Zeta Beta Tau

by ADAM CALVERT

The Terrapin Times Features Editor

          What reasons does a person have for joining a fraternity?  Is it for the social experience, academic importance, or community involvement?  At Zeta Beta Tau all three of these facets are important parts of being a brother. 

            President Arlen Marmel outlined the goal of ZBT to be “Motivating the brothers to be the best fraternity, while improving the house, and reaching out to other organizations.” 

            With 65 brothers, Zeta Beta Tau has demonstrated its desire to be the best fraternity and has been recognized by the University of Maryland and nationally.  Recently, the fraternity earned third place in homecoming and also received the Brummer Cup last year, which designated the Maryland chapter of ZBT as the best chapter in the nation.

            Community outreach is another important part of being a member of ZBT.  Brothers volunteered at the Green Sunday Phone-a-thon which raised $10,000 to help with water shortage in Israel. 

            Brothers also work with the Greek community for many events.  ZBT co-sponsored a blood drive at Cole Field House with other members of the Greek system.  “We try and have good relationships with both the Greek community and the campus community”, said Marmel, whose fraternity organizes tailgates with sororities and encourages brothers to be members on the Inter-Fraternity Council. 

            ZBT’s chapter house, at 14 fraternity row, has recently undergone drastic improvements.  Brothers have installed a trophy case, an entertainment unit, a DVD player with surround sound, not to mention putting up pictures of brothers at social or community events to enhance the house’s appearance.

            Brothers at ZBT are working to stifle the stereotypes of fraternities by becoming involved with members’ parents and alumni.  During homecoming, brothers have a BBQ for alumni and have incorporated a house advisor to assist brothers with any personal problems they may experience.  Members also incorporate their parents into their fraternal life, organizing a parent breakfast at the house and then dinner at Cornerstone.  Parents also receive e-mails in order to stay updated with any events or accomplishments of the chapter.

            Marmel believes the goal of ZBT to be, “Turning young men into successful young leaders” and added “but we still want to have a good time.”

For more information on Zeta Beta Tau contact Arlen Marmel at arlen@wam.umd.edu or visit zbtmaryland.com.