2021-2022
2020 Chap ter
of Year - A lpha Omic ron
Pi
GUIDE TO
FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE
Fraternities and sororities have contributed to the UConn community for over 135 years. They challenge students to become better people and propel members to achieve more during their time in college and beyond.
Fall 2021 Go Greek Events Fraternity & Sorority Life Info Session Tuesday, August 31st, 4:30pm - 5:30pm , Student Union Theatre
Fraternity & Sorority Life Expo (Greek Expo) Tuesday, August 31st, 4:30pm - 7:30pm, Fairfield Way
Panhellenic Primary Recruitment Orientation Wednesday, September 1st, 6:30pm & 8:30pm, Student Union Theatre
IFC First Night Monday, September 6th, Location & Time TBD
IGC & NPHC Showcase
Thursday, September 9th, 7:00pm, Jorgensen Center for Performing Arts
This guide was published based on information available as of August 2021. For current information and additional recruitment activities throughout the year, please visit: greeklife.uconn.edu Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram: @UConnCFSD
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Why choose a fraternity or sorority?
WE’RE HUGE! The Greek community has one of the highest participation rates among all of the organizations at UConn. In recent years, fraternity and sorority membership has doubled and there are more chapters than ever before. Today, we are roughly 13% of the student population!
WE’RE INVOLVED! Greeks are involved in a variety of extracurricular activities and organizations. The more involved individuals were in their fraternity or sorority during college, the more they are involved in their community post-graduation.
WE’RE DIVERSE! Despite popular misconception, fraternities and sororities represent the rich diversity of the campus population. Members come from all different backgrounds and walks of life.
WE’RE SMART! Approximately 40% of fraternity and sorority members achieve above a 3.5 GPA each semester. Many more members are inducted each year into honor societies and make Dean’s list.
WE NETWORK! Fraternity and sorority members have the opportunity to network through Greek alumni for job assistance and advice, internship exposure and experience, and general direction when entering the workforce. The majority of fraternity and sorority members are employed full-time after graduation.
WE SERVE OTHERS! UConn fraternity and sorority members participate in countless hours of community service efforts and contribute hundreds of thousands of dollars annually to charitable causes.
WE’RE WELL-ROUNDED! Fraternity and sorority members are more likely than all other college graduates to thrive in each of the five elements of well-being (purpose, social, financial, community, and physical).
WE’RE LEADERS Greek students are involved in a variety of campus activities, are often the most visible campus leaders and are some of the most enthusiastic supporters of University events like Homecoming, HuskyTHON, and intramural sports. Many fraternity and sorority members are ambassadors, mentors, resident assistants, tour guides, and student government officers.
WE’RE FOREVER! Greeks typically have greater school spirit and are more satisfied with their college experience. However, the fun does not stop there. Membership in a fraternity or sorority is for a lifetime and there are many opportunities to stay connected beyond graduation.
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The Four Pillars of Fraternity & Sorority Life SCHOLARSHIP
LEADERSHIP
FELLOWSHIP
CITIZENSHIP
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The dedication to intellectual growth and academic excellence is a vital aspect of fraternity and sorority membership at the University of Connecticut. Programming, incentives, recognition and support from peers help fraternity and sorority members meet the scholastic standards held by their chapters and the broader community. Developing leaders today is an important part of the sorority and fraternity experience. Taking the initiative to create positive innovative change while being accountable to the community through a commitment to making decisions with integrity, ethics, and authenticity rooted in personal and organizational values. There are many ways to be a leader in UConn’s fraternity and sorority community, including holding chapter or council officer positions, being a Community Ambassador, and serving on a variety of committees. Joining a fraternity or sorority is about building lifelong relationships that extend beyond ordinary friendships. It is a shared interest among individuals rooted in trust, unity, compassion, and appreciation of differences. The bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood that are formed within each organization provide members with a home away from home, networking opportunities, and a sense of community at a large university. Citizenship is an active commitment to advocacy, diversity, and inclusion within our local and global communities that is grounded in social justice. It is a sense of personal, political, and social responsibility which aids in establishing respect among people. Members are provided with opportunities to participate in hands-on volunteer work and put together fundraising events for charitable organizations. These opportunities ensure that fraternity and sorority members have an impact on their community and develop lifelong habits of giving back.
