1963 — The Beginning
On November 9, 1963, several young men met at Eastern Washington State College to start a local fraternity. They called themselves Beta Delta Theta. These founding members laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most respected Greek organizations on campus.
1966 — Joining Sigma Nu
After evaluating numerous national organizations, the chapter affiliated with Sigma Nu on May 15, 1966, transitioning from Beta Delta Theta to an official colony of Sigma Nu Fraternity. This marked a pivotal moment, connecting the founding men to a nationwide brotherhood built on Love, Honor, and Truth.
1970 — Official Charter
On November 22, 1970, the chapter received its official charter as the Theta Lambda Chapter #172 of Sigma Nu Fraternity, formalizing its place in Sigma Nu's storied national history.
1973 — Deactivation
Due to a period of campus anti-Greek sentiment and administrative opposition, the Theta Lambda Chapter was declared inactive. Like many Greek organizations of the era, the chapter faced a challenging national climate for fraternities and sororities.
1986 — Recolonization
Sigma Nu returned to Eastern Washington University on April 16, 1986, when Todd Wiggen and a group of committed men formed a new local fraternity and sought national affiliation with Sigma Nu. Their determination to restore the chapter laid the foundation for everything that followed.
1988 — Rechartering
After two years of building their colony, the chapter was officially rechartered on April 16, 1988, with 24 new initiates. Theta Lambda was back — stronger and more committed than ever.
1990s — Campus Leadership
By the 1990s, Greeks held approximately 75% of the elected positions in Eastern's ASEWU (Associated Students of Eastern Washington University), with Sigma Nu representing a significant portion of that campus leadership. The chapter became synonymous with student governance, athletics, and community involvement.
1994 — A Home of Our Own
In 1994, the chapter purchased its current chapter house on College Street in Cheney, located in the Greek Row district southeast of the EWU campus. The house at 220 College Ave remains the heart of the brotherhood to this day.
1998 — 200th Initiate
A milestone in chapter history: in 1998, Theta Lambda initiated its 200th member, a testament to decades of dedicated recruitment and brotherhood building.
Today
The Theta Lambda Chapter continues to grow and uphold the values of Love, Honor, and Truth at Eastern Washington University. We remain officially recognized by EWU and are committed to producing leaders who will go on to make a positive impact in the world.
Be Part of the Next Chapter
Our history is written by the men who choose to be part of it. Join the brotherhood and add your name to the Theta Lambda legacy.
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