Gamma Nu History

as compiled by  Brother David Rodrigue

The Gamma Nu Chapter was first known as Sigma Alpha Chi, the oldest of two local fraternities at ULM.

Both locals had decided to join with a national fraternity. With all the fraternities from which to chose, Sigma Alpha Chi selected to align itself with the Kappa Alpha Order.   They had been actively pursued by TKE (the world's largest fraternity) but decided KA was a better fit.  TKE did not give up on ULM, however, and approached the other local fraternity for membership.   Soon, KA and TKE were the two letters seen on campus. Since that time 12 fraternities have come to ULM.   Only five national fraternities are on campus today, with KA of course, being the oldest.

To name some of the fraternities that have come and gone during the years: TKE, Zeta Beta Tau, Sigma Tau Alpha, Sigma Nu, Acacia, and Delta Chi. All tried to survive, but in the end couldn't make it; all the while KA has remained unscaved.

In 1974, this chapter was presented the J. Edgar Hoover award for chapter excellence; signifying it as the best KA chapter in the nation.  The same year it receive the Samuel Zenas Ammen award for chapter excellence - given to the top chapters in the nation.

This chapter has called many places in Monroe "The KA House." Everywhere we once held meetings and partied is now a place of business or academic building (like the Fast Lane and Straus Hall).  But in 1976 we moved to 726 Stadium Lane and started what is now ULM's "Fraternity Row".

As the school's oldest fraternity, we have initiated some of the greatest men ever to attend this University, including ULM's President Lawson Swearington and Monroe mayor Melvin Rambin. We have also developed great traditions and a proud reputation on campus and with the national office.