Interfraternity Council The purpose of UConn’s Interfraternity Council (IFC) is to govern and represent the interests of the general men’s fraternities, while also serving as a liaison to the campus community. The council works to provide educational programming, leadership initiatives, and philanthropic and social events for fraternity members IFC fraternities recruit at the beginning of each semester and each fraternity hosts their own events for interested individuals. For more information and to register for IFC Recruitment, please visit: greeklife.uconn.edu/ifc Instagram: @UConnIFC
GREEK LIFE AT UCONN IS SOMETHING UNIQUE AND SPECIAL. IT'S A PLACE WHERE DIVERSE INDIVIDUALS COME TOGETHER TO MAKE LIFELONG FRIENDS AND MEMORIES ALL WHILE BETTERING THEMSELVES AND THE COMMUNITY AROUND THEM. I NEVER THOUGHT I'D BE IN THIS POSITION LET ALONE JOIN A FRATERNITY IN COLLEGE. BUT WITH A LEAP OF FATE AND THE YEARS OF INVOLVEMENT, I HAVE FOUND A HOME WHERE I FEEL SUPPORTED AND MOTIVATED TO BE THE BEST PERSON I CAN BE. I NOW ALSO HAVE THE UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO FACILITATE A DIVERSE AND MORE INCLUSIVE INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL THAT VALUES AND ENCOURAGES THE DIFFERENCES WE ALL IDENTIFY WITH. THE MEMBERS AND LEADERS WITHIN THIS COUNCIL ENCOURAGE, GUIDE, AND BUILD THE MEN OF TODAY INTO THE LEADERS FOR TOMORROW.
Interested? Please attend IFC First Night, September 6th, 2021
- RUDY KURUP, 2021 PRESIDENT INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL
IFC CHAPTERS Alpha Delta Phi Chapter: Connecticut Chapter Founded: 1832 / Est. at UConn - 2008 Philanthropy: Special Olympics Symbol: Star and Crescent Colors: Emerald and Pearl Fall 2020 GPA: 3.51 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.44 Alpha Epsilon Pi Chapter: Upsilon Kappa Founded: 1913 / Est. at UConn - 1956 Philanthropy: Make a Wish Foundation Symbol: Lion Colors: Blue and Gold Fall 2020 GPA: 3.37 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.27 Alpha Kappa Lambda Chapter: Gamma Pi Founded: 1914 / Est. at UConn 2014 Philanthropy: Domestic Violence Awareness Symbol: Coat of Arms Colors: Purple and Gold Fall 2020 GPA: 3.44 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.44 Alpha Sigma Phi Chapter: Gamma Gamma Founded: 1845 / Est. UConn 1943; 2015 Philanthropy: RAINN; Big Brothers Big Sisters Symbol: Phoenix Colors: Cardinal and Stone Fall 2020 GPA: 3.29 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.30
Beta Theta Pi Chapter: Zeta Chi Founded: 1839 / Est. at UConn - 1999 Philanthropy: Holy Family Homeless Shelter Symbol: Dragon Colors: Delicate Shades of Pink and Blue Fall 2020 GPA: 3.46 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.34 Delta Tau Delta Chapter: Crescent Colony Founded: 1858 / Est. At UConn 2017 Philanthropy: Juvenile Diabetes Research Colors: Royal Purple, White, and Yellow Gold Fall 2020 GPA: 3.22 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.44 Phi Delta Theta Chapter: Connecticut Gamma Founded: 1848 / Est. at UConn - 2016 Philanthropy: ALS Association (Lou Gehrig Disease) Symbol: Sword and Shield Colors: Azure and Argent Fall 2020 GPA: 3.48 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.41 Pi Kappa Phi Chapter: Kappa Omicron Founded: 1904 / Est. at UConn – 2016 Philanthropy: The Ability Experience Symbol: Starshield Color: White, Gold and Royal Blue Fall 2020 GPA: 3.36 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.21
