Spring 2026 Formal
Last month, we held our semesterly formal at The Barn at Power’s in Clifton Park!
Our lovely couples:
A special recognition to our seniors who celebrated their final Formal:
Thank you to Matthew Dermody (EH 1554) for organizing, Jason Zhang (EH 1564) for taking photos throughout, and the amazing Power’s staff for making this event so special!
EHZ Hosts First Annual Grillin’ It
Recently, in collaboration with the sisters of Alpha Gamma Delta, we hosted our first annual Grillin’ It event. The event featured a Mexican-style menu, with a variety of grilled favorites such as tacos and other classic dishes, which were prepared and delivered to members of the campus community.
In total, we raised $944, with all proceeds and remaining items donated to Hope7.
James McClean Receives the 2026 William J. Worthen Award
The William Worthen Award, established in 2017, honors the memory of William Worthen (EH 879) by recognizing those who exemplify his enduring commitment to leadership, service, and dedication to Epsilon Eta.
As an undergraduate, Worthen served as High Delta (Recruitment Chair) and High Alpha (President), earning the Grand High Alpha Award for his leadership. He was instrumental in the design and development of the chapter’s current house, leaving a lasting physical and organizational legacy. Beyond the chapter, Worthen distinguished himself through his involvement on campus as both a Resident Assistant and orientation leader, embodying the character and initiative for which he is remembered.
Through this award, we recognize individuals who reflect the same drive, leadership, and commitment that defined Worthen’s time at Epsilon Eta. This year marks the 10th presentation of this distinction.
The award was presented on April 5th by Joe Salo (EH 771).
This year’s recipient is James McClean (EH 1525), who, as described by Salo, “has been, without a doubt, one of the most active members of the chapter” and has made a meaningful impact since joining the chapter in Spring 2023.
James with the William J. Worthen plaque.
James first stepped into leadership as High Theta (Vice President External) in Spring 2024, where he helped lead the chapter’s philanthropic efforts, including food drives and other events supporting the local community. He approached this role with care and responsibility, helping strengthen the chapter’s presence beyond campus.
James then raised his hand to serve as High Delta (Recruitment Chair) for the Fall 2024 recruitment cycle during a challenging time for the Greek Rush. After a semester that brought in only three new members, set out rethink how recruitment should work. He introduced what he called the “Brother On” approach, where brothers seek to build real connections with potential new members. While simple, this idea made a big difference. It helped shift recruitment to be more personal and intentional, and is still used today as a key part of the process. Because of this change and his leadership, the chapter saw strong results, recruiting eight new members in Fall 2024, many of whom are now active leaders.
Even during time away from a full semester schedule, James stayed engaged. In Summer 2024, while taking classes as part of the Arch program, he served as House Manager, ensuring the house remained in good condition while a smaller group of brothers lived there.
James has made the most of his time as a brother and the leadership opportunities available to him, serving as High Theta, High Delta, and now High Kappa (Fraternity Educator) for Spring 2026. He is highly involved and genuinely cares about the success and well-being of the chapter.
What stands out most about James is how he leads. He is calm, thoughtful, and steady. When tough decisions need to be made, brothers often say, “We should ask James,” because they know they will get a fair and well-thought-out answer.
James has made a lasting impact on the chapter through his leadership, his ideas, and the way he supports others. He is very deserving of the William J. Worthen Leadership Award.
Congratulations to the Spring Class of 2026!
Congratulations to the newest brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha! We’re extremely proud of how much they’ve grown and are very excited to see what they bring to the fraternity!
The highest Zeta number is now 1582. With newly initiated brother Matthew Finch (EH 1568) as our High Delta (Recruitment Chair) next semester, we may climb to 1600!
Fall 2025 Brother of the Semester: Bram Wegener
Congratulations to Bram Wegener, EHZ’s Fall 2025 Brother of the Semester!
Bram is a Junior majoring in both Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering. He stepped up as Fire Marshal last year, and is now serving as High Phi (Ritualist). Beyond EHZ, Bram is an active member of the Ultimate Frisbee team. Congratulations Bram!
EHZ Collects 2,869 Pounds in Spring ‘26 Food Drive
We recently hosted our semesterly food drive! In collaboration with Alpha Phi, we collected 2,869 pounds of food and clothing from the Troy community. All food was donated to Hope 7, and clothing went to Goodwill. Thank you to all who donated!
Brotherhood Appreciation Lunch 2026
Last week, we hosted our third annual Brotherhood Appreciation Lunch! This event gives us the opportunity to step back and celebrate the individuals who go above and beyond to strengthen our chapter every day.
From leadership and mentorship to service and behind-the-scenes dedication, each recognition reflected the impact our brothers make both within the fraternity and in the broader community. It was a great reminder of what makes our brotherhood special: commitment, accountability, and support for one another. Congratulations to everyone who was recognized, and thank you to all who continue to make our chapter better.
February 2026 Brother of the Month: Justin Manion
Congratulations to Justin Manion, a senior Computer Science major, on being named Epsilon-Eta’s Brother of the Month for February!
Justin has served the chapter in several roles, including High Gamma (Secretary). As his leadership term came to a close, he continued his involvement by stepping into the role of Director of Logistics on the Recruitment Committee.
Justin also serves as the chapter’s Webmaster, ensuring the website stays current while helping to share the story of Epsilon-Eta Zeta through the articles and updates he posts (though thankfully someone else is writing this one).
Justin has stepped up whenever the brotherhood needs support, whether showing up to clean the house, recruitment events, or simply being someone the chapter can rely on. A quiet contributor, his consistency and reliability has left a lasting impact on the chapter and make him truly deserving of this recognition.
Congratulations, Justin, and thank you for everything you do for EHZ.
Spring 2026 Bowls on Sunset
Recently, in collaboration with Phi Kappa Theta, we hosted Bowls on Sunset! Bowls is an event where members come together to satisfy late-night cravings by delivering fresh bowls of food to students across campus. All proceeds went to Hope 7, a local food pantry that provides meals and essential resources to individuals and families in our community.
In addition to the proceeds raised, all leftover food was prepared and delivered to Hope7.
Thank you to everyone who ordered bowls and helped support a great cause!
Back to Our Roots
Our Associate Members visit the site of our former chapter house!
A Brief History:
Our chapter called 243 Hoosick Street home from 1940 to 1971. What once stood as our chapter house is now the site of the Hilton Garden Inn, where a plaque inside commemorates our history.
243 Hoosick Street, circa 1940–1971
243 Hoosick Street, present day