2017-2018 SIUE Fraternity and Sorority Life Guide

Guide to

Fraternity &

Life

Sorority

at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Welcome to

These next four years are going to go by fast, so why not make the most of it?

As you decide what you truly want to get out of these four years, besides a degree, we hope you consider joining our fraternity and sorority community.

Brotherhood and sisterhood offers a sense of belonging, the feeling of great friends respecting you for your individuality and the feeling of knowing you can count on your sisters/brothers in the good times as well as in the bad. Your fraternity or sorority is a home away from home, presenting members with venues to socialize in, networks of support from older members, and countless opportunities to make new friends.

Fraternity and sorority involvement offers leadership experiences, service opportunities, academic support, and positive social activities that can help fulfill engagement in college life.

Being a member of a fraternity or sorority provides one of the best ways to become an involved student at SIUE.

Greetings from Assistant Director for

Fraternity and Sorority Life, Tyler Manning! “Congratulations on the start of your adventure with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville! Our SIUE fraternities and sororities are a great place for students to thrive and get in touch with the University’s core values of citizenship, excellence, inclusion, integrity, and wisdom. Joining a fraternity or sorority can change your life and add meaningful, lifelong relationships, but it is not always easy to get started. This guide is a great first step and the staff in the Kimmel Student Involvement Center can connect you to information, support, and services. As a member of a fraternity myself, I encourage you to explore the fraternity and sorority community and get to know members of different organizations. Learning from your fellow students will help you make an informed decision when choosing your membership.�

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UNIVERSITY SUPPORT AND RESOURCES The Fraternity and Sorority Community is supported by Southern Illinois University Edwardsville through administrative resources and collaborative support. While each of the chapters and governing councils are self-governing organizations, the Kimmel Student Involvement Center serves as the link between the fraternities and sororities and SIUE. Staff in the Kimmel Student Involvement Center provide resources and support for the governing councils, (inter)national organizations, local advisors, and prospective students.

The Kimmel Student Involvement Center staff also utilizes a chapter coaching structure for the individual organizations, which pair a Fraternity and Sorority Life staff member with each organization to receive direct support concerning individual chapter needs. The Kimmel Student Involvement Center has one full-time staff, two graduate assistants, and one support associate who directly work with the SIUE Fraternity and Sorority Community, serving over 900 students and stakeholders. Fraternity and Sorority Life is a unit within the Kimmel Student Involvement Center, which is part of the Division of Student Affairs. Many faculty and staff members serve in advisory positions to our fraternities and sororities.

SIUE FRATERNITY AND SORORITY HISTORY The story of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Fraternity and Sorority Community started in 1961 when the first sorority, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., was established on campus. Four years later, the first fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., received their charter at SIUE. From the beginning, both fraternities and sororities recognized the value that brotherhood and sisterhood could bring to the collegiate experience. Fifty-six years later, we are a community of over 900 students who are members of one of our 21 fraternities and sororities. This includes seven Interfraternity Council chapters, seven National Pan-Hellenic Council chapters, four Panhellenic Council chapters, and three United Greek Council chapters.

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COMMITMENTS, Expectations, & POLICIES ACADEMIC SUCCESS Earning your degree should be your number one priority. Academic excellence is an expectation in our fraternity and sorority community. Therefore, we understand and expect school to come before fraternity and sorority life activities.

TIME COMMITMENT Joining a Greek-letter organization requires time commitment. In order to receive the full benefits a fraternity or sorority can offer, committing time is essential. While it won’t take up 100% of your time, it’s important to note that you will “get out what you put into it.” Being a lifetime commitment means the amount of engagement necessary will vary, but potential new members can expect to dedicate a significant amount to the organization they join.

VALUE OUR VALUES Fraternities and sororities are values-based organizations, and by joining you will be expected to uphold those values.

Understand that we expect you to represent your university, and your organization well. From the moment you accept your bid or cross over into your organization, and for years after your graduation, you are always wearing your letters.

