Jonathan Larson
Current Occupation: Defense Contractor
Current Residence: Washington, D.C.
Graduated from U of Iowa: 2002
- Why did you decide to join a fraternity? Why did you select Delta Chi?
I decided to join after my first semester, freshmen year, because I found that I didn't have the access to campus activities, leadership opportunities, or social networks that were available to members of the Greek Community. Having come to Iowa from Farifax, VA, I came to college not knowing anyone and quickly found that Delta Chi provided a myriad of experiences that made my time at Iowa a true college experience.
I chose Delta Chi primarily because my father, Lars Larson (class of 1969) was an Iowa Delta Chi. Knowing how successful he was, the friendships he had forged, and the character he exemplified assured me that he only associated himself with organizations of similar priorities. After meeting many of the members, who are among my closest friends, I was able to validate that belief.
- What are some of the best memories from the time you spent at Delta Chi at the University of Iowa?
Nearly all of my memories of my time at Iowa involve Delta Chi. From the formal banquets, leadership opportunities, recruitment events, and social events, the one consistent aspect was being amongst an extended family of brothers. I was able to forge strong friendships with fellow members during bid day paint ball outings, Iowa football tailgates, road trips to other universities, and dinners at the chapter house.
- How do you feel that you have personally benefited from your experience at Delta Chi?
I would have to attribute Delta Chi with providing me with life-long friendships which I would not have been able to have had I not joined. Among my closest friends are my fraternity brothers, who are just as close to me as any one of my blood relatives. I still keep in touch with all of them, take family vacations with one another, and always meet up for Delta Chi events in Iowa City (Homecoming and Alumni Golf). These friendships have assisted with job networking, traveling around the U.S., and I even had fraternity brothers help me fix up my new house! I never would have thought that joining a fraternity with members of such diverse personalities and backgrounds would have the everlasting effect that it has had on my life.
- Based on your experience, what advice could you give a freshman at Iowa who is either considering
joining a fraternity or has recently joined a fraternity?
My advice to anyone looking to join a fraternity would be to take advantage of your time there. Get involved early by participating in chapter events and opportunities. You can do this by attending events or even holding leadership positions to shape the direction of the fraternity. You will find that the fraternity provides the unique opportunities for social, personal, and leadership development that cannot be found anywhere else. The sooner you "sharpen the saw" through involvement, the more prepared you will be when graduating. Seize the opportunity to develop friendships, strengthen your character, and become a better leader and you will see that you have both improved those around you as well as your own future.
John Lepley
Current Occupation: Attorney, Lepley Law Firm
Current Residence: Des Moines, IA
Graduated from U of Iowa: 1972
- How did you personally benefit from your experience at Delta Chi?
- What advice would you give someone who has just joined a Fraternity?
I was introverted when I came out of high school and my days at Delta Chi really helped develop self-confidence and my comfort level in meeting new people. I met the young woman who became my wife at a fraternity/ sorority exchange. The friendships that I formed during that time have become lifetime friendships. The older I get the more I appreciate those friendships. My friends from Delta Chi still get together regularly.
I learned a great deal by living with a diverse group of men and assuming responsibilities at the Delta Chi house (as the Recruitment Chair). I learned how to plan and organize events and meet people.
I really liked the way that guys stuck together and watched each others' backs. At Delta Chi, I was surrounded by guys who wanted to see me succeed academically and as a person.
Look for a small to medium-sized house where you can get to know everyone and really get involved.
Look for a core group of guys who are committed to the success of the fraternity, to academics and making it a positive social experience.
Get involved. Accept responsibility for a role in the house. It will stretch you and you will grow as a result. You will learn skills and gain friendships that will be valuable in your future career, whatever you choose.
Ken Padgham
Current Occupation: Vice President, Morgan Stanley
Current Residence: Chicago, IL
Graduated from U of Iowa: Undergraduate - 1965, Law School Graduate - 1968
- Why did you join Delta Chi?
When I arrived in Iowa City I knew nothing about fraternities. A friend invited me to visit the Delta Chi house and I was impressed by the quality of members and how tight-knit they were as a group.
- How did you personally benefit from your experience at Delta Chi?
I have tremendous loyalty to the University of Iowa and to Delta Chi. It was a very positive, life-changing experience for me. I learned everything from table etiquette and social skills to how to lead and interact with people whose backgrounds were quite different from my own. Delta Chi really caused me to concentrate on academics and become a more focused and disciplined student. The men who were my fraternity brothers over 40 years ago are still some of my closest friends.
- What advice would you give someone who is considering joining a fraternity?
Look for a house in which you feel comfortable and can be yourself. At the same time, be open to a fraternity with a diverse membership. You can learn from people who are different than you.
University of Iowa Delta Chi Fraternity / 308 Ridgeland Avenue / Iowa City, IA 52246