indianapolis • July 22 – 26
Get ready, brothers of Delta Chi, the 64th International Convention is set for July 22–26, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Downtown (1 S. Capitol) in the heart of the Midwest, Indianapolis, Indiana! This celebration of brotherhood will include important programming and Fraternity business in Indianapolis, a city known for its rich history, dynamic arts scene, and endless Hoosier hospitality.
Convention activities will include inspiring keynote sessions, Fraternity business sessions including election of the next slate of international officers, strategic workshops, leadership forums, a brotherhood event, and opportunities to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Set against the backdrop of a city that’s both lively and accessible, this year’s gathering promises to be one of the most memorable yet.
Welcome to Indianapolis
Indianapolis is home to Delta Chi’s International Headquarters. The Fraternity moved to Indy in 2019 to its new home north of downtown that houses administrative offices, training and meeting rooms, and the Delta Chi Museum. During the Convention, tours of the headquarters, including the museum, will be available.
Whether this is your first Convention as you begin to build your ladder, growing as a leader, or discovering Indy’s unique offerings, July in Indianapolis will be an extraordinary backdrop for Delta Chi’s 64th International Convention. Stay tuned for more event details and prepare for an International Convention that celebrates the past, present, and future of our brotherhood! deltahchi.org/convention
Delta Chi Quarterly (USPS 152-660) Published quarterly in Indianapolis, Indiana by: The Delta Chi Fraternity Editorial and Business Office 3845 N. Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46208
Periodicals Postage paid at Indianapolis, IN 46208 and at additional mailing offices
Address Changes
Send all notices of address changes to: Delta Chi International Headquarters 3845 N. Meridian Street Indianapolis, IN 46208 317.747.1890
Director of Communications
Patrick Cobb: Appalachian State ’86 E-mail: pcobb@deltachi.org Website: www.deltachi.org/quarterly
Layout and Design
Drew Dallet: Kent State ’93; Boom Creative E-mail: info@boom-creative.com www.boom-creative.com
Privacy Policy
If you have questions or concerns related to Delta Chi’s privacy policy or various “opt-out” opportunities, please contact headquarters@deltachi.org
FROM FRATERNITY KITCHEN TO FRONT OF THE HOUSE
ROBBY KUKLER MICHIGAN STATE ’87
For Robby Kukler, hospitality was not an accidental career choice. Most eight-year-olds dream of being astronauts or firemen. While Kukler grew up in a household surrounded by medicine - his father a physician and his mother a surgical nurse - his heart was in the kitchen. Instead of drawing racecars and action figures, Kukler was busy dreaming of owning a McDonald’s and drafting menus.
By 15, he was already working in restaurants - and he never left.
Now, with nearly 40 years in the restaurant industry in the rearview mirror and a Lifetime Achievement Award on his mantle, the Michigan State alumnus is reflecting on his career that transformed the Atlanta dining scene.
“I like making people happy. And I’ve found it very easy to do with great food and sincere hospitality”, Kukler stated.
Kukler’s professional journey began in Flint, Michigan, but it was his time in Delta Chi at Michigan State University that provided his first real leadership test. While in a grueling semester, Kukler took on the role of kitchen manager at the Fraternity. A role he did so well that they were able to throw a massive dinner party for the graduating seniors.
“A great leader adapts and understands the people around them”, Kukler stated. “Understanding people and understanding what motivates different people and meeting them where they are and connecting with them is key to your success if you’re a leader in any kind of business”.
When reflecting on what he is most proud of, Kukler points to the culture he helped create.
While Kukler’s shelf is full of trophies and accolades, two stood out the most - the first being his Lifetime Achievement Award, and the second, Most Admired CEO.
That semester, Kukler was named Outstanding Active Member, foreshadowing many more accolades to come in his restaurant career.
Standing alongside him throughout this journey was his childhood friend and Delta Chi brother, Chris Goss. Their partnership served as a pillar of Kukler’s success, rooted in a friendship that began as teenagers in Flint. From working together at Mr. Gibby’s Inn during high school to joining the same Fraternity at MSU, the pair remained inseparable after graduation. This lifelong bond eventually laid the foundation for their professional future, as they moved from coworkers to business partners.
In 1987, Kukler left the Michigan snow for the hot dining scene in Atlanta. By 1993, he and his partners, including Goss, had developed Fifth Group Restaurants, starting with the now-iconic South City Kitchen.
The timing was serendipitous. Just a few short years later, the 1996 Atlanta Olympics put the Atlanta restaurant industry into the international spotlight, drawing attention to South City Kitchen after a New York Times article hailed the spot as the “definition of new southern food”, prompting lines out the door for weeks following.
Despite the accolades and attention for his growing ventures, Kukler remained humble and deeply involved in his restaurants, viewing his leadership as a coach rather than a boss and seeing the restaurant industry as the ultimate team sport.
“It does not matter if you are a dishwasher or the executive chef, that restaurant does not run without all positions being filled and people holding up their end of the bargain”, Kukler stated.
“A busy, full-service restaurant can have 50, 60, 80, even 100 employees in one restaurant”, Kukler continued. “They come from all backgrounds, all walks of life, all kinds of life experiences, and we have all kinds of different personalities. We speak differently. We hear differently, we understand words differently.”
Great leadership requires adaptability.
“I always point out to people when they say ‘Oh, you won the best CEO award’, that no, it was not the best, it was the most admired”, Kukler explained. To Kukler, this admiration was a reflection on how he treated people, and his employees - a testament to the reputation for fairness and consistency that he spent a lifetime cultivating.
“This is a very hard industry”, Kukler stated. “We wanted to create an environment where people came to work, and it was more than just a job. We were a very employee-centric hospitality company in 1993, before that was really discussed as part of the work environment in general, especially in the hospitality industry. And thank goodness it is more and more common today. But it hasn’t always been”.
While Kukler received the award, he recognizes that he could not have achieved any of this without the entire working team of the restaurants he was running and advising.
“You need a strong team from beginning to end. And all of those accolades have taken so many people to get to that level of recognition. They’re all humbling. And I’ve just loved the fact that I’ve built relationships with people that have helped us achieve so many things”, stated Kukler.
Now, three years into his retirement, Kukler hasn’t fully stepped away from the heat of the restaurant business. Through his advisory work, he mentors young restaurateurs on the nuances of emotional intelligence and the organization of systems that help one succeed in the restaurant industry.
His advice is simple: be patient, ask for help, and never stop building relationships. He often leaves people with the mantra he used to write on post-it notes and stick on the walls of his restaurant: “Sustained Effort Wins.”
“You are always going to get knocked down,” Kukler said. “You need tenacity just to keep going, that alone will separate you from the vast majority of the world”.
BUILDING A
BY EXPANDING DELTA CHI’S GROWTH
Fraternity membership is essential to the Delta Chi brotherhood, shaping the Fraternity’s impact, reach, and long-term success. Within the context of a fraternity, membership reflects both individual commitment and the collective strength of the organization. The growth of a fraternity relies on the active participation, dedication, and overall engagement of its members. Delta Chi’s success is driven by brothers who contribute their time, talents, and leadership to foster a values-based, involvement-focused community.
The strength of Delta Chi extends far beyond numbers alone; it is defined by the meaningful involvement of members and the lasting impact they create on their campuses and within the Fraternity. Together, Delta Chi is proud to reflect on another year of progress, recognizing both the brotherhood’s past achievements and its future potential.
Throughout the Fall 2025 term, Delta Chi continued to build momentum in support of the International Fraternity’s commitment to growth. The Fraternity experienced sustained success in recruitment, Chapter development, and member engagement, demonstrating a strong collective effort from chapters nationwide. The average Chapter size reached 56 men, reflecting continued growth and stability across the organization.
In the spirit of growth, Delta Chi saw a moderate increase in overall collegiate membership as compared to the previous Fall. Growth was driven not only by past strong recruitment efforts becoming habits, but also by improved member retention and Chapter sustainability. During the Fall, Delta Chi chapters initiated more than 1000 new members across 105 chapters
nationwide. These results highlight the effectiveness of Chapter recruitment strategies and the dedication of brothers who invest in the Fraternity’s future.
Several chapters demonstrated exceptional performance during the year. The Auburn, LSU, and Louisiana Tech chapters distinguished themselves through notable recruitment outcomes, innovative programming, and strong Chapter engagement. Their success reflects Delta Chi’s emphasis on quality membership experiences and brotherhood development. Further, Delta Chi IHQ staff executed high-quality returns to Michigan State and Ohio State during the Fall. Delta Chi will be establishing a new chapter at Troy University during Spring 2026, and will be coaching the existing groups through the next stages of their recruitment cycles.