UNIVERSITY ALCOHOL POLICY The use of alcoholic beverages on any property controlled by Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is restricted by the laws of the State of Illinois and the regulations of the University. Pursuant to the Regulations Governing Alcoholic Beverages at SIUE, the following guidelines have been approved by the Chancellor, and filed with the President, and shall apply to the use of alcoholic beverages at SIUE. To mitigate abuse and honor its obligation under State law, the University has established these policies and procedures to regulate consumption of alcoholic beverages by students on University property and at University sponsored activities. Persons who violate these policies and procedures shall be held accountable for their actions and subject to disciplinary, criminal prosecution and/or civil action.

The University acknowledges that students are adults and are expected to obey the law and take personal responsibility for their conduct. Consumption of alcoholic beverages shall be considered a privilege and shall be permitted consistent with State law and University regulations, and only if such use does not interfere with the educational environment of the University. The University will not intrude

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into the personal lives of students on or off campus nor invade their privacy by intrusive searches.

SIUE affirms its institutional role to encourage mature reflection and a free and thoughtful choice of alternatives. The University acknowledges that students may choose to use alcoholic beverages; however, the University expects deliberate consideration of personal responsibility and accountability.

SEXUAL ASSAULT This Policy prohibits all forms of sexual assault, sexual misconduct, relationship violence and stalking.

The Policy applies to all members of the University community, including students, faculty, staff, administrators, board members, consultants, vendors, visitors, and others engaged in business with the University.

This Policy applies to conduct on or off campus property that substantially interferes with the mission of the University including but not limited to, interference with the safety and wellbeing of self or others and/or interference with the academic pursuits or employment environment of its students, faculty, or staff.

Confidential advisors, counseling services, and health services are all resources for those affected by sexual assault on campus.

ANTI-HAZING POLICY Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has a zero tolerance policy for hazing.

Hazing in any form is an inappropriate activity. Hazing is defined as: “Any action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off campus premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort, intimidation, embarrassment, harassment or ridicule.

Such activities may include but are not limited to the following: forced or required use of alcohol; paddling in any form; creation of excessive fatigue; physical and psychological shocks; wearing apparel which is conspicuous and/or not normally in good taste; engaging in public stunts or buffoonery; morally degrading or humiliating games or activities; deprivation of sleep; and any other inappropriate activities which are not consistent with the institutional mission and governing policies.

Furthermore, the institution will treat the hazing action of even one member of the group as constituting hazing by the group.

Violations of the University Hazing Policy and the State of Illinois Hazing Statute are considered a very serious offense. Groups or individuals found responsible for hazing may result in sanctions of suspension or expulsion of the individual or organization from the University.

Campus Activities Board The Campus Activities Board is a student run organization that is both an advisory board and a programming board. It is a merger of the former Student Life Advisory Board and the University Center Board Program Council. Its main goal is to improve campus life through providing social, recreational, educational and cultural programs at SIUE.

Leadership Development The Student Development Leadership Program (SLDP) offers a combination of professional development modules and volunteer experiences that can give you a competitive edge as you enter the workforce or apply for scholarships or graduate school. SIUE alumni, faculty, staff and community leaders present the interactive modules which focus on current issues and leadership development.

Community Engagement Whether they are offering food, clothing or amenities to those in need or coordinating voter registration efforts, students at SIUE have the opportunity to make an impact on their community. The Corporation for National and Community Service has named SIUE to the annual President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for the seventh consecutive year.

Student Government Student Government represents undergraduate, graduate, and professional students at SIUE. Its primary function is to serve as an advocate on student issues and voice students’ concerns about campus issues Student Government holds two senate meetings each month that students may attend and address the senate at the end of the meeting during open forum.

Student Organizations How to Get Involved With more than 300 student organizations, you are sure to find your place to belong and get involved on campus.

Ranging from academic and cultural clubs to religious and recreational clubs and honors societies, student organizations enrich student life in many ways. Participating in a student organization provides an outlet for learning outside the classroom, meeting new people who share your interests, and developing life, work and leadership skills.

The Kimmel Student Involvement Center is the focal point of student involvement and campus life at SIUE. Students interested in getting involved may wish to participate in the Campus Activities Board, Fraternity & Sorority Life, the Student Leadership Development Program, Student Government, Community Engagement, or one of over 300 student organizations. You can also check out events and programs hosted or supported by Kimmel, which include Cougar Welcome, Homecoming, Family Weekend, Black Heritage Month, Springfest and Activities Fairs.

