Summer 2026 Delta Upsilon Quarterly

Delta Upsilon welcomed the Delaware Chapter back into its active chapter roster when the Reinstallation Ceremony was held on April 12, 2026, marking 56 years and one day since its original Installation. The Delaware Chapter began as DU's 102nd chapter on April 11, 1970, and eventually closed in 1983.

During its time as an associate chapter, the group’s resiliency helped lead it to reinstallation. In its first test, the chapter’s return almost ended before it even started. Expansion recruitment efforts, which had been set to begin in 2020, were delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Recruitment finally began in spring 2021, with the Associate Chapter Ceremony being held on Nov. 12, 2021.

Once reestablished, the associate chapter continued to face challenges as it navigated forming a brotherhood, the remaining effects of the pandemic, and a university suspension. Fortunately, with the help of university administration, Fraternity staff, and alumni advisors, the group remained resolved in the desire to become a rechartered chapter.

“Rechartering has been an incredible milestone for our chapter, but we view it as the beginning rather than the finish line,” said Chapter President Sean Smith, Delaware ’27. “The Delaware Chapter of Delta Upsilon is a group of driven, resilient and values-based men who are committed to building something meaningful on campus.”

During the Reinstallation Ceremony, Rite II of the Initiation Ceremony is also held for three new brothers. During his Charge Address, International Fraternity Board Chairman Brad John, Iowa ’96, reiterated Brother Smith’s sentiments on resiliency.

“In the years ahead, you will encounter challenges,” John said. “You will face decisions that test your resolve. You will be presented with opportunities to choose the easier path or the right one. In those moments, recall this night. Recall the Principles you pledged to uphold. Recall the trust placed in you by this Fraternity and by one another.”

“Delta Upsilon does not ask for perfection,” John continued. “It asks for integrity. It asks for effort. It asks for the courage to live your values consistently and openly. If you do so, you will not only honor this Fraternity; you will strengthen it. You will not only build a chapter; you will build a legacy.”

The ceremonies were held on campus in Smith Hall 120 in front of friends, family and alumni. A reception was held immediately following. In total, 79 men were listed as Founding Fathers for the rechartered group.

The Ritual Team for the ceremonies included DU Executive Director Justin Kirk, Boise State ’00, as Master; Chapter Advisor Edward Lach, NC State ’79, as Examiner; Past Chapter President Jackson Schreiner, Delaware ’26, as Chief Marshal; and VP Membership Education Christopher Gardner, Delaware ’28, as Chaplain.

As the chapter moves toward the future, it looks to continue its resolve in creating a strong DU brotherhood on campus.

“My vision is for the Delaware Chapter to become one of the premier fraternities at the University of Delaware while staying true to Delta Upsilon's values,” Smith said. “I want to see continued growth in membership, leadership, academic achievement and campus involvement. Most importantly, I hope we create a lasting culture where future generations of brothers are proud of the foundation we have built and continue to elevate the chapter for years to come.”