Beyond recruitment, Delta Chi remained focused on advancing member education, leadership development, and lifelong engagement. The Fraternity continued to support chapters through programming, resources, and mentorship designed to foster sustainable excellence. This holistic approach ensures that Delta Chi not only grows in size but also in impact, preparing members to lead on campus and beyond.
As Delta Chi looks ahead, the Fraternity remains committed to strengthening chapters, supporting members, and expanding its influence. The achievements of the Fall 2025 semester are a testament to the dedication of Delta Chi brothers everywhere, and the organization is well-positioned for continued growth and success in the years to come.
TOP 10 CHAPTERS
DELTA CHI BROTHERS SERVING THEIR
Campus Fraternal Councils
Nine Delta Chi Brothers were elected to serve as Presidents of their respective campus Interfraternity Council boards. Learn more about how Delta Chi has shaped their leadership journey, goals, and why they wanted to serve their campus community.
Nicholas Gonzalez, Riverside ’28
What made you interested in serving your community as an IFC officer? My primary motivation is to maximize my time and experience during my college years. By stepping into the role of IFC President, I am challenging myself to gain practical knowledge and leadership experience that I can translate into the professional world—specifically through honing my time management skills, leading a diverse team, and learning how to effectively navigate and resolve conflicts.
What goals do you have for your term of office? Currently, our campus only has three active and recognized chapters. My main goal is to expand our Greek community by increasing that number before my term ends. If the full expansion isn’t completed during my tenure, I am dedicated to leaving a comprehensive, long-lasting plan that ensures more fraternities can successfully join our school in the future.
How do you think serving as an IFC officer will enhance your experience in Delta Chi? Serving as an IFC officer has provided me with a unique “behind-the-scenes” perspective. I’ve been able to learn the intricate details of how fraternities operate on a systemic level at our school. This broader understanding allows me to bring more value back to my own chapter and helps me appreciate the larger impact of our brotherhood within the campus community.
Christophe Fayad, Lehigh ’28
What made you interested in serving your community as an IFC officer?
I wanted to serve as an IFC officer because I care about the impact Greek life has on campus beyond just my own chapter. As Vice President of Delta Chi, I have seen how leadership decisions affect members, chapter culture, and our relationship with the university. Being involved at the IFC level gives me the chance to help strengthen the Greek community as a whole while making sure chapters feel supported and accountable.
What goals do you have for your term of office? My main goals are to improve communication across chapters and help make IFC more collaborative and accessible. I also want to help improve the perception of Greek life by emphasizing responsibility, philanthropy, and community involvement.
How do you think serving as an IFC officer will enhance your experience in Delta Chi? Serving as an IFC officer will make me a stronger Vice President by giving me a better understanding of how IFC and other chapters operate. This experience will help me better support our president, Charlie Grippo, and bring useful insight back to Delta Chi to help our chapter continue to grow.
Nicholas Morales, Kingsville ’25
What made you interested in serving your community as an IFC officer?
I became an IFC officer to better myself and Greek Life. I wanted to not only help out my chapter but also help out any other chapter when they need it, regardless of whether they are Delta Chi or not. I wanted to be there for all of Greek life.
What goals do you have for your term of office? My goals as president are to help out the Greek community become friends with one another and get along regardless of chapter affiliation. I also want to increase Greek life within the university by helping out during recruitment, making sure all of Greek life gets a good amount of members
How do you think serving as an IFC officer will enhance your experience in Delta Chi? I think IFC will enhance my experience in Greek life more than Delta Chi, as I will be helping more people outside my chapter and gaining a better understanding of how other chapters operate.
Daniel Meyer, Marquette ’27
I became interested in serving the Marquette Greek life community as an IFC officer because I wanted to serve in another leadership position which could benefit my community and my brothers. I have previously served as our chapters president, and I wanted to broaden my experiences by branching out and serving my Greek community in different ways.
My goals as the IFC president are to promote inter-fraternity bonding and to provide fraternities with resources to grow and prosper and be more present in our greater community.
I think that IFC will enhance my Delta Chi experience by giving me a better understanding of how Greek life functions, and to use that understanding to educate and inform my fellow brothers about what we can do to exemplify the values of Delta Chi.
Wesley Alexander, Southern Arkansas ’27
The thing that made me most interested in serving as an IFC officer was my ability to grow chapters, remain safe, and create a good reputation around IFC fraternities. I want to create a culture where chapters collaborate instead of competing negatively, hold each other accountable, and raise the bar for what it means to be a fraternity man.
My goals while in office are to help strengthen communication between chapters and IFC, improve recruitment, improve bylaws, and encourage positive competition. I also want to start more IFC-led events on campus, so more people know about IFC.
Isaiah Lennox, Hayward ’26
What made you interested in serving your community as an officer of the campus Fraternity and Sorority Council? When I first heard about the opportunity to join the FSC, I didn’t immediately pursue it. At the time, I was focused primarily on Delta Chi. However, conversations with my brothers, especially those already serving in FSC role, encouraged me to think bigger. They helped me realize I could make a difference not just within my fraternity, but across the entire campus. I also connected with Delta Chi alumni who had previously held the position, making sure I fully understood the responsibilities before applying.
What goals do you have for your term of office? My main goal has been to help Greek life become more engaged and visible on campus. I saw how COVID left Greek life struggling, and even years later, it was still rebuilding. I worked to preserve the recognition of a long-standing campus tradition, Greek Hill. A monument representing Greek life once stood on campus, featuring letters from each organization displayed on a hillside leading up to the college. It has since been demolished. I’m now focused on developing a new initiative, the Wall of Unity, to give organizations a visible and lasting presence on campus.
How do you think serving as an IFC officer will enhance your experience in Delta Chi? While the work can be demanding and stressful, I’m fortunate to be part of an incredible team. One important lesson I’ve learned is the value of taking a step back when needed. You can’t support others effectively if you’re not at your best, so it’s important to rest, reset, and take care of yourself along the way.
Eli Dollinger, Little Rock ’28
What made you interested in serving your community as an IFC officer? I found IFC president as an opportunity to advocate for the IFC fraternities on campus. I hope to promote Greek unity at UA Little Rock and advocate for IFC fraternities, whether my own or not, giving Greek life more of a voice. IFC president will assist my experience in Delta Chi by assisting our chapter in resolving operational issues.
Colin Bentley, Valdosta ’27
What made you interested in serving your community as an IFC officer? Well, I was VP of Judicial Affairs on IFC before President. I initially ran for that position as I wanted to have a voice in how the organizations on my campus were regulated by the school. I felt as if in that first year, I was able to give a voice to not just my organization, but all four others. As far as running for IFC President, I felt as if I had run my previous office very well and wanted to have more input in the scope of the IFC as an entity. I wanted the IFC to be seen as a tool rather than a threat to the organizations.
What goals do you have for your term of office? I wanted the IFC to be able to offer the full extent of its resources to the chapters underneath it, such as hosting optimal recruitment events. I also sought to bring back philanthropy and community service events that had been absent over the last term. Lastly, I wanted to use my office to host alumni connection opportunities. So far, I have already accomplished two of the above goals in this spring semester, and am working on the last currently, hoping to host an IFC Alumni Seminar at our business center.
How do you think serving as an IFC officer will enhance your experience in Delta Chi? I believe it has and will enhance my experience as a Delta Chi as far as bolstering my leadership skill. I have served on Delta Chi’s executive board for a while to decent success, but I feel as if having a higher leadership position in the IFC has taught me the art of delegating tasks. Each officer has their own role, and the system works best when everyone’s doing their job. Instead of trying to do everything yourself, I’ve found it’s more beneficial to work with your board and split responsibilities respectively so each task can get done promptly and in quality. I’m very lucky to have a great team to work with in both Delta Chi and both the IFC.
Jacob Melton, Louisiana Tech ’26
What made you interested in serving your community as an IFC officer? Being part of Delta Chi has shown me how much fraternities can positively impact campus as well as a man himself. I’m interested in serving a second term on IFC because I want to help strengthen the fraternity community as a whole at Louisiana Tech, and make sure chapters are working together to create a positive environment.
What goals do you have for your term of office? My main goal would be improving communication and collaboration between chapters. I’d also like to help promote strong leadership and make sure our fraternity community continues to represent itself well on campus.
