In February of 1921, the Iowa Delta chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon was founded. For over 100 years, True Gentlemen from across the country have come to Des Moines, Iowa seeking an education at Drake University to then find their home in the bonds of brotherhood at 1235 34th Street. Over the course of more than a century, Iowa Delta and our chapter house have withstood the test of time. From the Roaring Twenties to the Information Age, in times of war and in times of peace, through economic prosperity and depression, we have been a thriving and active partner of the Drake Community. Today, SAE Iowa Delta remains at Drake University, with new members joining each year. As our membership continues to grow, so too have the costs of maintaining our chapter. There are many variables challenging enrollment in higher education--in particular the declining rates of young men attending private institutions and participating in social fraternities. It is our responsibility to create a meaningful, financially viable experience for our active members to guarantee a successful future for our chapter. For our chapter house to remain on 34th Street for the years to come, we must settle our mortgage before interest rates are adjusted in February of 2026. With our outstanding mortgage balance being $405,000, and with an anonymous leadership gift of $200,000, we need to raise an additional $205,000. Already, another $95,000 has been raised in the last few months from a select group of honorable brothers. Your belief in SAE's mission and values will ensure not only that our house remains on campus, but also will provide the opportunity for your sons, grandsons, and nephews to have their own experiences in the fraternity that we all cherish. The next generation of Iowa Delta members deserve to be able to walk through the original living room during rush, have chapter meetings in the refurbished basement, and enjoy days outside in the front yard and on the porch. It is only through your commitment and generosity that new members of our fraternity will have the opportunity to make these memories and have these life experiences in the same house we did as active members. Make your investment today at drakesae.com/burnthemortgage, using Zelle (send to [email protected]), or writing a check to the Iowa Delta Alumni Association addressed to "Iowa Delta Alumni Association c/o Greg Brandt, 5707 Kingman Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50311." Together, through our collective support, we will ensure that Iowa Delta remains on 34th Street for the next 100 years.
