Chapter News 2025

 

Congratulations to the brothers elected to the 2025 Zeta Alpha Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity Executive Board!

 

On January 8, 2025, after 10+ years of dedicated advocacy by families, fraternities, sororities, and other committed organizations to increase transparency, accountability, and prevention of hazing across U.S. higher education, the 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐬 𝐇𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐜𝐭 (𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐀), promoted and endorsed through bipartisan efforts, was officially signed into law.

The 𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐀 requires colleges and universities to
• Publicly report hazing incidents
• Adopt robust prevention policies and
• Maintain Campus Hazing Transparency Reports

Theta Chi Fraternity stood alongside other men’s and women’s fraternal organizations as a proud advocate throughout this process to prevent hazing and to foster safer, more supportive campus communities. As Theta Chi brothers live out our Sacred Purpose, we are committed to one another and the prevention of hazing.

Read more about the 𝐒𝐂𝐇𝐀 here: https://bit.ly/4j7bG0x

 

Sasser President’s Conference, Vice Presidents Forum, Our Sacred Purpose (VP of Health and Safety), Marshals Summit, Amplify Theta Chi (Recruitment Chairmen) was held in Indianapolis January 10-12, 2025.

This weekend President Joe Hemple, Vice President John Grimm, VP Health and Safety Noah Frank, Marshal Aiden Tackach and Recruitment Chair Caleb Hankee members of our executive board had the opportunity to attend the national new officers training ceremony in Indianapolis, IN. This was an amazing event filled with inspiration, collaboration, and networking with brothers all over the country. attended.

 

“Indy was worth getting stranded at the Flying J in the middle of nowhere!!!”

 

Roller Hockey Season is in full force – Results of the January 18-19 weekend!

 

RUSH! Theta Chi 2025

The 2025 Spring Rush schedule is out!

If you want to know more about what Theta Chi is or what it means to be a Resolute Man, make sure to check out the dates and come meet the brothers! Greek life offers many opportunities, come see what our brotherhood can do for you! #RushΘΧ

 

Theta Chi Academic Excellence – Almamater First, Theta Chi for Alma Mater

Shout out to these academic brothers for making Dean’s list! We are all proud of your accomplishments within your academics! Special congratulations to brother Colin for his 4.0 GPA!

 

The Spring semester Involvement Fair was held January 28 and about 30 young men expressed an interest in Theta Chi Fratrernity! Congratulations!

 

The February 1, 2025 Zeta Alpha Chapter Newsletter is available – click here

Super Brother at Super Bowl LIX

We are so proud of our SRU Basketball head manager and Theta Chi Brother, Nick Mote!
Nick is currently in New Orleans to work Superbowl LIX with @sruspmt. #RockOn #RockPride 💚
It doesn’t matter where you come from.
It doesn’t matter where your journey started.
Nobody gets to define you but you.
-Ronde Barber

It is here! Super Bowl Sunday in the bayous, in the cuisine, in the culture, and in the Superdome! SRU Sport Management students are ready for a full day of professional development as here is our second group, eager and ready to go. Ethan, Aaron, Mikayla, Zander, Bree, Brent, Joe, Emma, Niko, Morgan, and Nick, with special halftime performances by Dr. Crow, Dallas Kline, and Paul Lueken. Have an awesome day!

Almost Chi Day!

Recruitmernt Chair Caleb hard at work!

SRU Roller Hockey Team 2024-2025
Visit the bottom of this page to see their stats all year!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day!

Applying for the Sherwood and Janet Roberts Blue Memorial Scholarship.
The$1,000 scholarship pays off with this announcement in the Winter 24/25 Rattle!

Congratulations Brother Lucian. Remember any Brother with a 3.0 cumlitive GPA or higher is eligable to apply this March!

Congratulations Brother Frank Noah for stanging in Goal against Northeastern for a career SHUT OUT!
See results above of February 15-16, 2025 event in Old Bethpage, NY where SRU took 6 of 8 matches.

Zeta Alpha Brothers celebrating the Eagles Super Bowl win at the parade on February 14 in Philly!

Rush Events were very well planned, executed and received!

And if you don’t believe us, welcome to the 11 members (some not pictured) of the Ξ (XI) pledge class! Congratulations to those who have chosen to pursue the ideals and goals of the Resolute Men of the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Theta Chi at Slippery Rock University!

