Fall 2025: An Important Back-to-School Message from General Council President Nat J. Love
When I first joined Phi Delta Theta, I was drawn in by the brotherhood, the shared values, and the chance to grow as a person. What I quickly learned is that being a part of this Fraternity means more than friendship and fun—it means a commitment to the safety and well-being of our members and the communities we are a part of.
August is an exciting time for our great Fraternity. Colleges are back in session, students have new opportunities to learn and lead, and most importantly, we open our doors to the next generation of Phi Delts. A new wave of students are preparing to begin their collegiate journey. While the unfamiliar campus environment may bring some nerves as they adjust to life away from home, we have the opportunity to help them create a true home away from home.
As we welcome these first member classes of the new biennium, let us lead by example and demonstrate what it truly means to be a Phi Delt. To be our Brother’s Keeper—a brother who cares deeply and acts boldly to keep every brother safe.
Remember, true leadership is about making the right decisions, even when they are difficult. By prioritizing risk management, we ensure that Phi Delta Theta remains a place where values are lived daily, where brotherhood flourishes, and where futures are built on a foundation of respect and safety.
Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of Alcohol-Free Housing
In today’s world, risks come in many forms—from alcohol misuse and hazing to situations that threaten the physical or emotional safety of our members. Phi Delta Theta has taken a clear and unwavering stance: these dangers have no place in our organization. We are devoted to creating an environment where every brother can thrive without fear of harm or misconduct.
Speaking at our Semi-Centennial Convention in 1898, Robert Morrison urged us not to rest on past achievements but to, “guard against elation. Do not look at the past as a thing that should be satisfying; look at it only as something in general that was well done. Thank God for it but go and do something better.”
Our Fraternity has always embodied that spirit of striving for better. Twenty-five years ago, we were not satisfied with the risk management policies in place—particularly concerning alcohol in our chapter houses. While our membership was strong, our General Council knew we could do more to protect our brothers.
This year marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of one of the boldest decisions in the fraternal world. Many said it would be the end of Phi Delta Theta, but today, we are stronger, safer, and more than three times larger than we were back then.
Leaders like Dr. Robert B. Deloian, M. Scott Mietchen, Robert A. Biggs, and my fellow General Council member Tom Balzer, who was the coordinator of Alcohol-Free Housing, who championed this change and reminded us of Morrison’s challenge to guard against elation. In July 2000, Phi Delta Theta became the first Fraternity to implement an alcohol-free housing policy.
As we reflect on this milestone this school year, let it inspire us to continue pushing forward—to innovate, lead, and protect our brothers with the same courage and care. Phi Delta Theta continually strives to educate our members on ways to conduct chapter activities in a safe and responsible manner. Please review Phi Delta Theta’s risk management policies, which include the alcohol-free housing policy. As a member of Phi Delta Theta, you have a responsibility to uphold the values of our brotherhood. One of the most noble duties of membership is to look out for your fellow brothers. If you see certain members of your chapter engage in activities that are illegal or violate Fraternity policies, it is your responsibility to intervene and prevent them from occurring.
As a dad, I’m proud of this alcohol-free housing policy, and I know many other parents feel the same. These new members are someone’s son, new to campus and starting a big chapter in their lives, and it’s on us to keep them safe. Be your Brother’s Keeper!
Wishing you all the best this semester!
