Phil Fernandez; Director of Expansion and Recruitment for Beta Theta Pi; speaks to prospective members of the fraternity at an information session held in the basement of Hughes-Trigg Student Center last night. (Kevin Todora)

Beta Theta Pi Fraternity is returning to the SMU campus.

Beta was active on the campus until 2005, but when the fraternity appeared to have lost sight of the principles on which it had been founded, the fraternity took a leave of absence.

This allowed the chapter to refocus on key principles and values that appeared to have been forgotten. Distinguishing themselves as a fraternity, not just a frat, Beta is focused on finding gentleman, scholars, and leaders to create a community focused on brotherhood.

“We want to set the bar high and are looking for the best of the best,” Phil Fernandez, director of expansion and recruitment for Beta Theta Pi, said.

Beta is about lasting relationships, commitment to the community, and is actively seeking “men of principle.”

Why is Beta different? Beta is proud of academics and eager to create a friend base to count on and to trust. Beta distinguishes itself from other SMU fraternities by placing a great deal of importance on GPA and leadership programs.

From 2002-2006, Beta alumni raised $20 million in four years to endow leadership programs to help invest in their undergraduate students.

The new founding fathers will have weight on their shoulders, but support from a team of advisors will enable them to make decisions with integrity. Becoming a Beta Theta Pi Founding Father will allow members to shape the direction of what Beta is going to be at SMU.

The founding fathers will have a chance to set the tone and actually live out the brochure by establishing traditions, Fernandez said.

There are already 18 founding fathers, with no limit in sight.

Beta Theta Pi’s official recruitment period is from Jan. 16 to Feb. 8, leaving a week and a half left to organize the first group of founding fathers. Potential Beta hopefuls can expect all the activities that come along with joining a Greek organization such as intramurals, alumni networking and university events.

Beta will be moving back to its previous location on Fraternity Row, giving the new members a house by fall 2009.