Sigma Alpha Mu Chapter: Epsilon Nu Founded: 1909 / Est. at UConn – 2014 Philanthropy: Alzheimer’s Association Symbol: Octagon Colors: Purple and White Fall 2020 GPA: 3.68 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.55 Sigma Chi Chapter: Gamma Omega Founded: 1855/ Est. at UConn - 1943; 2019 Philanthropy: Huntsman Cancer Institute Symbol: White Cross Colors: Blue and Old Gold Fall 2020 GPA: 3.31 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.41 Sigma Phi Epsilon Chapter: Connecticut Alpha Founded: 1901 / Est. at UConn- 1956; 2014 Philanthropy: Big Brothers Big Sisters Symbol: Skull and Crossbones Colors: Purple and Red Fall 2020 GPA: 3.60 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.64 Tau Kappa Epsilon Chapter: Delta Gamma Founded: 1899 / Est. at UConn - 1952; 2020 Philanthropy: Alzheimer's Association's; St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Symbol: Equilateral Triangle Colors: Battleship Grey and Cherry Red Fall 2020 GPA: 3.22 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.13 4
Intercultural Greek Council The Intercultural Greek Council (IGC) governs the culturally-based and multicultural fraternities and sororities at UConn. The council works to unify these organizations through educational and social programming. It also provides a variety of leadership opportunities for its members. Some of the events the council sponsors throughout the year include: the IGC banquet, Neo Night and Senior Night. IGC groups engage in membership intake at various times throughout the academic year. For more information about how your can join an IGC organization, contact each group directly. For more information about all IGC groups, please visit: greeklife.uconn.edu/igc Instagram: @UConnIGC Interested? Please attend IGC/NPHC Showcase, September 9th, 2021
JOINING AN ORGANIZATION WITHIN THE INTERCULTURAL GREEK COUNCIL HAS ALLOWED ME TO HAVE A GREATER PLATFORM TO LEARN, EDUCATE, AND IMPLEMENT CHANGE THROUGHOUT MY COMMUNITY AND AT THE UNIVERSITY. COMING TO UCONN AS A WOMEN OF COLOR IN A STEM MAJOR WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT FOR MANY REASONS; I DIDN’T FEEL LIKE I HAD A HOME OR SENSE OF COMMUNITY. AFTER EDUCATING MYSELF ON THE LIMITED RESOURCES THE UNIVERSITY OFFERED FOR PEOPLE OF COLOR, AND WOMEN IN STEM I FOUND SIGMA LAMBDA UPSILON/ SEÑORITAS LATINAS UNIDAS SORORITY, INC. THE UNDERGRADUATE HERMANAS NOT ONLY EMBRACED THEIR ORGANIZATIONS MISSION, GOALS, AND IDEALS BUT THEY TRULY SHOWED WHAT CULTURAL ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN IGC ARE ABOUT INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO EMPOWERMENT, FAMILY ORIENTED ENVIRONMENT, AND CREATING EVERLASTING RELATIONSHIPS BEYOND COLLEGE TENURE. - ARACELIS FIGUEROA, 2021 PRESIDENT INTERCULTURAL GREEK COUNCIL
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IGC CHAPTERS Delta Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. Chapter: Rho Founded: 1998 / Est. at UConn - 2016 Philanthropy: Osteoporosis Awareness & Prevention Symbol: Butterfly Colors: Navy Blue and Silver Scope: Asian Interest Fall 2020 GPA: 3.65 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.66 Delta Phi Omega Sorority, Inc. Chapter: UConn Charter Founded: 1998 / Est. At Uconn: 2017 Philanthropy: Literacy Through Unity Symbol: Bengal Tiger Colors: Red, Black, and Silver Scope: South Asian Interest Fall 2020 GPA: 3.55 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.68 Kappa Phi Gamma Sorority, Inc. Chapter: Upsilon Charter Founded: 1998/ Est. At UConn - 2018 Philanthropy: Cancer Awareness & Research Symbol: Royal Bengal Tiger Colors: Greek, Black, and White Scope: South Asian Interest Fall 2020 GPA: 3.42 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.26 Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. Chapter: Sigma Founded: 1995 / Est. at UConn - 2004 Philanthropy: CARE; Feeding Children Everywhere Symbol: Phoenix Colors: Scarlet Red, White and Heather Grey Scope: Asian Interest Fall 2020 GPA: 3.72 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.48 Latino America Unida, Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity, Inc. Chapter: Xi Founded: 1985 / Est. at UConn - 2008 Philanthropy: Sickle Cell Awareness Symbol: Andean Condor Colors: Red, Yellow, White and Black Fall 2020 GPA: U Spring 2021 GPA: U
