Triangle Fraternity Founders’ Day

Founders’ Day is the celebration of the Fraternity’s founding. It was in the fall of 1906 that sixteen civil engineering juniors at the University of Illinois began the association that became Triangle Fraternity.  These Founders based their organization on the principles of honor, friendship, character, brotherhood, and courage. They developed their plans quickly, and on April 15, 1907, incorporated Triangle in the State of Illinois.

Founders’ Day events take many forms. Some groups host casual gatherings at a home or pub, while some may host luncheons and dinners, and yet still others may opt for multi-day celebrations with several different events for Brothers and guests. There is no wrong or right way to celebrate, but as a general rule: the more the merrier!

Some readers may wonder, “Why would I want to plan a Founders’ Day event?”, or “Why would I go to something like that?” The answers vary:

  • Maybe more appealing than a tailgate or happy hour
  • Might be more family-friendly
  • It’s on a weekend
  • A desire to see the House
  • A desire to reconnect with Brothers
  • Received a personal invitation
  • Acknowledges the importance of the Fraternity’s founding

This is not an exhaustive list, but generally, Founders’ Day is the perfect opportunity to connect active Brothers, alumni, and guests around food, friends and Fraternity. It is a way to enjoy the company of old friends as well as establish new friendships that will last a lifetime.

It is our hope that you will organize some sort of Founders’ Day celebration, however large or small. The documents below provided are for you to utilize, and you may edit any sample documents as you find necessary. Additionally, you have HQ staff to support you. If you need help or have feedback, please do not hesitate to contact Drew Hopson, Director of Alumni Engagement (drew@triangle.org/317-203-4505).

We look forward to celebrating Triangle with you!