Fraternities and Sororities of the University of Rhode Island

Series 1. Fraternities
There are twenty-three fraternities represented in the records contained within the collection. Of those, only four still exist (2004) on the University of Rhode Island campus. Below is a short historical description of the organizations. Most of these descriptions were written using the information available in the records. Some published histories exist in the Archives, and may also be found in the yearbooks.

Alpha Epsilon Pi

Established in 1928, and still present on campus today, the Rho chapter of Alpha Epsilon Pi has distinguished itself in academics, athletics and service. Whether it be performing in a cabaret or publishing the fraternity newsletter, The Rhotator, the members are always willing to face a challenge. In 1960, the fraternity had to vacate its thirty year old house to make room for University expansion. The location became the site for a new health sciences building. The fraternity moved around considerably for the next three years until 1963 when they dedicated their new home. Former Rhode Island State College President Dr. Francis H. Horn presided at the dedication ceremony. Alpha Epsilon Pi remains an active international and local fraternity (See folders #1-3).

Alpha Kappa Pi

In 1932 Alpha Kappa Pi, a national fraternity with New England chapters at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Tufts College and University of New Hampshire, tried unsuccessfully to establish a chapter at Rhode Island State College. At the time, the four largest fraternities on campus were local and did not wish to go national. (See folder # 4).

Alpha Zeta

In 1936, Mr. Roland M. Bishop, of the Washington Club of Rhode Island, petitioned Mr. Lindley H. Dennis, Executive Secretary of the American Vocational Association, Inc. and High Chancellor of the Morrill Chapter of Alpha Zeta, for a fraternity charter. Dr. R.G. Bressler, former Rhode Island State College President and member of the Alpha Zeta Fraternity, believed the professional fraternity of agriculture would be a great boost to the land grant college (See folder # 5). The most recent document of Alpha Zeta in the collection is dated 1955 and lists newly initiated members. Though no longer present on campus, Alpha Zeta is a thriving national fraternity of men and women.

Beta Nu Epsilon

Recognized as a fraternity in 1922, Beta Nu Epsilon developed a constitution that shows the high ideals to which the fraternity ascribed, loyalty, morality, gentlemanly conduct and academic achievement. (See folder # 6). The 1922 recognition is the most recent document on Beta Nu Epsilon in the collection. The fraternity is not mentioned in the 1948 Polygon Rushing Handbook, a general guide to Rhode Island State College fraternities, a booklet once given to incoming freshmen (Archives LD 4706 G 57 I 5 1948).

Chi Phi (Formerly Rho Iota Kappa Fraternity)

In 1961 Rho Iota Kappa became a chapter of the national fraternity, Chi Phi, a fraternity which dates back to 1826 and is still active today both nationally and on the University of Rhode Island campus. Established in 1908, Rho Iota Kappa has the distinction of being the first fraternity on campus (See folder #7). The Rho Iota Kappa Chapter's web site can be accessed through the national Chi Phi site by going to Undergraduates, clicking Chapters and Colonies, and then clicking Rho Iota Kappa.

Delta Alpha Psi

Delta Alpha Psi, a local fraternity, built its first chapter house in 1918 and renovated it in 1936. The loan agreement was signed by former President of the Board of Regents Theodore Francis Green, (former Governor of and United States Senator for Rhode Island). Green Hall is named in his honor. (See folder # 8). The most recent document on Delta Alpha Psi in the collection is a 1942 letter from President Carl Woodward thanking the fraternity for a pleasant dinner he and his wife attended at the fraternity. Although Delta Alpha Psi is present in the 1948 Polygon Rushing Handbook, it is not mentioned in the 1954 handbook (Archives LD4706 G 57 I 5 1954).

