Frequently Asked Questions

What's new this year?

We are back to the top 3 chapters for most dollars raised and top 3 chapters for most donors!

This year, our contests are based solely on most dollars raised and most donors.


What is returning this year? 

Give a gift of $250 or more and receive our limited-edition Founders Day 2026 commemorative coin! Give a gift of $1000 or more and become a member of our new Annual Giving Society- Resolute Circle. You will receive an additional commemorative coin at the end of the fiscal year- which ends on June 30, 2026. Plus, more recognition at convention in San Antonio in July 2026.



What are the prizes this year?

Based On Most Dollars Raised:

1st Place: $25,000 in gifts to qualify
The winning chapter in 1st place will receive an exclusive, fully catered event by Greek House Chefs. The flag of the chapter's alma mater will be flown at Theta Chi Fraternity's International Headquarters for one week.

2nd Place: $15,000 in gifts to qualify

The winning chapter in 2nd place will receive a special event catered by a local food truck selected by the Foundation Chapter. The flag of the chapter's alma mater will be flown at Theta Chi Fraternity's International Headquarters for one week.

3rd Place: $10,000 in gifts to qualify

The chapter in third place will receive a custom corn hole set.


Based On Most Donors:

1st Place: $10,000 in gifts to qualify

The winning chapter in 1st place will receive an exclusive, fully catered event by Greek House Chefs. The flag of the chapter's alma mater will be flown at Theta Chi Fraternity's International Headquarters for one week.

2nd Place: $7,500 in gifts to qualify 

The winning chapter in 2nd place will receive a special event catered by a local food truck selected by the Foundation Chapter. The flag of chapter's alma mater will be flown at Theta Chi International Headquarters for one week.

3rd Place: $5,000 in gifts to qualify

The chapter in third place will receive a custom corn hole set.

Top chapters can only win a total of one prize within the two categories of top dollars & top donors. 


General Questions:

When does the Chapter Challenge end and when will the winning chapters be announced?

Although you will be able to make your tax-deductible Founders Day gift through 2:59 a.m. EDT on Saturday, April 18, 2026, the chapter challenge will end 2:59 a.m. EDT Saturday, April 11, 2026. The winners will be announced on social media by Saturday, April 11, 2026.


It's not April 10th, does my gift count to the Chapter Challenge?

Absolutely! We know how busy everyone is, so you can certainly make your tax-deductible gift before April 10th.

All gifts received up to April 11, 2026, at 2:59 a.m. EDT will count toward the Chapter Challenge contests. 

What is the Excellence Fund?

Since 1953, the Foundation Chapter's mission has been to develop and provide financial resources to promote the academic, leadership, and service ideals of Theta Chi Fraternity. As a result, of decades of generosity from alumni and friends, tens of thousands of brothers have received millions of dollars in scholarships and have been provided with the only leadership training they may ever receive.

By making a tax-deductible gift, you help provide more than $330,000 in annual scholarships and send 500+ collegians each year to leadership and personal development training opportunities. Your gift, of any amount, reinforces the support of a strong alumni base whose ranks span far and wide. It signals to collegians that brotherhood does not end after receiving a diploma. It inspires them to be a Theta Chi for Life.

Can I also make a deferred or legacy gift?

There are many ways you can leave a legacy and ensure the next generation of Theta Chi brothers will thrive and succeed. The most common way is to leave a bequest in your will. It can be a set amount of money, percentage of estate, a specific asset or trust; by naming the Foundation Chapter of Theta Chi Fraternity, Inc as a beneficiary. You can also leave tangible personal property, name the Foundation Chapter as primary or secondary beneficiary in an IRA or in a life insurance policy. Please contact John Berghoff at jberghoff@thetachi.org to discuss further.

Is the Foundation Chapter of Theta Chi a certified 501(c)(3) organization?

Yes!

What is the Foundation Chapter of Theta Chi's Federal Identification Number?

21-4014559


How can I take advantage of my employer’s matching gift program?

Yes! Visit https://www.thetachi.org/gift-matching for more information!