In January 1927 a group of UT engineering students interested in intramurals formed a local fraternity, Zeta Tau Lambda. In 1930 the group petitioned Lambda Chi Alpha for a charter. The 14th General Assembly of Lambda Chi Alpha granted the charter, and the Epsilon Omicron Chapter of Lambda Chi Alpha was installed at UT on March 19, 1932.
In 2013 Lambda Chi was placed on suspension while UT investigated alleged hazing during the fall semester involving militaristic activities in which pledges were required to participate. Lambda Chi Alpha was founded at Boston University in 1909. The colors of the fraternity are purple, green, and gold, and its flower is the white rose. The philanthropy of the local chapter is St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Among traditions of the institution is the Gay Nineties Ball hosted by Lambda Chi. Notable alumni of the national fraternity include Harry Truman, Rick Pitino, Fred Biletnikoff, and Paul Harvey.