 In a rare and exciting decision, Phi Mu Delta Fraternity is proud to announce that the Outstanding Chapter Programming Award has been jointly presented to the Mu Xi Chapter at Pennsylvania College of Technology and the Mu Zeta Chapter at Lock Haven University. This unique recognition was awarded at Phi Mu Delta's 61st Conclave in Providence, Rhode Island. The Outstanding Chapter Programming Award is typically presented to a single chapter that hosts an exceptional program for its members during the academic year, whether it be an educational program, philanthropy event, or chapter function. However, the collaborative efforts of Mu Xi and Mu Zeta Chapters in organizing a joint Brotherhood Retreat at Deep Creek Lake stood out as an exemplary initiative deserving of this prestigious award. Xavier Ortiz from the Mu Zeta Chapter described the retreat: "We did bonding activities, creed talk, a hike and relaxed watching TV and hanging out in the hot tub. It allowed us to grow as a chapter and get to know each other more and just able to relax mid semester." This innovative approach to brotherhood building not only strengthened the bonds within each chapter but also fostered inter-chapter relationships, exemplifying Phi Mu Delta's values of brotherhood and cooperation on a broader scale. "The joint retreat organized by Mu Xi and Mu Zeta Chapters represents the kind of innovative thinking and collaboration we aim to foster in Phi Mu Delta," said Sam Waltemeyer, Phi Mu Delta's Executive Director. "By bringing together brothers from different campuses, they've created a model for building stronger connections across our entire fraternity." The retreat's diverse activities, ranging from serious discussions about the fraternity's creed to relaxed bonding time, provided a well-rounded experience for all participants. This balance of personal growth, fraternal education, and leisure perfectly encapsulates the goals of effective chapter programming. This joint award serves as an inspiration for other chapters to explore collaborative programming and to think creatively about ways to enhance the fraternity experience for their members.  FROSTBURG, MD - On September 10, 2024, the Mu Omicron Chapter of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity at Frostburg State University demonstrated its commitment to civic engagement by hosting a Presidential Debate Watch Party in partnership with two historically Black fraternities, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc. The event, which drew 50 students from diverse backgrounds, aimed to encourage voter participation and promote democratic values through education. This collaborative effort highlights the power of Greek organizations to foster political awareness and cross-cultural understanding on college campuses. Savi Roth, Vice President of Membership for the Mu Omicron Chapter, explained the motivation behind the event: "The brothers of PMD sponsored a presidential debate watch party to encourage voter participation and democracy through education. Watching a presidential debate is an important part of the election process and can help voters decide who they want to entrust the future of the country with." The watch party provided a platform for students to engage with the political process in a communal setting, fostering discussions and encouraging critical thinking about the issues presented during the debate. "By hosting a watch party for the debate, we allowed students to come out and watch while also meeting other politically conscious peers," Roth added. This initiative aligns with Phi Mu Delta's core value of Democracy, demonstrating the fraternity's commitment to promoting civic responsibility among its members and the broader student body. The partnership with Kappa Alpha Psi and Iota Phi Theta fraternities further exemplifies the power of inter-Greek collaboration in addressing important societal issues. Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity, commended the Mu Omicron Chapter's efforts: "This event perfectly encapsulates what Phi Mu Delta stands for – fostering informed citizenship and promoting democratic values. We're particularly proud of the Mu Omicron Chapter for reaching across cultural lines to create a truly inclusive and educational experience." The success of this event not only contributes to the political awareness of Frostburg State University students but also sets a positive example for Greek organizations nationwide. It showcases how fraternities can play a crucial role in encouraging civic engagement and fostering a more informed electorate. This Presidential Debate Watch Party is just one of many initiatives undertaken by the Mu Omicron Chapter, which has recently been recognized with the Chapter of Excellence distinction for the second consecutive year at Frostburg State University.   