The Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity at UTM is undergoing a renaissance, both internally and externally.

Not only are there plans to renovate the existing fraternity house, located at 102 Hurt St., but the chapter brotherhood and membership are starting over as well.

Phi Sigma Kappa was the first social fraternity at UTM, obtaining its charter May 14, 1960.

Chancellor Nick Dunagan welcomed the group and offered his assistance to the association’s plan to “restart” the fraternity.

The local chapter will be governed by a newly formed alumni association, which recently had its first meeting. The goal of the new administration is to instill traditions and ideals into the hearts and minds of the new generation of Phi Sigma Kappa brothers. The new initiates will be the life and future of the fraternity, living and sharing the cardinal principles of brotherhood, scholarship and character, fraternity leaders said.

The fraternity house is undergoing extensive renovations to the main floor and the upstairs living area. The famous “pit” will be repainted. The resident brothers and house guests will be protected from the threat of fire by a fully automatic sprinkler system and fire alarm system.

“This will be a huge responsibility; thus the enormous effort to hand pick the new associate members,” said Mike Mitchell, alumni association president. “There is no such thing as a “cookie cutter” Phi Sig.