Lynn and John Folsom

As our son Charles heads toward graduation from Georgia Tech this December, we look back with pride and gratitude to his Brotherhood in Delta Chi over the past four years. When he announced four years ago, after only a few days on campus, that he had found a fraternity he would like to pledge, we had the usual apprehensions based on the general perceptions held regarding fraternity life. Over the past four years, we have found those stereotypes to be completely untrue in the case of the Delta Chi chapter at Georgia Tech. Some specific examples in Charles’ life are very illustrative.

Friendship. We have met many of the friends Charles has made among the Delta Chi Brothers, and consider every one of them to be of the highest caliber. When he developed appendicitis in 2005, his Brothers got him to the hospital and at least one remained with him until we could arrange transportation and arrive from Virginia. After his surgery, they provided physical and morale support during his recovery.

Scholarship. One of the founding principles of Delta Chi is based on scholarship and academics. During his second year, Charles had some struggles with his course load, and there’s little doubt that his Brothers helped him get through the difficult times. So it’s no accident that the Chapter has won so many awards and takes such immense pride in their accomplishments in the academic area.

Networking. The network of friends and contacts within the Delta Chi world has provided wonderful examples that could be valuable assets as Charles moves through life. The fraternity’s amazing accomplishment of financing and building the new housing unit in such a short time during Charles’ four years was due in large part to Delta Chi alumni (not all from Georgia Tech) who applied their time and skills to the project. During the time of construction, he was able to obtain off-campus housing through a Delta Chi family. When he and friends traveled to other campuses for football or basketball games, they frequently found lodging at or through local Delta Chi chapters. During part of his time at Georgia Tech, Charles obtained part-time employment through a Delta Chi family. Looking toward the future, Charles has at least one possible job contact through a Brother’s father.

We have always backed our son’s decisions, even if apprehensions existed at the time. There is no doubt that his decision to pledge and join Delta Chi was sound, and will probably affect him in a positive manner throughout his life, possibly in areas he hasn’t even thought of at this time. Delta Chi at Georgia Tech has truly become a “Band of Brothers” for our son. 

Lynn and John Folsom
Parents of Charles