FSL PLOTS AND GREEK SPACES GUIDE
Updated Fall 2023
ABSTRACT
The Florida A&M University Fraternity & Sorority Life Plots and Greek Spaces Guide outlines the historical significance of Greek plots on campus and the responsibilities associated with maintaining and beautifying these spaces. The guide defines key terms, including Greek Spaces, (Tree) Plots, Greek Wall Slots, and Greek Painted Surfaces. It emphasizes that Greek Spaces remain accessible to all and provides guidelines for their upkeep, including safety measures, environmental considerations, and community engagement efforts. The document also addresses the approval process for painting and updates, event scheduling, and adherence to campus policies. The guide is a living document subject to updates as necessary for the betterment of the campus and Greek community
FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE PLOTS AND GREEK SPACES GUIDE
The development of plots can be traced to the days of slavery, and later, the division of Confederate land after the end of the Civil War for homestead development. Plots are constructed to symbolically and physically represent each black Greek letter organization and cultural/professional Greek Council fraternities and sororities. These plots recognize your presence on campus and give alumni and current members a location for reflection and celebration.
The coordination of (Tree) Plots, the Greek Wall, and other Greek Painted Surfaces will be the responsibility of the Coordinator of Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL) or his or her designee; this includes but is not limited to, the assignment of any Greek Space location, updating/beautification, communication concerning Greek Spaces and notification of dismantling of certain Greek Spaces. The features related to the physical layout and plot maintenance, i.e. lawn care and etc. are supervised by the FSL, in conjunction with Plant Operations and Maintenance (POM). It is required by the university that all Greek-Letter organizations, follow the guidelines set forth in his document and are met in regards to organizational (tree) plots, wall spaces, and painted surfaces:
1. Definitions:
a. Greek Spaces, is the umbrella term that connects and references (Tree) Plots, the Greek Wall and other Greek Painted Surfaces.
b. (Tree) Plots are defined as a singular tree on the campus of FAMUU, near or in close proximity to the Efferson Student Union or the Quad, claimed by a Greek-Letter organization.
c. Greek Wall Slot, refers to the painted retaining wall on W Palmer Ave. that is divided into sections for designated Greek-Letter organizations. (See page 2 for map)
d. Greek Painted Surfaces, refers to painted standing walls or flat surfaces, steps, railings, gates/fences or etc. claimed by a Greek-Letter organization outside of the “Greek Wall”.
2. The area of an organization’s Greek Space remains a part of the total campus and shall be considered property of the state of Florida and Florida A&M University at all times. Therefore, Greek Surfaces must remain accessible to any person. Requests or orders by the member(s) to have a non-member vacate the plot will result in punitive measures. It is up to the Chapter to educate the FAMU community on the importance and significance of their respective Greek Space(s).
3. The organization is responsible for the cleanliness and attractiveness of their assigned Greek Space, including grass, flowers, shrubs, symbols, structures, etc. Chapters are also required to participate in beautification efforts as mandated by Efferson Student Union & Activities (ESUA), the FSL Coordinator, or the University. Advice, equipment, and assistance can be sought from the POM/grounds or coordinated through the FSL coordinator. All requests for updating (within the beautification window(s)), construction, and/or landscaping on existing plots must be submitted to ESUA/FSL for prior approval through iStrike.
4. The university reserves the right to dismantle, relocate and remove materials whenever the areas need campus development, or when it is deemed that such materials are hazardous, dangerous, or create a blight on the overall campus environment. Advanced notice will be given within a reasonable time as humanly possible, “If possible”. Greek Spaces belonging to an organization that is no longer affiliated with the university (banned for life or no new members have been initiated into the organization, in eight (8) or more years) will be removed (dismantled).
i. If an overseeing entity wishes to keep the assigned Greek Space, said entity will be responsible for its upkeep. Coordination must be established between the entity and the FSL Coordinator prior to work taking place. A new request for a Greek Space must be submitted if granted re-instatement/reactivation.
5. Organization that is placed on Cease & Desist (C&D), Suspended, Inactive, Probation, or Defunct status, are not allowed to perform beautification to their Greek Space until the sanction is lifted. If their sanction is longer than 2 years, the organization will be allowed to perform minor upkeep but only in the spring semester (in March or April), or as determined by the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life.
6. Each plot operates as a functional activity space. Events in the “Greek Space” must be scheduled through ESUA and approved within iStrike. Such events include but are not limited to, passing out snacks, testing material, grab-n-go bags, promotional items. Scavenger hunts and etc.). Active members of chapters in good standing with the university are the only ones who have the right to plan, scheduled, and coordinate activities in these spaces. Select “Outside Space/Location” on the iStrike facility submission.
7. Beautification of Greek Spaces must take place and be completed one (1) week before the following events: 1st Day of Classes/Welcome Week
8. Organizations are required to perform at least one (1) plot cleaning project a semester outside of the preparation of the Beautification Events listed in section 7. This Cleaning Project is considered community service, and does not count towards the “ESUA Programming Max”.
