Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity is dedicated to leadership, service, and strengthening the Clemson community. Established nationally in 1906 at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, the fraternity has a long-standing tradition of fostering brotherhood, ethical leadership, and personal growth. Clemson’s Epsilon Nu Chapter, originally chartered in 1995, regained its official charter in 2023 and continues to uphold these values.
That commitment to service was on full display on February 1st, when around 25 brothers volunteered at a Pickens County Habitat for Humanity construction site. They stacked cinder blocks, moved boxes of sand, and put in the hard work needed to help build a safe and affordable home. By giving their time and effort, the brothers of Phi Kappa Tau demonstrated their mission in action—championing leadership, character, and a lifelong dedication to making a difference.
Eli Warnock, Phi Tau’s community service chair and junior biological sciences major, was thrilled to share what this service meant to their chapter.
“It was not only fulfilling to serve, but it was also just a great avenue to be with your friends,” he said. “I think everyone just felt more connected with the community and with each other.”
This outing was Phi Tau’s first time volunteering for Habitat, but it definitely won’t be the last. Warnock explained that everyone who volunteered had nothing but good things to say and how this experience motivated the brothers to schedule more community service outings.
“Our motto is turning men of character into men of distinction, and I think that community service is such a key part of character and distinction,” said Warnock.
Warnock highlights that it is essential to take hold of the opportunities that they have to go and make a difference, no matter how small they may seem. A unique part of their experience was interacting and helping out the neighbors who lived around the construction site. Warnock explained how these simple gestures have significant impacts and that interacting with the community members added to their experience.
“I think an important lesson is just ‘Go and Do.’ Don't make excuses about why you can't make something work with your schedule. Don't worry if it's a last minute thing. It's important to actually go out and serve. And I think that Saturday was a good reminder that getting out in the community and serving is awesome. It really is. It's rewarding for everyone involved.”
A huge thank you to the members of Phi Kappa Tau for building meaningful relationships within the community and making a difference. We are excited to see the meaningful ways they will continue to contribute to Habitat. Their time, dedication, and teamwork helps to build homes and motivate others to be part of the change.