Whether you are interested in campus entertainment, educational lectures, serving on a campus-wide committee, or representing your fellow students, stop by the Kimmel Student Involvement Center or log on to getinvolved.siue.edu to get involved!

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THE FOUR PILLARS

of Fraternity and Sorority Life

Community Engagement Fraternity and sorority members take pride in community service and philanthropy. Each organization has a foundation or charity they sponsor through philanthropic events. Sororities and fraternities sponsor a multitude of activities each year to impact the local community and raise money for their special philanthropies. Fund-raising events and hands-on service projects of many kinds are organized by individual chapters as well as the entire community as a whole to benefit worthwhile charities.

Working together on such projects not only benefits worthy causes, but also fosters personal growth and greater unity among fraternity and sorority members.

phi·lan·thro·py: the desire to promote the welfare of others, expressed by the generous donation of money or goods to worthy causes. serv·ice: an act of helpful activity; help; aid: to do someone a service.

Below are just some of the many organizations our fraternity and sorority community helps.

• March of Dimes • American Diabetes • Make A Wish Association • Children’s Miracle • Boys and Girls Club Network • Circle of Sisterhood • Autism Speaks • Big Brothers, Big Sisters

Leadership Fraternity and sorority membership offers numerous opportunities to increase leadership skills. Each Greek-letter organization allows students to participate on committees, be influential in decision making for the chapter, and serve in various elected leadership positions. Participation in a fraternity or sorority also allows members to mentor and be mentored by others involved in the organization.

In addition to SIUE’s leadership training opportunities, fraternities and sororities also allow members to seek additional leadership training through national conferences and workshops. Serving on one of the governing councils (Interfraternity Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, Panhellenic Council, and United Greek Council) is another leadership position students can obtain. These positions work together to govern and support the organizations that fall within their council, while working to unite the entire fraternity and sorority community with the greater student body.

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Friendship

One of the most cherished aspects of being involved in fraternity and sorority life are the friendships made with men and women who share your interests, your values, and your future aspirations. Involvement in a Greek-letter organization gives members an opportunity to expand their circle of friends because sisterhood and brotherhood are the foundation of the fraternity and sorority life experience. It combines the concept of individualism within the framework of mutual cooperation.

As a member, you will form friendships unlike any found in other organizations. By choosing to become a member of a fraternity or sorority, you will meet people who will grow to become your closest friends; those who will congratulate you when you are successful and support you during times of struggle. Lasting friendships are formed over time through common activities, becoming roommates, and shared leadership experiences.

Members come from all walks of life, from all over the world.

Fraternity and sorority membership is for life as are the friendships you will create throughout your growth and development at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Each new member brings his or her unique talents to the fraternity or sorority and is respected for who he or she is.

Scholarship Each fraternity and sorority maintains internal academic standards that all members are expected to achieve, in addition to the SIUE standards that require a minimum grade point average of 2.5 for membership.

Fraternity and Sorority Life at SIUE prides itself on academic excellence. By participating in scholarship incentive programs, study skills workshops, mentoring, and recognition programs, members of the community here are dedicated to academic success.

Each organization has a University faculty or staff member that is responsible for helping members of the chapter achieve academic success. Fraternity and sorority members are represented in all of SIUE’s schools, and virtually every academic major.

Fraternity or sorority membership offers many options to help new members transition academically from high school to college, such as: • Study hours • Chapter & national scholarships • Study partnerships with other chapter members

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Interfraternity Council The Interfraternity Council (IFC) is a self-governing body representing the seven member fraternities at SIUE. IFC strives to promote excellence in all aspects of fraternity and academic pursuits. The council also works together to help the entire fraternity and sorority community better achieve its common goal of membership development and service to the Edwardsville community.

FAQs When is IFC Recruitment?

Fraternities recruit year-round, but we encourage you to begin the recruitment process during the summer if you are interested in joining in the fall. Most people join during the first month of the semester. The IFC fraternity recruitment process at SIUE is designed to give both you and chapter members a fair and equal opportunity to become acquainted as friends.

The recruitment process is designed to allow you to get to know the men in the different chapters.

