Pride and tradition were alive on campus last weekend, as more than 60 fraternity brothers attended the 1998 Region VII Delta Chi Leadership Conference..

Hosted by UConn's Connecticut Pride Chapter, the event offered chapters in the Northeast region a series of educational and informational seminars. The conference included speakers from the fraternity's national and regional leadership, as well as staff from the University's Center for Greek Life..

"These (regional) conferences are part of the strength of the Delta Chi brotherhood, for it gives the opportunity to see the fraternal system at a higher level," said Kenneth J. Sousa, international regent VII and a professor at Bryant University.

The focus of the weekend was "change." Keynote speaker Scott Brohinsky, director of University communications, drew a parallel between change at the University and among Greek organizations.

"Just as UConn 2000 has given a fresh look to the University, the Greek community is undergoing strategic planning to enhance its position on campus. And positive change is possible, even within established organizations and institutions," he said.

Change will be evident in August, when Delta Chi International will discuss the "Dry Campus Initiative," which will make the organization an alcohol-free fraternity..

"We were founded on the principles of Delta Chi Law," said Luther Young, international treasurer of the fraternity, "and we, as an organization, must get back to what makes us brothers."

Judy Preston, coordinator of Greek Life at the University, said she looks forward to changes in both the institution and the fraternal system. She said that when more members of the University who do not belong to the Greek system begin to participate in the full range of activities sponsored by fraternities and sororities, such as philanthropic projects, educational seminars, and other events that do not involve alcohol, greater understanding will result.

"I feel that such interaction can significantly enhance the quality of campus life," she said.

"I am exceptionally proud of the men of Delta Chi stepping up to the responsibility of serving as the host chapter for the conference," Preston added. "Overall, it was a tremendous success."

John Pyrzenski