Reviving Brotherhood: Southern Oregon University Students Bring Fraternity Back to Campus

A group of students at Southern Oregon University (SOU) is working to restart the Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) fraternity. This effort aims to boost social life on campus and support enrollment, which has seen a slight drop of about 1% in fall 2024 compared to previous years.

TKE used to have a presence on campus in the 1960s and 70s, but the chapter dissolved. It was briefly revived in 2019, only to shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, current students are eager to bring it back, potentially making it the only fraternity at SOU.

Nolan Hannam, president of the TKE chapter at SOU, shared how important this community can be. He recalls how transferring to a new school felt overwhelming, but finding a supportive group made a difference. “It’s about helping each other out and lifting each other up,” he said.

The fraternity plans to host events that are open to all students, aiming to create more social opportunities, especially since many believe campus activities have declined since the pandemic started.

Trenton Abraham, another member, pointed out that many students, especially non-athletes, struggle to connect and socialize. “For guys who aren’t on sports teams, it’s easy to feel isolated,” he explained. The group is looking to gather at least 20 initial members before they can reach the minimum of 35 needed to officially be recognized by TKE’s national headquarters.

Interestingly, TKE is part of a much larger network that boasts over 304,000 initiated members worldwide, and its impact goes beyond campus life. The fraternity is known for its partnership with St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, aiming to raise $10 million for the hospital by 2029. Locally, they also contribute to community service, like maintaining Hunter Park in Ashland.

The fraternity’s mission, according to Hannam, is “Building Better Men for a Better World.” It’s not just about college; it’s about forming connections that last a lifetime. Members can provide support and networking opportunities years down the line.

The current students are aware of some community hesitancy about introducing a fraternity. “Most pushback comes from those unfamiliar with what fraternities truly represent,” Hannam noted. Education about their mission is key.

Alumnus Michael Jones emphasized the unique space that fraternity life can offer. He pointed out that sometimes, men need a place to discuss issues that others might not fully understand. TKE does have support from an alumni association, which is already set up as a nonprofit, laying the groundwork for future fundraising events.

As TKE seeks to rebuild its chapter, it represents more than just a social group; it could become a vital part of the student experience at SOU.

For more detailed information about the TKE fraternity and its initiatives, check out their official website here.

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