The Kappa Rho chapter of Alpha Tau Omega (ATΩ) is slated to be the latest addition to Samford’s West Campus Greek housing starting in the fall of 2025.
The house, which currently belongs to Alpha Omicron Pi (AOII), has been designated to the fraternity for use once AOII moves into one of the new houses being built in front of the Delta Delta Delta (Tri-Delt) House.
The Kappa Rho chapter posted on Instagram announcing the house on Sept. 9 after sharing the news with the chapter in their first meeting of the semester on Aug. 28.
Sam Gould, president of ATΩ Kappa Rho, gave the announcement.
“We met where we have met for the longest time for the past few years in Brock Forum,” said Gould. “It was one of the first announcements I gave the guys, and there were cheers throughout the room. I mean, you could just feel the excitement. It’s something that they have been waiting for, for a really, really long time.”
Reeves Mileski, vice president of the chapter, shared how excited the members were even after the announcement had set in.
“Immediately after that chapter, I remember hearing sophomores and juniors talking about who they’re going to live with in the house,” said Mileski. “It was awesome to hear.”
Additionally, this announcement came right before Interfraternity Council (IFC) recruitment began. ATΩ had the opportunity to recruit out of the same house that could be theirs next fall.
“In round one, every time a new group came in, I would say, ‘Welcome to ATΩ, and welcome to the future ATΩ house,’” said Gould.
ATΩ’s executive board has been hoping for this news for quite some time given the success of the chapter, according to Samford’s Director of Greek Life, Clint Coulter.
“This decision reflects on the chapter’s impressive growth and success on campus, and the outstanding work by the members,” said Coulter.
There is still much preparation to do, according to Gould. The chapter launched a fundraising effort for the down payment on the house during Samford’s Family Weekend in September. Gould said the chapter is accepting donations “from parents and alumni and whoever else in the Birmingham community wants to give.”
Receiving this house would mean a lot of things for the men of ATΩ.
“Chapter’s a huge one – having our own space where we don’t have to put nearly as much effort into congregating whenever we want to,” said Gould.
Both Gould and Mileski believe that their members would steward the house well. Gould explained that love and respect are core values of the fraternity and its members.
“I think when we instill those (values) early on and instill them continuously, it sets a good standard and sets a good tone going into this new ownership,” said Gould.
The decision is still being discussed by Samford, IFC and ATΩ executive members, but results look promising for the fraternity in the year to come.
“It is our hope to announce a final decision soon as we support their (ATΩ) continued development with a designated residence hall,” said Coulter.
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