Senior Night, February 19, 2025, on the court recognizing those seniors who have contributed to the SRU Basketball program this year. Brother Nick presented his jersey with his parents.

February 19, chapter meeting presentation on anythinjg and everything about the Resolute Man program! We’ve got 7 who have completed the Resolute Man program time for more!

For the Love of Sigma Philanthropy Event

Almost Chi Day!

Congratulations to Brothers John Grimm and Thomas Cadle on being elected VP of Recruitment and VP of Education on the Interfraternity Council (IFC) at Slippery Rpck University.

USO/Zeta Alpha Fundraiser today 2/25/25

Registration open for Theta Chi Fraternity Initiative Academy June 12-15, July 10-13, July 24-27, 2025 in Bloomington, Indiana. Register by April 1. One per chapter but when he deadine approaches, if you want to attend, register. In 2023 there were extra spaces available and Zeta Alpha was able to send 3! Notice Zeta Alpha Brother and Resolute Man Jacob Cubins in the promotional photo send by IHQ!

Brother of the Month of February!

“Coming off the tail-end of one of our most successful rush periods, I’m starstruck by how all the guys came together to continue cementing the future of Theta Chi. My success in this position is rooted in our collective love for our chapter, each other, and our ideals. I’m truthfully honored that I have the opportunity to have such a direct hand in steering us forward, and that motivation is what keeps me going every single day. Stay freaky. ❤️” – Caleb Hankee

GREEK WEEK 2025 – March 24-29!

Almost Officually Chi Day!

SRU – Eastern Conference Collegate Roller Hockey Association Finals February 28 – March 1, Broomhall, PA

For more information scroll to the bottom of the page!

Thoughts on Spring Break for Theta Chi International

Congratulations to Pledge Irwin Hurst of the SRU Division 2 Eastern Conference Champs and to SRU Division AA Runner-up including Brothers Luke Jordan, KJ Meek, Frank Noah, Robbie Sloan and Pledge Austin Henne.

Both received bids to attend National Championships representing Division 2 an Division the AA in Fort Meyers, FL April 2-6, 2025.

Brother Noah in the Net!

DIV 2 AA Eastern Conference Finals Runners up!

The March 1, 2025 Zeta Alpha Chapter Newsletter is available – click here

Resume Building Workshop and Career Fair

March 3rd, some of our brothers had the amazing opportunity to attend a resume building workshop with the Slippery Rock Career Center. They also participated in a career Expo. Brothers got to create and update their resumes and do some interview practice as well! Thank you to Emily, Amauni, and Livvie for working with us.

Bubble Soccer

Spring 2025 Pinning Ceremony

This week we welcomed the XI pledge class into our brotherhood by pinning 16 young men.
We can’t wait to see what you collegians accomplish on your way to becoming resolute men.

Giving Day, March 21, 2025

Greek Week 2025 – March 24 – 29

The theme for Greek Week this year is Decades, and will be running from Monday, March 24th through Saturday, March 29th.

The pairings are as follows:
Alpha Omicron Pi & Theta Xi
Alpha Sigma Tau & Pi Kappa Phi
Alpha Xi Delta, Kappa Sigma & Sigma Pi
Phi Sigma Sigma & Kappa Delta Rho
Delta Zeta & Alpha Sigma Phi
Sigma Sigma Sigma & Theta Chi

Get ready and make this our best Greek Week yet!

Up p’till 2 St Jude and Smck Out Arthritis events

Brothers in the Lacross Club competed on March 22 in Ohio

SRU Roller Hockey bros!

Officially Chiday and officially back in town‼️
Make sure to have a safe and responsible weekend and check out the giving day link in our bio!!

National Rugby Tournament

March 29, Notre Dame Rugby will play host to the largest collegiate rugby tournament in America on Saturday. 36 teams will compete, in 3 National Collegiate Rugby Championship 7s Qualifiers. Come take in the action at Stinson Rugby Field, or tune in & follow the live schedule at http://rugby.nd.edu. Thanks to @visitsouthbend for taking care of all the lodging needs of our visiting teams! Support the bros!

Brothers Brendan and Cavan on the SRU Rugby roster!!

National Champions- Congratulations Brothers!

Roller Hockey Nationals

April 2-6 in Fort Meyers. Good luck bros!