How do you think serving as an IFC officer will enhance your experience in Delta Chi? Serving on IFC would help me grow as a leader and give me a broader perspective on the fraternity community. I think the experience and connections I gain would also help me bring new ideas and leadership back to Delta Chi.
IFC Presidents as reported to IHQ by March 15, 2026
DWHAT HAPPENS AT REGIONAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY?
RLA PROVIDES LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT TRAINING
elta Chi’s Regional Leadership Academy (RLA) events took place on January 16–18, 2026, and January 23–25, 2025, scheduled for four locations: Los Angeles, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and St. Louis. However. Winter weather in the Northeast forced the cancellation of the Philadelphia event and impacted the St. Louis session.
The weekend agenda was fast paced. Attendees registered to attend a specific small group, known as a POD based on a lettered officer role, associate member counselor, recruitment, Dale Carnegie Scholar, or Alumni/Volunteer Each POD is designed for leadership development training, goal setting, and action planning.
All attendees were able to experience a Dale Carnegie keynote, a student leader panel, Ritual exemplification, late night trivia contest, and a closing celebration event. In addition, all participants were able to hear from Fraternity leaders regarding the “State of the Fraternity” and a Fraternity Business session.
Participants and General Experience
Across the three in-person RLAs, there were close to 500 undergraduate and alumni members who attended and participated.
Each lettered officer POD group and the Recruitment POD groups were able to elect their “MVP,” someone who made a valuable and positive contribution to their experience. In addition, Dale Carnegie Scholar cohorts selected a “Highest Achievement Award” winner (see page 24), awarded to someone who exemplifies the standards, qualities, and consistent practice of the principles on which the program is based.
The Highest Achievement Award winners have been invited to provide feedback on future programming, and all MVPs have been added to a list for potential future staff positions.
Make your plans to attend in 2027 and hold the dates: Atlanta and Los Angeles, January 15-17, 2027, and St. Louis and Philadelphia, January 22-24, 2027. Registration opens in the fall for 2027 Regional Leadership Academy.
LOUIS
Regional Leadership Academy 2026 MVPs
“A” Eli Dollinger
“B” Jackson Barnett
“C” Aiden Mitchell
“D” Keegan Guthrie
“E” Logan Smith
Georgia
“F” Byron Hollinger
AMC Dominic Robinson
RECRUITMENT
Paul Piechocki
Caleb Kerekes
Weston Hory
Owen Wisniewski
Andre Hudson
Rick Doepping
Judge Cantrell
Achilleas Papadopoulos
Ethan Petroni
Jonah Kyle
Easton Echols
Dorian Hardin
Matthew Herrera
Chase Ruda
Rory Peterson
Alex Crowell
Tyler Kreider Little
QUINTEN YUREK
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE ’19
FROM RIVERSIDE TO NATIONAL L ABS
THE IMPACT OF A DELTA CHI SCHOLARSHIP
Quinten Yurek’s journey through Delta Chi, graduate school, and into national laboratory research was not something he originally planned. In fact, when he first arrived at UC Riverside as a physics major, fraternities were not on his radar at all.
“I was never going to rush a fraternity”, he recalled of his first few collegiate months.
That changed after meeting a member of Delta Chi who would later become his biggest college mentor. Instead of reinforcing stereotypes, the introduction reshaped them entirely when Yurek was invited to various academic symposia and engaged in undergraduate research discussions rather than stereotypical social fraternity events.
“And I was like, oh my God, like, this guy is taking me to a symposium on integrated circuits and the future of graphics processing units. And then we’re going to go get coffee and walk around the quad and talk about it”, Yurek recalled. “After I was like, okay, this is way different from what I thought.”
Through those conversations and introductions to other academically driven members, Yurek found a different version of fraternity life, one grounded in scholarship, mentorship, and intellectual challenge. Shortly after, Yurek was initiated into Delta Chi and soon took on the role of scholarship chairman. Eventually, despite his initial disinterest in Greek life, Yurek became the Chapter president.
Academics, however, were always the priority.
“That’s the big paycheck. That’s why you’re there. You’re paying a ton of money to be at one of these institutions, whether you’re paying for it, your parents are paying for it, or whatever it may be, you’re investing in yourself.”
Balancing leadership roles, undergraduate research, and physics courses was no easy feat. “It was crazy,” Yurek recalled. But no matter the difficulty, he embraced the challenge, adding, “If there was any time of my life to do that, it was in undergrad, when I was young and had boundless amounts of energy and passion and drive”.
Beyond leadership experience, he credits Delta Chi with sharpening skills that continue to serve him today.
“The most important thing I learned from Delta Chi was the social skills”, Yurek stated.
In highly technical STEM environments, those skills matter. “Being able to lead a team, or be comfortable on a team, or deal with conflicts and conflict resolution is just something that you get really used to in an undergraduate fraternity”, Yurek said.
After earning his bachelor’s degree in physics at the University of California, Riverside, Yurek pursued a PhD in materials science and engineering at the University of Illinois. While a full scholarship covered his graduate school, the annual graduate student stipend was financially tight.
“I think we were making somewhere between $25,000 - $30,000 a year.
That is where the Delta Chi Graduate Scholarship made a meaningful difference.
“It really took a lot of the financial pressure off, for the little things.”
He won the scholarship three times. It did not eliminate every expense, but it created breathing room.
“I was already struggling with money, and through the scholarship, I got a few thousand dollars. It’s like, okay, cool. Like I can breathe for a second”, he said. The relief showed up in practical ways: paying required university fees, buying meals during long lab days, and covering flights for research and leisure, allowing him to focus his energy on his studies. “A lot of really small things where I don’t have to
worry about my budget going into the red this month”, Yurek stated. “It took a lot of financial pressure off and allowed me not to have to pick up a second job or struggle even harder”.
That financial flexibility also enabled an entrepreneurial spirit. During his final years in graduate school, he used part of the scholarship funds to establish a consulting company.
His consulting company provided electron microscopy services to small businesses, using the university infrastructure he was already familiar with from his PhD work. “That was really nice. And it was a really good experience to do”, Yurek recalled. The scholarship, he noted, “paid for all of the fees and stuff to set up the consulting company”.
Today, Yurek works at Sandia National Labs in Livermore, California. Reflecting on his early aspirations, he describes them as surprisingly straightforward.
“What I really wanted was just to get paid a good salary to do scientific research”, Yurek exclaimed.
Now, walking around the lab, he sometimes pauses to recognize that he has, in fact, achieved exactly that.
“There’s been a lot of times where I’m walking around the site, and I’m like, oh, like I’m getting paid well to do scientific research, and I’m really happy about that”, he said.
Yurek’s work now centers on hydrogen gas as a potential fuel source and understanding how it may interact with existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure. It is research closely tied to decision-making in the oil and gas industry. The proximity of his research to real-world applications is what makes it meaningful to him.
“Being able to do research that influences decisions is really rewarding”, Yurek stated.
Looking back, the Delta Chi Graduate Scholarship did more than supplement his budget. It reduced stress, enabled focus, and supported innovation. It allowed Yurek to continue forward without added financial strain, free to concentrate on research, leadership, and the intellectual challenges that first drew him into the lab.
And, as his journey shows, sometimes the most impactful support is not about covering everything; it is about creating enough room to breathe.
Though it’s been more than 35 years, I still remember on a warm summer night going to the campus Dairy Queen during my first week of college with two new friends from the dorm, Dave Eisenberg, Southern Illinois, 1986, and a guy we called “Grande.” While in line, we got into conversation with two guys from the Delta Chi Fraternity, Jon Guido (class of 1985) and Greg Lacina (class of 1984). Cool guys, and they told us about the benefits of joining Delta Chi. They talked about brotherhood, networking, gaining a sense of direction and belonging, and, of course, the fun! For Dave and me, that was too good to pass up, so by the end of that semester, we became active members of the Delta Chi Fraternity.
A decade or two later, the president with whom I served on our executive board, Tom Annett, class of 1985, had collected hundreds of fraternity pictures from the 1970s, 1980’s, and 1990’s. He had all sorts of great pictures, ranging from our legendary theme parties to volunteer events to individual pictures of embarrassing moments. Basically, this stuff was gold to most of the members of the household during that era.
To promote our alumni brotherhood and revisit some of our best memories, Tom decided to email one old picture each week to over 100 alumni from our Chapter. He called it, “Smile, It’s Picture Monday!” To date, Tom still sends those weekly pictures.