OWINGS MILLS, MD - On September 7, 2024, the Mu Chi Provisional Chapter of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity at Stevenson University held its 2nd Annual Crab Feast, bringing together students, local community members, and alumni for a day of food, fun, and fraternity. The event, which took place on the Stevenson University campus, offered attendees all-you-can-eat crabs for $20 a ticket, with the option to add shrimp and corn for an additional $5. Alongside the feast, the brothers organized lawn games such as spikeball and cornhole, creating a festive atmosphere that encouraged socializing and friendly competition. Mitchell Reda, Vice President of Membership for the Mu Chi Provisional Chapter, explained the event's objectives: "We aimed to promote our chapter on campus, raise funds for our chapter's functions, and provide a fun bonding experience for potential new members and brothers alike. The target audience was Stevenson students and the local community." The Crab Feast proved to be a resounding success, with attendees enjoying not only the locally caught crabs but also engaging in lively conversations and participating in a cornhole tournament. The event also provided an opportunity for current members to reconnect with Phi Mu Delta alumni, who shared their experiences and the lasting impact of fraternity membership. Beyond the social aspects, the event served as a valuable learning experience for the brothers of Mu Chi. Reda noted, "The Brothers were able to learn salesmanship, catering, time management, and resourcefulness in order to provide a great experience for all who were involved. Additionally, those who were working in the kitchen to provide fresh corn and warm crabs felt a closer sense of bonding, working as a well-oiled machine and demonstrating the power of brotherhood." This event showcases Phi Mu Delta's commitment to community engagement, leadership development, and fostering strong bonds among its members. The success of the 2nd Annual Crab Feast sets a promising precedent for future events and underscores the positive impact of Greek life at Stevenson University. Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity, commended the Mu Chi Provisional Chapter's efforts: "Events like this Crab Feast exemplify what Phi Mu Delta is all about – bringing people together, serving the community, and developing leadership skills among our members. We're proud of the Mu Chi Provisional Chapter for organizing such a successful event and for their continued growth at Stevenson University."  Phi Mu Delta Fraternity is proud to announce that the Nu Theta Chapter at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) has been awarded the prestigious Eli C. Henry Most Improved Chapter Award. This recognition was presented at the Fraternity's 61st Conclave in Providence, Rhode Island, celebrating the chapter's remarkable turnaround and growth during the 2023-2024 academic year.
The Eli C. Henry Most Improved Chapter Award, named after a former National President credited with saving the National Fraternity during challenging times in the late 1970s, honors the chapter demonstrating the greatest improvement in chapter management, scholarship, and recruitment over the academic year. Founded in 1929, the Nu Theta Chapter is one of RPI's and Phi Mu Delta's oldest fraternity chapters. Despite facing disciplinary action from both the University and the National Fraternity in the early weeks of Fall 2023, the chapter used this challenge as a catalyst for positive change and growth. Key achievements of the Nu Theta Chapter include:
The chapter's turnaround was made possible through their collaboration with Phi Mu Delta National Office, the Nu Theta Housing Corporation, RPI's Fraternity & Sorority Commons Office, and the Office of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct. "The Nu Theta Chapter's journey this year embodies the spirit of continuous improvement and resilience that Phi Mu Delta values," said Sam Waltemeyer, Phi Mu Delta's Executive Director. "Their ability to transform challenges into opportunities for growth is truly commendable and serves as an inspiration to all our chapters." The chapter's participation in the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI) , an industry leading four-day immersive leadership experience coordinated by the Association of Fraternal Values, further demonstrates their commitment to personal and organizational development. Notably, the UIFI curriculum was developed by a Phi Mu Delta member. Chapter representatives Tate Whiteberg, Carlos Zaragoza, and Ryan Styron accepted the award on behalf of Nu Theta at the Conclave.  MOON TOWNSHIP, PA - On September 6, 2024, the Mu Upsilon Chapter of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity at Robert Morris University held an engaging and unconventional Fall Brotherhood Retreat, combining strategic planning with high-energy team building at Battlegrounds Airsoft in Pittsburgh.
