In 1997, Phi Delta Theta’s General Council announced its alcohol-free housing policy to the world. Chapters were given more than three years to implement this paradigm shift on their campus, and all properties were required to be alcohol-free by the implementation date of July 1, 2000.

The alcohol-free housing initiative was adopted following years of declining recruitment figures, poor academic performance by members, deteriorating living facilities, and the alienation of the Fraternity’s alumni base. At the forefront of the decision was the alcohol-dominated culture on college campuses and within chapters that diminished the principles upon which Phi Delta Theta was founded.

Since the implementation, Phi Delta Theta has undergone transformational change and has become a noticed leader within the fraternal world. The policy, deemed by many as a factor that could be the end of an organization, has benefited Phi Delta Theta greatly. Most importantly, the culture it has created attracts values-based men placed in safe environments where they can become the greatest versions of themselves.

Read the article from the 1997 edition of The Scroll

View the reasons for alcohol-free housing

View the 15th-anniversary infographic

View the 10th-anniversary whitepaper