Lambda Chi Alpha (Formerly Gamma Delta Sigma)

In 1912, Gamma Delta Sigma was founded on Rhode Island State College campus, and, in 1914, the fraternity was chartered by Lambda Chi Alpha. Their continued presence on campus makes them the oldest active national fraternity at the University of Rhode Island. Lambda Chi Alpha enjoys a history of athletic achievement, beginning with their 1919 win of the Interfraternity Basketball League Cup, the first fraternity on campus to do so. Lambda Chi Alpha continued to grow and, in 1939, merged with Theta Kappa Nu. In spite of past periodic probations, Lambda Chi Alpha remains a vital force on campus and within the South County Community. Today, Lambda Chi Alpha is one of the largest national fraternities with over 200,000 men initiated (See folder #16). Of interest is a 1982 Archaeology Report issued by the Department of Anthropology from the State University of New York (See folder # 17). This report depicts the Lambda Chi Alpha site as a place of 18th and 19th century residences and businesses. The site was originally part of the land referred to as the Pettaquamscutt Purchase (See Kingston Congregational Church Collection, #169, Folders 1,2,10,11).

Phi Delta

In the 1930s Phi Delta's Dramatic Society was responsible for many fine original performances such as "Buyers Beware" and Upanantom". Newspaper clippings from the Providence Sunday Journal are included in this collection and reflect the positive reviews given to the performances of the Phi Delta Dramatic Society. The documents on Phi Delta were donated, in 1974, by Dr. Herbert Wisbey Jr., class of 1941 and member of Phi Delta. Wisbey took part in the production of Upanatom, playing the part of Mr. Parker (See folder #20). Phi Delta is not mentioned in the 1948 Polygon Rushing Handbook.

Phi Epsilon Pi

The Rho Chapter of Phi Epsilon Pi Fraternity received its charter in 1919 but the National Organization withdrew the charter in 1920-21 (See Folder #21).

Phi Gamma Delta (Formerly Beta Phi)

Beginning in 1910, eleven men gathered together to form the third Rhode Island State College fraternity, Beta Phi. After living first in East Hall and later at the Watson House, Beta Phi became the first fraternity to construct a house on campus. The fraternity was able to take advantage of a legislative act which allowed Rhode Island State College to endorse loans to fraternities. Within thirteen years Beta Phi was able to pay off the mortgage. From the beginning of the fraternity, Professor John Barlow, later President of the College, was the faculty advisor. Professor John Barlow was a man of vision who believed that a fraternity taught men the art of gracious living. A source of undying support and leadership for almost thirty years, Barlow gave the fraternity the benefit of his wisdom and kindness. Not above a little physical labor, Barlow, in 1932, helped the fraternity men dig a steam line trench. Outgrowing their original home, Beta Phi was able to construct a new house in 1932. In 1950, Beta Phi went national and became the Kappa Rho Chapter of Phi Gamma Delta. Recognized for their scholastic and athletic abilities, Phi Gamma Delta remains an active national fraternity, but not on the campus of the University of Rhode Island. (See folders # 22-24). The most recent document on Phi Gamma Delta in the collection is a 1960 invitation to Rhode Island State College President Dr. Francis H. Horn for a dinner to be given in honor of Dr. Carl Woodward, later Rhode Island State College president. There is no mention of Phi Gamma Delta in the 1990-91Greek Pride Alive, a yearbook detailing the Greek Societies present on University of Rhode Island campus (Archives LD 4706 G 57 G 7 1990).

Phi Kappa Theta

Chartered in 1948, Phi Kappa Theta grew out of the Aquinas Club. In order to provide for an alternative to the outlawed hazing, Phi Kappa Theta instituted a "help week" in 1961. Arriving at the Nathaniel Greene Homestead in Coventry, members raked, mowed and cleared debris from the historic cemetery. Broken headstones were removed, repaired and replaced by Phi Kappa Theta. The fraternity also volunteered at the Association for Retarded Children in Peace Dale and worked to repair the chapter's headquarters, and received, in 1965, a letter from the Rhode Island State College President Dr. Francis H. Horn praising the men for their fine work (See folder #26). There is no mention of Phi Kappa Theta in the 1990-91 Greek Pride Alive yearbook. Though active nationally, Phi Kappa Theta is no longer present on the University of Rhode Island campus.