All of this reminds me that relationships are what make the world go round. As I approach retirement age, my relationships continue to play a key role in my life. Take, for example, my desire to grow my professional speaking business from a presentation-skills development workshop trainer to a keynote speaker. To do that, I believed I needed a compelling story and a new way to promote my business. I came across an article on LinkedIn back in 2022 about a local vendor who set a Guinness World Record™ to promote his business. I thought how great it would be if I could do the same! So, I searched the Guinness World Records™ database for records involving public speaking. The most relevant option I could find was the record for “Most Speeches in 24 hours,” which was last broken by a man in India in 2018.
Though this was considered an individual record, like Delta Chi, it would require me to develop relationships to accomplish this mission.
The Guinness World Record™ evidence requirements were extensive. Here is a highlighted list of some of what was needed:
• The world record for Most Speeches in 24 hours was 30.
• My target was to deliver 33 speeches.
• Each speech had to be at least 10 minutes long.
• Each speech had to be unscripted, spontaneous, and uniquely original so that I couldn’t deliver the same message over and over. On top of that, I couldn’t use a script, so each speech had to be “off the cuff.”
• To provide me with speaking topics, I decided to use fortune cookies. Once I got to a venue, I’d crack open a fortune cookie, then create a 10+ minute speech on the spot, and I did that for 17 hours in a row.
• Each venue had to meet certain specifications, and all venues had to be at different locations.
• I needed at least 10 audience members at each speech, and each person counted only once, so I couldn’t have a group of people following me around.
I started my quest by reaching out to a highly respected professor and Goodrich Chair at the University of Alabama at Birmingham College of Business – Entrepreneurship Program. After pitching my idea and going through a few rounds of talks, I was approved to work with six graduating seniors who would help me as part of their class project. I formed good relationships with the students and the staff.
From there, I partnered with Digital Motion Event Services to help coordinate and market the event, create a registration process, film the entire attempt, and edit 17+ hours of video in accordance with the evidence guidelines set forth by Guinness.
Once our teams were established, we went about the business of trying to convince venues to offer up their meeting rooms and staff to participate in a Guinness World Record attempt. Had lots of ups and downs, but by the day of the attempt, we secured 33 different venues and mapped out the most efficient route possible, broken down to the minute. It felt like a military operation.
BROTHERHOOD ACHIEVEMENT
Though we needed at least 330 people to meet our minimum attendance requirement, we only had 160 participants signed up, meaning we had to convince people who happened to be in the area to sit in on a 10-minute speech as part of a Guinness World Record attempt. To further illustrate our desperation and commitment, we were short on participants at a downtown library, noticed 2 guys outside on the grounds smoking pot, and talked them into joining us to help meet our numbers; and the guys seemed to have had a very good time. The bottom line was that our team and I did whatever was necessary to build relationships with everyone we met; as a result, we all benefited from our combined efforts.
Officially, of the 33 speeches I delivered that day, 32 of them were approved by Guinness, breaking the old record by 2.
The relationships I’ve formed through Delta Chi and breaking a Guinness World Record have changed my life, and I am forever grateful for both. Though I never thought I’d be delivering impromptu speeches from a bag of fortune cookies, I’d like to conclude by sharing one of the actual fortunes I used during my attempt:
To all my Delta Chi brothers, “Your troubles will cease, and fortune will smile upon you.”
– SLAM DUNKING –CANCER – SLAM DUNKING –CANCER
Why Your Bracket is Worth More Than Bragging Rights
Elijah Randolph: An Unlikely Diagnosis, Uno and Basketball
The Diagnosis: “A Gut Punch”
In 2023, Elijah was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer, Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm (BPDCN). The diagnosis was shocking, not just because of the severity, but also because it is extremely uncommon in children.
In fact, Elijah seems to be the first known pediatric case of BPDCN recorded in the state of Connecticut.
“It was a gut punch,” Elijah’s dad, Carl Randolph, said. “I had to ask the doctor, ‘are you saying what I think you’re saying?’”
The Randolph family did not know what to expect, but they drew inspiration from their faith, friends and each other, taking a mind over matter mindset.
“At first, I was very nervous and afraid of the word cancer because everybody that hears the word cancer thinks it’s an immediate death sentence, and it’s really not what it is,” Elijah said.
The Mayor of the Eighth Floor
Elijah spent 23 consecutive days in the hospital undergoing chemotherapy. Despite the difficult circumstances, Elijah’s bright personality continued to shine. He quickly became known as “Mayor of the Eighth Floor” while hanging out on the unit.
For twenty years, the brothers of Delta Chi have proven that competition can fuel compassion. What began as a commitment to philanthropy has grown into a nationwide movement that has raised over $2 million in support of the V Foundation for Cancer Research.
Through the Delta Chi Bracket Challenge (DXBC), Chapters, alumni, and friends of the Fraternity support their favorite teams in the NCAA Division I Men’s basketball tournament while raising critical funds for cancer research.
The Delta Chi Bracket Challenge is simple: fill out a bracket, make a donation, and compete. But the impact is anything but small. Chapters promote the challenge across campuses and hold events specifically in support of the V Foundation. Behind every prediction lies a shared purpose that will fund life-saving research and honor those whose lives have been touched by cancer.
As with any competition, the top fundraiser will earn well-deserved bragging rights and some special prizes. The top fundraising chapters in the Red and Buff divisions will also receive recognition.
For 2026, Delta Chi has set an ambitious goal to raise $80,000, with all funds raised directly benefiting the Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund at the V Foundation. In 2025, Delta Chi slam dunked its goal, raising more than $79,000, nearly doubling the original goal.
“You just have to keep fighting through it every day,” Elijah said. “You have to keep a positive mindset. And that’s what I’ve done for the past two and a half years.”
Uno and Basketball
During his stay at the hospital, Elijah met Andrea Hurley, wife of UConn men’s basketball head coach Dan Hurley. He and Mrs. Hurley quickly became friends, spending time together and regularly playing Uno. One afternoon, Elijah made a bet over a game of Uno: if he won, she had to take him to the Final Four if UConn made it.
Elijah won the game, but never expected Mrs. Hurley to follow through.
Fast-forward a few months, just two days before the Final Four, Elijah got a phone call.
“She [Mrs. Hurley] calls to tell us that you better pack your bags because we’re going to Arizona,” Elijah said.
Part of the Team
The trip to Arizona was only the beginning.
After watching the Huskies cut down the nets and capture the 2024 National Championship, Elijah was hooked. Previously someone who never cared about sports, Elijah was welcomed into the team with open arms. Now, he has a newfound passion in basketball.
“I’ll tell you something, it’s changed him completely as a person,” Carl said of his son. “When these guys adopted him and took him in, it opened a whole new world for him.”
The impact of the relationship has extended beyond the court. UConn players and coaches both act as a support system for Elijah, challenging him to do his best in the classroom as well. Carl notes it’s like having “12 other parents” watching over Elijah.
DELTA CHI
Campus Scene
Adelphi – Sebastian Ruano
The Adelphi Chapter of Delta Chi had incredible success this semester. That includes “Delta Dogs,” a fundraiser event for an animal shelter, “Delta Splash,” using water balloons to splash a brother to raise funds, and “Guess the Amount of Candy Corn,” where people can donate and guess how much candy corn there is, and have a chance to win a prize. This semester, our Chapter was able to host an alumni reunion within our Chapter and welcome our alumni with a get-together while enjoying a sporting event.
Arizona – Leo Wang
During this fall semester, our Chapter achieved a record-breaking milestone by raising over $4,000 for the V Foundation, the highest amount in our history. We hosted several successful fundraising events—including Dodgeball, a car wash, and Pie-a-D-Chi—and our competing Sweethearts played a huge role in helping us reach our goal, with the top four supporters earning Sweetheart titles.
In addition to our philanthropy success, we also welcomed a record associate member class of 26 in the Fall. We hosted our first-ever Artist Party with Ian Asher and had our yearly Parents Weekend at Corbett’s Pickleball. The tailgate was a great success, bringing our brothers, families, and alumni together to celebrate another strong semester for our Chapter.
We’re excited to announce our return to our house at 1701 Row in Fall 2026. This has been a major focus for our Chapter, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to return to a place rich in history and brotherhood. We look forward to hosting future homecoming events and welcoming back alumni who once called 1701 home.
