Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ), an international fraternity, has approximately 282 active chapters and colonies in Canada and the United States providing fellowship, leadership, scholarship and service since 1869. As for TRU’s Kappa Sigma Omicron-Theta Chapter, it originally started in 2003 as an interest group, which swiftly developed into a colony in 2004. By February of 2006, Kappa Sigma became a full-fledged chapter.
Now an alumnus, Jeremy Phelps, a founding father of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, is one of five advisers who provides advice and continuity for student members. “I always enjoy coming back to campus; the fraternity helped shape my career and my life, and it’s great to ensure that those opportunities are there for current and future students.”
The fraternity hosts recruitment sessions each semester, with the largest events in the fall semester. A sixty-day pledge period allows all parties to spend some quality time. “The applicant has an opportunity to learn more about Kappa Sigma and become familiar with the family,” Jeremy said.
The benefits of the brotherhood are boundless; beyond the support system that will carry you through university, there are opportunities for professional advancement, skill set improvement and leadership development in a “non-threatening, forgiving environment where learning and growth are possible.”
Kappa Sigma hosts a variety of events throughout the year, which provide philanthropic opportunities through different committees. Fraternity members participate in the planning and executing of these events in order to learn about budgeting and fundraising. They also host an initiative to help students move into their residences. Trick or Eat, a Halloween themed food drive, has become an enormous success: last year ,Kappa Sigma collected over 3000 pounds of food and over $7000 worth of consumables and donations. They are currently expanding their fundraising efforts. Through their Man Cave raffle, they donated $2300 to TRU Foundation; they also gave two $500 scholarships for high school graduates.
To further connect with the community—and be more accessible and visible—the fraternity built a giant human foosball table that is often seen at special events like Floatapalooza and the Back-to-School BBQ. They find it sparks conversation and is more engaging than a booth packed with pamphlets. “It really creates a presence,” Jeremy chuckled.
In the name of “brotherhood development,” the members built the table themselves. “Lots of the men hadn’t used basic tools before. It was a fun learning opportunity,” Jeremy recalled.
Beyond the impact on educational experience and a professional growth, the emotional component is undeniable. Fifteen brothers attended Jeremy’s grandmother’s funeral, not only to offer support, but also to lend a hand. “They parked cars, took coats, helped people to their seats. Whatever you need, the brothers are here for you.”
“This is the family you choose for yourself; this is your home away from home,” Jeremy said.
Above all, it is all types of fun—the kind that lasts a lifetime.
Follow Kappa Sigma Omicron-Theta Chapter on Facebook. Further inquiries can be directed to the website.
Kappa Sigma Omicron-Theta Chapter Fall Rush