U DENOTES UNREPORTED DATA ** DATA IS NOT SHARED FOR GROUPS WITH FEWER THAN 4 MEMBERS
Lambda Phi Epsilon Fraternity, Inc. Founded: 1981 / Est. at UConn 2017 Philanthropy: National Marrow Donor Program Symbol: Dragon Colors: Royal Blue and White Scope: Asian Fall 2020 GPA: U Spring 2021 GPA: 3.39 Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc. Chapter: Kappa Founded: 1975 / Est. at UConn - 1992 Philanthropy: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Hole in Wall Gang Camp Symbol: Seashell, Lady on the Moon Colors: Burgundy and Grey Fall 2020 GPA: 3.42 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.68
Pi Delta Psi Fraternity, Inc. Chapter: Omega Founded: 1994 / Est. at UConn - 2008 Philanthropy: Big Brothers, Big Sisters of America Symbol: Dragon Colors: Red, White and Black Scope: Asian Interest Fall 2020 GPA: U Spring 2021 GPA: 2.59 Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latina Unidas Sorority, Inc. Chapter: Alpha Omicron Founded: 1987 / Est. at UConn - 2011; 2019 Philanthropy: Literacy Symbol: Black Persian Cat with Gold Eyes Colors: Red, Black, Silver, Gold Fall 2020 GPA: 3.33 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.59
Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. Chapter: Lambda Founded: 1975 / Est. at UConn - 1991; 2021 Philanthropy: American Heart Association Symbol: Conquistador Colors: Brown and White Fall 2020 GPA: U Spring 2021 GPA: U Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc. Chapter: Concordia Founded: 1981 / Est. At UConn: 1999; 2019 Philanthropy: To Write Love on Her Arms Symbol: Amazon Woman Colors: Baby Blue and White Scope: Multicultural Fall 2020 GPA: ** Spring 2021 GPA: 3.01 La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. Chapter: Beta Iota Founded: 1982 / Est. at UConn - 2009 Philanthropy: P.A.T.H.E. Initiative (Providing Access to Higher Education) Symbol: Fraternal Shield Colors: Brown and Gold Fall 2020 GPA: 3.00 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.10
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National Pan-Hellenic Council The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) is an umbrella organization for nine historically black international fraternities and sororities. NPHC and its member organizations have a strong commitment to providing community service at UConn and in the local community. UConn's NPHC hosts a number of educational, leadership and service opportunities and events. All of the "Divine Nine" organizations have had a presence at UConn at some point over the past 40 years and four are recognized today. The Divine Nine organizations, in order of their national founding, are as follows:
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (1906) Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (1908) Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (1911) Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (1911) Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (1913) Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (1914) Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (1920) Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (1922) Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. (1963)
NPHC groups undergo a membership intake process by which organizations bring in new members at various times throughout the academic year. These organizations host informational sessions and NPHC hosts events for interested individuals to learn more about these groups. For more information on these organizations, please visit: greeklife.uconn.edu/nphc Instagram: @UConnNPHC Interested? Please attend IGC/NPHC Showcase, September 9th, 2021
