On the night of November 11, the members of the Connecticut Gamma Colony at the University of Connecticut became initiated brothers of the Connecticut Gamma Chapter. The honor was a culmination of nearly a year’s work as a colony. There were a total of 83 members initiated at the Deanston House in Storrs, Connecticut, and the ceremony cemented the Cardinal Principles that govern Phi Delta Theta.
On Saturday, November 12, a celebratory banquet was held to top off the incredible weekend. Chapter President Josh Salan accepted the charter on behalf of Connecticut Gamma. Province President Greg Spears shared some very inspirational words with the men, urging them to make the most out of the benefits afforded to members of Phi Delta Theta. Chapter Advisory Board Member Joseph Kruse also shared some lighthearted words about his unique journey to the position he currently finds himself in within the organization. Both stressed the importance of continual facilitation of sound brotherhood within the new chapter and leaning on one another when a brother is in need.
As a colony, Connecticut Gamma was able to raise nearly $2,000 for The ALS Association through a variety of philanthropy events that included a 5K Run for Research. The colony also assisted other Greek organizations in raising money for their respective philanthropies through participation in and donations to their causes. The men of Connecticut Gamma made strong strides, both socially and philanthropically, to establish Phi Delta Theta as a premier Greek organization within the UConn community.
The brothers of Connecticut Gamma recognize their accomplishments to this point, but they remain steadfast in their desire to be the best chapter they can be, representing Phi Delta Theta at UConn for years to come. The Connecticut Gamma Chapter holds strong its vision statement when looking towards the future – “To foster positivity in the community by developing young men into passionate, inspiring leaders, who create the change no one else will.” They will continue to seek only the finest men to join their brotherhood that they hold very near to their hearts.
The brothers of Connecticut Gamma would like to thank everyone that made this journey to instillation possible, and they are proud to officially call themselves Phis!
In accordance with Phi Delta Theta’s Strategic 10-Year Plan, Phi Delt 2020 and its growth initiative, Phi Delta Theta is currently executing expansion strategies that culminate in seven chapter installations annually and 200 chapters by 2018. The installation of Connecticut Gamma was the fifth chapter installation of 2016, and the Fraternity currently has 183 active chapters and 7 colonies.
