Omega Delta Phi is unique addition to Tarleton Greek Life

BY LAUREN JESKEVIC

Contributing Writer

While every organization at Tarleton State University brings unique backgrounds and creative perspectives, Omega Delta Phi (ODPhi) stands out as a fresh and dynamic presence within Tarleton's growing Greek Life community.

Founded by a few latino men at Texas Tech University in 1987, this fraternity is multicultural. ODPhi prides itself on being a fraternity for the future, embracing a diverse membership that reflects our school's global community.

Representing their core values of unity, honesty, integrity and leadership, their arrival marks an exciting shift toward more inclusive Greek spaces where culture and brotherhood can go hand-in-hand.

Aaron Hernandez, public relations officer for ODPhi, is very hopeful for the future of this fraternity.

“One thing we want to prioritize within our fraternity is ensuring we build a brotherhood that's meaningful and to devote ourselves to give to the community,” Hernandez said. “We want to make sure people understand that we are here for the community around us, but most importantly we want to make a safe environment for everyone.”

What sets ODPhi apart from others is their commitment to service that goes beyond the Greek Life experience. This fraternity holds its members to an exceptionally high standard, requiring each member to complete 40 service hours per semester, with a goal to accumulate 80 service hours over one academic year.

With their passion for serving communities, they take part in philanthropy with national partnerships including Wounded Warrior Project to support veterans and service members. Locally, they serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates to support children in the legal system and lead the Young Knights program, an academy focused on mentoring middle and high school students.

Recognizing each Greek Life group on campus and the unique traditions they uphold is important. As a newer chapter, this fraternity is carving out its own identity through a strong emphasis on embracing and celebrating its cultural heritage.

One of their most prized traditions is 'strolling,' a synchronized form of dance used to celebrate identity and unity. It involves precise footwork, rhythmic movements and hand signs to the organization that it is being performed by.

An interesting fact about this group is that they are its original founders, meaning they started this new chapter at our college from an existing national fraternity.

“I think the most unique thing is us being founders, because not a lot of people can say that they hold that position,” ODPhi academic affairs officer Jesus Adrian Aguilera said. “We are already established at different colleges, so having that and being able to go around and say that we are already established brothers is a great honor.”

Omega Delta Phi isn't just adding another set of  letters to our Greek Life community, they are bringing a specific focus on multiculturalism and exceptional community service. As they continue growing, their goal is to prove that brotherhood has no boundaries and true leadership is found in the service they take on.