The Beta Alpha Omega Fraternity was founded in 1915 as a secret society and recognized by the institution as a local fraternity in 1921. It purchased 918 Temple Avenue (now Volunteer Boulevard) in 1922, becoming the first local fraternity to purchase a house. Originally, its colors were gold and black; they later became light blue, light pink, and white. Its flower was the white carnation. In 1932 the existing chapter of Sigma Nu National Fraternity absorbed Beta Alpha Omega, initiating 11 actives, 16 alumni, and accepting the 2 pledges of Beta Alpha Omega.