The University of Findlay’s chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity received the “Chapter Excellence Award”, which is awarded to a Theta Chi chapter that demonstrates expertise and excellence in the areas of alumni engagement, campus involvement, community service, internal cooperation, member education, safety and social programming.  Additionally, UF Junior Ethan Lantz of Clyde, Ohio achieved “Resolute Man” status.  The Theta Chi Resolute Man program guides undergraduate members to obtain the most out of the collegiate experience in order to best prepare them for life after graduation.  Lantz is the first UF Theta Chi to receive this honor.

Both honors were achieved at the Theta Chi Initiative Academy in Bloomington, Indiana during the week of June 12-15.  Theta Chi is one of the oldest men’s college fraternities in North America.  Founded in 1856, Theta Chi Fraternity is a men’s collegiate fraternity with more than 200,000 initiated members and has established 245 chapters.  It currently supports 157 active chapters and approximately 8,700 collegiate members.

“The Chapter Excellence Award is a great honor for our chapter”, said Ethan Lantz.  “We’re a small chapter, on a small campus, and to receive an honor like this is a testament to the hard work that our active chapter and alumni association have performed.”

Regarding the Resolute Man program, Lantz commented, “The Initiative Academy provided me with a wealth of knowledge, and introduced me to other Resolute Man honorees from across the country.  I made friendships that will last a lifetime.  The honor of being named a Resolute Man would not have been possible without the guidance and support of our collegiate members and our alumni.”

“I am incredibly proud to share that our Theta Chi chapter at the University of Findlay has been honored with the Chapter Excellence Award”, said UF Eta Mu Chapter President David May. “This is a true testament to the heart and effort our brothers have poured into this fraternity since its rebirth in March 2024. We started with just five brothers, dropped to three that fall, and now, as of spring 2025, we’ve grown to a strong group of 12 brothers. Watching this chapter grow from the ground up has been nothing short of inspiring. It is truly an honor to serve as President of an organization that cares deeply, not just for each other, but for our campus, our community, and those beyond. This award is not just a trophy. It is a reflection of who we are becoming.”

 “I want to recognize and congratulate our brother Ethan Lantz for earning his Resolute Man this past June” May continued.  “This is one of the highest honors a Theta Chi brother can achieve, and I couldn’t be more proud. Ethan is a strong leader on campus, a consistent friend within our chapter, and someone who truly lives out the values of Theta Chi. His dedication, drive, and heart for others are evident in everything he does. And this is only the beginning. Ethan, your journey is just beginning, and I cannot wait to see how far you go from here.”

 “It’s encouraging and rewarding to see recognition for the efforts put forth by both the chapter and its leader Ethan”, said Eta Mu Chapter of Theta Chi  Alumni President Che Brindle.  “We, as alumni of the chapter, see the work being done, but it’s especially validating for the collegiate members to have their larger peer group see it as well.” 

 “This is a well-deserved and prestigious honor for our Theta Chi Fraternity”, commented Brandi Laurita, Vice-President for Student Affairs at the University of Findlay.  “The commitment, hard work, and dedication shown by our current members and alumni over the past year have truly been extraordinary and deserve to be celebrated. Their efforts reflect the strong values and enduring spirit that have guided Theta Chi for generations. We look forward to a bright and promising future for our chapter as we continue to grow, lead, and make a positive impact on our campus and beyond.”

Theta Chi has maintained a chapter on the Findlay campus since 1972.  It is currently the only fraternity, and one of two social Greek organizations, in existence at UF.