Who is eligible for recruitment?

A man is eligible to participate in recruitment and join a fraternity if he is enrolled at SIUE as a full-time, undergraduate student. A fulltime student is defined as taking twelve credit hours per semester. There is also a minimum 7

GPA requirement of 2.5. He must not be a new member or initiated member of any NorthAmerican Interfraternity Conference (NIC) fraternity.

How do I decide what chapter to join?

Each person looks for different attributes in a fraternity. Each chapter focuses on one or more of the following: academics, athletics, campus involvement, community service, leadership, and/or friendship. The choice is yours, so look carefully at all of the chapters and evaluate which one best meets your needs and interests.

How do I register for IFC Recruitment?

You can register for IFC Recruitment at siueifc.mycampusdirector2.com

Creed We, the Interfraternity Council, exist to promote the shared interests and values of our member fraternities: leadership, service, brotherhood and scholarship. We believe in Fraternity and that the shared values of Fraternity drive the IFC to create better communities, better chapters and better men.

We work to advance the academic mission of the host institution, to enable fraternal organizations to grow and thrive through collaboration and teamwork, to provide an outlet for self-governance and accountability, and to model and teach ethical leadership. In a spirit of mutual support and betterment, we, the men of the Interfraternity Council, pledge to elevate the Ritual and the values of the member organizations.

Alpha Kappa Lambda Founded: April 22, 1914 Philanthropy: These Hands Don’t Hurt akl.org Delta Chi Founded: October 13, 1890 Philanthropy: The V Foundation for Cancer Research deltachi.org Kappa Sigma Founded: December 10, 1869 Philanthropy: Military Heroes Campaign kappasigma.org Phi Kappa Psi Founded: February 19, 1852 Philanthropy: Boys and Girls Club phikappapsi.org Sigma Phi Epsilon Founded: November 1, 1901 Philanthropy: Big Brothers, Big Sisters sigep.org Sigma Pi Founded: February 26, 1897 Philanthropy: Amazing Day Foundation, Donate Life America sigmapi.org Sigma Tau Gamma Founded: June 28, 1920 Philanthropy: Special Olympics sigtau.org 8

National Pan-Hellenic The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) is a self-governing body that represents the nationally recognized historically African-American fraternities and sororities at SIUE. The purpose and mission of the National Pan-Hellenic Council is unanimity of thought and action as far possible in the conduct of Greek-letter collegiate fraternities and sororities, and to consider problems of mutual interest to its member organizations.

Member organizations carry out this mission through its joint actions and events, such as community service projects, forums and step-shows within the community. SIUE is proud to be home to seven National Pan-Hellenic fraternities and sororities.

FAQs How do I become a member of a NPHC organization?

Membership intake for the organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council may vary differently between each of the organizations. Those who are interested in learning more about NPHC organizations are encouraged to research the history of each organization, visit their national website, learn of their respective membership requirements, and develop a relationship with the chapter members of your organizational interest. To any extent beyond that, membership intake is under full coordination of the specific chapter and their national organization. However, all membership intake processes must be conducted by a chapter that is both active with its national organization, and recognized by the SIUE campus.

How much does it cost?

The cost to join a NPHC organization varies from organization to organization, and the fees are subject to change at any time. Since these organizations exist under a national umbrella, a significant portion of the funds go

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to the national organization, required conferences and conventions, local chapter dues, and other various items that may be needed for the membership intake process.

Do I have to be African-American to join?

No. The NPHC, and each of its member organizations have non-discriminatory policies and practices. They are also actively involved in activities and programs designed to eradicate bias and discrimination in all phases of life. The formation of an NPHC ensures the philosophies of affiliate member organizations are maintained.

Where can I learn more about NPHC organizations?

Every fall, the National Pan-Hellenic Council sponsors a Yard Show and co-sponsors Meet the Greeks with the United Greek Council. These events provide students an opportunity to show interest in the organizations and ask questions about the joining process. We also encourage students to visit the national website of the organization they are interested in joining during their time at SIUE.

