Virginia Tech fraternity breaks national fundraising record in support of St. Jude
This past summer, the Virginia Tech Xi Omega chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) traveled to Memphis, TN, to be recognized during the St. Jude NextGen Experience for their record-breaking philanthropic work.
The chapter raised $267,933 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, surpassing the all-time fundraising record for the partnership between the Tau Kappa Epsilon national organization and the hospital. This milestone builds on a long tradition of generosity, as the Virginia Tech chapter has been the top fundraiser of the national organization for more than eight years.
They were presented with two national honors by St. Jude’s American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities (ALSAC): the 50K Club Award and the TKE Week of the Year Award.
The road to this achievement was a collective one. Students raised funds by organizing a Battle of the Bands and a 5K run. However, the majority of the $267,933 raised came through persistent outreach efforts by brothers and campus organizations, who leveraged their personal and professional networks for donations. Amplified by social media campaigns and media coverage on WFXR and local Virginia radio stations, these efforts inspired even wider community participation.
For Landon Nye, one of the fraternity’s philanthropy chairs, leading these efforts was deeply rewarding.
The cool thing about raising money for St. Jude is that we get to do good in two ways. First and foremost, the money goes a tremendously long way for the kids and families going through the hardest times in their lives. Secondly, when attention is drawn to our efforts, it only inspires others to join us, or to make a difference in other ways,” Nye said. “Every year, as the chapter comes together to put the kids first and keep this amazing tradition alive, there’s a certain buzz in the room. The more excited we get, and the more money we raise, the more it spreads. We’ve reached many other communities, chapters, and countless friends and family. Until cancer is defeated, it’s always going to spread. But hope spreads, too. And that feels incredible.
This spirit of service reflects the broader Virginia Tech community and its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). Through their commitment to fundraising and advocacy, Tau Kappa Epsilon rallies students, alumni, families, and friends around a mission that extends far beyond campus.
As the chapter looks ahead, members remain dedicated to supporting children and families facing serious illness and to fostering a tradition of service that continues to inspire others.
