Project FAQs

After careful evaluation of the house, it was determined that the structure is sound. To reconstruct a new house with similar square footage, it was estimated to be over $6 million. The property taxes would also increase to at least $100,000 per year compared to the current $37,000. Those factors, combined with the desire to preserve the historical character of the house led to the Alumni Board’s decision to pursue a renovation over a rebuild. 

Only gifts made to the Delta Upsilon Educational Foundation, a 501(c)(3), qualify for a tax deduction. However, those gifts can only be used for educational space in the house, which is limited. We ask that you make your gift to the Illinois Chapter Building Fund so we can use your gift for all aspects of the project. If making a gift to a 501(c)(3) is necessary, please contact our campaign coordinator, Kyle Yarawsky, at kyarawsky@penningtonco.com.

The University of Illinois is one of the largest Greek systems in the country with 49 fraternities and 38 sororities. While there has been some decline in membership over the last few years, much of this is attributed to the ripple effects of recruiting during the pandemic. The percentage of students participating in a Greek organization ranged from 18% to 23% over the last five years. Illinois Greek population has rebounded now to pre-pandemic levels.

If a Chapter closes, the common practice now is to establish a return date with the university. Often, this is no sooner than four or five years from the time of closing. If the Chapter were to close, the house could be leased to another fraternity or serve as general student housing to generate revenue. Your gift is going to support the future of Illinois Chapter, and this house will always be an asset for the Chapter.

We will adjust scope as needed to implement a renovation of the highest priority items and strive to maintain an associated contingency fund