Featured image: Delta-Sigma Zeta at UNC-Wilmington
The bond of Brotherhood throughout Lambda Chi Alpha is connected by the ideals, values and rituals of the Fraternity. Yet, each Chapter is unique in how they connect with their Brothers and how they prioritize strengthening their Brotherhood.
Delta-Sigma Zeta at the University of North Carolina – Wilmington and Epsilon-Chi Zeta at Mississippi State University are two Chapters who reaped the benefits during recruitment this year. Though differing in size and other qualities, they are still bound by the same ideal: Brotherhood.
Former High Alpha Val Swierczewski (UNCW, ‘26) and former High Delta Garner Henderson (Mississippi State, ‘26) described what their Brotherhood looks like in their respective Chapters.
How would you describe your Chapter?
VS: Our fraternity at UNC Wilmington is like a family, where we support each other through every challenge and celebration. We share deep connections that go beyond just friendship, creating a space where everyone feels valued and understood. Whether it’s late-night study sessions, emotional support, or just enjoying the beach together, we’re always there for one another, strengthening our bonds along the way.
GH: I would describe my Chapter as a melting pot of life. My Chapter consists of so many different people from different backgrounds and walks of life. There are no two Members that are alike, and I believe that it adds to our uniqueness during recruitment. We have Members from 27 of the 50 states, and we range from New York to California. With 150 members, you get to witness a little bit of everything, but at the end of the day everyone relies on one another. Every Member knows every Member.
What is the best part about your Brotherhood?
VS: I would say the best part of our brotherhood is the fact that even though we each have our own unique interests and hobbies, what truly binds us together is our mutual respect and appreciation for one another. Our diverse backgrounds enrich our conversations and experiences, allowing us to learn from each other and broaden our perspectives.
GH: The best part about our brotherhood is its security. Every Member of my Chapter walks around campus proud to be a Brother of Lambda Chi Alpha. We lean on each other and depend on each other. We bring out the best in one another. I have never once doubted my commitment to Lambda Chi Alpha. From the moment our Members step in the door, they know that this is the place for them.
What was your Chapter’s mindset going into recruitment this year?
VS: Going into the year, my mindset was focused on giving back to all the Brothers who invested their time and resources into our Fraternity. I wanted to ensure that their commitment didn’t go unnoticed, so I aimed to create opportunities for everyone to engage, bond, and benefit from our collective efforts. By fostering a culture of gratitude and support, I hoped to strengthen our community and show that each Brother’s contributions are truly valued.
GH: Our mindset during recruitment was to build off of what we had. We wanted guys that would come in and truly embody Lambda Chi Alpha. We wanted to recruit boys that we could turn to men; men that we could be proud to call our Brothers. We wanted to increase numbers, Chapter size, brotherhood, and comradery. We wanted to make the most of what we have, and we wanted to make history. Our Chapter strived to forever submit Lambda Chi Alpha into history books.
Which Lambda Chi value best describes your Chapter and why?
VS: Lambda Chi’s value of personal courage perfectly embodies how our Chapter perseveres through hard times. In moments of adversity, it’s our willingness to face challenges head-on and support one another that truly defines us. Whether it’s tackling personal struggles or navigating difficult situations as a fraternity, we draw strength from our shared commitment to stand together, embodying the courage that allows us to rise above obstacles and emerge even stronger.
GH: Duty. One thing I have heard since I walked through the doors of my Chapter for the first time is, “Leave this place better than you found it”. My Chapter has made this our personal motto. Every single one of our Members feels a duty to Lambda Chi Alpha to improve it; just as it improved them.
Delta-Sigma Zeta welcomed 27 Associate Members this fall, and Epsilon-Chi welcomed 62, all soon to be initiated. As each Chapter continues to expand and grow their Brotherhood, they’re also strengthening the Global Zeta.
