The HISTORY OF AKL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS
Alpha Kappa Lambda: Delta Chapter’s 100 Year History of Excellence
Alpha Kappa Lambda, Alethia Kai Logos, The Truth in the Word, Affiliation Kindled for Life.
Delta Chapter at the University of Kansas enjoys a legacy of excellence dating back over 100 years. It was first established in 1916 as The Oxford Club. After World War I, only four men returned to the University and sought to establish a new organization they called, The Ochino Club. In November of 1919, The Ochino Club became a local fraternity, Fraternity of Ochino.
Built on a foundation that sought to grow Men of Character through the pursuit of Judeo-Christian principles, the Fraternity of Ochino quickly made a name for themselves within the Jayhawk community. At the time of their petition for national chartering, The University of Kansas was home to 16 fraternities. In 1922, a formal petition was submitted to the Fraternity of Alpha Kappa Lambda headquarters requesting formal recognition for the colonization of AKL as its Delta Chapter. The petition included support from local businesses, University professors and office personnel, and the most recognizable—legendary Hall of Fame basketball coach Forrest. C. “Phog” Allen for whom the storied Fieldhouse is named.
While the name changed to Alpha Kappa Lambda, the legacy of Ochino will forever be ingrained into the heart of the Delta Chapter as it serves as the name of a 501(c)(3) foundation, which provides scholarship awards based upon academic performance.
Compounding with their extensive focus on the fraternity’s Five Ideals – based upon Judeo-Christian Principles, Scholarship, Leadership, Loyalty and Self-Support – AKL also stands for “Affiliation Kindled for Life.” Thus serving to extend the bonds of brotherhood from college into relationships – both personal and professional -- long after graduation.
Today, AKL is home to 110 outstanding men who are committed to making a difference for their fraternity, the University and beyond. As of 2023, Delta Chapter has moved into its new chapter house at 1505 Sigma Nu Pl. Lawrence, KS 66044, which secures long-term living accommodations for many AKL generations to come.