Phi Mu Delta (Formerly Delta Sigma Upsilon)

Delta Sigma Upsilon began as a local fraternity in 1923 and went national in 1929 after affiliating with Phi Mu Delta. Their first house, built in 1932 was later sold to the University in 1961 in order to help finance the building of a larger home. Moving into their new home in 1963, the fraternity remained there until 1979 when their history of inappropriate behavior and probation resulted in their national charter being revoked (See folder # 28).

Phi Sigma Delta (Formerly Zeta Beta Tau)

Zeta Beta Tau built its chapter house in 1965, and, in 1969, merged with Phi Sigma Delta. In 1973, Phi Sigma Delta went coed by floor, sharing its house with the Phi Sigma Sigma Sorority. The move toward sharing resulted from fewer pledges and less income (See folder # 29). Phi Sigma Delta is no longer represented on the URI campus and was not mentioned in the 1990-91 Greek Pride Alive yearbook.

Phi Sigma Kappa

In the 1950s Phi Sigma Kappa was experiencing crowded living conditions and arranged to have an addition built. Faced with similar problems in the 1960s, Phi Sigma Kappa was forced to tear down its existing home to build another, finally completed and dedicated in 1967 (See folder # 30). The most recent document on Phi Sigma Kappa contained in the collection is a 1977 listing of newly elected officers. According to Greek Pride Alive, this nationally active fraternity was present on the University of Rhode Island campus through 1990-91.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon

With a history dating back to 1856, Sigma Alpha Epsilon established a chapter at Rhode Island State College in 1929. Enjoying a history of athletic and philanthropic pursuits, Sigma Alpha Epsilon continued to be a presence on the campus until the 1990s (See folder # 31). Although active nationally, Sigma Alpha Epsilon is no longer present on the University of Rhode Island campus.

Sigma Chi

Chartered in 1949, the Rhode Island State College Sigma Chi fraternity became the 136th chapter of the national organization. They won the Scholarship Foundation Award for Scholastic Achievement for the 1949-50 academic year. By 1990 they were a firm supporter of the Cleo Wallace Center for Disabled Children, giving $5000 annually (See folder #32).

Sigma Nu (Formerly Alpha Tau Gamma)

Founded in 1929, Alpha Tau Gamma remained a local fraternity until 1954 when they petitioned to become the Zeta Rho chapter of Sigma Nu. The members excelled in sports such as touch football, basketball, ping pong, and pocket billiards. Their annual publication, the Scroll (URI Archives, LD 4706 G57 A 84 1949), kept members and alumni informed on the fraternities activities. Sigma Nu's major challenge as a fraternity came in 1964 when it was told by the Board of Trustees of State Colleges to either end its discriminatory pledging practices or leave the campus. Appealing to the national organization, the Zeta Rho chapter obtained a waiver to ignore the discriminating national restrictions and to admit members irregardless of religion or ethnicity. In 1996 Sigma Nu closed its house due to structural deterioration. The old house was demolished and a new building for the University of Rhode Island Foundation was constructed on its former location (See folder # 33).

Sigma Phi Epsilon

Sigma Phi Epsilon was established in 1961 and went national in 1965. Theirs is a history of service, philanthropy, academic and athletic achievement (See folder # 36). According to Greek Pride Alive, this nationally active fraternity was present on the University of Rhode Island campus through 1990-91.

Sigma Pi

In 1968 fire swept through the Sigma Pi house resulting in the death of one student and several injuries to others. It was determined that the fire started after an unauthorized party which included alcohol. The house was already facing a period of social probation. The lack of authority and responsibility in the house, flagrant and deliberate violations of school policy and the tragic consequences caused the charter to be revoked in June of 1968. The chapter was reinstated in 1971 after the members of the original chapter had left the campus (See folder # 35). According to Greek Pride Alive, this nationally active fraternity was present on the University of Rhode Island campus through 1990-91.

