The Chapter President of one of ZBT’s newest active chapters has been hearing about Brotherhood for a Lifetime since before he became a brother.

The Fraternity has been thrilled to welcome back the Zeta Lambda Chapter at Stephen F. Austin State University, and the work of legacy students, now brothers, and the chapter alumni has made it all possible.

“I wanted to bring ZBT to SFA because of my personal connection to the fraternity — my dad is a ZBT, and his experience showed me how strong the Brotherhood and values are,” said Travis G. Gilliland, Zeta Lambda 2028.

Travis is the son of Robert G. Gilliland, a Zeta Lambda alumnus from 1995. Travis grew up in the Houston area, two hours from Nacogdoches, hearing about why it’s great to be a ZBT from a young age.

When he matriculated at SFA, “I saw a need for a fraternity built on respect, accountability and a true sense of belonging, and I knew ZBT could be that,” he said.

Travis gathered some new friends on campus, and then with the support of his dad and alumni brothers, re-started the Chapter with 14 ZBTs.

“Carrying on that legacy and giving other guys the same opportunity for friendship, leadership and growth is important to me,” he added.

The chapter alumni were able to surprise the new brothers in February with Initiation and a brotherhood weekend of events like clay pigeon shooting, a special dinner and cheering at a basketball game.

Brother Travis Gilliland said, “So far, it’s been an amazing experience. We’re building a strong group of guys who are committed to the values of ZBT, and it’s great to see the chapter taking shape. The support and excitement from everyone involved make it clear that this was the right decision. I’m proud of what we’re creating and excited to see how we continue to grow and make an impact on campus.”

The new Zeta Lambda Chapter has full support on campus, including approval by the Interfraternity Council and confirmation as a registered student organization. Two of the brothers were able to attend the James E. Greer, Jr. Presidents’ Leadership Academy in Dallas in January, where they were initiated by the Chapter Presidents in attendance and International President Barry Aarons, Gamma Tau (Arizona State) 1971.

ZBT takes great pride in growing our family. The recruitment of legacies — sons, grandsons and brothers of any ZBT chapter or prospective chapter — helps ensure we identify young men of good character who embody the tenets of our Credo: Intellectual Awareness, Social Responsibility, Integrity and Brotherly Love. Recommend a potential brother at ZBT.org/refer!