History

The Purdue University Delta Upsilon has a saying, “A DU in everything, and every DU in something.” This motto has held true for nearly one hundred years, even before it was coined. There is something unique about Delta Upsilon, a character that dates back to our very foundations. The fighting spirit that refuses to quit even in the face of adversity.
In 1902, a group of Purdue undergraduates formed a dance club known as the Cleofan Club. The university didn’t recognize them until 1904 when they became a permanent society. Adamant on socializing with girls and having a good time, the Cleofan Club would rent a hall monthly and hold dances.
In 1907, the club, which was growing in popularity and membership, realized that they needed a more permanent home and become part of the university. After much research, the men had seen the parallels with their values and that of Delta Upsilon’s. They presented a formal petition at the Delta Upsilon Annual Convention in 1911, but to their dismay the petition had been submitted too late to be considered.
After trying two more times and undergoing and investigation from neighboring chapters, Delta Upsilon finally granted the Cleofan Club the title they fought so hard to obtain in October 1914. It wasn’t until October 21, 1914 the university came to a recognition agreement with the newly founded Purdue Delta Upsilon Chapter.
The story is one that lives on through the education of our new members in the hearts of all Purdue DU brothers. It serves as a constant reminder that anything can be accomplished when done with integrity, patience, and hard work. The Purdue University Chapter of Delta Upsilon has been the home to war heroes, engineers, doctors, and athletes. All of this is part of our legendary past, and if history repeats itself, we are all looking forward to a legendary future.