Some Greek Week photos

Shop Gold During Greek Week

Last week, we had the awesome opportunity to work with @trisigma_sru for the 2025 Greek Week!! Congrats to all participants for making it such a great time for all, we can’t wait to see what next year offers!!

And what is broher Tom up to? Showing off his skills?

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The SRU Theta Chi Fraternity’s Sacred Purpose program is centered on 5 different topics that affect today’s collegiate men. One of which is Sexual Misconduct Prevention.

Senior Spotlight

‼️SENIOR SPOTLIGHT‼️
Senior Brother: Kiran Gurung
Pledge Class: Kappa
Major: Cybersecurity, focus in Security Governance

After college, Kiran plans on pursuing his career through his Internship!

“I joined because of the group of guys that made up the fraternity. It was a tight knit group that focused on their academics, but still knew how to make the most out of their college experience. Theta Chi has given me life long friends, opportunities to travel, have leadership experience, and a massive network of brothers that can help me in my future endeavors. It has definitely been an experience of a lifetime.”
-Brother Kiran

Roller Hockey Nationals start Today! Good Luck to the Brothers!

Roller Hockey National Tournament AA Team

April 3 Fundraiser

Look what we found on Theta Chi Internationals Instagram posts!

Chi Day

It’s been good calm week this week, make sure you’re taking care of yourself and staying safe as always.

Brother of the Month of March

🎉Congrats to Brother Jake for being our March Brother of the Month, we appreciate all you do for the chapter! Here’s a few words from Jake!!🎉

“It means a lot to be recognized by my brothers, especially in a chapter full of such hardworking and dedicated people. I’ve just been doing my best to stay organized and support everyone however I can, and I’m proud to represent Theta Chi and all that we stand for. I’ll continue doing my best to give back and lead by example. Thank you! #Bread “

Senior Spotlight

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT‼️
Senior Brother: Nick Mote
Pledge Class: Kappa
Major: Sports Management
Completed 4 year program in 3!

After college, Nick is continuing his career as a Clubhouse manager for the Altoona Curve!

“Joining Theta Chi has indeed made me resolute. I have had the honor for three years to be part of something that is truly special. I will be forever thankful for the relationships gained through joining this fraternity.”
-Nick Mote

Philantropy Project

Founders Day 2025

Brothers supporting the AST Sorority

‼️Happy Chiday‼️
Make sure you are eating, setting your spawn point, and most importantly, do NOT mine at night. Have a good weekend!!

Community Service

The weekend of April 12 & 13, we were proud to partner with Tri Sigma to brighten up a local elementary school by coming together to paint!!

Installation of the XI Pledge Class April 13, 2025

On Sunday, April 13th, the Zeta Alpha Chapter proudly initiated the XI Class. Making history as our largest pledge class ever, and the largest our chapter has been since reinstatement! We are so proud of these 16 young men and can’t wait to see what they accomplish throughout their collegiate and professional careers. Here’s to brotherhood, growth, and the future ahead!

Zeta Alpha now at 49!

Representing!

‼️Happy Chiday‼️
Even though there’s only 15 minutes of Chiday left, remember that it’s better to do things late then to not do them at all. Stay safe this weekend and have a great Easter!!

‼️SENIOR SPOTLIGHT‼️
Senior Brother: Lucian Dean
Pledge Class: Eta
Major: Secondary Education with a minor in Non-Western History

After college, Lucian is going to travel as much as he can to gain experience for his career as a teacher!

“Theta Chi gave me a space to grow as a professional. I wouldn’t be half the man I am today without the support from alumni, brothers, and Greek Life.”
-Lucian Dean

The Zeta Alpha Chapter members participated in the USC #SpeakYourMIND Ice Bucket Challenge is a viral fundraising campaign revitalized by students at the University of South Carolina to raise awareness and education about mental health. Here is but an example:

‼️Happy Chiday‼️
With finals coming quickly, make sure you are keeping up with work and keeping yourself safe and healthy!!

Celebrating an unforgettable night at the Theta Chi 2025 formal!‼️🎉

‼️SENIOR SPOTLIGHT‼️
Senior Brother: Colin McPherson
Pledge Class: Kappa
Major: Cyber Security with concentration in governance

After college, Colin plans to keep working hard and pursuing his career!

