In the Washington City Alpha (American University) chapter, the role of Chaplain has taken on a fresh and meaningful purpose: serving as a mentor and guidance counselor for new members as they transition into college life and the chapter. The support of this role has evolved into a cornerstone of WCAL’s new member experience.
JT, a sophomore studying Justice, Law, and Criminology, has taken on this role of leadership this fall semester. While the New Member Educator focuses on teaching fraternity history, ritual, and
values, the Chaplain’s role centers on personal growth, helping each new brother adapt to the culture of fraternity life, stay on top of academics, and feel genuinely supported through every challenge.
“The Chaplain acts as a guide,” JT explained. “I check in on how they’re doing, whether that’s grades, relationships, or just how they’re feeling day to day. It’s about making sure they know someone has their back.”
That personal touch extends beyond the chapter house. JT sets up meetings, encourages members to branch out socially, and reminds them that the brotherhood bond doesn’t stop at the chapter’s door. “I tell them not to just hang out with their own new member class,” he said. “Get to know the older guys, attend events, and find their place on campus.”
The biggest hurdles new members face, JT shared, are time management and self-doubt. “A lot of guys come in unsure how to balance everything. I sit down one-on-one with them, map out a schedule, talk about priorities, and do mental health check-ins,” he said. “Sometimes they just need someone to remind them that it’s okay not to have everything figured out yet.”
This semester, that guidance made all the difference for one new member. “He had a lot going on personally; anxiety, emotional stress, and wasn’t opening up,” JT said. “After one honest conversation, everything changed. He realized we were there for him, and now he’s engaged and connecting with older brothers.”
For JT, this commitment to mentorship comes from his own experience. “When I joined, I struggled too,” he admitted. “My grades weren’t great, and I was overwhelmed. But one of the older brothers noticed, took me to the library, helped me plan my week, and kept me accountable. That meant a lot, it made me feel seen. Now I want to do that for others.”
And from the perspective of Eminent Archon Sean, the impact has been clear. “Having a mentor in this role is important,” he said. “A lot of chapters only use the Chaplain to enforce values when something goes wrong. JT’s approach makes it proactive so he can step in earlier and help brothers navigate situations before they escalate.”
Sean speaks from experience. “When I was a freshman, I went through a rough time, and the Chaplain back then helped me get the resources I needed. We’re still close to this day,” he shared. “Usually the Chaplain is an older guy, but JT’s a sophomore like most of our new members. They see him as a peer, someone who truly understands what they’re going through.”
Sean also sees how this mentorship sets brothers up for success beyond the chapter. “The skills they’re building; time management, communication, advocating for themselves, go way beyond college,” he said. “We encourage them to take advantage of opportunities in D.C., like internships and networking events. I’ve even written letters of recommendation for brothers because they’ve grown so much through this program.”
And the results speak for themselves. Two of WCAL’s newest members, thanks to JT’s encouragement, are already considering running for officer positions.
By reimagining the Chaplain’s role as a pillar of mentorship, Washington City Alpha is building stronger bonds and setting up its brothers for success; academically, socially, and personally. It’s a model of brotherhood that lives up to the Fraternity’s highest ideals.
