On March 18, 2017, Phi Delta Theta recolonized the Ontario Epsilon Colony at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario. Ontario Epsilon was originally colonized in 1991 but has been inactive since 2001.
Presided over by Alpha North Province President Phil Cantrill and Director of Canadian Services Liam McNally, the ceremony was well-attended by undergraduate brothers from other chapters, alumni and representatives from campus Greek organizations.
After a successful Spring 2016 recolonization effort at the University of Toronto (Ontario Alpha), Phi Delta Theta kept the momentum going in Canada through further expansion. Although a number of universities across the country were discussed and considered, Carleton University rose to the top because of its thriving Greek community and local Phi Delta Theta alumni support.
During the Fall 2016 semester, the Fraternity developed an interest group to rebuild Ontario Epsilon. Upon meeting with the interest group in November, it was clear that they were dedicated and exemplified the Fraternity’s Cardinal Principles. Since then, the men have bonded together, grown in size and in experience, and are poised to have a successful Fall 2017 semester as the newest fraternity on campus.
The Ontario Epsilon Colony has already participated as a group in Relay for Life, a major on-campus philanthropy event at Carleton. The men were successful in raising over $800 for cancer research prior to being recognized as a colony.
Phi Delta Theta is excited to be back to Canada’s Capital city, and the Fraternity has full faith that these exceptional young men will carry on the great tradition of Phi Delta Theta at Carleton.