Founded in 1856 at Norwich University (Vermont), Theta Chi is one of the oldest men’s fraternities in North America. Built on the bedrock principle of "Alma Mater First and Theta Chi for Alma Mater," the organization was established by Frederick Norton Freeman and Arthur Chase with a focus on mutual assistance and the cultivation of character. Today, it remains dedicated to developing "Resolute Men" who are prepared to lead with integrity, across more than 240 chapters and a network of over 200,000 initiates.

The fraternity’s philosophy is rooted in the idea that the collegiate experience should serve as a training ground for life. Through its Maxim, "Alma Mater First," Theta Chi encourages its members to be the highest contributors to their universities, emphasizing academic excellence and civic responsibility. This commitment ensures that a brother’s development isn't just about the bond within the chapter, but about his impact on the broader community and his personal growth into an honorable man.

Beyond the undergraduate years, Theta Chi offers a lifelong brotherhood and a professional network that spans every imaginable industry. The organization provides significant resources for leadership development and philanthropic service, most notably through its partnership with the United Service Organizations (USO). By choosing Theta Chi, members align themselves with a legacy of service and a commitment to the "True Friend" ideal, ensuring that the bonds formed in the chapter remain a guiding force throughout their lives.

Theta Chi at the University of Hartford got its start in 1963 when a group of like minded students started a local fraternity, Beta Sigma Gamma. 

Four years later, Beta Sigma Gamma became a colony of Theta Chi Fraternity, chartering as the 158th chapter of the international organization in 1969. Like all of Greek Life at the University of Hartford, the chapter went dormant in the 1970's.

In 1982, two students, Ken Borruso and Joe Marinello, wanting to give students a reason to stay on campus during the weekends started a fraternity interest group - gathering the signatures of 200 men. From these beginnings, emerged three fraternities and the rebirth of greek life at the University of Hartford. Ken and Joe's interest group, Theta Chi, would recolonize first, becoming the first fraternity back on campus in 1983 - rechartering as a full chapter in 1986.

Since that time, Theta Chi has remained on campus continually, initiating hundreds of men and being an active participant in campus life. Our chapter's alumni have gone on to great things, including the Speaker of the House of Rhode Island and Director level roles across many lines of business.

The granting of our Charter, May 24, 1969 

The Rechartering of the Chapter, April 19, 1986