Augusta – Christopher Barwick
The Augusta Chapter of Delta Chi welcomed 14 new brothers during the fall semester, bringing our active count to 40, the highest we’ve seen since 2018. We’re continuing to serve our campus and community through our community service efforts and fun, interactive philanthropy events. Our brothers are continuing to set the standard on campus, with brothers serving as Student Government President, Homecoming King, IFC President, and more.
In contrast, many others stay involved in other clubs and programs. Our Chapter is steadily growing in many aspects, and we are excited to see where the future takes us.
Edwardsville – Hugo Rojas
The brothers of the Edwardsville Chapter had an incredible and productive fall semester. After welcoming a fall class of 17 new initiates, we are excited about what this group will bring to our Chapter. Throughout the semester, our schedule was filled with meaningful activities, from hosting philanthropy events. The biggest being Puppies n Pies and participating in community service projects. We continue to grow our campus and community involvement. And we do that with each event we hold. One of our biggest rewards this semester was finally getting our official road sign installed on campus, a symbol of our Chapter’s presence on campus and in the community. We look forward to continuing our involvement on campus, building stronger relationships with other chapters, and finding new ways to uphold our values.
Florida – Noah Shellenberger
This semester has been an amazing one for the Florida Chapter of Delta Chi. We proudly initiated 23 new brothers, continuing our Chapter’s legacy of leadership and involvement across campus.
A standout moment from the semester was our Buzzcuts for Bravo philanthropy event, where over 40 brothers shaved their heads in support of our brother Matthew Bravo, who was recently diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma—the event raised $4,000 for Blood Cancer United. We also held our Lady of the Leges philanthropy to raise another $6,000 for both Blood Cancer United and the V Foundation.
Alongside our philanthropic efforts, Delta Chi continued to excel in academics, alumni relations, and social engagement. We also took our biannual trip to New Orleans for the UF-LSU football game and had a great time exploring the French Quarter! Lastly, we brought members to the All-Florida Founders Day hosted by FSU this year, which was a great opportunity to connect with brothers of all ages. As we look toward spring, our Chapter remains focused on making a lasting impact at UF and upholding the values that define Delta Chi.
Illinois – Matthew Sharp
The Illinois Chapter of Delta Chi had an outstanding semester filled with brotherhood, philanthropy, and growth. We kicked the semester off with a successful Homecoming tailgate, where brothers, alumni, and friends came together to celebrate Illini pride and our shared traditions.
Soon after, we hosted a memorable Dad’s Weekend tailgate that brought families together with great food, football, and camaraderie. Our Delta Kicks soccer philanthropy was another highlight of the semester, engaging several campus sororities in a fun and competitive event that raised funds and awareness for a worthy cause.
To top it all off, we had a strong recruitment season, proudly welcoming 31 new associate members into the Chapter. The brothers of Delta Chi at Illinois look forward to building on this success next semester.
Georgia Southern – Casey McKeon
The Georgia Southern Chapter of Delta Chi had a strong, successful few semesters marked by growth and achievement. The Chapter proudly welcomed around 40 new members, further strengthening our brotherhood and presence on campus.
Our members showed exceptional involvement in Greek life, winning Chi Omega’s Philanthropy Week and finishing second in Kappa Kappa Gamma’s Philanthropy Week. On the intramural field, we dominated fraternity flag football, taking home the championship title. Beyond competition, we enjoyed a great turnout for both Parents Weekend and Alumni Weekend, reconnecting with families and past brothers while celebrating our shared values. The Chapter looks forward to carrying this momentum into the next term.
Indiana Provisional – Dylan Levine
Our Chapter was reestablished at Indiana University back in the Spring of 2024. During that time, we grew from an idea of what once was to a group of 36 dedicated brothers ready to restart our Chapter and build it to what it once was. Since that initial semester, we have taken two brand-new associate member classes, totaling 33 new members. Today, we are a stronger Chapter than ever, with our brotherhood growing exponentially while still maintaining the closeness we started with.
Iowa State – Evan Schaible
The Iowa State Chapter of Delta Chi has experienced considerable success throughout the Fall term. We welcomed 13 new freshmen into the Chapter and are very proud to have them with us. Their class is very promising, with significant growth in character, brotherhood, and friendship demonstrated throughout the semester.
The Chapter decided to combine our annual Parents’ weekend and Alumni tailgate. The parents enjoyed meeting other families and visiting the house to see their sons. The Alumni tailgate was a success, with many recent alumni returning to Ames for a visit and watching the Cyclones beat Arizona.
Homecoming this year paired us with the Alpha Chi Omega Sorority and Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, and it was a great match. The pairing had a great showing for all events and tournaments throughout the week. As the semester comes to a close, our members are focusing on classes and personal development to help individuals set themselves up for success next semester.
Kansas State – Nolan Rodriguez
We are thrilled to share that Delta Chi at Kansas State is thriving this year. To start the semester, we were awarded our 7th Delta Chi President’s Cup in the last 10 years, a recognition that reflects our continued commitment to excellence and brotherhood. We hosted our third annual sand volleyball tournament for new members of on-campus sororities, which has become one of our most anticipated philanthropic events of the Fall.
Continuing our efforts, we held our first-ever Delta Chi Philanthropy Week: Rally for Research, raising money for the V Foundation. Our Chapter also achieved a record level of
involvement in campus organizations, with 96.15% of brothers participating in at least one organization outside of Delta Chi and over 30% holding leadership roles.
In addition, we partnered with another fraternity for a community service event with Habitat for Humanity, where members helped clean up a local neighborhood and finished the day with a joint backyard BBQ. From philanthropy to community service to campus involvement, it’s been an eventful and rewarding fall semester for our Chapter, and we’re excited for what’s next.
Kettering A – Zachary Marshall
This summer term was one full of rushing, academic, and philanthropic success. Our Chapter started the term with a strong 3 weeks full of rush events, including drive-in movies and mini golf, and new additions like Angry Birds, where potential new members got to meet the brothers with a water balloon launcher.
Throughout the term, we also hosted philanthropy events such as “The Wheel of Doom,” where members would volunteer to spin the wheel, like taking a hot wing or holding a funny pose, for a set amount of time. This event allowed the Chapter to raise $167 for the V Foundation.
Members reached out to local food shelters and volunteered their time over the weekend to support the local community. During the weekdays, the brothers played hard in IFC sports in the afternoons and studied during the day to make sure they excelled in classes, in addition to their normal study routine. Our scholarship chair hosted study nights where brothers could help push each other even farther in the grind to be the best academic weapons they can be.
Kingsville – Jonathan Salinas
The Kingsville Chapter had an incredible Fall semester, filled with success, brotherhood, and tradition. We kicked off the semester with Recruitment Week, welcoming new members and showcasing what it truly means to be a part of Delta Chi. Our recruitment events were a great success, allowing us to grow our Chapter with outstanding new brothers who embody our values of friendship, character, justice, and education.
A highlight of the semester was the Fall Carnival, where we continued our long-standing tradition of selling our famous sausage wraps.
This fundraising event not only brought the community together but also helped raise funds to support our Chapter’s future initiatives. The enthusiasm and teamwork from our brothers made this event a standout moment of the semester.
We also celebrated Founder’s Day, honoring the proud history and legacy of the Delta Chi Fraternity. This annual tradition allowed us to reflect on our history, recognize our achievements, and strengthen our connection to the Fraternity’s ideals. It was a memorable event that united both actives and alumni in celebration of brotherhood.
As the semester came to a close, we looked back with pride at all we accomplished and the strong bonds we continue to build within our Chapter and community.
Livingston – Charlie Raney
This semester, the Livingston Chapter has achieved great success in meeting our philanthropic goals.
Through multiple philanthropy events, we have raised over $ 1,500 for the V Foundation and are striving to increase that amount substantially in the next month.
We have also been active in our community, continuing our “Project Livvy”, which is where we clean up the streets of Livingston. The Chapter has also been incredibly active within the school, participating in the Homecoming Parade and even placing second in our school’s Serendipity talent show. This semester, we have recruited three excellent new brothers. We also have three brothers who are graduating this semester.
Michigan State Provisional – Nicholas Tonon
This Fall has been an incredible start for the Michigan State Provisional Chapter of Delta Chi. As founding fathers, we’ve worked hard to bring Delta Chi back to campus and grow our brotherhood from just a few guys to more than 35 dedicated members.