9. Summer Greek Space Maintenance: Organizations will be permitted to update and beautify EXISTING Greek Spaces ONLY. This only includes updating the surrounding area, around the (tree) plot, “Greek Painted Surface” and/or a Greek Wall Slot. All requests must be submitted via iStrike.
i. This DOES NOT include updating or painting existing trees or painting new trees.
10. The painting of any tree, tree stump, plant, or bush is prohibited. Existing trees and shrubbery that are presently painted must fade naturally.
11. Greek-Letter organizations are permitted to have no more than one (1) official (tree) Plot.
12. Painting of any FAMU property, (structures, steps, railing, walls, benches, flower/tree beds or retaining walls, curbs, rocks and etc.) must be approved by the FSL Coordinator or designee, POM, and the building/facility coordinator or designee prior to moving forward.
a. A detailed plan must be submitted within iStrike (floor plan submission section). See example
b. Approval to paint surfaces is on case-by-case bases ONLY and must go through an approval process.
13. Organizations must add a “Plot Upkeep Plan/Procedure/Guidelines” section to their chapter constitution.
14. Picnic tables begin to rot after being exposed to the elements. It is the responsibility of the organization to ensure table(s)/benches are sturdy, clean, and splinter-free. They should be painted at least twice a year. It is the organization’s responsibility to notify the FSL Coordinator and POM of large furniture removal (picnic tables/benches) from the plot.
15. Florida A&M University is a dry campus. This means that the consumption of alcohol is prohibited. FAMU is also a “DrugFree Campus” and the conception or illegal selling of any drug-related material is also prohibited. Other items such as hookahs, smoking cigarettes, fire pits and etc. are also prohibited from being on or near your Greek Space(s). Members and/or guests caught in violation will be sanctioned up to and including suspension.
16. There will be a plot check once a month beginning in the month of September. A member of your organization must be present.
17. Barbecuing or any open flames or heat sources are prohibited.
18. Loud noise that interferes with and disrupts the peace and quiet of others will not be allowed. Use of DJs and or loud music must be approved through iStrike.
19. Programs/events/giveaways and etc. hosted at an organization designated “Greek Space” must be submitted within iStrike and receive full approval, prior to hosting.
20. After an organization has conducted a beautification or touch-up, all items must be removed from the space. Failure to do so will result in a fine for the organization.
21. After inclement weather, organizations are required to conduct a “Storm and bad weather check”, on their Greek Space. Broken Greek letters or Chapter related items are to be removed from the site until repaired or replaced.
22. Plaques, monuments, yard signs, banners and etc. must also go through the approval process prior to posting.
This document is shall be considered a “living document”. The policies within and written above may be subject to change, updating, or modification when deem necessary, by the Director of ESUA, FSL Coordinator or his/her designee.
iStrike Pages
Page 1 – Basic Event Details
Page 2 - RSVP – Skip and Click Next
Page 3 - Post Event Feedback - Skip/Click Next
Page 4 - Event Cover Photo – Upload a photo of Space or create a Greek Space Beautification Flyer for continual use
Page 5 - Contact Information
Page 6 – Select “Outdoor Campus Location”
Page 7 – Select “Other” and write in “PLOT” or “Wall Space”
Page 8 – Skip/Click Next
Page 9 – Upload designs for your plot/wall
Page 10 – click boxes
Pages 11 – 13 – Skip/Click Next
Upload the visual details of the Greek Space design for updates/beautification. The Greek Wall Location W. Palmer Ave. Tallahassee Florida 32307Email Submissions
1. Email FSL Coordinator with the following information:
a. Cc: Chapter Advisor, Chapter President
b. Subject: Organization Name – Plot Beautification – Semester and Year
2. Body:
3. Detailed Plans and Designs: Provide comprehensive plans and designs that clearly illustrate your chapter's vision for the plot. Include dimensions, measurements, and placement of any proposed structures, landscaping, or decorative elements. Be as specific as possible to help us understand your vision. - Type of paint, location of plot and etc. see example below
Proposed Design Location
4. Timeline: Provide a timeline for the project, including start and completion dates for each phase. This will help us ensure that the project aligns with our scheduling and campus planning.
5. Safety Measures: Describe any safety measures or precautions your chapter plans to implement during the construction or installation phase. Safety is a top priority, and we need to ensure that your project adheres to all safety regulations. - All materials must be relocated and stored off-site when not in use. No items can be left or stored in front of or near the wall. Be sure to do your research on the type of paint that works for outdoor use.
6. Environmental Impact: Address any potential environmental impact your project may have. Include plans for waste disposal, recycling, and landscaping that preserves the natural environment. - Ground coverings must be placed on the concrete and grass to protect the sidewalk and etc. Use of outdoor pain,
7. Community Engagement: If your project may impact the surrounding community, or flow of (foot) traffic, outline your efforts to minimize disruption to normal business operations. Be considerate of noise levels, dusting and etc.
8. Aesthetics: Ensure that your designs align with the overall aesthetic of the Greek Plot area and the campus as a whole. A harmonious appearance enhances the beauty of our campus.
9. Meetings/Walk-Through: Schedule a walk-through of the area with the FSL Coordinator. Suggest 2-3 date and time options for consideration. You are welcome to invite other members involved in this process. The advisor's attendance is optional.
10. Point of Contact: Person who will be running point on project.
