A Parent’s Perspective

Sending your child off to college for the first time is an emotional and stressful endeavor for any parent, let alone when the COVID-19 pandemic gets thrown into the mix. During Stefano F. DeRossi’s (Emory University, 2024) first year on campus, his mother Maria DeRossi recalls him experiencing a sense of isolation. A feeling he shared with so many other first-year students. Now a junior, DeRossi proudly serves the Beta Epsilon Chapter as the social chairman, a feat made possible thanks to the comfort, camaraderie, and inspiration he’s experienced as a Delt.

DeRossi’s path to brotherhood was similar to many other Delts across the country. Upon meeting a few undergraduate brothers, DeRossi realized his desires and values aligned with those of Delta Tau Delta and the Beta Epsilon members. From the start, he knew it was the right fit for him. “It was the perfect balance between dedication to school, social activities and the Fraternity,” Maria noted.

After treating her son and a few of his chapter brothers to dinner on a visit to campus, Maria was confident that her son was where he needed to be. To her, being a part of the Fraternity has had a far greater impact on her son than spending time with other young men would ordinarily accomplish. Maria is also proud of the work Delt is doing to help young men forge their own future. “I am delighted they are learning essential life-skills in a nurturing environment.” In 2022, the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity and Educational Foundation launched the Forging the Future Campaign to ensure young men like Stefano DeRossi have the resources necessary to learn and grow.

Maria chose to contribute to the Foundation in recognition of what it has given her son— a home away from home. “I wanted to give because I’m proud of the good culture he’s a part of and the sense of ownership he’s adopted.” Maria also credits her desire to give due to the comfort she has knowing her son is in an environment that showcases a sound support system he can thrive in. “I wanted him to develop as a holistic young adult and to be surrounded by a group of male role models, and I know that he’s found that with Delt.”

Maria’s gift, along with nearly 350 others from parents, counts towards the Forging the Future Campaign goal of raising $25 million. In 2022, parents contributed more than $20,000 to the DeltFund and were the single largest donor group during our most recent day of giving. Follow Maria DeRossi’s lead and make a gift today.

Character is an important trait, and Delta Tau Delta has demonstrated a strong commitment to developing that in these young men. He is surrounded by a good group; they really lean on each other.

MARIA DEROSSI