We’ve already made a lot of great memories, like our weekend-long camping retreat at Lake Higgins, a cider mill and haunted house trip, and plenty of Thursday Night Football hangouts. We’ve also gotten involved on campus by playing in soccer, basketball, and volleyball tournaments and volunteering at Haven House to give back to the community. It’s been an exciting first semester full of growth, brotherhood, and recruitment. And we’re looking forward to building something with lasting impact here at Michigan State.
Minnesota – Noah Wilson
This semester, the Chapter has excelled both on and off campus, and we continue to build that momentum through the rest of the Fall and into spring.
We proudly welcomed eight new initiates as full members, strengthening our brotherhood. The semester has been filled with excitement—especially during Homecoming, where we teamed with Alpha Chi Omega, Theta Chi, and Phi Mu. Although we didn’t match last year’s success, we still had a fantastic time and took the opportunity to strengthen our alumni network.
Our Fall formal at Arcadia Lodge in Big Fork, Minnesota, was another highlight of the term. Beyond social events, our members have been active in intramurals such as hockey, flag football, and softball, continuing our collaboration with Alpha Epsilon Pi. We also brought back the long-standing tradition of Sweethearts, welcoming two new Sweethearts into our Chapter family. As we move into spring, we look forward to continuing to grow our Chapter and the community we hold so dearly.
Mississippi State – Nathan Mead
In October, our Chapter raised $3,481 for the V Foundation through our annual haunted house. We put a lot of time and effort into making this another successful year raising money for cancer research. We had a lot of success from many different chair positions and exec members, executing this from different angles.
Missouri State - Tyler Blakely
Over the past year, the Missouri State Chapter has continued to thrive, enjoying another incredible semester of Delta Chi brotherhood! During the Fall of 2025, we proudly initiated 38 new members, bringing our total Chapter membership to 137 brothers.
One of our biggest highlights this semester was Sweetheart Week, during which we crushed our fundraising goal—raising an impressive $13,000 for the V Foundation. The spirit and unity throughout the house have been at an all-time high, with members describing this year as “memorable,” “a blast,” and saying, “the spirit has been here this year.”
With our eyes set on the future, we’re excited to keep the momentum going. The Chapter is committed to achieving even greater goals next semester and continuing to be the best of the best.
Nebraska-Omaha – Ryan Yost
The University of Nebraska Omaha Chapter has remained highly active and engaged in both philanthropic and community initiatives this semester. The Chapter has hosted several successful events, including a dunk tank, a 3v3 basketball tournament, and our most popular event, the annual Delta Chi Golf Scramble, which raised and donated $5,000. Altogether, our philanthropic efforts have generated over $5,500 for charitable causes. Additionally, our Chapter raised more than $600 through a car wash to directly support Chapter operations.
Beyond fundraising, our members have dedicated time to local food banks and other community service projects. We also continue to prioritize member development through weekly study nights, guest speakers, and career fair announcements, ensuring that our brothers continually develop their character personally and professionally. One of our proudest achievements this semester is the successful initiation of our Nu Class. All 20 potential new members who received bids were officially initiated on October 25, 2025, marking the first time in recent years that every bid recipient has become a full member of Delta Chi.
Oregon State – Ethan Bergen
Our members have had a substantial impact on campus this term. We had great recruitment, with fun events that showcased our brotherhood and values. Following this, our members were involved in two different Intramural sports. We have also been regular attendees of philanthropy events hosted by other Greek organizations. We recently had great success in a trivia competition hosted by the local sorority Phi Beta Chi.
We also had great success in hosting our own philanthropy event. We hosted a pumpkin carving contest, which multiple Greek organizations attended. This event was a great way to raise awareness for our Chapter and to raise money for the V Foundation for Cancer Research. Our members are looking forward to a strong end to 2025.
San Antonio – Damian Casey
This semester, the San Antonio Chapter has been keeping busy both on and off campus. We kicked things off by welcoming new brothers and jumped right into volunteering and having successful fundraisers that brought us closer as a Chapter. Whether it’s helping with a food drive or doing a campus cleanup, we have ensured that Delta Chi is well represented in the community.
On campus, we host study sessions in the library to support each other academically while strengthening our brotherhood. These sessions have been a great way to stay motivated and connected. From service to scholarship, our Chapter’s efforts speak for themselves, and we are excited to keep pushing forward.
South Carolina – Chip Sayer
The fall semester marked a historic milestone for the South Carolina Chapter as we officially received our charter. The ceremony brought together brothers, alumni, and advisors to celebrate the hard work and dedication everyone has put into this Fraternity. Standing together as officially recognized members of Delta Chi was an incredible reminder of our shared commitment to friendship, character, justice, and education. This event showcased the significant progress we have made in a short period and symbolized a promising future for our Chapter at the University of South Carolina.
The South Carolina Chapter proudly welcomed an exceptional new associate member class. It truly has been a standout group of young men. This group represents one of our strongest to date, bringing energy, leadership, and enthusiasm to the brotherhood. Their eagerness to get involved, whether that be philanthropy, community service, or campus activities, has already made an impact here on campus. From the moment they joined, they embodied what it means to be a Delta Chi—motivated, dependable, and dedicated to growth, to being a better man. We’re excited to see the contributions this class will make as they take on leadership roles and help guide the Chapter into the future here at the University of South Carolina.
The Chapter settled into our newly assigned fraternity lots for the first time—a huge step for our brotherhood on campus. Brothers came together to set up our lot, working long hours on building and delivery to ensure the investment we make pays off. The process built teamwork and pride among the Fraternity as we worked side by side to make the space our own. From early mornings spent setting up tents to long nights spent with brothers, the fraternity lots have already become a defining part of our Chapter’s culture and campus presence at South Carolina.
Tri-State – Rowdy Smith
This semester, we completed our yearly service trip to Arcadia. After the four-hour drive, we helped close a Christian camp for the winter. On the first night we got there, we always went out to look at the stars. There is very little light, and that far north, the number of stars you can see is incredible. The next morning, we all woke up bright and early and started on the tasks that needed to be done.
These tasks can range from cutting wood to putting up snow fences, helping cook in the kitchen, or cleaning out rooms. Throughout this whole thing, the staff has been cooking delicious meals for us. In their downtime between work, the brothers explore the beach, as the camp is located right on Lake Michigan. This service is something the entire brotherhood looks forward to every year. This is a longstanding tradition here at the Tri-State Chapter, one that we intend to keep happening forever.
Utah – Quinn McCarn
The Utah Chapter experienced tremendous growth and success this term. We proudly initiated 25 new members, marking one of our strongest recruitment classes to date, while maintaining an outstanding 100% retention rate within the Associate Member process.
Our brotherhood continues to thrive, built on strong bonds of friendship, personal development, and academic excellence, as evidenced by above-average GPAs. Beyond internal growth, we’ve also worked to strengthen our presence within the campus community by building positive relationships with other chapters, including the newly established Zeta Chapter and the men of FIJI. Through collaborative events and continued outreach, Delta Chi at Utah remains dedicated to fostering a supportive Greek community and living out our values of friendship, character, justice, and education.
Virginia Tech – Carter Sutch
The Virginia Tech Chapter started Fall with a bang! For starters, recruitment chair Zach McCarthy put on three great open rush events and two closed rush events. As a result, we have recruited 19 Associate Members into the Xi class. These young men are already eager to take leadership roles, signaling a promising future for the Chapter.
In addition, the Chapter has participated in a myriad of sororities and philanthropies this semester, raising money for a variety of great causes, including CASA for Thetas, Read, Lead, Achieve for Pi Beta Phi, and Alpha Chi Omega’s domestic violence philanthropy, among others.
The brothers have been having a blast hanging out at events this semester, planned by our social chair, Andrew Parsons. From Football tailgates on Center Street to Sorority socials building relationships, the year is off to a strong start for the Chapter.
Washington – Simon Thompson
This past term marked a major period of growth and renewed momentum for our Chapter, demonstrated best by the largest pledge class we have welcomed since returning to campus. This achievement reflects not only increased interest in UW Delta Chi but also the intentional efforts of our members to foster a culture rooted in the Delta Chi values.
Beyond recruitment, the Chapter made significant strides in philanthropy and service. We successfully organized and participated in multiple philanthropy and volunteer events, allowing members to give back while strengthening bonds with one another and with the surrounding community. These initiatives reinforced our commitment to service and demonstrated Delta Chi’s values in action.
