At Davis & Elkins College, student success is not just a goal—it is the heart of everything we do. Often, the secret ingredient to that success is not found in a textbook or even a classroom, but in the unexpected magic of community. Whether it is leading a student club, singing harmonies in the choir, or competing on the ballfield, connection fuels growth. Greek life is another significant means to relationships and connections. Fraternities and sororities can be icing on the collegiate cake—brotherhood, sisterhood, and memories to last a lifetime.

As the saying goes, “everything old is new again.” And indeed, something old and beloved makes a triumphant return. After a 16-year hiatus, Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE)—a social fraternity for men—is back on the Davis & Elkins College campus. Rechartering and ready to thrive, the Alpha-Psi Chapter originally founded at D&E in 1946, now becomes the campus’ fifth social Greek organization to promote community.

This comeback tale was not written by chance. It was authored by a spirited band of students who saw a gap and decided to fill it with energy, intention, and tradition. “Our group felt there was something missing in Greek life on campus,” said senior Sam Rached, a leader in the effort. “We wanted to be the change we wished to see. After a lot of thought, we realized TKE matched our vision and values perfectly.”

TKE brings more than matching shirts and Greek letters. It offers a built-in support system that fosters leadership, personal development, and genuine brotherhood. Like our other four Greek fraternities and sororities, members gain access to mentorship, professional networks, and a sense of belonging. Perhaps one of TKE’s most significant traits is its commitment to service. Since 2009, TKE has partnered with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, raising millions to support lifesaving care and research. That philanthropic spirit is baked into the D&E chapter’s mission as well—service with purpose and heart. Recently, TKE brothers sponsored a successful casino night on campus raising funds for St. Jude.

The excitement to welcome TKE back to D&E is not just among the brothers. With more than 300 TKE alumni, they have welcomed this return with open arms. Among the most enthusiastic is Board of Trustees member Lou Stark ’76. “Having TKE on campus is yet another important step in strengthening our cocurricular and Greek Life offerings at D&E,” Stark shared. “I’m thrilled that this fraternity, which meant so much to many of us, will once again help shape the student experience.”

Nationally, TKE has more than 250,000 members nationwide, standing tall as one of the country’s largest fraternities. Here at D&E, 30 students are now in the process of becoming full-fledged brothers. A highlight in their journey came on February 21, when they traveled to New York for the TKE National Conference—a milestone moment for the new chapter.

Greek life continues to breathe spirit, leadership, and unity into campus culture. From the addition of two sororities in 2017, the rechartering of Alpha Sigma Phi in 2021, to TKE’s revival, the tradition is alive and evolving. At its core, it is about more than social events; it is about cultivating leadership, building lifelong bonds, giving back, and growing together.

The journey continues…


Chris A. Wood
President
Davis & Elkins College