Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity is proud to congratulate the Iota Chi chapter at West Virginia University on its official chartering. Over the past three years, the chapter has built itself a strong foundation and put in meaningful, intentional work to live out the mission of the Fraternity.

“The newly recognized Iota Chi chapter at West Virginia started in a garage in Morgantown with a small group of guys hanging out and just messing around,” said Henry Rappolt ‘23, former chapter president and treasurer. “Although there were only a few of us, we set our goals high and were determined to, at some point, live in a recognized chapter facility in the heart of Greek row.”

By the end of the chapter’s first year, there were 35 initiates. 14 of those brothers took a chance in the 2024-25 school year to sign leases at two houses right next to each other, and even though they were a little out of the way of West Virginia’s main campus, the brothers persisted and brought in two more recruitment classes. They also hosted various social events with other campus organizations and took part in several philanthropy events, including contributing to an animal shelter and a local food bank.

“Everything was great at this point but we knew our recruitment numbers needed to go up and the only way to do that was with a large chapter house in the middle of everything,” Rappolt recounted.

Brother Rappolt and Brother Macalister Kasowski ‘23 searched for and found a large, historic, and well-placed house that was preparing to go vacant. After meetings with National Headquarters and the landlord of the property, they succeeded in being able to put 31 brothers in the new house for the 2025-26 school year.

“This house provided a sense of relief for the chapter while also giving everyone something to be super excited for in the upcoming year,” said Rappolt.

Since moving into the house, the Iota Chi chapter has used it well and solidified its chartering. The chapter has hosted many social and philanthropy events, including a petting zoo and IFC basketball tournaments. The brothers have also been able to take advantage of the space for brotherhood events such as sports watch parties and a Family Feud game night.

“I’ve seen the chapter grow tremendously over the last three years and am excited to see what is still to come,” Rappolt remarked.

The Fraternity commends the Iota Chi chapter’s achievements and looks forward to seeing the brothers convince the world of the sincerity of their purpose.