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The Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity at Radford University was established with
the same ideals and beliefs still held strong within the fraternity today.
"We deem sterling character and staunch uprightness to be necessary qualifications to membership in this fraternity"
DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES
Omicron Omega Chapter is the oldest fraternity at Radford University, and part of
the largest social fraternity in the country. Since being recognized by Tau Kappa
Epsilon National Fraternity, over 400 brothers have been initiated into the bond at
Radford. Tau Kappa Epsilon's, Omicron Omega Chapter, started with a band of 20 men
in the Perry dormitory with the common goal of creating an environment where men are
encouraged to develop strong skills for academics, leadership, organization, personal
growth, and involvement in community service. At Radford University, Mr. James Vickery
met another student, named Mr. Ronnie Lonergan. Both men discussed the opportunities a
chapter would provide to the school, the community and to themselves. Ronnie had some
connections with TKE affiliates at Lehigh University, and his brother also had an
acquaintance at Tau Kappa Epsilon Nationals. Within ten days, a Teke representative
was at Radford to discuss starting a colony.
With some aid from our friends and brothers in the Xi-Omega Chapter at Virginia
Polytechnic Institute, both Jim and Ronnie set in motion the beginnings of Omicron
Omega. Each of the 20 founding fathers, went through some of the same rituals we go
through today. The brothers at Virginia Tech were instrumental in assisting with the
organization of rituals, meetings and social functions. The first meeting of the
Omicron Omega colony was held in Perry dormitory. Jim was voted the first Prytanis
and scroll 001 while Ronnie took his position at scroll 004. At Radford University,
Tau Kappa Epsilon, along with Phi Sigma Kappa and Alpha Chi Rho, formed the
Inter-Fraternity Council. Jim was also elected the first IFC President.
The University was skeptical of fraternities after recently converting from an
all female student body, but TKE has proven over the years to be both a role model
for other fraternities, as well as an asset to Radford University. They were involved
in everything that happened on campus, and contributed wherever they could in the
community. Within just years, TKE had their first off campus house.
The Foundation of sterling character and staunch uprightness established over 25
years ago still exists and flourishes today. TKE is known for its strong brotherhood,
unity and competitive spirit at Radford University. Over time the brothers of the
Omicron Omega Chapter have won numerous academic, leadership, athletic, and community
service awards from the University and the TKE National Fraternity. The Radford
Tekes dedicate themselves to community involvement through such community activities
as Habitat for Humanity, Adopt a Spot and such fund raisers as The Polar Plunge.
Over 25 years, and still…..Above All Else!
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