The event, designed to energize and unite the brothers ahead of recruitment week, began with a focused goal-setting session on campus. From 4:30 to 5:00 PM, members gathered to discuss and align their short-term and long-term objectives for the upcoming semester. This was followed by a brotherhood dinner in the PNC Food Court, fostering camaraderie and informal discussions. The highlight of the retreat was an evening of team-building exercises at The Battlegrounds, where brothers participated in spirited Airsoft matches. This unique activity provided an exciting platform for strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories among the fraternity members. Aaron Frier, VP of Membership for the Mu Upsilon Chapter, explained the rationale behind the event: "We wanted to empower our brothers with the energy to move forward to our goals for this upcoming semester. The combination of strategic planning and high-energy team building at Battlegrounds Airsoft proved to be an effective way to unite our chapter and set a positive tone for the fall." The retreat saw a strong turnout, with a majority of the chapter's brotherhood in attendance. Frier added, "With a majority of our brotherhood there, brothers created memories reaffirming the lifelong friendships we hope to foster in the Mu Upsilon chapter. Furthermore, our goal-setting session put us on the right course for the semester, with a vow to revisit them come the end of the year." This innovative approach to a brotherhood retreat demonstrates Phi Mu Delta's commitment to fostering strong interpersonal connections while maintaining a focus on chapter growth and development. By combining serious planning with enjoyable team-building activities, the Mu Upsilon Chapter has set a strong foundation for a successful fall semester. Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity, commended the chapter's initiative: "The Mu Upsilon Chapter's creative approach to their Fall Brotherhood Retreat exemplifies the kind of innovative thinking we encourage in our chapters. By balancing strategic planning with engaging team-building activities, they've set themselves up for a strong and unified semester ahead." Phi Mu Delta Raises Over $5,000 for Scholarships and Educational Initiatives at 61st Conclave9/9/2024
 The Phi Mu Delta Educational Foundation is thrilled to announce that its T-shirt and memorabilia auction, held during the 61st Conclave in Providence, RI, raised an impressive sum of over $5,000 for scholarships and educational initiatives. This lively event, which has become a beloved tradition, saw enthusiastic participation from both alumni and undergraduates. The auction, described as a "wild and raucous event," featured a diverse array of items, from chapter T-shirts to unique fraternity memorabilia. Dustyn Hall, serving as this year's auctioneer with assistance from Shawn Stabile, kept the energy high as bidders vied for coveted items. Among the most popular were homemade wooden coasters crafted by Mu Beta's Ty Weir, featuring the fraternity's crest and letters. Special items that drew significant interest included a Triangle from the mid-1920s and a special edition badge from Phi Mu Delta's Centennial celebration. Dr. Paul Kittle Jr., Eric Etkin, and John Turns, Directors of the Educational Foundation board, were present to witness the outpouring of support. The Phi Mu Delta Educational Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, works collaboratively with the Fraternity to provide scholarships, educational programs, and leadership development opportunities. This auction's success will directly impact these efforts, helping to redefine fraternity for the next generation of men. The event was particularly significant for many undergraduates, marking their first time donating to the Educational Foundation. These new donors were welcomed into the 1918 Society, a giving society specifically for undergraduates, and received special pins to showcase their commitment.  Phi Mu Delta Fraternity is proud to announce that its Mu Omicron Chapter at Frostburg State University has been awarded the prestigious Chapter of Excellence distinction for the second year in a row. The chapter's outstanding performance was recognized at the annual Stars of Excellence Awards, established in 2007 to honor fraternity and sorority chapters that excel in meeting both national and university standards.
The Mu Omicron Chapter not only secured the Chapter of Excellence Award but also distinguished itself in several key areas:
These achievements reflect the chapter's commitment to Phi Mu Delta's values and its dedication to making a positive impact on campus and in the community. The Stars of Excellence Awards evaluate chapters based on rigorous criteria, including intellectual and social development, personal health and moral values growth, organizational responsibility, risk management, scholarship, community and philanthropic service, monetary donations, and chapter programming. To maintain good standing with the Office of Student Activities and Fraternity and Sorority Life, chapters must achieve at least 80% in all aspects of university and national guidelines. The Mu Omicron Chapter's performance exceeded 90% before bonus points, securing their Chapter of Excellence status. Founded in 2009, the Mu Omicron Chapter has initiated over 100 members and boasts an impressive 90% persistence to graduation rate among its members. Nick Mullen, serving his second year as Chapter President, expressed pride in the chapter's accomplishments: "As a chapter president, I am very proud to watch the chapter improve on itself and become the chapter we knew it could be. I am very proud of what our guys achieved last year." Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta Fraternity, commended the chapter's success: "The Mu Omicron Chapter's consecutive Chapter of Excellence awards demonstrate their unwavering commitment to our fraternity's values and their positive influence on campus life at Frostburg State. Their achievements in fundraising and community relations are particularly noteworthy and serve as an inspiration to all our chapters nationwide." This recognition underscores Phi Mu Delta's commitment to fostering leadership, academic excellence, and community engagement among its members. The fraternity congratulates the Mu Omicron Chapter on their outstanding achievements and looks forward to their continued success.  In a testament to their outstanding leadership and dedication to Greek life, five Phi Mu Delta brothers have been honored with induction into the prestigious Order of Omega Leadership Honor Society during the 2023-2024 academic year. This recognition highlights Phi Mu Delta's commitment to fostering exceptional leaders who embody the values of service, academic excellence, and community engagement.