NPHC CHAPTERS Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Chapter: Kappa Delta Founded: 1906 / Est. at UConn - 1975; 2016 Philanthropy: Project Alpha Symbol: Great Sphinx of Giza Colors: Black and Old Gold Fall 2020 GPA: ** Spring 2021 GPA: ** Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Chapter: Zeta Lambda Founded: 1914 / Est. at UConn - 1974; 2014 Philanthropy: March of Dimes Symbol: Dove Colors: Royal Blue and Pure White Fall 2020 GPA: 3.28 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.25 Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Chapter: Nu Mu Founded: 1922 / Est. at UConn - 1993; 2018 Philanthropy: Project Reassurance Symbol: Poodle Colors: Royal Blue and Gold Fall 2020 GPA: 3.55 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.25 Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Chapter: Nu Theta Founded: 1920 / Est. at UConn - 1976; 2009 Philanthropy: Z-H.O.P.E., Storks Nest, National Education Foundation Symbol: Dove Colors: Royal Blue and White Fall 2020 GPA: ** Spring 2021 GPA: 3.32 U DENOTES UNREPORTED DATA ** DATA IS NOT SHARED FOR GROUPS WITH FEWER THAN 4 MEMBERS
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HELLO AND WELCOME! MY NAME IS FERNANDA REYES. IT IS AN HONOR AND PRIVILEGE TO GREET YOU AS THE PRESIDENT OF THE NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL (NPHC). I AM A PROUD MEMBER OF ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY, INC. DURING MY TIME AS PRESIDENT, I PLAN TO MAKE THE NPHC A CENTRAL LOCATION FOR COLLABORATION AND INFORMATION SHARING FOR ALL NPHC ORGANIZATIONS. WITH THE HELP OF MY EXECUTIVE BOARD WE HOPE TO CREATE AN ATMOSPHERE IN WHICH WE ARE ABLE TO FULFILL THE PRIMARY PURPOSE OF THE NPHC THROUGH COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND ACTION THROUGH EDUCATIONAL, ECONOMIC, AND CULTURAL SERVICE ACTIVITIES. THE NPHC WAS CREATED FOR US, BY US AND I HOPE TO CONTINUE THAT LEGACY. - FERNANDA REYES, 2021-2022 PRESIDENT NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL
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Panhellenic Council Ultimately, Panhellenic works to unite chapters, enhance the sorority experience, strengthen values and establish common goals among members. The council is charged with developing leadership opportunities, educational events, social interactions, community services and philanthropic events and advocacy for Panhellenic sororities For more information, please visit: greeklife.uconn.edu/ucpc
Instagram: @UCPanhellenic
Panhellenic Recruitment Panhellenic sororities participate in a formal recruitment process held at the start of each fall semester. The process consists of four rounds of events that allow potentials new members the opportunity to learn more about each of the council's chapters at UConn. During the process, potential new members will have the opportunity to ask key questions about each group and gain a deeper understanding about what membership in a sorority means. Disassociated and unbiased recruitment counselors will be there to support and guide potential new members through the process. To register for Panhellenic Recruitment, please visit:
greeklife.uconn.edu/panhellenic-recruitment
Interested? Please attend:
Panhellenic Recruitment Orientation, September 1, 2021
