after the re-opening, kappa sigma kappa fraternity was founded by cadets on 28 september 1867 and sigma nu fraternity was founded by cadets on 1 january 1869. vmi cadets formed the second chapter of the kappa alpha order. in a special arrangement, graduating cadets may be nominated by kappa alpha order alumni and inducted into the fraternity, becoming part of kappa alpha order's beta commission (a commission as opposed to an active chapter). this occurs following graduation, and the newly initiated vmi alumni are accepted as brothers of the fraternity.