The newly inducted members are:
Order of Omega, founded in 1959, is the premier honor organization for Fraternity and Sorority leaders. With over 580 chapters across the United States, Canada, and The Bahamas, membership in this esteemed society is a mark of distinction within the Greek community. "We couldn't be prouder of our brothers," said Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta. "Their induction into Order of Omega not only honors their individual achievements but also reflects the values we hold dear as a fraternity. These men exemplify the ideals of democracy, brotherhood, and service that our founders envisioned. The accomplishments of these five brothers add to the rich tapestry of Phi Mu Delta's history, which began in 1918 amidst global challenges. Just as our founders came together to create a brotherhood based on inclusivity and service, these newly honored members continue to elevate our fraternity's standards." Phi Mu Delta congratulates Aaron, Devin, Bryton, Alexander, and Anthony on this well-deserved recognition. Their achievement serves as an inspiration to all our members to strive for excellence in leadership, academics, and service.  Phi Mu Delta Fraternity is proud to announce the launch of its Oral History Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at capturing and preserving the rich legacy of the fraternity through the personal stories of its members. This project, set to begin in August 2024, will create a lasting testament to Phi Mu Delta's impact on the lives of its brothers and ensure that the spirit of the fraternity continues to inspire future generations.
"Every brother's experience in Phi Mu Delta is unique and valuable," said Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta. "Whether it's memories of lifelong friendships, transformative moments, or career paths influenced by their fraternity experience, we want to hear and preserve these stories for the future of our brotherhood." To bring this project to life, Phi Mu Delta has partnered with Publishing Concepts (PCI), an industry leader in alumni engagement with over 100 years of experience. PCI's experienced team will conduct interviews to collect stories, help update the alumni database, and compile and produce the "Phi Mu Delta Memories" book. Key aspects of the Oral History Project include:
Participation in the project is voluntary and free of charge. Earlier this month members with up-to-date contact information received emails and postcards from PCI with instructions on how to share their stories. "This project is not just about preserving our past," Waltemeyer added. "It's about strengthening our brotherhood for the future. By sharing our experiences, we create a bridge between generations of Phi Mu Delta members." The Oral History Project is expected to run for 12-14 months, with the "Phi Mu Delta Memories" books distributed from August through October 2025. For more information about the Phi Mu Delta Oral History Project or to update your contact information, please call the dedicated Phi Mu Delta update line at 1-888-371-7378 or email [email protected].  Phi Mu Delta Fraternity is excited to announce a new partnership with MemberDeals, a leading provider of corporate benefits programs, to offer its members access to exclusive discounts and benefits on a wide range of products and experiences.
This cost-free program will provide Phi Mu Delta members with significant savings on theme park tickets, ski lift passes, hotel bookings, Broadway shows, rental cars, and much more. Members can look forward to exclusive discounts at Disney World, TopGolf, and numerous retailers, including florists and restaurants. "We're thrilled to partner with MemberDeals to bring these valuable benefits to our brothers," said Sam Waltemeyer, Executive Director of Phi Mu Delta. "This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing lifelong value to our members, extending the benefits of brotherhood well beyond their college years." The MemberDeals program, part of EBG's robust network serving over 50 million employees annually, offers Phi Mu Delta members access to some of the world's greatest entertainment and travel brands. New offers and experiences will be added weekly, ensuring fresh opportunities for savings throughout the year. To take advantage of these exclusive benefits, members are encouraged to update their contact information with the fraternity. The password to access the MemberDeals platform will be shared in the September edition of the Lion Line, Phi Mu Delta's monthly newsletter. "This partnership not only provides our members with fantastic savings but also strengthens our brotherhood by offering shared experiences and opportunities," added Waltemeyer. "We're excited to see how our members will use these benefits to create lasting memories with their families and fellow brothers." Key features of the MemberDeals program include:
Phi Mu Delta members can look forward to accessing these benefits starting in September. The fraternity encourages all members to ensure their contact information is up to date to receive the Lion Line newsletter and gain access to this exciting new program. |