UCPC CHAPTERS Alpha Chi Omega Chapter: Kappa Tau Founded: 1885 / Est. at UConn - 2014 Philanthropy: Domestic Violence Awareness Symbol: Golden Lyre Colors: Scarlet Red and Olive Green Fall 2020 GPA: 3.63 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.63 Alpha Epsilon Phi Chapter: Alpha Xi Founded: 1909 / Est. at UConn - 1944; 2008 Philanthropy: The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation and Sharsheret Symbol: Columns Colors: Green and White Fall 2020 GPA: 3.60 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.57 Alpha Omicron Pi Chapter: Lambda Lambda Founded: 1909 / Est. at UConn 2017 Philanthropy: Arthritus Research and Education Symbol: Sheaf Color: Cardinal Fall 2020 GPA: 3.45 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.43 Alpha Phi Chapter: Iota Lambda Founded: 1872 / Est. at UConn - 2008 Philanthropy: Cardiac Care and Research Symbol: Ivy Leaf Colors: Silver and Bordeaux Fall 2018 GPA: 3.62 Spring 2019 GPA: 3.61 Delta Zeta Chapter: Gamma Beta Founded: 1902 / Est. at UConn - 1943; 2017 Philanthropy: Speech & Hearing Symbol: Roman Lamp Colors: Rose and Green Fall 2020 GPA: 3.63 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.67 Gamma Phi Beta Chapter: Eta Theta Founded: 1874 / Est. at UConn - 2012 Philanthropy: Building Strong Girls Symbol: Crescent Moon Colors: Light and Dark Brow Fall 2020 GPA: 3.65 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.70
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Kappa Alpha Theta Chapter: Gamma Zeta Founded: 1870 / Est. at UConn – 1942 Philanthropy: Court Appointed Special Advocates Symbol: Kite Colors: Black and Gold Fall 2020 GPA: 3.65 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.72 Phi Sigma Rho* Chapter: Theta Founded: 1984/Est. At UConn-2001 Philanthropy: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society; Girl Scouts of America Symbol: Pyramid and the Star Colors: Wine Red and Silver Fall 2020 GPA: 3.64 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.60 *Phi Sigma Rho, the Engineering Social Sorority, does not participate in the Panhellenic Sorority Recruitment process. Please visit http://uconnphirho.weebly.com/ for more information.
Pi Beta Phi Chapter: Connecticut Alpha Founded: 1867 / Est. at UConn - 1943 Philanthropy: Literacy (Read. Lead. Achieve.) Symbol: Arrow Colors: Wine and Silver Blue Fall 2020 GPA: 3.60 Spring 2021 GPA: 3.52
THE FOUR PILLARS OF THE UCONN PANHELLENIC COUNCIL ARE SCHOLARSHIP, SERVICE, SISTERHOOD, AND LEADERSHIP. THESE PILLARS REMIND OUR MEMBERS TO STRIVE FOR PERSONAL GREATNESS, AND GUIDE US ON OUR JOURNEY TO BECOME WELL ROUNDED AND CONTRIBUTING MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITIES. THE PANHELLENIC COMMUNITY OFFERS AN ABUNDANCE OF RESOURCES AND CONNECTIONS. HAVING SUCH A LARGE COMMUNITY MEANS HAVING WOMEN WITH MANY DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS, INTERESTS, AND ASPIRATIONS. NOT ONLY HAVE I BEEN ABLE TO MAKE LIFELONG FRIENDS AND MEMORIES, BUT ALSO FIND WOMEN IN MY CLASSES AND IN MY FIELDS OF INTEREST, WHO HAVE OFFERED ENDLESS ADVICE AND ENCOURAGEMENT. SISTERS ARE ALWAYS THERE TO SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER, WHETHER IT BE STARTING A NEW CLUB TOGETHER, WORKING TOGETHER ON SERVICE, SPENDING LONG HOURS IN THE LIBRARY, OR JUST LENDING AN EAR WHEN YOU NEED IT. I AM SO PROUD OF THE PANHELLENIC COMMUNITY AT UCONN, AND I AM ABSOLUTELY A BETTER PERSON NOW THAN WHEN I FIRST STEPPED ONTO CAMPUS BECAUSE OF THIS COMMUNITY!
- SARA LOUGHRAN, 2021 PRESIDENT PANHELLENIC COUNCIL
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Involvement Opportunities GREEKS AGAINST SEXUAL ASSAULT
GASA is a program, in collaboration with the Women’s Center, for selected fraternity and sorority members to come together to discuss issues of gender, sexuality, violence, and privilege in a safe space. The mission of GASA is to analyze and understand how rape culture manifests and to work toward creating a safer campus environment for all.
GREEK INTERVARSITY
Greek InterVarsity is an interdenominational campus ministry that fosters a supportive community for fraternity and sorority members to connect through faith. Students can participate in religious study, conferences, retreats, social gatherings, and an annual spring break trip (ServUp).
