Delta Kappa Epsilon

Delta Kappa Epsilon (DKE), the first fraternity at North Carolina, originated at Yale University on June 22, 1844. Established by 15 undergraduates in No. 12 Old South Hall, the fraternity adopted the open motto, “Kerothen Philoi Aei,” meaning “Friends from the Heart, Forever,” laying the foundation for enduring brotherhood. The fraternity values the qualities of a gentleman, scholar, and jolly good fellow, as noted by founding father Dr. Edward Bartlett. DKE expanded to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on April 5, 1851, naming the chapter Beta. The chapter house, located at 132 South Columbia Street, was renovated in 2001 with support from a robust alumni network. This support has been crucial in sustaining the fraternity, which has engaged significantly with Habitat for Humanity, notably constructing a house in 2009 in memory of their late brother Courtland Smith and continuing involvement thereafter. In 2024, the chapter welcomed 20 new members and anticipates further growth.