New fraternity discovers ties to one of its oldest chapters
>>Print ViewPublication Date: 09/30/2009
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Brothers establishing Purdue’s newest fraternity revive one of the organization’s oldest chapters.
When Michael Easton, a sophomore in the College of Liberal Arts, decided to establish a chapter of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity at Purdue last year, he had no idea that one had already existed. Known for its influence in the movie ‘Animal House’, ZBT was in fact a haven for young Jewish men when it was founded in the late 1890s. As it turned out, the organization’s unknown Alpha Alpha chapter was established at Purdue in 1918.
Easton, the president of ZBT’s colony at Purdue, grew up listening to stories of his dad’s experiences as a ZBT brother. Upon starting his freshman year, however, Easton discovered that of the many fraternities established at Purdue, ZBT was not one of them.
“We watched ‘Old School’ one night in my room,” Easton said. “I thought about that movie when my dad suggested starting a ZBT chapter.”
With the help of Hy Mariampolski, a Purdue alumnus and ZBT brother, Easton organized a group of 15 potential brothers and the group was recognized as a colony last fall. The colony now consists of 20 members and Easton said he expects to initiate 20 to 30 more this October.
“I think a lot of freshmen have the stereotypical fraternity in mind,” Easton said.
However, as part of the organization’s policy, ZBT has no pledging process and prohibits hazing. And, although the fraternity honors its Jewish heritage, it welcomes all members.
Adam Fliegel, a sophomore in Aviation Technology and ZBT’s recruitment chair, had no intention of joining a fraternity his first year at Purdue. Yet, when he was contacted by Easton, Fliegel became intrigued.
“I like the idea of being able to control our own destiny,” he said.
The new ZBT brothers share the dream of building a legacy with each other and with the brothers of the lost chapter nearly a century ago.
“Our goal is to make sure that all our brothers understand that ZBT is a way of life,” Easton said. “Brotherhood is our focus; parties and social events are just great benefits.”