HUSKYTHON
HuskyTHON Dance Marathon is UConn’s largest annual philanthropic event. Each Spring, hundreds of UConn students and dozens of student organizations form teams and pledge to remain standing for 18 hours to raise money for Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, part of the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN). In 2019, HuskyTHON raised over 1.3 million dollars for the kids of Connecticut Children’s. It is the largest student led philanthropy in the state and in the top 10 most successful dance marathons in the nation.
JEWS IN GREEK LIFE
Jews in Greek Life (JIGL) is a committee sponsored by Hillel that organizes social, religious, and community service programs for all fraternity and sorority members. JIGL brings Jewish culture and connection directly to Greek students and works with Greek alumni to speak to current students on leadership, activism, career development, and issues impacting the Jewish community.
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Recognition GAMMA SIGMA ALPHA
Gamma Sigma Alpha is the national Greek academic honor society. Senior Fraternity and sorority members are eligible for membership if they have excelled in academics and have earned at least a 3.5 GPA during their junior or senior year.
ORDER OF OMEGA
Order of Omega is a national Greek honor society founded at the University of Miami in 1959. Junior or senior fraternity and sorority members are eligible for membership if they have excelled in academics and have exhibited service and leadership to UConn and the Greek community. At UConn, Order of Omega is responsible for programming a variety of community-wide leadership initiatives and new member programs.
RHO LAMBDA
Rho Lambda, the National Sorority Leadership Society. recognizes outstanding leadership contributions made by Panhellenic sorority leaders. Rho Lambda honors the great work and outstanding character of those women who have served the Greek community and their own organization. UConn’s Rho Lambda chapter annually taps sorority members to join this honor society.
ARÊTE AWARDS
Each year, the Center for Fraternity and Sorority Development recognizes chapters and individual members of the community for their outstanding performance and positive contributions.
Fraternity and Sorority Housing HUSKY VILLAGE Consistent with providing world-class residential living options for students, the University of Connecticut built and manages housing for fraternities and sororities. Located near the north entrance of campus, Husky Village is home to 12 chapters and 300 fraternity and sorority members. Each house has a kitchen, chapter office, common living room, central air, and a spiraling front staircase that leads up to two more floors of bedrooms and baths. Each chapter has decorated their housing unit to provide a unique and personalized décor. The lit outdoor volleyball and basketball courts provide for numerous hours of community recreational enjoyment.
2020 Arête Award Winners CHAPTER EXCELLENCE AWARDS Chapter of the Year Alpha Omicron Pi Excellence in Academic Achievement Alpha Omicron Pi Excellence in Chapter Operations Pi Kappa Phi Excellence in Member Development Sigma Phi Epsilon Excellence in Recruitment & Retention Alpha Omicron Pi
OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL AWARDS Living the Ritual Elizabeth Huliston, Alpha Omicron Pi Emerging Community Leader Aracelis Figueroa, Sigma Lambda Upsilon
Outstanding Chapter President Anirudh Kurup, Alpha Sigma Phi Outstanding Council Officer Zoe Butchen, Panhellenic Council Outstanding Senior Maddison Gates, Pi Beta Phi Distinguished Member of the Year Kevin Cayo, Alpha Phi Alpha Brittney L. Yancy NPHC Woman of the Year Tiera Bacote, Sigma Gamma Rho Lindsay L. Sell Panhellenic Woman Award Lauren Rudin Outstanding Scholar Rachel Thompson, Phi Sigma Rho Outstanding Advisor Janet Zheng, Delta Phi Lambda
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR WINNERS! 12
Frequently Asked Questions WILL JOINING A FRATERNITY OR SORORITY ADVERSELY AFFECT MY GRADES? Membership in a Greek chapter at UConn offers students access to a variety of resources to that can assist them in their academic endeavors. Many chapters have academic programs that may include study partners, mandatory study hours, and time management workshops. A member can also access the network of chapter members who already know how to use campus resources like the library, the Writing Center, the Quantitative Learning Center and academic advisors. Nothing, however, can take the place of a disciplined and academically-focused student to ensure success in college.
