In the midst of a pandemic and a winter filled with recruitment and development, Phi Delta Theta has inducted the Massachusetts Zeta Emerging Chapter at the University of Massachusetts Amherst!
The development of the Massachusetts Zeta Emerging Chapter began in early February when Expansion Consultant Jimmy Pietras arrived in Amherst. With five founders recruited before the semester began, the project kicked off with a great foundation. In the Northeast, the COVID-19 pandemic led to strict campus restrictions, and the Fraternity was unable to step foot on campus during its recruitment efforts. Despite the challenges that faced him, Jimmy was able to assemble and induct an emerging chapter of twenty-nine men without a single in-person meeting.
“Establishing an emerging chapter while navigating the campus’ COVID restrictions has been a daunting endeavor, especially since I couldn’t physically be on campus,” said Jimmy Pietras. “But despite the challenges of the world right now, these young men have created a vision for Phi Delta Theta that I believe will leave UMass better than when we arrived.”
On April 16, 2021, Massachusetts Zeta was formally inducted as an emerging chapter. The ceremony was streamed live via Zoom with the founders, alumni, community members, family, and friends participating from home. Executing the induction ceremony was Alpha South Province President, Steve Lyon, Ball State ’85.
“It never fails to amaze me the high quality of the men we have been able to induct into Phi Delta Theta at UMass,” said Massachusetts Zeta President Matthew Lazarus. “Despite these tumultuous times, we have already started to get involved around campus to the capacity that COVID restrictions allow. I have the highest of expectations for what this organization is going to become in the upcoming years. I have no doubt that this diverse group of young men and the future generations of Phi Delta Theta will leave a lasting legacy unlike any other, one that will make me incredibly proud.”
Phi Delta Theta is extremely excited for the future of Massachusetts Zeta as the newest founders now work towards their installation as a chapter.