Council Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Founded: January 15, 1908 Philanthropy: Africare, American Heart Association, National Alliance on Mental Health aka1908.com Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Founded: November 17, 1911 Philanthropy: United Negro College Fund oppf.org Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Founded: January 13, 1913 Philanthropy: Cancer Awareness deltasigmatheta.org Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc Founded: January 9, 1914 Philanthropy: March of Dimes phibetasigma1914.org

The Divine Nine

There are nine historically Black Greek letter organizations (BGLOs) that make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council.

Collectively, these organizations are referred to as “The Divine Nine.� Each of these fraternities and sororities is rich in history - ties to one or more of these organizations may be found in many college-educated Black families in the United States.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc Founded: January 16, 1920 Philanthropy: American Cancer Society, March of Dimes zphib1920.org Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Founded: November 12, 1922 Philanthropy: Girl Scouts of the USA, March for Babies, Project Reassurance sgrho1922.org Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. Founded: September 19, 1963 Philanthropy: American Red Cross, I-S.H.I.E.L.D. iotaphitheta.org

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Panhellenic Council The Panhellenic Council (PHC) is a selfgoverning body representing National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) women’s organizations at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. PHC consists of nine executive council members and a voting representative from each sorority. PHC works closely with the Kimmel Fraternity & Sorority Life staff and supports Circle of Sisterhood through philanthropic efforts during the year.

FAQs How do I join?

Panhellenic primary recruitment is a structured process. Throughout the week, by a process of mutual selection, both chapters and potential new members narrow their choices. At SIUE, a majority of women obtain membership through this process; however, qualifying chapters may also offer opportunities to join throughout the year. A woman is eligible to participate in recruitment and join a sorority if she is enrolled and has been granted full-time status. Academic recommendations for recruitment include having at least a 2.7 GPA, however, each organization has specific eligibility requirements.

recruitment finds a match, but every effort is made to provide opportunities for involvement to any young woman who is interested in the sorority experience.

Does everyone get a bid?

The purpose of the recruitment process is to allow you and the chapters to decide on the best fit. The reality is that not everybody who goes through

How do I register for recruitment?

You can register for PHC recruitment at siuephc.mycampusdirector2.com.

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How much does it cost to be in a sorority?

Being in a sorority is like all other membership organizations and does require a payment of dues.

This money is used to fund the operations, social events and programming for the chapter. It also allows the international/national organization to continue to provide resources and support for the chapter. The costs of sorority membership varies from chapter to chapter.

Alpha Phi Founded: October 10, 1872 Philanthropy: Alpha Phi Foundation in support of Women’s Heart Health alphaphi.org

Alpha Sigma Tau Founded: November 4, 1899 Philanthropy: Women’s Wellness Initiative alphasigmatau.org

Alpha Xi Delta Founded: April 17, 1893 Philanthropy: Autism Speaks alphaxidelta.org

Delta Phi Epsilon Founded: March 17, 1917 Philanthropy: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Delta Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation, National Association for Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) dphie.org

Creed of the National Panhellenic Conference We, as undergraduate members of women’s fraternities, stand for good scholarship, for guarding of good health, for maintenance of fine standards, and for serving, to the best of our ability, our college community.

Cooperation for furthering fraternity life, in harmony with its best possibilities, is the ideal that shall guide our fraternity activities.

We, as fraternity women, stand for service through the development of character inspired by the close contact and deep friendship of individual fraternity and Panhellenic life.

The opportunity for wide and wise human service, through mutual respect and helpfulness, is the tenet by which we strive to live.

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United Greek Council The purpose of the United Greek Council (UGC) is to create a strong and positive image which respects the diversity of its member organizations and the community as a whole.

The UGC works closely with the Kimmel Fraternity & Sorority Life staff. SIUE is currently home to one Latina sorority, one co-ed Latino fraternity, and one progressive men’s fraternity. These culturally and special-interest based organizations help promote multicultural awareness and offer a fraternal and cultural experience for members at the same time.

FAQs Where can I learn more about UGC organizations at SIUE? During the fall semester, the United Greek Council and the National Pan-Hellenic Council will host Meet the Greeks. This event provides an opportunity for students to learn more about all of the organizations governed by the two councils and have their questions answered about the joining process.

Do I need to be a part of a specific community to join UGC organizations?