HOW MUCH TIMES IS REQUIRED TO BE A MEMBER OF A CHAPTER? The time commitment varies from chapter to chapter, but the first semester is time intensive as students participate in their chapter’s new member education program. These programs provide an opportunity to learn about the history of the organization and develop friendships among the new member class as well as the rest of the chapter. Generally, each chapter has a weekly chapter meeting and hosts other events (philanthropic, service, social, and initiation) that are generally planned well in advance.
AREN’T FRATERNITIES AND SORORITIES EXPENSIVE? Joining a fraternity or sorority involves a financial commitment. The most expensive year of membership is the first year, during which a one-time initiation fee is paid to the inter/national organization and a membership badge is often purchased. Some organizations offer payment plans in order to help spread the cost over several smaller payments. More specific financial information can be determined through talking with each chapter individually.
DO I HAVE TO BE OF A SPECIFIC ETHNICITY TO JOIN A CULTURALLY-BASED (IGC/NPHC) ORGANIZATION? Though the organizations within the IGC and NPHC may have a cultural emphasis or interest, membership is open to all students regardless of ethnicity. Students who value cultural awareness and community service are encouraged to consider IGC and NPHC member organizations.
WHAT ARE THE RITUALS THAT I KEEP HEARING ABOUT? A fraternity or sorority ritual is a sacred ceremony that reminds members of their founders’ vision and mission. A ritual emphasizes the inter/national organization’s values and the commitment that the member made when becoming a brother/sister. These rituals may be public or private, depending on the organization. Each fraternity or sorority has a ritual at different times throughout membership. These sacred ceremonies do not embarrass or hurt members.
WHAT ABOUT HAZING? The University of Connecticut has a zero-tolerance policy regarding hazing for all student organizations. Hazing, or any activity that subjects members to harassment, ridicule, intimidation, physical abuse or sleep deprivation is entirely contrary to the values and purposes of Greek life. Fraternity and sorority members are educated on the dangers of hazing, how to report incidents and how to seek assistance by both University staff and officers of the inter/national organizations. “Hazing [is] defined as an act which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or which destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation, ad- mission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization. The express or implied consent of the victim will not be a defense. Apathy or acquiescence in the presence of hazing are not neutral acts; they are violations of this rule.” - Responsibilities of Community Life: The Student Code (Part III.B.6.)
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Fraternity and Sorority Glossary ACTIVE MEMBER
MEMBERSHIP INTAKE
A fully initiated, lifelong fraternity or sorority member who is active at the collegiate level.
The process for some culturally-based fraternities and sororities to bring in new members.
ALUMNA/ALUMNUS
NEOPHYTE
An initiated member of a sorority or fraternity who is no longer in college but is a lifelong member of the organization. The plural is alumnae (women) and alumni (men, or men and women).
The most recently initiated member of an IGC or NPHC organization. NEW MEMBER
BID
A person who has accepted a bid to join an IFC fraternity or a Panhellenic sorority.
CHAPTER
A college woman who is participating in the Panhellenic recruitment process.
COLONY
The IFC/Panhellenic process through which students become members of fraternities and sororities.
A formal invitation to join a particular fraternity or sorority. A local group at an individual campus of the larger inter/national organization, designated by a special name. A newly-formed group of members who have the intent of being chartered as a chapter by meeting inter/national headquarters standards. LEGACY
The brother or sister, son or daughter, or grandson or granddaughter of a fraternity or sorority members. Each chapter has its own policies regarding legacies. Being a legacy does not mean automatic membership into that chapter. Nevertheless, special consideration is often given to legacies.
POTENTIAL NEW MEMBER (PNM) RECRUITMENT
RECRUITMENT COUNSELOR
A neutral member of a Panhellenic sorority who temporarily disassociates from her chapter to serve as an unbiased guide during Panhellenic recruitment. STEPPING/STROLLING
Creative and unique forms of artistic dance unique to some culturally-based fraternities and sororities
Greek Alphabet
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