The Eta Epsilon chapter of the Delta Gamma Fraternity at Vanderbilt University voted to relinquish their charter Monday, Sept. 20, following a decision from national fraternity officials that the chapter should not extend bids to new members, according to a statement released by Delta Gamma on Wednesday.
According to chapter president Moriah Kathleen Lutz-Tveite, the decision to relinquish the charter was not an easy one.
“We have a strong sisterhood and our bond with one another has only grown stronger through our challenges,” Lutz-Tveite said. “In evaluating our viability, we felt it was important to focus on lifetime membership in Delta Gamma.”
The notice of relinquishment begins the formal review process. Delta Gamma collegiate members and alumni have a 60-day period to write letters to the Council of Delta Gamma expressing their views on the future of the chapter. The council will review all relevant information and make an official decision in November about the final status of the chapter.
According Lutz-Tveite, the two representatives from the council who visited campus last week indicated to her that the fraternity would not be able to recruit on campus indefinitely. To her understanding, if the council votes to close the Eta Epsilon chapter in November, all current members of the fraternity will be given Delta Gamma alumni status and the house would be vacated at the end of the academic year.
Lutz-Tveite said she was disappointed with the way the national fraternity handled the situation.
“I don't think the way it was handled was in line with the values of the national organization,” Lutz-Tveite said.
Deborah Etheridge, the fraternity vice president, visited Vanderbilt last week to review the fall recruitment process.
“The maturity and resolve of our women has been poignant. Chapter members have a passion for success but are reframing what success looks like on their campus at this time,” Etheridge said in the press release. “Delta Gamma wants to be at Vanderbilt, and we want our members to have a quality membership experience. We will evaluate if those two goals can be met in the present circumstances.”
Lutz-Tveite said that Etheridge and another national representative expressed to her that there was not enough interest on campus to revitalize the chapter.
The Eta Epsilon chapter has been present on campus since 2000. Over the course of a decade, 410 women have been initiated.
“Eta Epsilon chapter is a treasured part of the Delta Gamma family, and the present situation is difficult,” said National Fraternity President Beth Searcy. “It does not reflect the caliber of the women who comprise the chapter, past or present; they have been faithful leaders. And these Vanderbilt members will always be Delta Gammas.”
Director of Greek Life Kristin Shorter said it is sad to lose a chapter from the Greek community.
"I am very proud of the grace and character that the women of Delta Gamma have shown in these very challenging circumstances," Shorter said.
