Delta Chi was formed by eleven law students attending Cornell University. Though the exact reason for forming this fraternity is uncertain, we do know the founders wanted to start a social organization that would not be centered around material manifestations that filled most fraternities at the time. These men longed to have a group of college men who wished, by association, to accomplish certain desires that they could not accomplish individually. Realizing a common desire for fellowship and intellectual association, they sought to enrich their bond, a bond that would materially assist each in the acquistion of a sound education, a bond that would provide each enduring value. Those interested in becoming members would be required to demonstrate initiative, loyalty, responsibility, and displaying a vital interest in the chapter/colony progress.

The Delta Chi Fraternity was officially formed on October 13, 1890 as a law fraternity, and in 1922 the fraternity became a general fraternity allowing college men of all fields and majors to become members.  In 1929 at Estes Park Convention, Delta Chi was the first fraternity to officially abolish "Hell Week" and the practice hazing from its fraternity. Delta Chi has over 126 chapter with more than 94,000 initates at the present.