“I had sever social anxiety coming into college. I had trouble talking to anyone. The brothers in Theta Chi were very understanding of this issue and helped me to over come it. Im not too sure where I would be without them if they weren’t there to offer an assisting hand. One of the nicest group of guys I have met.”
-Colin McPherson

Brotherhood and Service!

Adventure!

‼️SENIOR SPOTLIGHT‼️
Senior Brother: Grant Riley
Pledge Class: Lambda
Major: Computer Science

After college, Grant plans on building his life with his fiancé and continuing to grow as a person!

“When I joined Theta Chi it introduced me to some of the best people I’ve ever met. Every year since I’ve been in Theta Chi I’ve met more and more people that are equally as wonderful. Being a Theta Chi was one of the best decisions I have ever made.”
-Grant Riley

‼️SENIOR SPOTLIGHT‼️
Senior Brother: Brendan Walker
Pledge Class: Iota
Major: Civil Engineering

After college, Brendan plans on moving back home and continuing to work!

“Being in Theta Chi fraternity has introduced me to some of the best people I’ve ever met in my life and I would’ve never had that experience without this fraternity.”
-Brendan Walker

Chi Day!

Congratulations!
Brother Oliver Sanvicente for complting the 1/2 Marathon in Pittsburgh. May 4th 2025!

Good Times!

Brother of the Month of April!

Congratulation Resolute Men – 2025 Gradautes of Slippery Rock University

Congratulations to our graduating Seniors! 🎓 Your hard work and dedication have brought you to this milestone. As you step into the next chapter, remember the bonds and memories created within this brotherhood. We’re incredibly proud of all you’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve. Best of luck, brothers for life!❤️

Congratullations to 2025 Graduating Brothers who achieved Magna Cum Laude (3.60 – 3.79 GPA)
Brothers Lucian Dean and Nick Mote!

Thank you 244 Elm and the brothers “Who held the fort!” Ready for the new home in the Fall of 2025!

Theta Chi for Alma Mater!
The Zeta Alpha Chapter of Theta Chi is thrilled to have 20 brothers make Dean’s List for the 2025 Spring Semester. Great job brothers and keep up the good work!

Father’s Day 2025!

Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers who have shaped us into the resolute men we are today. Your guidance, love, and support mean the world to us.

Newest Resolute Man

Congratulations to Brother John Grimm for earning his Resolute Man Designation from Theta Chi Fraternity. Instead of using an experience track, Brother John utilized the Individual Track to accomplish ths recognition and commented, “Completing the Resolute Man in this way is a realitive easy process, you just have to document what you are probably already doing!

Congratulation to the #8 Zeta Alpha Resolute Man!

32nd Zeta Alpha Chapter/Alumni Golf outing.

The 32nd Zeta Alpha Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity Golf Outing was held on June 20 – 21, 2025 at the Slippery Rock Golf Club and was an outstanding success!

This was the first year where the golf and related events were all within a couple miles of the home of the Zeta Alpha Chapter .

It is important with the change of venue that brothers needed to register.

Any function hosted by the Chapter on premisis, the Chapter is required by Theta Chi Fraternity International that the Chapter have and maintain a registered guest list. Those not on the list who did not register cannot attend. Otherwise it coud compromise the chapter. We appreciate the brothers who registered and remind everyone about those requirements in the future. You cannot just “drop in.” It is not hard many brother picked and chose which event they were attending. Everyone should help the chapter comply.

We will share descriptions and pictures from each of the events held over the weekend.

Friday, June 20, 2025 – Chapter Welcome Event

Activities began with a Welcome Event held by the chapter for those who travelled distances or live locally to gather for food, fun and brotherhood. There was no cost for the event though donations were appreciated. 33 brothers registered for the event.

The chapter provided name tags and a hand stamp for all registrants to help to “Get to Know Each Other,” a plastic cup for beverages.

Tours of the house were offered and a display of the awards and recognition the chapter has received since 2018 were displayed. Some alumni brought their pledge class boards and personal boards for display not only this weekend but also in the new house this fall. (no longer hiding in basements.)

Hamburgers and hot dogs were available to be cooked to your preference in the new chapter grill along with various condiments, sides and watermelon. Brother Jake (Breadman) Levy coordinated registration and Brother Aiden Keller assumed most of the grill activities.

Brothers asked questions, were involved in a variety of conversations and many stories were shared late into the evening.

