Theta Chi officially added new initiates to its rolls at Alpha Rho Chapter and resumed operations at the University of Washington on December 3, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. PST, at the Alpha Rho Chapter House in Seattle with 11 men who pledged themselves to the ideals and traditions of the Fraternity. Recruited by Growth Specialists Justin Guseman and Zack Ross, the 11 men are:
Jake Bruns (2027)
Sam Chou (2027)
Alec Chulsky (2027)
Isaac Dyor (2027)
Cabot Gugler (2027)
Pat Junwaowam (2027)
Phil Lam (2024)
Rian Pai (2027)
Brent Predmore (2026)
Thomas Schmatz (2027)
Alston Zhao (2027)
After a cessation in operation, followed by additional complications caused by COVID, Theta Chi Fraternity International Headquarters staff, with support from local alumni, resumed efforts to revive, rebuild, and redevelop Alpha Rho Chapter.
Justin and Zack arrived in Seattle on September 1, 2023. As the chapter house’s first residents in nearly five years, they quickly found the house to be as grand as the pictures had presented. The 1920s building stood boldly among the other remarkable chapter houses on historic 17th Avenue near the University of Washington campus. It was no surprise Alpha Rho boasted more than 2,250 initiates since its installation nearly 100 years ago in February 1926.
The condition of the chapter house improved daily under the leadership of Greg Baker (1987). The once boarded windows on the brick home were removed and light once again flooded the home. Common spaces, bathrooms, and bedrooms were renovated. The kitchen and library were restored to their former glory. This sudden breath of life created buzz in the local community. Our team was quickly approached by other leaders in the Greek Life community asking about Theta Chi. As students began returning to campus in late September, our team looked to capitalize on the newfound energy surrounding the revival of Theta Chi.
Justin and Zack extended the first bid of this redevelopment project to Jake Bruns (2027). Jake presented the key attributes required they were looking for: he was a leader;hard-working, honest, and demonstrated true care for his academics and future at Theta Chi. Jake greatly assisted in recruitment, bringing his friends into interviews and meetings while starting to make bonds in the community around him.
Alumni Devin Tonseth (2005), Ryan Sadiler (1987), and C.J. Bowles (2006) were of great assistance demonstrating the ideals of Theta Chi. Whether it was inviting the group to gameday tailgates, a day on the lake, or organizing alumni events at the house, they were quick to lend an Assisting Hand to their chapter and alma mater. This made a true difference in Alpha Rho’s return.
The initiation ceremony was led by Assistant Director of Growth Sam Terry who served as the Presiding Officer.
While initiation was an exciting and fitting end to a memorable quarter, the new brothers of Theta Chi at Alpha Rho Chapter understand it is only the beginning of their journey. The members on the executive board met individually with Justin and Zack to get a better understanding of their roles and responsibilities and are already taking action to prepare for a strong winter quarter. Recruitment Chairman Sam Chou is constantly growing his list of potential new members and expects to recruit multiple pledges during the first week of classes. Treasurer Alston Zhao began his required training and is planning out next quarter’s budget. Additionally, five executive board members attended Theta Chi’s annual January Training Conferences and gained greater insight about their roles and met other Theta Chi brothers from around the country.
The executive board was quickly formed, and the newly initiated officers established themselves in their new roles. With a wide variety of majors – from Finance to Aerospace Engineering – paired with a steadfast resolve to move forward, the brothers of Alpha Rho are excited for the future.
You can the group's newest exploits via their Instagram page.