Equally important, we reestablished and strengthened connections with a wide range of campus organizations. Through collaboration and visibility at campus events, our Chapter has reaffirmed its presence and reputation as an engaged and constructive part of campus life.
DELTA CHI
Alumni Chapter Scene
Atlanta Area Alumni Chapter
The Atlanta Area Alumni Chapter is coming off a jam-packed 2025. Along with our Monthly Brothers Night Outs, we sponsored the Fly High Max Stop the Hazing 5K, attended an Atlanta Braves baseball game, held our annual Family Picnic, helped Clean the Hooch, hosted two ARC’s, partnered with the Charlotte and Palmetto Area Alumni Chapters for our annual Greenville Drive Baseball weekend, hosted a Founders Day dinner with over 80 Brothers in attendance, raised $12,493.29 on the Delta Chi Annual Day of Giving, raised over $9,300 for our Philanthropies, donated 54 Coats and over 200 Socks to the Midtown Assistance Center and capped off the year with our annual Holiday Party. The AAAC is also proud to announce the establishment of the Atlanta Area Alumni Chapter Endowment for Leadership and Scholarship, which already has commitments and will be fully funded within months of the account establishment!
Please visit our Facebook group, Delta Chi, Atlanta Area Alumni Chapter, and feel free to reach out to Jon Sattler, “A” at jonsattler79@gmail.com
Blue Ridge Alumni Chapter
The Virginia Blue Ridge Area Alumni Chapter serves alumni in Southwestern Virginia and the surrounding area. In 2025, we hosted five brotherhood events at restaurants in Blacksburg, Radford, and Salem, VA, allowing alumni spanning over 35 years of Delta Chi initiates, along with their wives, girlfriends, and children, to socialize, trade stories, and get to know one another.
In August, the Chapter organized an outing to a Salem Red Sox minor league baseball game, which was our most attended event of the year. We held a joint event with the Charlotte Area Alumni Chapter attending a Twin City Thunderbirds minor league hockey game in Winston-Salem, NC. If you live in Southwestern Virginia or anywhere nearby, contact the Chapter at vablueridgealumnideltachi@gmail.com to get involved!
We host events regularly, and we’d love to see you!
Capital Area Alumni Chapter
On October 25, 2025, brothers from the Washington, D.C. area gathered for an Alumni DC event in Arlington. Over 30 brothers attended the event and got a chance to reminisce and network. It was also an opportunity to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Capital Area Alumni Chapter. The Capital Area Alumni Chapter is also actively planning events in 2026 and would welcome more brothers to join the group.
If you are interested in joining the Capital Area Alumni Chapter, check out the website: dc-deltachi.org
Dallas Fort Worth Alumni Chapter
The Dallas/Fort Worth Area Alumni Chapter would like to thank and recognize our former “A”, Taylor Hawks, for his leadership over the years and for helping bring this Chapter to life. We wish him the best as he advances his career and moves to the Kansas City area.
The DFW Alumni Chapter has been busy over the past year, holding several brotherhood events, including a visit to Top Golf and, afterwards, putting on our boots and cowboy hats to go to the rodeo in the Fort Worth Stockyards in February. We also celebrated a win with the NBA G-League Frisco Legends basketball team in the spring. In the summer, we hit the jackpot with dinner and a trip to Choctaw Casino in Oklahoma. In the Fall, axes flew as our brothers competed for the elusive DFW Alumni Chapter 1st Place plaque.
We also planted a few dozen trees on a Saturday morning with the City of Dallas in a local park. We ended our year with our annual holiday party and gift exchange. It was a fun year, but we have many more activities planned for this year. We hope you will join us!
New York Alumni Chapter
The Association is excited for a new year of activities supporting brother engagement in the largest national metro area. Planning is underway for several networking events focused on law, finance, and marketing. A series of online professional development workshops will begin in March. Summer plans include a road trip and a family outing.
The Association will also be the leading alumni group assisting with the founding members at Ramapo College. We invite you to be part of the action - reach out at deltachinyc@aol.com or on Instagram: @deltachinyc. Together, let’s put the bite into the Big Apple.
Northeast Ohio Alumni Chapter
In 2025, the Northeast Ohio Chapter’s guiding word was fellowship. The Chapter organized several brotherhood events throughout the year, including collaborations with our local undergrad chapters. Some notable highlights were our annual get-together with the Kent State undergrads, our Founder’s Day dinner and rock painting ceremony to commemorate 135 years of Delta Chi, and our annual Holiday Party/White Elephant gift exchange.
We also wanted to take a moment to recognize our newly elected “E”, Geoff Westerfield - Ohio State ’01, for receiving the Meritorious Service Award. Geoff is a true embodiment of selfless service, serving as Kent State’s ABT President and working tirelessly to assist undergraduates with their newly acquired lettered house.
Thank you for all you do, Geoff! We can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store for us and look forward to seeing everyone at Convention!
Pittsburgh Alumni Reception
Delta Chi invites all Pittsburgh area alumni to a reception being held as part of the Fraternity’s continued focus on alumni engagement and enjoy the lifelong bond of Delta Chi.
Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 6:00 - 9:00 pm Shorty’s GoodTime Bar
353 North Shore Drive | Pittsburgh, PA 15212
To RSVP visit: deltachi.org/pittsburgh
St Louis Alumni Chapter
2025 was a year of change for the St. Louis Chapter. While there weren’t many events, it’s clear that the future is bright in our area. The Chapter is full of rising stars and risk-takers who plan to take the Chapter to heights unseen. We can assure you that 2026 will be the year of growth and new opportunities for everyone in the area.
Troy Area Alumni Chapter
The Troy Area Alumni Chapter is proud to report a successful and energizing year for Delta Chi in Troy for 2025. Our 2025 Homecoming celebration saw outstanding attendance from alumni spanning multiple generations, creating a meaningful opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate our shared brotherhood. Alumnus Forrest Latta was announced as one of the 2025 Troy University Alumni of the Year at the homecoming game by the University Chancellor, Jack Hawkins. The strong homecoming turnout is a testament to the lasting bonds formed through Delta Chi and to Troy alumni’s commitment to remaining engaged and supportive. This year would have marked the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Troy State Chapter on campus. As we honor that legacy, the Alumni Chapter is especially excited to welcome the Troy undergraduate Chapter back to campus in Spring 2026. This return represents a significant step forward and a new Chapter for Delta Chi at Troy.
Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be a busy and exciting time as alumni and undergraduates work together to rebuild the Chapter, strengthen brotherhood, and ensure a bright future for Troy Delta Chis.
Twin City Area Alumni Chapter
Alumni in Minnesota were involved in various activities with the University of Minnesota Chapter. The Spring golf outing was cold but a lot of fun. Founder’s Day and Homecoming were other moments when alumni in this area connected.
We are looking forward to the same activities and more in 2026.
High Achievement Award Winners
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING
In January and February, over 60 members of Delta Chi graduated as Dale Carnegie Scholars during the four Regional Leadership Academy (RLA) events or in a virtual session. In four years of the program, there have been over 300 graduates! As the exclusive fraternal partner with Dale Carnegie, Delta Chi believes that creating this opportunity for the development of professional and interpersonal skills will lead to the future success of graduates of the program within their chapters and future careers.
Four achieved further distinction as a Highest Achievement Award (HAA) winner. To be selected for this prestigious honor, individuals were voted into recognition by their peer graduates within their cohort. Highest Achievement Award winners are selected because they best exemplify the standards, qualities, and consistent practice of the principles on which the Dale Carnegie program is based.
In-person HAAs were recognized during the closing session of RLA and received a commemorative plaque designating this recognition. They were also able to share thoughts with other attendees about the impact and benefit of the program and will be invited to provide continued and focused feedback to Delta Chi International Headquarters staff. HAAs will also be invited to provide direct insight and feedback throughout the calendar year about the partnership between Delta Chi and Dale Carnegie.
St. Louis Cohort: Adiel Garcia, Creighton ’28
“For me, the Dale Carnegie course really helped me to solidify the foundations of public speaking and selfconfidence. I think this is a program that every single person needs to take if they want to stand out and improve their leadership qualities.”
Los Angeles Cohort: Maxx Neilson, San Diego ’27
“I knew this event would help me better improve my interpersonal and overall communication, but I had no idea that it would do it to the level that was executed. I feel very blessed and appreciate my Delta Chi chapter of San Diego State University for nominating me to attend and represent at this event.”
