Founded on April 10, 1856, at Norwich University in Vermont, Theta Chi stands proudly to serve "a need for young men of character, principles and ideals to associate with and learn from each other." The members of Theta Chi strive to uphold the founding beliefs of friendship through mutual assistance of every member while providing a fulfilling college experience that prepares them for a successful and rewarding life after graduation. Every chapter has members that are leaders in the classroom, on the fields, on campus, as well as in the community. Every member strives to uphold the five core values of true friendship, the primacy of Alma Mater, the promotion of knowledge and the advancement of culture, the virtues of truth, temperance, and tolerance, and the usefulness of members. (You can read more about each of these here.)

In the fall of 2004, two men set out to establish a brotherhood on Longwood's campus that had never been seen before. Both sons of Theta Chi brothers, Jacob Michael Heltzel and Richard Alan Paradiso III were inspired by the morals and values of which their fathers upheld and those exemplified by Theta Chi. They soon established the mission of Theta Chi at Longwood University and soon held an interest meeting. It wasn't until April 20, 2007, that the interest group was initiated into the Theta Chi Fraternity as the Iota Lambda chapter. The Chapter strives to uphold the core values of Theta Chi and brothers are visibly involved across campus as Peer Mentors, RA's, on the Student Government Association, and in many other ways.

Current President Connor Wheeler and former Risk Management Patrick Zurn both took the time to answer a few questions about the Iota Lambda chapter of Theta Chi.

Q: What makes your organization so unique on Longwood’s campus?

Connor Wheeler: One thing that makes Theta Chi unique at Longwood is that we have high academic standards for our brothers and potential members. It is required that we have a minimum 2.7 GPA, both to remain in good standing with the chapter and to be extended a bid to join Theta Chi. We believe this sets us apart from other organizations because although we’re a social fraternity, our first priority in college is to get an education. Another thing that makes us unique is the level of our involvement. It is required that every brother be involved in at least one organization outside of Theta Chi to give back to Longwood, as well as make them a more well-rounded man. Most brothers are actively involved in multiple clubs and organizations, supporting our maxim of “Alma Mater First, and Theta Chi for Alma Mater”.

Patrick Zurn: What sets Theta Chi apart on Longwood’s campus is the visible impact the brothers make. We strive to make our actions speak louder than our words both on campus and in the Farmville community. Once you become affiliated with Theta Chi, you are constantly pushed to strive for greatness in everything you do. I would never have believed someone if they were to tell me I would have the leadership positions and networking skills I have today if it weren’t for Theta Chi. We also sponsor youth soccer leagues in the Farmville community and coach teams every semester. This is an especially great opportunity for us to act as mentors in the community and help get the youth active.

Q: What is your philanthropy? What have you been seen around campus doing for it this year or in past years?

CW: Our national philanthropy is the USO, which stands for the United Service Organization. The USO helps support active duty military personnel and their families. In the spring of 2015, we had our first ever “G.I. Theta Chi” obstacle course, where with the help of various teams and sponsorship, we helped raise over $2000 for the USO. We are hoping to double that amount this upcoming semester! Our local philanthropy for our chapter is suicide awareness and prevention. For two years now, we’ve had a Suicide Awareness & Prevention candlelight vigil, where Dean of Students, Larry Robertson, has spoken to the community about depression and suicide. This is a topic close to our hearts, because a few years ago one of our brothers took his own life after battling depression. We also are hoping to do even more events throughout the upcoming year for this.

PZ: Our philanthropy is USO or G.I. Theta Chi and supports the Wounded Warrior Project. Last year was the first year doing it and we raised over $2000. This year, our chapter has set a goal of $4000. We are looking to raise the bar in terms of our fundraising efforts for such a great cause. Last year we did a team obstacle course for this. Teams would sign up and pay $5 per member and complete an obstacle course as a team and the team with the best time would win. We reached out to the local community for sponsorship of this event, as well. As of this past September, Theta Chi has raised over $43,102.

Q: What does it mean to you to be part of Greek Life on Longwood's campus?

CW: Greek life is something that I am honored to be a part of. Although we wear different letters and have taken different oaths, we all support the Greek system and what is does for men and women. I believe that being in a Greek organization makes you a well-rounded person, and teaches you life skills while simultaneously building life-long bonds with your brothers/sisters.

PZ: Greek life to me at Longwood is an opportunity to prove people wrong and defy standards. So often you see national headlines about a sorority or fraternity that shines a negative light on Greek Life as a whole. We do much more being involved in Greek life than how the media portrays it. It’s nothing like the horror stories you hear on the news, and we aim to show that.

Q: What's your favorite part about being a brother?

CW: My favorite part about being a brother is that these guys literally are my family. I’m not very close with my own family, but I can go to any one of my brothers and talk to them about my problems, or just chill and have a great time. I don’t ever have to worry about being judged or ridiculed for something I’ve done, while I also know that they’ll call me out on anything stupid that I do.

PZ: My favorite part about being a Theta Chi is being able to interact with such a diverse group of men that I never would’ve thought I would connect with. I’ve learned a lot about myself and have become a much more patient and understanding throughout my time as being a brother.