Saturday, June 21, 2025 – Golf Outing and Awards

Brothers were encouraged to visit campus and see how it has changed or to visit haunts previously visited and memories were shared.

The Golf Outing was held at the Slippery Rock Golf Club & Events Center. and began at 1:00 p.m. with a shotgun start. There were 7 teams of 4 and one team of 5 for a total of 33 players but an additional 14 brothers attended and sat on the porch and told stories or rode in carts observing and antagonizing during the event.

A hot dog and beverage was provided by the Alumni Board for each registrant who attended.

The teams and results were as follows:

Dan Pennell, Dillon Pusateri, Caleb Hankee, Daniel Babinsack -78 (+8)

Austin Henne, Joey Priano, Nate Waugman, Aiden Takach – 76 (+6)
(Photo not available)

John Farrar, Dan Van Wie, Steve “TAZ” Atteridge, Aidan Keller, Logan Pfaff – 75 (+5)
And special team coach Brother Paul Herbert!

Jack Hare, Ben Richards, Joe Hemple, Dylan Rider – 71 (+1)

Gary Donelli, Bob Bolt, Rod Nicholson, Frank Gorshen – 68 (-2)

Mike Ambrose, Mason Pritchard, Jake Good, Colin McPhereson – 65 (-5)

David Stotka, Alan Copeland, KJ Meek, Irwin “Matt” Hurst – 64 (-6)

Luke Jordan, Grant Riley, Robbie Sloan, Kevin Krepinevich – 63 (-7)

Most participants were able to select prizes for the competition from the prize table (though none as good as Eveready Flashlights!) and were generously donated by Brother Mike Bariski. Other donations to prizes were also provided by Brother Gary Donelli. (as you can see cars were presented to the top 3 teams! – not!)

There was a competition for Closest to the Pin. This was won by Brother John Farrar winning $155 and then volunteered to donate his winnings to the Alumni Association to support Chapter Activities.

There was a competition for Longest Drive. This was won by Brother Jake Good winning $155 and then volunteered to donate his winnings to the Alumni Association to support Chapter Activities.

As in the past, Brother Steve Pennell sold 50/50 raffle tickets to attendees $10 got you an arm’s length of tickets. We were pleased to have Brother Jim Grissinger from the Zeta Beta Alumni (who has attended several of the outings) volunteered and helped Brother Pennell in the sales of the tickets. A total of $310 was collected for the 50/50 raffle with $155 to go to the Alumni Chapter and $155 to be presented to the winner. In an interesting turn of events, Brother Jim Grissinger won the drawing and then volunteered to donate his winnings to the Alumni Association to support Chapter Activities.

State of the Chapter

President Joe Hemple shared remarks and accomplishments of the chapter with all attendees of which all were very impressed, proud and enthusiastically supportive!

Honorary Member and current Vice President of Theta Chi Fraternity International Brother Alan Copeland from the Zeta Beta Chapter shared with those in attendance the current state of Theta Chi Fraternity and stated that as an organization we are growing and having our best year in history. He has attended almost every outing since 2018.

Additionally, President Joe Hemple and Vice President Alan Copeland presented Golden Guard Awards to brothers in attendance who have been members for 50 years or more.

This year we presented to:

• John Farrar
• George Musko
• Stephen Pennell
• Gary Slabowski
• David Stotka

Pictured below are Brothers Steven Pennell and David Stotka with both holding their Golden Guard Awards.

T-Signs Supporting the Helping Hand Scholarship Fund

Brothers participated and provided T-signs for the Golf Outing raising funds for the Helping Hand Scholarship Fund. The “Helping Hand Scholarship Fund” is a discretionary financial donation to the student, offering support in an academic year and does not need to be paid back. Funds are provided thanks to donations by Slippery Rock University Zeta Alpha Theta Chi Alumni and friends with the intention of assisting with general living and/or course-related costs may include partial tuition fees or unexpected expenses. It is eligible only to SRU Zeta Alpha Theta Chi members in good standing.

