The University of Georgia’s Beta Delta Chapter Receives Outstanding Honors at University Greek Life Ceremony
Beta Delta Chapter of Delta Tau Delta Fraternity was recognized at the University of Georgia's Greek Life Awards Ceremony by securing three prestigious awards, including "Most Outstanding Alumni Relations," "Outstanding Service Award" (for the second consecutive year) and the coveted "Outstanding Chapter President" honor for Brother Shawn Powers (Georgia, 2025). In fact, Beta Delta was the second most awarded fraternity, narrowly trailing only the “IFC Chapter of the Year” in total awards recieved. These accolades spotlight the chapter's exceptional commitment to excellence, community engagement and outstanding leadership.
Most Outstanding Alumni/Graduate Chapter Relations:
Beta Delta Chapter's dedication to alumni engagement has been recognized with the "Most Outstanding Alumni Relations" award. Amidst the challenges post-pandemic of reconnecting with alumni, the chapter embarked on a journey of renewed commitment toward those who preceded the current members, setting an example for innovation and growth by serving as a pilot chapter for the Delta Tau Delta's Crescent Growth Initiative. Collaborating with distinguished alumni, Beta Delta implemented innovative programs to foster a stronger and enduring bond between generations of Beta Delta members.
Revamping alumni tailgates, hosting a three-day alumni weekend, and expanding the advisor network are highlighted initiatives. A successful alumni fundraising drive during the spring further demonstrated the chapter's commitment to regaining alumni support. The chapter's leadership, spearheaded by President Shawn Powers, played a pivotal role in orchestrating these efforts.
Key highlights of the Recruitment Workshop included:
Delta Tau Delta, Beta Delta Chapter, once again earned the Outstanding Service Award for its unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. Each undergraduate brother is required to complete a minimum of 15 service hours per academic semester, with a focus on active involvement in the community rather than direct donations. The chapter has implemented a comprehensive system, utilizing group chats, email chains and shared information to provide multiple opportunities for members to achieve these service hours. Any fines collected for a member not adhering to the policy go towards the Fraternity’s national philanthropic partner JDRF, the leading global organization harnessing the power of research, advocacy, and community engagement to advance life-changing breakthroughs for type 1 diabetes (T1D).
The impact on the community has been profound, with a significant contribution to UGA Miracle, which benefits the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta medical system. New members have actively participated in service activities through UGA Give Pulse, particularly at the Thomas Lay After School Program, emphasizing the chapter's commitment to community service.
"Receiving the Outstanding Service Award for the second year in a row is a source of immense pride for Beta Delta Chapter," said James Swann (Georgia, 2024), the chapter’s current philanthropy and service chairman. "Our commitment to community engagement is ingrained in our Fraternity's culture, and we will continue to make a positive impact at the University of Georgia, Athens-Clarke County and beyond."
Outstanding Chapter President - Shawn Powers:
The highlight of the evening was President Shawn Powers' recognition as "Outstanding Chapter President." Powers' remarkable achievements were acknowledged not only by the Greek Life Office but also by University President Jere Morehead. Powers stood out as the sole fraternity president to receive this distinguished award. President Morehead and the Greek Life Office leadership lauded him for his exceptional contributions to Beta Delta over his first term of service, recognizing the positive impact he has had on the chapter. It was further noted that the chapter is fortunate to have Powers recently elected to a second term, reflecting the continued trust and confidence of the Fraternity and the UGA administration in his leadership.
Jody Danneman (Georgia, 1988), Former International President and Beta Delta chapter advisor, expressed the pride and gratitude of the entire chapter noting, "The bottom line is that Shawn works tirelessly to succeed while ensuring those things that he values and cares about prosper and succeed. This is a quality that I have found to be extremely rare among undergraduates, and it is the reason that Shawn has excelled as a leader."
These awards solidify the Beta Delta Chapter's position as a leader in Greek life at UGA, showcasing its commitment to fostering alumni relations, community engagement, outstanding leadership and fraternal excellence.