History of Chi Epsilon

In the spring of 1922, two groups of civil engineering students at the University of Illinois, one calling itself Chi Epsilon, and the other calling itself Chi Delta Chi, independently of each, took steps to petition the faculty for permission to establish an honorary civil engineering fraternity.

As soon as the existence of the two groups became known to each other, plans were immediately propagated to merge the two groups. Dean M. S. Ketchum, Professor Ira O. Baker, and Professor C. C. Williams, later all chapter honor members, gave moral support to the idea of a departmental honorary fraternity and on May 20, 1922, the Council of the University granted permission to the petitioning group of 25 charter members to found the CHI EPSILON FRATERNITY.

Upon the shoulders of the charter officers R. A. Black, president, Wm. A. Gurtler, vice president, and H. T. Larsen, secretary-treasurer, rested the burden and trials during the organization period, and it was due to the care and foresight used by these officers in the formulation of the early plans for initial organization and expansion that Chi Epsilon has been able to progress steadily.

Our Motto

Chi Epsilon retains as its motto the Greek letters Chi Delta Chi, which formed the name of the junior honor society founded in 1922 at the University of Illinois and which is one of the roots of Chi Epsilon. Chi Delta Chi. These three letters shall symbolize our English motto: Conception, Design, and Construction. These are the three phases of every creative project. Conception is inventive; it perceives the opportunity to do something and recognizes the means of accomplishment. Fitting that means of accomplishment to the specific case and planning a definite method of work is design. Construction is the actual building. It makes a reality of the idea of conception and the plan of design. Conception requires imagination and intelligence. Design requires education and practical experience. Construction requires energy, determination, and perseverance. In these functions, your adherence to the principles of Chi Epsilon will serve you well.

Why Should You Join?

There are many good and proper reasons for membership in any Honor Society. Careful scholarship contributes to the development of thoughtful and sensitive human beings. Membership is a reward for accomplishment. Your hard work in scholastic achievement is recognized and appreciated.

Chi Epsilon is the National Civil Engineering Honor Society. Membership in Chi Epsilon is a mark of excellence readily recognized by others, including future employers.

Membership affords you a lifelong opportunity to continue developing in a professional manner. The Chi Epsilon publications promote excellence in civil engineering, summarize graduate study opportunities and help keep you informed concerning the activities of your friends and fellow members.

Accepting membership is a nice way to say thank you to a spouse, parents, or perhaps a faculty member that you respect.

Current Officers

President - LaDonna Waters

Vice President - Justin Vasek

Secretary - Molly Duge

Treasurer - Anthony Dundee

Associate Editor - Jessica Sezikeye

Marshall - Brandon Belaire

Faculty Advisor - Qin Qian