Our History
The History of the Kappa Gamma Chapter of Theta Tau
The Kappa Gamma Chapter of Theta Tau at Virginia Commonwealth University began with a simple idea shared by a group of freshman engineering students in Rhoads Hall: they wanted to join a fraternity that reflected their passion for engineering and professional development. When they discovered that VCU had no chapter of Theta Tau, the nation’s oldest and largest co-ed professional engineering fraternity, they reached out directly to the national organization. In response, national officers — including then-Grand Regent Lee Haas — met with the students and outlined the steps needed to become a recognized chapter. Driven by commitment and vision, the group began their journey toward forming an official chapter.
Pre-Colony: Xi Omega Chi (1997–1998)
Before officially becoming a colony, the group operated independently under the name Xi Omega Chi, a title chosen through a inside joke vote among members. Despite its humorous origins, the group took its mission seriously — organizing fundraising events, community outreach, and campus-wide activities, all while navigating the logistical challenges of a still-developing engineering campus. By March 1998, their efforts paid off — the group was granted official colony status by Theta Tau’s national office. During this period, they intensified their involvement: attending regional conferences, visiting neighboring chapters, and even completing the pledging process through proxy arrangements with chapters at UVA, GWU, and NC State.
Chapter Founding: September 9, 2000
In early 2000, VCU’s engineering program achieved ABET accreditation, and by September 9th, 2000, the colony was granted its charter — officially becoming the Kappa Gamma Chapter of Theta Tau. As founding brother Michael Louis Anthony Saunders (KG 10) recalled, "It was more a relief than a celebration. I think a lot of people doubted us, and we had a few folks drop off along the way. But we made it."