Atlanta Cohort: Justin Golden, Georgia Tech ’29
“The Dale Carnegie course helped me become a more confident leader and public speaker. After participating in a number of exercises in front of the cohort, I learned that the fear of embarrassment is more of a manifestation of our negative thoughts than it is something worth fearing. The program forced me to step outside of my comfort zone and attempt things I would not have tried in the past, and the self-confidence I gained through this experience is something I’ve carried into my everyday life.”
Virtual Cohort: Grant French, Wisconsin ’28
“Through the Dale Carnegie program with Delta Chi, I gained a lot of insight and experience improving my leadership and communication skills. I believe that this program has most improved my ability to become more personable in conversation through the appreciation of others’ values and experiences.”
Adiel Garcia CREIGHTON ’28
Maxx Neilson SAN DIEGO ’27
Justin Golden GEORGIA TECH ’29
Grant French WISCONSIN ’28
FAREWELL & PARTING
Those Who Have Passed
Abracadabra
Homer C. Hinckley ‘34, May 22, 1934
Alabama
Hugh Wages ’59, October 26, 2025
Augusta
Grayson LaHatte ’16, December 27, 2025
Ball State
Allan Ray Bradford ’67, April 13, 2020
Robert J. Branyan ’60, January 28, 2018
Richard H. Buehler ’60, September 13, 2013
Bruce Heffelfinger ’74, February 13, 2026
Michael Thurmond ’69, October 30, 2025
Connecticut
Isidore Ellin ’55, November 3, 2015
Depauw
Jeremiah Elrod ’00, February 1, 2026
Douglas Price ’51, November 7, 2025
Eastern Illinois
Gene J. White ’72, December 3, 2025
Embry-Riddle
Raymond Loehner ’70, March 23, 2026
Florida
Charles W. Cadrecha ’48, January 16, 2016
Georgia Southern
Johnny Walters ’80, January 12, 2026
Georgia Tech
Walter Shockley ’94, June 19, 2025
Georgetown
Arthur J. Cavanaugh ’41, November 14, 1976
Paul M. O’Connor ‘33, October 10, 1974
Grieg V. Richardson ’41, January 17, 2000
Gorham State
David Powell ’97, September 30, 2025
Idaho
Jerry R. Asker ’51, June 1, 2017
Donald J. Birchmier ’42, April 8, 2017
Daniel White ’72, November 19, 2025
Illinois
Kim Prentice ’73, October 1, 2025
Iowa State
Gerald Estle Allen ’52, April 17, 2023
Terry Owen Arney ’57, July 11, 2017
Burton B. Butler, MD ’49, April 26, 2017
Donald R. Criswell ’56, August 21, 2019
John Edward Ferre ’61, May 4, 2010
Marc Nichols ’68, September 10, 2025
Jacksonville State
Anthony Todd Garrison ’12, Nov. 29, 2025
Kansas
Jack Dryden ’53, October 15, 2025
Lehigh
David V. Achenburg ’58, January 16, 2025
Jon Blauvelt ’52, July 16, 2017
Richard Hortsmann ’66, November 4, 2025
Long Beach
Mark Norell ’75, September 9, 2025
Los Angeles
Michael D. Rigdon ’64, September 11, 2011
Louisiana State
Marshall L. Atkins ’49, August 26, 2015
Robert Lee Atkinson III ’49, January 11, 2018
Martin W. Richard ’47, June 4, 2014
Walter Glen Thomas ’41, February 15, 2018
Miami
Jerry Lippe ’64, October 19, 2025
Michigan State
Theodore R. Bowman ’50, June 22, 2010
Leo Paul Bourdon ’42, December 13, 2005
Minnesota
Dudley Merit Arp ’49, January 2, 2015
Walter G. Bauer ’59, July 25, 2002
Jack Gianotti Jr ’40, December 27, 1989
Missouri
Walter S. Drusch Jr ’56, January 15, 2025
Donald P. Heldman ’55, May 7, 2023
Henry David Herman ’55, January 17, 2023
Leroy David Herman ’55, January 17, 2023
Charles T. Huber ’66, June 9, 2021
James P. Mudd ’82, 2014
H. Ray Reynolds ’51, January 29, 2019
Gary N. Schmedding ’58, December 2, 2025
Thomas J. Simonds ’58, August 22, 2021
Gerald J. Voelkers Jr ’51, June 28, 2019
New York
Richard Lee Greene ’40, September 20, 1942
Robert N. Stannard Jr ’41, June 25, 1970
Robert F. Wichser ’40, December 4, 2011
Ohio State
Anthony W. Gerzina Jr. ’51, April 23, 2019
Ralph Smith ’66, November 22, 2025
Oklahoma
Richard A. Venna ’53, March 1, 2011
John G. Giles ’57, October 1, 2018
Oregon
John Z. Witherell ’58, September 17, 2024
Osgoode Hall
Gary Murray Keyes ’56, October 5, 1997
Francis J. Kovacs ’52, January 11, 1999
G. Kenneth Langford Esq. ‘39, May 8, 2008
John Frederick Logan ’53, February 11, 2008
Oshkosh
Michael Nikonchuk III ’74, October 4, 2025
Jay Tack ’69 December 28, 2002
Pennsylvania
Charles F. Franke ’42, November 16, 2012
John Harold Way Jr ’42, June 18, 1956
Rollins
Nelson W. Kimball ’56, September 17, 2024
SMU
Thomas A. Blalack ’43, November 13, 2023
Edward D. Blevin Jr. ’48, November 17, 2001
John W. Boorman ’55, July 20, 2022
James Willis Booth ’47, December 22, 2009
Albert A. Ingels ’48, March 27, 2017
Southern California
Wilmar Bledsoe ’41, September 14, 1989
Charles V. Engle ‘35, April 26, 2015
Robert L. Hertel ’50, February 25, 2021
Overton E. Hertz ’49, October 4, 2010
Alexander H. McNaughton ‘39, Nov. 15, 2008
Angelo J. Mellas ’51, February 16, 2020
Merwyn P. Merrick ’48, June 1, 2014
Ernest G. Silva Jr. ’50, January 31, 2018
Robert Lee Smith ’52, February 24, 2011
Thomas E. Springer Jr. ’41, April 28, 2001
Southern Illinois –Carbondale
Larry Saxe ’67, November 26, 2025
Stanford
George W. Burlingham ’55, January 27, 2014
Russell Collier ’41, April 25, 2016
James Ade Kurfess ’47, September 15, 2024
James T. Lanman ’59, April 13, 1963
Charles A. Legge ’49, December 8, 2023
John T. McLane ’42, November 25, 1996
Jack S. Moscowitz ’41, December 19, 2013
John Holley Pugh ’40, May 17, 2015
John H. Rey ’46, December 4, 2020
Martin H. Seaver ’40, April 20, 1997
Leland E. Scott ’42, November 15, 2008
Monteagle Stearns ’42, May 14, 2016
Calvert Spensley ‘38, November 28, 2009
Union
Leigh Alan Holt ’56, February 23, 2012
Wayne State
Robert L. Confer ’72, February 21, 2015
Western
Michigan
John Ned Ayoub ’56, September 10, 2009
These men have lived among us for a time, and we have been honored to call them brothers. Now they are gone and we bid them a fond farewell at this parting. *The
Lt. Col Norman M. Barikmo ’55, June16, 2008
CALL TO THE 64TH International Convention
TO THE MEN OF THE DELTA CHI FRATERNITY, alumni members, alumni chapters, student members, and associate members of undergraduate chapters and provisional chapters.
AS THE FIFTY-FORTH “AA”, I do hereby proclaim that the sixty-forth International Convention will convene at the Hyatt Regency Downtown in the city of Indianapolis in the state of Indiana at six in the evening, Wednesday, July 22, two thousand twenty-six. Said Convention shall continue through the scheduled adjournment on the twenty-fifth of July.
THE BOARD OF REGENTS IS HEREBY CALLED INTO SESSION starting at nine o’clock in the morning, Tuesday the twenty-first of July, two thousand twenty-six at the same location.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Delta Chi Fraternity to be affixed.
DONE AT THE CITY OF INDIANAPOLIS, the fifteenth day of March in the year two thousand twenty-six and in the one hundred thirty-sixth year since the founding of The Delta Chi Fraternity.
By the “AA”
PATRICK ALDERDICE Ball State 1992
Attested by the “CC”
MATT GORNEY Kansas State 2006
For more information and to register for the 64th International Convention, please visit deltachi.org/convention today!
