In the spring of 2013, a handful of friends at Rochester Institute of Technology were talking about how they wanted to contribute more to their Alma Mater than the average student. They decided that they wanted to start a fraternity that would allow them to leave a lasting legacy at RIT.
After reviewing the different national organizations, the group decided that Theta Chi’s traditions and beliefs closely matched their own. They decided to approach the organization and ask to be recognized as an interest group.
On February 22, 2014, 19 RIT students pledged to join Theta Chi Fraternity during a ceremony held at TJ Connor Elementary School in Scottsville, NY. Assistant Director of Recruitment and Expansion, Joe Macko presided. Colony Vice President Kevin H. Song welcomed guests and introduced the presiding officers for the ceremony. An opening reflection was given by Recruitment Officer, Jordan Lichtsinn. Joe Macko and Colony President, Ian Bixby, provided closing remarks.
In attendance were 15 brothers from Alpha Zeta/University of Rochester and family members.
A small reception followed the ceremony.
In the months following the formal colonization ceremony, Theta Chi Fraternity International Headquarters staff members worked hand-in-hand with Rochester Institute of Technology officials to ensure how best to provide support and services to the newly formed group. Both Theta Chi and RIT are proud to announce that formal university recognition was granted to the colony in September 2014.
Since becoming a colony, the brothers have been busy building up their internal structure and their external image. They have contributed and helped several local organizations such as volunteering at the local food pantry, Food Link, and most recently with their “Shave for Cancer” event that benefitted the University of Rochester’s Wilmot Cancer Center.
Since being recognized by RIT this fall, the opportunities are endless for RIT Colony. They have already planned multiple philanthropic and brotherhood events, including the annual golf tournament, “Walking on Sunshine.” The colony has also contacted the USO at Fort Drum to let them know that they are their top philanthropic organization, and they will be working with the Center for Youth in Rochester doing community service, helping out with after school programs, and setting up their fundraising events.
“It astonishes me that our group has made it this far,” says Ian Bixby. “To work our way up from a self-established interest group to a fully functioning entity of Theta Chi and RIT is more than I could have hoped for. While this journey has been difficult at times, the most rewarding aspect I have pulled out of this experience has been watching my friends grow as individuals and men,” he continued. “The men have been resilient and smart, prompt and helpful. The IHQ staff, along with the brothers of our colony, have all had a large role in our success,” said Bixby.
Rochester Institute of Technology is a private university located on 1,300 acres in suburban Rochester. Founded in 1829, RIT has nine colleges emphasizing career education and experiential learning. RIT also has international campuses in Easter Europe and Dubai. The student population at RIT Rochester campus comes from all 50 states and the current enrollment is about 18,000 students. RIT is home to 30 Greek organizations.