The Tennessee Eta Chapter of Phi Delta Theta at Middle Tennessee State University had humble beginnings as an interest group. Their numbers grew quickly as the Phi Delta Theta expansion team met with various sororities to find qualified young men looking to become the greatest versions of themselves. What they truly found were driven men who led to the shaping and foundation of a strong and firm brotherhood. These men showed promise and held a high degree of integrity and great work ethic matched by a resilient resolve.
“Phi Delt has helped me realize the man that I can be. It has shown me the kind of work and drive to become that kind of man takes, and has provided me with a path to become that person. ” – Jordan Dawson
The group colonized on December 6th, 2012 with 34 men and began its journey towards installation. There were obstacles encountered here and there: leadership reshuffling, prioritizing, and a re-evaluation of what it takes to call one’s self a Phi Delt. This group’s accomplishments are countless, and they include three top two finishes in sorority philanthropy weeks, three top two teams in intramural sports, the top fraternity GPA for the Fall of 2012 and well established recruiting techniques and campus connections. These young men are leaders in the community, the classroom, the field and in many other platforms. They show strength where they are offered the opportunity and continue to rise to the occasion.
“Through Phi Delta Theta I have found a brotherhood that I know will stay with me through my entire life. I see the men that are my best friends and we can only get stronger from here. Phi Delt has given me this and much, much more, and I am very thankful for that.” – Morgan Droke
Through the process of the young group’s success, they had to go through many trials and errors, but they were able to conquer through their mistakes with such zeal that when one step was taken back, they were always quick to follow with two steps forward.
“As time passes we become stronger, and it is through surpassing our given limitations with vitality we will accomplish wonders.” – Nick Goff
On Thursday, December 12th, 2013, 43 young men were initiated into The Bond of Phi Delta Theta. On Friday, December 13th, 2013, an installation ceremony for the granting of the Tennessee Eta charter was held. These events symbolized that Tennessee Eta had officially become a charted chapter of the Fraternity. The hard work that was experienced is what led this strong-willed colony into becoming a full-fledged chapter. Tennessee Eta will continue to grow and show other men how to “become the greatest version of yourself.”
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 Tennessee Eta was the seventh chapter installation of 2013, and the Fraternity currently has 174 active chapters and 15 colonies.
