Picture a fraternity born from a vision of brotherhood. This is the story of Zeta Beta Tau or ZBT. It stands here at 235 South 39th Street. Today, we delve into the history of this fraternity. We uncover its transformation from a Zionist youth society to a non-sectarian brotherhood.
Zeta Beta Tau’s story began on December 29 1898. Richard J H Gottheil, a Columbia University professor, inspired its founding. He gathered Jewish students in New York City. Their aim was to form a Zionist youth society called ZBT.
Initially, ZBT served as a haven. Jewish college students were often excluded from other fraternities. Sectarian practices were common in the late 19th century. The need for a Greek-letter fraternity for Jewish students grew. ZBT shifted its focus. In 1903, it became Zeta Beta Tau.
The fraternity expanded quickly. By 1909, 13 chapters existed in the Northeast. Tulane University in New Orleans hosted the 14th chapter. This marked ZBT’s national expansion. In 1913, the first Canadian chapter opened at McGill University in Montreal. That same year, ZBT attended the National Inter-fraternity Conference. Five years later, the first West Coast chapter was established. It was at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
A pivotal moment arrived in 1954. The National Convention delegates amended ZBT’s constitution. They eliminated sectarianism as a membership requirement. ZBT opened its doors to “All Men of Good Character.” This policy welcomed members regardless of religion or ethnicity. Yet, it remained recognized as the first Jewish Fraternity.
Zeta Beta Tau has a history of mergers. It absorbed four other national Jewish fraternities. These were Phi Alpha, Kappa Nu, Phi Sigma Delta and Phi Epsilon Pi. By 1969-70, Phi Sigma Delta and Phi Epsilon Pi merged into ZBT. The fraternity’s official name reflects this history. It is “A Brotherhood of Kappa Nu, Phi Alpha, Phi Epsilon Pi, Phi Sigma Delta and Zeta Beta Tau.”
In 1989, ZBT took a bold step. It abolished pledging. The fraternity aimed to combat hazing. Pledging was replaced with a new member acceptance process. New members became brothers upon receiving a bid. This decision stemmed from concerns about hazing. Extensive research showed the dangers of subservient pledging.
Zeta Beta Tau established national philanthropies. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals became an official philanthropy in 2002. Chapters host “Get on the Ball” events to raise funds. The Zeta Beta Tau Foundation is another partner. It supports educational and charitable programs for ZBT brothers. Jewish Women International joined as a partner in 2015. Gift of Life Marrow Registry became a partner in 2017.
ZBT emphasizes brotherhood development. The Journey program helps members learn the fraternity’s history, values and traditions. The program also offers leadership skill development.
Zeta Beta Tau’s history demonstrates pioneering spirit. It eliminated sectarian membership practices. It embraced mergers. It abolished pledging. ZBT strives to solve problems while upholding its values.
The fraternity’s credo emphasizes intellectual awareness. It promotes social responsibility. Integrity is key. Above all, Zeta Beta Tau values brotherly love.
As we stand here, remember the legacy of Zeta Beta Tau. It stands as a testament to brotherhood, evolving values and commitment to positive change.