Tau Epsilon Phi

The Tau Omega chapter of Tau Epsilon Phi began in 1948 in a Quonset Hut on the campus. Due to financial problems in the 1970s, the fraternity leased its house to Tri Delta Sorority. By 1990, Tau Epsilon Phi was back on track and a supporter of the Tomorrow Fund (See Folder # 37). Although active nationally, Tau Epsilon Phi is no longer present on the University of Rhode Island campus.

Tau Kappa Epsilon (Formerly Phi Beta Chi)

Beginning in 1920 as the Rhode Island Campus Club, Phi Beta Chi, in 1929, became the seventh Greek-letter fraternity on campus. In 1937, Phi Beta Chi formally petitioned Tau Kappa Epsilon to become the Alpha Rho Chapter. Enjoying the efforts of a very active alumni, Tau Kappa Epsilon has a history of academic, athletic and philanthropic excellence. Though facing financial difficulty in the 1970s that almost led to the closing of the house, Tau Kappa Epsilon is till present on campus today and is an active supporter of many local charities (See folders # 38, 39).

Theta Chi (Formerly Sigma Delta)

In 1909, Sigma Delta Fraternity was established on campus. After petitioning Theta Chi in 1910, the Eta Chapter, the seventh in Theta Chi, was established at Rhode Island State College. Fostering a spirit of self-reliance, Theta Chi began its URI existence at the Kingston Inn, moved to the Kingston Church House and remained there until it was able to build its own house without University assistance. Later, in 1937, this house suffered sever fire and water damage, and Theta Chi was forced to rebuild.. Theta Chi established close ties with former president of Rhode Island State College, Dr. Francis H. Horn, and was the first fraternity to invite the Horns to dinner (See folder #40). Theta Chi also claims the distinction of being the first house to have a house mother and the first house to serve meals. The most recent document on Theta Chi in the collection is a 1968 letter indicting that the water had been turned off to the fraternity for lack of payment. The fraternity is not mentioned in the 1990-91 Greek Pride Alive yearbook. Although active nationally, Theta Chi is no longer present on the University of Rhode Island campus.

Theta Delta Chi (Formerly Beta Psi Alpha)

In 1932, Beta Psi Alpha began on Rhode Island State College campus, and, by 1954, its membership had increased to over 300 brothers. The fraternity lived in three different locations before completing its home in 1941. In 1966, Beta Phi petitioned Theta Delta Chi for a national charter. The fraternity was very active in intramural sports such as touch football, basketball, wrestling, and softball (See folders # 43, 44). According to Greek Pride Alive, this nationally active fraternity was present on the University of Rhode Island campus through 1990-91.

The folders are arranged alphabetically within the boxes and numbered sequentially within the series.

Series 2. Sororities
There are nine sororities represented in the records contained within the collection. Of those, eight still exist (2004) on the University of Rhode Island campus. Below is a short historical description of the organizations. Most of these descriptions were written using the information available in the records. Some published histories exist in the Archives.

Alpha Chi Omega (Formerly Gamma Nu)

The Gamma Sigma Chapter of Alpha Chi Omega originated in 1950 as a social club. In 1952, they received approval to become a local sorority organized under the name Gamma Nu, they received their national charter in 1955. In 1990 Alpha Chi Omega won chapter of the year. The girls have undertaken many philanthropic projects at Lakeside Preventorium and Kent County Hospital (See folder #44). United under the motto "Together let us seek the heights", Alpha Chi Omega sorority can still be found on campus today.

Alpha Delta Pi

In 1953, Marjorie Mills, daughter of former Mayor and Mrs. Joseph Mills of Warwick became President of Alpha Delta Pi. She was in her junior year. One problem facing many Greek Letter societies is that of housing, and this problem was solved for Alpha Delta Pi in 1968 with the groundbreaking of a new chapter house (See folder #45). Still in existence on campus today, this local chapter of Alpha Delta Pi joins the national organization in supporting the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Alpha XI Delta

The Beta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha XI Delta is one of the largest sororities on campus, housing many scholarship award winners and members of the National Honor Society. In 1990 they introduced to campus the nationwide "Party Smart" campaign. The members are involved in raising money for the American Heart and Lung Association (See folder #46). The national sorority is committed to "Choose Children", thus leading their members in philanthropic activities that aid children. Alpha XI Delta is still represented on campus today.