We wish to thank the following Brothers for their purchase of a T-signs and for supporting the Helping Hand Fund Scholarship:

• Brother Bob Baudoux, Jr.
• Brother Gary Eckert
• Brother Gary Donelli
• Brothe Jim Dunn
• Brother John Farrar
• Brother Rick Fox
• Brother James Friend
• Brother Gus Kreuzer
• Brother Tom Liacha
• Brother Sky Pederson
• Brother Patrick Russell
• Brothers David Stotka/Kevin Krepinevich
• Brother Joe White

Photo Memories from the Outing and Awards Session

Saturday, June 21, 2025 – Bar-B-Q

After golf the brothers returned to 244 Elm Street for the Bar-B-Q. We had 45 registrants for the event.

For $20 per attendee Brothers were treated to a variety of beverages, ribs, hamburgers, hotdogs, seasoned roast beef, baked beans, and side dishes and condiments, with no limit on return visits and there was plenty to go around. The Chapter provided name tags and a hand stamp for all registrants to help to “Get to Know Each Other,” a plastic cup for beverages.

Special thanks are extended and Chapter Honors to Judee Henderson (Brother Connor Solomon’s Grandmother and the Pittsburgh Barbecue Company – 1000 Banksville Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15216) for sponsoring and provided the catering for the Chapter hosted BBQ and a special thanks to Brothers Mike Ambrose and Mason Pritchard for transporting the food from Pittburgh area Saturday Morning.

For more information on the Pittsburgh Barbeque Company click here.

The event finished well into the evening with new relationships, and plenty of brotherhood!

Here are a few Photo Memories from the BBQ

As per tradition we held a group picture between the awards program and the BBQ

SRU Rock Magazine

Zeta Alpha Theta Chi members got some face time in the Sping/Summer issue. https://magazine.sru.edu/issue/spring-summer-2025/

Here are the photos (Congratulations Alumni Brothers Grant Riley and Kiran Gurung and Brother Kaan Ozdemir)

Fathers Day, June 15, 2025

Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers who have shaped us into the resolute men we are today. Your guidance, love, and support mean the world to us.

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Initiative Academy

Zeta Alpha Chapter brothers Nate Waugam and Cole Clary participated in the Theta Chi International second of 3 Initiative Academies held in Bloomington, Indiana at Indiana University with brothers from all corners of the country. Theta Chi’s Initiative Academy is an opportunity to work in a cohort group to focus on brotherhood, professional networking, and growing yourself as a leader. For more information on the Initiative Academy click here.

Zeta Alpha recognized for 2024-2025 efforts

On July 15, 2025 (Just 4 days after the 61st anniversary of the original chartering of the Zeta Alpha Chapter) Chapter President Joe Hemple shared the following email with the members of the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Theta Chi.

Brothers,

I hope you guys are having a great summer so far.

I wanted to reach out to share some exciting news about the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Theta Chi at SRU and to highlight the significance of our recent achievements.

As many of you know, last month, we hosted our 32nd annual Alumni Golf Outing event at the Slippery Rock Golf Club near campus. Brothers from all the way back to the 1960s up to current date were able to attend for 18 holes of golf and some festivities before and after back at our chapter house. We were even recognized on Theta Chi International’s Instagram page.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DLYPUesudxW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Throughout the summer, Theta Chi International has been hosting three separate “Initiative Academy” sessions for all active Theta Chi Chapters. Theta Chi Fraternity’s Initiative Academy is a premier leadership opportunity to work in a cohort group to improve brothers’ personal, professional, and leadership skills. During this experience, brothers will challenge their critical thinking through brotherhood activities, mock interviews, a community service project, a leadership assessment and discussions, and small group exercises. This intensive workshop model will also leave brothers with the distinction of becoming a Resolute Man.

This past weekend, the Zeta Alpha Chapter was fortunate enough to send 2 active brothers, Nate Waugman and Cole Clary, to this event in Bloomington, IN, where they got to meet and collaborate with brothers from all over the country. Nate and Cole also managed to achieve Resolute Man status, bringing our total to 4 current active members and 10 total with that status. At the end of this event, the Grand Chapter (National Executive Board) of Theta Chi International presents national awards to distinct chapters.

The Howard Alter, Jr. Award is Theta Chi’s highest chapter honor and is traditionally presented at the Fraternity’s summer event. Consideration for the Alter Award is by application only. Applicant chapters are evaluated based on their performance in 14 categories, including chapter operations, recruitment, scholarship, chapter safety, member and new member education, alumni engagement, community service and philanthropy activities, and others. The Alter Award may only be presented to active chapters.

