“(My son) Noah has been in training to be a Zeta Beta Tau brother his whole life,” said Brother Bret Hrbek, Delta Xi (Virginia Tech) 1996. “He was 1 year old at his first convention, and he’s been to at least three so far.

“In the fall of 2023, he made it official. I’m honored to call my son ‘Brother.’”

Proud, passionate words about the impact of ZBT family from Zeta Beta Tau Foundation President Hrbek. His son, Noah, was initiated into the Delta Xi Chapter earlier this school year.

“There’s something incredibly profound about being called ‘Brother’ by your own son. Seeing him attend my alma mater and join the Delta Xi Chapter makes it even more meaningful. The concept of lifelong Brotherhood takes on a new depth when you’ve been with your brother since Day 1,” he shared.

Those who have the pleasure to know Bret will tell you how his love for the Fraternity radiates outward, and so it’s no surprise to see his oldest son shares in the values of Brotherhood for a Lifetime. Brother Hrbek worked on the Zeta Beta Tau staff after graduating in the late 1990s, and after he moved home to Virginia and started his current career as a Certified Financial Planner and Chartered Financial Consultant with Edward Jones, he continued to volunteer with Zeta Beta Tau international as well as Delta Xi consistently for the past 20-plus years. Bret and wife, Jessica, have three other children and are based in Front Royal, Virginia.

The Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg “holds a special place for me due to various events—sports, Rotary and ZBT gatherings. It’s where I get to bond with Noah and meet our chapter brothers regularly. Sharing our mutual love for these experiences is truly rewarding,” Bret said.

Delta Xi has a strong fall recruitment. Knowing the big day was coming up, Bret shared he was prepared for a while after speaking with the Chapter President earlier in the fall – he had already prepared a collection of ZBT memorabilia for Noah after his Initiation, set to arrive at his dorm on the day of the Ritual.

“I’m looking forward to Noah attending his fourth ZBT convention this summer — but first time as a brother.”

Brother Bret is enjoying a  new aspect of ZBT alumni life … as a parent of an undergraduate.

“Serving as the president of the Zeta Beta Tau Foundation gave me a unique perspective in expressing gratitude to our new Parent’s Club members. Not only am I a leader, but I’m also a beneficiary,” he added. “Connecting with parents who entrust us with shaping their sons’ lives is humbling. Letting go and allowing your child to grow independently is a challenge, yet knowing they’re in capable hands makes it worthwhile.”