Chi Omega

A tradition of academics and service follows the Chi Omega Sorority. In 1961 they won the Pan-Hellenic Cup for the sorority with the highest GPA. In 1964, members organized the first Camp Fire Girls group for the teenagers at Ladd School. The seventies brought accusations against the National Organization of racial discrimination. URI students responded by joining with other local chapters, protesting such practices and redefining the racial policy. In 1989 the sorority was named the most improved sorority of the year (See folder #47). Today, the national organization of Chi Omega has 170 chapters and over 240,000 initiates, thus making them the largest sorority in the world. Their national charity is the Make a Wish Foundation. Chi Omega is still present on campus today.

Delta Delta Delta (Tri-Delta)

The Phi Tau chapter of Delta Delta Delta (Tri-Delta) was established on campus in 1961. Tri-Delta's attempt to purchase land on North Road (off campus) to build a sorority house caused much protest from prospective neighbors who did not want a sorority house in their historic district. In 1969, the zoning board refused to grant a variance. Tri-Delta was finally able to have their own chapter house when, in 1977, they bought and renovated the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity house (See folder #48). Tri-Delta is not represented on the URI campus today and there is no mention of the sorority in the 1990-91 Greek Pride Alive yearbook (Archives LD 4706 G 57 G 7 1990).

Delta Zeta

Due to a need for expansion, the University bought the Delta Zeta house in 1965. The Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Zeta relocated to the new fraternity-sorority area and was responsible for the University installing professional illumination there in an effort to provide adequate safety measures for the girls. This sorority is still on campus and, in 1990, won the Sorority of the Year Award. This award is granted on the basis of outstanding scholastics, leadership, philanthropy and campus involvement (See folder #49).

Phi Sigma Sigma (Formerly Lambda Delta Pi)

The files donated by Mrs. George Crawford, former advisor to and alumnus of the Lambda Delta Pi, provide much historical information concerning the sorority. Dedicated to an open door policy, Lambda Delta Pi was chartered in 1956 and became the first nondiscriminatory sorority on campus. The sisters chose the motto "Living Democracy through Friendship" and, in addition to their studies, dedicated themselves to philanthropic work ranging from making records for the visually impaired to coordinating social and recreational activities for the children at Ladd School. The Beta Chapter of Lambda Delta Phi contributed annually to the Lois Hamerschlag Memorial Fund at the High School of Music and Art in New York City. This contribution is given in memory of Lois Hamerschlag who was pledged in December of 1960 and died of unknown causes the following summer. In 1973, Lambda Delta Phi merged with Phi Sigma Sigma, a national sorority, and is still represented on campus today (See folders 50-55).

Sigma Delta Tau

The Alpha Beta Chapter of Sigma Delta Tau received the Pan-Hellenic Cup for the sorority that showed the greatest amount of improvement in the 1961-1962 academic year. Though their home was taken over for administration purposes in 1965, a new home was constructed and then dedicated in 1966. The sorority's publication, "Torchlights" recounts the girls' collegiate activities. Their motto is "Sharing Dreams Together" and their charity is the National Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse. Sigma Delta Tau is still represented on campus today (See folder #57).

Sigma Kappa

A strong commitment to the problems facing the aging is portrayed in the philanthropic work of Sigma Kappa. In 1975, former president of Sigma Kappa, Mrs. Beverly Roberts presented Dr. Donald L. Spence, Professor of Gerontology at University of Rhode Island, with a $1000 check that was used to help improve and expand the gerontology training program. While most sororities invite the President of the University to teas or banquets, Sigma Kappa sent, in 1969, Dr. Werner A. Baum an invitation to a karate demonstration. These young ladies received the highest sorority GPA in 1990 and had many members inducted into the Order of Omega Honor Society and the Golden Key Honor Society. They are still present on URI campus (See folder # 58).

The folders are arranged alphabetically within the boxes and numbered sequentially within the series.