I am very pleased to share that the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity at Slippery Rock University was 1 of 9 (out of over 150 active chapters) to receive an Alter Award for 2024/2025. This is our chapter’s first-time ever receiving an Alter Award.

Brother Cole Clary (Resloute Man #9 – left) and Nate Waugaman (Resolute Man #10 – right) attended the Initiative Academy held in Bloomington, Indiana on July 12-13, 2025 and accepted on behalf of the Zeta Alpha Chapter the Howard R. Alter, Jr. Award for Chapter Excellence by Theta Chi Fraternity in 2024/2025. (One of only 5 chapters obtaining this desgnation.) They are pictured from left to right Executive Director Michael Mayer, Grand Chapter President Toby Roth, Brother Cole Clary, Brother Nate Waugaman, Grand Chapter Counselor Richard P. Santoriello and Grand Chapter Secretary Dr. James A. Black.

The Phil S. Randall and Henry B. Hersey Awards were created to recognize and honor the Fraternity’s top recruiting chapters for the previous academic year. Winners were determined based on the total number of newly initiated members according to the International Headquarters files between May 15, 2024, and May 15, 2025. The award is presented to any chapter that initiate 25 or more new members during the academic year All active chapters are eligible for consideration for one or more of these honors. The Randall and Hersey Awards recognize the recruitment efforts of Theta Chi chapters and their dedication to maintaining and preserving Theta Chi Fraternity for the generations of brothers to come. We also brought home the Phil S. Randall Award

The thirteen (13) chapters including the Zeta Alpha Chapter (Brother Cole Clary next to last on right) were presented the Phil S. Randall Award recognizing Theta Chi chapters for thier success in recruitment in 2024/2025 and their dedication to maintaining and preserving Theta Chi Fraternity for the generations of brothers to come. 

At Session 2 of the 2025 Initiative Academy, Alpha Rho/Washington was presented the 2024/2025 Henry B. Hersey Award for their outstanding recruitment efforts last academic year. The chapter grew by 135% during the academic year, with Zeta Alpha/Slippery Rock close behind at 116%. These impactful stories prove what’s possible when brothers commit to growth, perseverance, and bringing the right men into the fold.

Remember: the future of Theta Chi is built one handshake, one conversation, and one new brother at a time. 🐍⚔️

As president of Theta Chi, I am very pleased to share this information and am immensely proud of our current Executive Board and the chapter as a whole. These awards and recognitions are a reflection of our entire chapter being on the same page and working together towards a common goal of bettering ourselves and our chapter. Do not take this lightly; this is a truly historic achievement for our chapter and something that has never been done before. These awards are not handed out without diligent scrutiny, and they reflect the dedication, hard work, and commitment each of you has shown to making Zeta Alpha the best it can be. Whether you contributed through recruitment, academics, philanthropy, brotherhood events, or simply by being a supportive and engaged member, this belongs to all of us. We’ve set a new standard for what’s possible at Zeta Alpha. Being recognized at the national level is a huge achievement and sets the tone for the upcoming academic year to build on the foundation we have already established.

We have done a phenomenal job over the past year as a chapter. However, now is not the time to be complacent. You should all be proud of this achievement but not satisfied. The bar has just been set higher, and we have new standards to be accounted for within the Zeta Alpha Chapter. Use this as motivation and a reminder of what we can accomplish when all of us contribute our efforts towards creating a better brotherhood. Next semester is just around the corner and rush will be here before you know it, use this as momentum to be even better and improve in areas we can be better. 

I couldn’t be prouder to be your brother and to have the privilege to call myself your president. Let’s keep this momentum going and continue building on this incredible legacy together.

We will be sure to celebrate accordingly and to give Mr. Howard Alter a warm welcome to Slippery Rock University. 

HORNS DOWN,

Joe Hemple

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Homecoming 2025

The Zeta Alpha Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity will be hosting Alumni during Homecoming October 18, 2025 “A Very Vintage Homecoming!”   This has been a successful event since the Chapter rechartered in 2018.   Make plans today to attend. More information will be shared as arrangements are made..

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The official start to 2025-2026!

Chi Day! – The Brothers are Back in Town after trips and in their yellow shirts helping freshman move in!

Howard Alter, Jr. is in the HOUSE!

Rush Shirts for Fall 2025