How do I become a member of an UGC No, UGC chapters are open and welcoming across organization? the board to all students. The important concept It is encouraged that those who are interested in to recognize is an organization’s foundations joining, research the history of the organizations, may be rooted in a particular cultural or special visit the national website, and learn about specific interest experience that shapes the chapter and its membership requirements. Alpha Psi Lambda members.

National, Inc. and Delta Lambda Phi National Social Fraternity participate in membership What if the organization I want to join is not recruitment and host events throughout the year currently at SIUE? for students who are interested in joining the If you are interested in starting a culturally organization. Gamma Phi Omega International based or special-interest organization that is not Sorority, Inc. conducts membership intake and currently on campus, contact Tyler Manning, host informational sessions for women interested Assistant Director for Fraternity and Sorority in joining.

Life, at tymanni@siue.edu for specific information 13

Alpha Psi Lambda National, Inc Founded: February 11, 1985 Philanthropy: Boys and Girls Club of America alphapsilambda.net

Delta Lambda Phi National Social Fraternity Founded: October 15, 1986 Philanthropy: The Delphi Foundation dlp.org

Gamma Phi Omega International Sorority, Inc. Founded: April 17, 1991 Philanthropy: American Diabetes Association gammaphiomega.org

United Greek Council’s Objectives • Promote high standards of scholastic achievement • Work toward diversity awareness by providing member organizations with a strong and unified voice on campus • Improve relationships among all Fraternity and Sorority Life community members • Engage in the United Greek Council community and support its member organizations

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FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE

Opportunities

Fraternity and Sorority Life

Alternative Spring Break To date, SIUE’s Fraternity and Sorority Life has hosted two alternative spring break trips.

The two trips have included service work in Biloxi, Mississippi and Asheville, North Carolina. Students help build houses and create relationships with those in the community through these trips.

Circle of Sisterhood Circle of Sisterhood is the official philanthropy of both the Interfraternity and Panhellenic Councils. Each council holds events benefiting the organization, including the annual PHC Bowl, a flag football tournament, and IFC Mud Tugs, a tug of war competition. To date, these two councils have collectively raised over $1,200 for Circle of Sisterhood.

Children’s Miracle Network

Dance Marathon

SIUE Dance Marathon has made huge strides on campus in raising money for local children’s hospitals. The fraternity and sorority community alone has raised over $20,000 for Children’s Miracle Network through Dance Marathon.

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Order of Omega Order of Omega is a national leadership honor society founded in 1959 for members of fraternities and sororities. It recognizes juniors and seniors who have exemplified high standards in the areas of scholarship, leadership, involvement within their respective organization and within the fraternity/sorority, campus, and local community. Members are selected from the top 3% of students from the SIUE fraternity and sorority community. The Pi Sigma chapter of Order of Omega was established at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2003.

Make-A-Wish Make-A-Wish was adopted as the community’s philanthropic partner in 2014. The fraternity and sorority community at SIUE has granted three wishes and have raised over $32,000 to date. The community has a great partnership with the Make-A-Wish student organization.

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Greek Alphabet & Terminology Alumnus/Alumna: Member of a fraternity/sorority who has graduated; plural is alumni/alumnae.

Initiate: An initiated fraternity or sorority member who is affiliated with the campus chapter.

BGLO: A Black Greek Letter Organization

Initiation: A formal ceremony in which an individual becomes a full member of a fraternity or sorority.

Bid: A formal invitation to join a fraternity or sorority. A student may accept only one.

Big Brother/Sister: An older member assigned to assist a new member or associate member.

Call/Chant: A vocal sound (sometimes high-pitched) used by members of culturally-based and NPHC fraternities and sororities to acknowledge one another.

Chapter: The collegiate group of a national or international fraternity or sorority. Inter/national organizations often give chapters a name, usually a Greek letter or combinations of Greek letters and/or the state.

Colony/Associate: A term used to describe the collegiate group of a fraternity or sorority in a new organization on the campus Continuous Open Bidding (COB): The term for the time when Panhellenic Council sororities may take new members outside of the primary recruitment process.

Crossed: The actual date of initiation into a culturally based fraternity or sorority.

