Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity Raises Over $40,000 for Cancer Research
Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity Raises Over $40,000 for Cancer Research
The men of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity (FIJI) at VCU dedicated months to planning and executing a week of philanthropy, culminating in an exceptional golf tournament that collectively raised $42,101 for the Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Driven by a desire to make a profound impact in the Richmond community and highlight the positive philanthropic efforts of VCU’s Fraternity and Sorority life, President Thomas Tetsuka and Philanthropy Chair Zachary Hodgen collaborated to organize the week-long community fundraising initiative and golf tournament. Phi Gamma Delta chose the Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center due to its strong community recognition and a mission that deeply resonated with the fraternity. Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center was highly receptive to working with the fraternity, and consistent communication ensured a smooth collaboration.
Olivia Van Nuys, Events and Stewardship Coordinator for Medical Philanthropy and Alumni Relations enjoyed working with Fiji and appreciated their efforts. She noted, “Working with FIJI – Thomas and Zack specifically – was an honor. Their philanthropic efforts were inspiring and I could tell they were extremely motivated to put in the work and do something big for the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.”
Initial challenges, particularly in securing sponsors and finding a suitable location, were overcome when Brickshire Golf Club agreed to host the tournament. Tetsuka recalled, “For a while it felt like we were talking to a brick wall. We had all these great ideas and ambitions but nobody was biting. Then the first couple sponsors took a chance on us and the rest came soon after.”
The 2025 Philanthropy Week featured a series of events involving other student organizations on campus, primarily sororities, though non-Greek organizations were also invited. The week’s events raised $22,000, while the golf tournament alone contributed $20,000, bringing the total to over $42,000.
The entire week was a resounding success, and the funds raised will significantly benefit Massey. This effort by the men of Phi Gamma Delta powerfully showcases their fraternity’s commitment to giving back to the community.
Tetsuka proudly stated, “Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) has started to reverse the narrative at VCU with their record-breaking Philanthropy Week to benefit Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, proving that change begins when students come together to make an impact.”
Van Nuys further emphasized the profound effect of student involvement: “Having students that are supportive of this mission and motivated to stand up to the fight against cancer is powerful beyond measure. We had the opportunity to hear from students in FIJI’s TikTok Challenge about what their connection is to cancer and why they support Massey, and that drove home the community impact. We are extremely thrilled to continue to work with FIJI in their efforts to support Massey. One team, one fight!”
Categories Annual Report Stories 2024-25