On April 22, 2022, Phi Delta Theta formally inducted the Texas Eta Emerging Chapter at Stephen F. Austin State University. Originally founded in 1962, Texas Eta has initiated over one thousand men into the chapter but has not had an undergraduate presence on campus since 2019. Phi Delta Theta is proud to return to Stephen F. Austin with a group of new founders who are surrounded by engaged alumni volunteers.
Throughout the spring term, the Texas Eta expansion project was quarterbacked by Phi Delta Theta Recruitment Specialist Matthew Theut, Arizona ’21. Matthew spent his days in conversations with students, campus leaders, and administrators at Stephen F. Austin, attempting to identify those interested and ideal for rebuilding the Texas Eta Chapter of Phi Delta Theta.
The founders are supported by an enthused group of Texas Eta alumni who attended meetings, offered insights and liberally opened their pocketbooks to the emerging chapter as they developed. Chapter Advisory Board Chairman Tom Mason and Province President Russel Carman guided the induction ceremony and provided tutelage to the new group. Over twenty-five Phis from Stephen F. Austin, Texas A&M, Sam Houston State, and Ohio State attended the ceremony.
After the ceremony, Texas Eta’s founders and CAB got to work. The following morning, the group discussed the next steps for the chapter to install. Recruitment and structure were on the docket and debated extensively. The next day, four executive board members traveled to College Station for the Texas Province Retreat meeting with other undergraduate leaders and discussed ways to improve their chapters.
The Texas Eta Emerging Chapter rejoins the Greek Community at Stephen F. Austin and will work to establish itself as a valuable asset to the campus and community. Phi Delta Theta congratulates the founders of Texas Eta and looks forward to their efforts toward installation as a chapter.
