Lambda Chi Alpha, as any other fraternity, holds several symbols sacred.  The purpose of the use of symbols is as old as time itself.  For centuries man has sought to remind himself of lessons and stories using symbols, and the tradition is carried out today.  On this page we hope to show you the rich symbols of our fraternity.  While we cannot tell you what they mean, we can certainly help you identify them.

Colors

The colors of Lambda Chi Alpha are Purple, Green, and gold.  The significance of the colors is secret, but we wear them proudly for the understanding of these colors is important to us.

Coat of Arms

This emblem is one of the most symbolically rich figures in our fraternity.  It is a summation of all that we are, all that we stand for, and all that we strive for.  Within each item of our coat of arms is something special to each of us, and something so important to our lives we should live it out and never have to reveal it to anyone.  It is also unique to Lambda Chi Alpha that we call it a "Coat of Arms." Heraldically, no other Greek organization is able to call their emblem a coat of arms, but rather a crest.  This particular coat of arms was painted by an associate member during his term of association some time ago.  We are not entirely sure of the date, but it has been with the chapter for more than ten years.

Gamma Plate (Cole Ritual)  Coat of Arms (Mason Ritual)     QKN Crest        Coat of Arms after merger

Progression of the coat of arms of Lambda Chi Alpha

Badge and Associate Pin

These two emblems are to be worn by only by members of the fraternity.  Our associate member pin is a combination of the pledge pin of Lambda Chi Alpha prior to the merger with Theta Kappa Nu, and the Badge of an initiated member of Theta Kappa Nu.  The badge has evolved over time, but has kept relatively the same shape and orientation.  The current Associate pin has four equalateral triangles upon which the Lambda, Chi, and Alpha are superimposed in a gothic arch.  The Badge contains eight pearls on the horns of the crescent affixed around the golden letters Delta Pi.  The letters are on black enamel.   In the center of the badge is the Greek letter name of our fraternity, with the Lambda Superimposed upon the Chi and Alpha.  There are eleven semiprecious stones on the Lambda, with the one at the top being the largest.

White Rose

This emblem comes from Theta Kappa Nu, and has been entigrated into our fraternity.  It may be seen on the inescutcheon of the coat of arms.  To be totally correct, the white rose has four leaves, four stamen, and eleven petals.  The four comes from the founding fathers of Theta Kappa Nu, and the eleven comes from the total charter chapters that signed the original League and Covenant.

Unlike many fraternity recognition buttons, that of Lambda Chi Alpha is neither a miniture coat of arms nor a display of the cutout letters. It is a special design showing the cross and crescent combined. It is worn only on the left lapel of a suit jacket or sports jacket. Its original purpose was to permit members unknown to each other to recognize the common bond when the badge was not worn or was obscured by the jacket without "boasting to the world" of one's fraternal ties.

The cross and crescent with shield bearing the Greek letters pin was originally designed to be worn by girlfriends of members when the relationship had not yet reached the state of engagement or marriage. Today, the pin also is worn by members who have not purchased a badge, or by members who prefer its design.

The Greek initials and English words of Lambda Chi Alpha may be used on a variety of clothing and a multitude of other items. They may be worn by Associates, Initiated brothers, and by a girlfriend that has been dropped. If someone drops out of Lambda Chi, or is disassociated, they are not permitted to wear any of our letters in any form. This includes party shirts, jerseys, and decorations.

Mallard Duck

This emblem is only a Local Chapter Emblem. It is the chosen mascot based on the fact that most Mallard ducks have purple, green, and gold feathers in addition to others. There is no ritualistic significance, and national headquarters does not recognize this emblem as a stated mascot.

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