The Fraternity's goals are to promote scholarship, unity, respect for all cultures, service to mankind and brotherhood. Lambda Theta Phi has set out to accomplish these goals through responsible political and social action. By working in the community, the Fraternity hopes to not only provide service, but to also enhance the image of Latino culture and provide positive role models in the Latino community.
- Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. was founded on December 1st of 1975 in Room 400, Willis Hall, at Kean College in Union, New Jersey.
- Our colors are Brown and White
- Our call, also known as "kicking a lambda", has two parts each with a brother initiating the call and other brother responding. Initiator says "A Lambda" and the rest respond "Theta Phi" Initiator says "A Lambda" and the rest respond "Until the day we die"
- Our Coat of Arms is: < Move Mouse Here>
- Our Greek Letters are: ΛΘΦ
- Our fraternal motto is "Chivalry Above Self"
- Our fraternal saying is "En La Unión Está La Fuerza" - (In Unity There is Strength)
Is Lambda Theta Phi the oldest Latin Fraternity?
Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. is the oldest Latin Fraternity and continues to be the blueprint of the Latino Greek Movement as we know it today.
Who are The Lambdas?
Since 1975, brothers of Lambda Theta Phi have been known as The Lambdas. During the 1980's and 1990's
and even beyond, with the emergence of some of the younger Latino Greek organizations, others have used the term to refer to themselves due to lack of thorough research.
How do I become a Lambda?
Click on the "Interested?" button in the navigation bar on the left for details.
What is expected of a Lambda?
Lambdas are expected to give service to the community, maintain academic excellence, achieve cultural
propagation, understanding, and gentlemanly conduct. As our motto says, "Chivalry Above Self."
What do The Lambdas do after college?
The Lambdas exhibit a high degree of success no matter what they do. Brothers of Lambda Theta Phi have gone on to become doctors, lawyers, scientists, accountants, engineers, recording artists, entrepreneurs, politicians, and leaders in various areas. Brothers of Chi Chapter are known for attending and graduating from prominent medical schools and entering the corporate sector as technical consultants, engineers, and programmers. This in turn effectively provides its members with an extensive graduate and professional network.
CONQUISTADORES?
It is public information that El Conquistador is the mascot of the Fraternity and the term is used to refer to the Lambda pledge. Over the years, the Brotherhood has been questioned and criticized for selecting the conquistador as a symbol. The criticism has arisen due to the negative connotations that accompany the term. Why, then, would the Fraternity choose the conquistador as its symbol?
The literal definition of the term, as opposed to the notorious role the conquistadores played in our history, was the overriding consideration. Overcoming barriers and conquering difficulties was the inspiration behind the selection. In fact, the historical significance of the conquistador was never a part of the discussions. Instead, the Founders concentrated on the meaning and how it would represent each and every Brother.
This is evidenced by the fact that another term was suggested - Pioneros (pioneers). As the first Latin Fraternity in the nation, The Lambdas would be pioneers. Lambda Theta Phi would settle new territories and originate what others would attempt to duplicate. Yet another recommendation was Caballeros (gentlemen or knights). Every Brother of the Fraternity should possess a certain demeanor - courteous, generous, chivalrous, and marked by honor.
Each suggestion was debated. While the reasoning behind Pioneros and Caballeros would apply to every Lambda, El Conquistador was the victor. The literal definition was but one supporting argument. It was in the spirit of overcoming the impossible, and of conquering a dream, that the selection was made.