Gamma Chi (Recruitment Counselor): A Panhellenic sorority member who has disassociated from her sorority during primary recruitment to assist potential new members through the recruitment process Hand Sign: Signs only a member of an organization can “throw.” Most signs have a deep meaning to a organization or ritualististic symbol.

Informational: A meeting held by a chapter for prospective members who are seeking more information about the organization and how to join. An informational is typically the first step in the membership intake process for NPHC organizations.

Intake: The process by which NPHC organizations take in new members. This process begins with an information meeting or formal rush and concludes with initiation. Each organization does membership intake on their own schedule and not necessarily every semester. Most groups require that you have at least 12 hours of college credit completed.

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Interfraternity Council (IFC): The Interfraternity Council (IFC) is a self-governing body representing member fraternities at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. IFC consists of seven executive council members and two representatives from each fraternity.

Legacy: A student whose mother, father, brother, sister, or grandparent was a member of a particular Greek organization.

Some organizations consider additional relatives, such as aunts and uncles in the definition.

Line Brother (LB)/Sister (LS): Term for members of an NPHC organization who were initiated at the same time and into the same organization. Lines are ordered and there is terminology for a person’s position in the line.

National Panhellenic Conference (NPC): The national group of 26 women’s sororities in North America and the Umbrella Organization for the Panhellenic Council. Representatives from each national sorority meet regularly to advocate for sororities, make common agreements about how Panhellenic sororities should function, and provide resources to collegiate and alumnae members.

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC): Refers to both the local and national coordinating body for historically AfricanAmerican fraternities and sororities. SIUE has seven (7) of the national organizations. The council at SIUE consists of one delegate per organization and the Executive Board, which includes five (5) elected positions.

Neophyte (Neo): A term used to refer to new members of an NPHC organization.

Neophyte Presentation: A public presentation where NPHC organizations present their neophytes to the campus community.

New/Associate Member: A term used to refer to a member of a fraternity or sorority who has accepted a bid but has not participated in the initiation ceremony. This time is when they get to know the members of the chapter, learn history and symbolism, and develop an understanding for the ideas and principles of the organization.

Panhellenic Council (PHC): The council at SIUE consists of one delegate per organization and the Executive Board, which includes nine (9) elected positions.

Pin/Badge: Worn by an initiated member of a fraternity or sorority, unique to each organization.

Pledge Class: Group of members of an IFC or PHC organization who were initiated at the same time in the same organization.

Potential New Member: A term used for a student who has shown interest in being recruited by a fraternity or sorority, or who has registered for the recruitment process. Aspirant is common among NPHC organizations.

Prophyte: A member of a NPHC organization who has been in the organization long enough to initiate a new line of members.

Quota: The number of new members Panhellenic sororities may accept during primary recruitment. This is determined based on the number of potential members participating in a given recruitment period, and is not determined until after the preference round of primary recruitment.

Recruitment: The time when PHC sororities & IFC fraternities select new members. Recruitment is organized and executed by the IFC and Panhellenic Executive Boards.

Ritual: A ceremonial event unique to each organization that plays out the ideals and principles of that organization. This is usually the time when students take an oath to uphold the values of that organization.

Sands: A word used to acknowledge other NPHC members that crossed over in other organizations or in the same organization, but a different chapter.

Stepping: A series of complex, synchronous and precise rhythmic movements performed to songs, stomps, or chants and created by organization members. Typically performed by culturally based fraternities and sororities.

Strolling: Performed by culturally based fraternities and sororities, a stroll is usually performed in unison to a song with precise and synchronized movements, possibly in a line.

Unaffiliated: A student not in a fraternity or sorority United Greek Council (UGC): UGC at SIUE consists of one delegate per organization and the Executive Board, which includes three (3) elected positions.

Yard: the term used by NPHC to refer to the particular campus or university a chapter is at.

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Division of Student Affairs Kimmel Student Involvement Center (618) 650‑2686 greeklife@siue.edu siue.edu/kimmel/greek Facebook: @siuefsl Instagram: @siuefsl Twitter: @siuefsl It is the policy of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) to prohibit discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation including gender identity, marital status, civil union status, age, physical or mental disability, military status, or unfavorable discharge from military service in regard to the administration of educational programs, admission of students, employment actions, athletics or other sponsored activities.