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 The
History of the Theta Chapter
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The Brothers of the Theta Chapter in support of Nusantara.
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The Theta Chapter of the Pi Delta Psi Fraternity Inc., was founded by Tuong Phan who saw an Asian student body lacking in leadership and direction. Along with two other men from the State University of New York at Albany (the founding brothers of the Eta Chapter), the three embarked on a journey that would lead them to the establishment of two of the most influential Asian cultural forces in the capital region of New York State.
Shortly after its inception, Mr. Phan transferred to another school, but the chapter was later re-established by Christopher Wong. From then on, the chapter grew exponentially and has become a well respected organization not only on campus but in the community. Its brothers are leaders in each important collegiate organization at Rensselaer. The Theta Chapter continues in its endeavor for academic excellence; to culturally enlighten its fellow colleagues; to foster a brotherhood that which is incomparable; and to lead by example a righteous path which all men strive for. |
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Background: |
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The
Figures: |
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Rensselaer is the oldest technological research university in North America. Rensselaer consists of five schools which grant more than 35 undergraduate degrees in engineering, science, management, architecture, humanities and social sciences, and information technology. It also offers remarkable programs in areas such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, electronic arts, medicine and law.
Credited for creating the email protocol, advancing science, building the Brooklyn Bridge, as well as traveling to the Moon, Rensselaer graduates are successful pioneers and entrepreneurs in their specific fields. “Today, Rensselaer people are building the bridges that will link the world to the promises of new technologies.” Engaging in thought, discovering in achievement, and entrepreneurial in approach, Rensselaer continues to lead to the future.
According to USNews.com Rensselaer is ranked 43rd in
the nation's universities. (2005)
According to USNews.com Rensselaer is ranked 8th for its Electronic Arts program. (2005) |
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Chapter:
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Theta |
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School:
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Rensselaer Polytechnic
Institute |
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School Adress:
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110 8th Street
Troy, NY 12180 |
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University Website:
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www.rpi.edu |
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Current University Population:
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4,921 |
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Current % Asian Population:
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12% |
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Current President:
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Bao "Ghost" Nguyen |
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Mailing Address:
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2105 15th Street
Troy, NY 12180 |
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Chapter Website:
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www.rpi-pdpsi.org |
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Current # Undergrad Brothers:
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19 actives, 4 alumni |
The Theta Chapter, Spring 2004
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Our
Slice of the Pi
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The four pillars of Pi Delta Psi
are Academic Achievement, Cultural Awareness, Righteousness,
and Friendship/Loyalty. Briefly describe how your chapter has
upheld and promoted these 4 objectives since inception. |
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Academic Achievement
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At the Theta Chapter, there is an inherent attitude towards academic excellence and to challenge its members to excel. At Rensselaer, the academic environment is highly competitive and our brothers are amongst the top of the class. Many have been on the Dean’s List, while others are current leaders in honor societies. Although the Theta Chapter has only existed for a few years, its growing alumni are all marching into successful careers and are shining examples for those after them. |
Cultural Awareness
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A group picture after the Cultural Cookoff. |
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Since its inception, the chapter at Rensselaer has made a huge impact and it continues to inspire interest in the culturally diverse environment which makes up our world. Our brothers are leaders in nearly all of the cultural organizations on campus. Whether a minority student body lacked representation or an injustice needed attention, Pi Delta Psi was at the forefront paving new roads. Our brothers can be credited for the creation of some of the cultural organizations existing today. Brothers hold positions in many clubs including CASA, VSA, JSA, KSA, and HKSA. Also, the chapter has been responsible for the production of some of the largest and most successful cultural events at Rensselaer. Events include the Annual Asian Awareness Weekend, in which Pi Delta Psi raised a large portion of the funding and the Annual Cultural Cook-off which was first devised by our chapter. |
Righteousness through Philanthropy
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The Theta Chapter prides itself as a distinguished society of men who are righteous and concerned for its environment. Through the years, we have participated in numerous philanthropy events. Events we have thrown include last year’s Thanksgiving charity party in which over three hundred cans of food was donated to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. Another event held was a Tsunami Relief Valentine’s Day flower sale. Each year, our philanthropy projects have become more successful and superior. With an affirmative attitude towards the environment, we continue to serve society and envision a bright future. |
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Brothers doing community service. |
Friendship/Loyalty through Brotherhood
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Chillin' with the brothers of the Eta and Xi Chapters.. |
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Being one of the most important pillars of our fraternity, the chapter’s growth and success is a direct result of the closeness of our family and the faithfulness of its members. Since our early days as a colony to the present as a distinguished chapter, the Theta and Eta Chapters have always been strong supporters of one another.
Brothers share some of the most memorable experiences in their lives to supporting one another through hardships. From daily interaction to sporadic journeys, our brothers has grown and learned a great deal from one another. With this perpetual camaraderie, our chapter as one strong, will continue to strive for excellence.
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Chapter
Goals
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Describe what goals the chapter wishes
to achieve this semester and how it hopes to achieve them. |
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Regardless of the past successes that have been given to us, the chapter continues to look into the future and strive for further achievement. Though there has been much improvement in cultural awareness on campus since our arrival, there is much to be done as we attempt to unify the campus. In the future, the Theta Chapter will be a shining example for men across the nation in promoting academic excellence, cultural awareness, righteousness and most importantly, a resilient brotherhood that our forefather had envisioned.
Some specific objectives include being the best chapter in the fraternity and to receive full chapter recognition by the Inter-Fraternity Council. Other areas of improvements include furthering our relations with other organizations on campus, to further academic performance and continue to dominate the social scene in our region.
Theta and Eta Chapters all decked out. |
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Brothers having dinner together at Convention 3.
Group shot with the Eta, Xi Chapters and the UMCP Colony. |
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Notable
Achievements
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First intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for Asian-Americans at Rensselaer
Assisted in the revision of the Inter-Fraternity Council Constitution and Bylaws
Fall 2003 - Recognition on campus by the Inter-Fraternity Council (IFC)
Co-hosting Pi Delta Psi’s National Convention 2004
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