2017-2018 GUIDE TO
A COMMUNITY OF COMMITMENT
Fraternities and sororities have contributed to the UConn community for nearly 135 years. They challenge students to become better men and women and propel members to achieve more during their time in college and beyond.
Fall 2017 Recruitment Events Wednesday, August 30th
Go Greek Info Session
5-6pm, Student Union Theatre
Wednesday, August 30th
Greek Expo
6-7:30pm, Fairfield Way (SU 304 rain location)
Learn more about all registered student organizations by attending the
Wednesday, September 6th Involvement Fair 2-7pm, Fairfield Way
Spring 2018 Recruitment Events* Thursday, January 18th
Go Greek Info Session
*Please visit our website for more details.
This guide was published based on information available as of August 1, 2017. For current information and additional recruitment activities throughout the year, please visit:
greeklife.uconn.edu
Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter: UConnFSL
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9 8 7 6 5 4 Why choose 3 fraternity 2 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, more so than non-Greeks. And 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!
On average fraternity and sorority members are more excited to learn than non- Greeks. 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 the Dean’s list.
We Network! Fraternity men and sorority women 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 men and women are involved in a variety of campus activities, are often the most visible campus leaders and are 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.
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We’re Forever! Greeks typically have greater
school spirit and are more satisfied with their college experience. However, the fun doesn’t 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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Scholarship The Four Pillars of Greek Life
Academic excellence is a vital aspect of fraternity and sorority membership at the University of Connecticut. Scholastic standards are important for each chapter as well as the community as a whole. Programming, incentives, recognition and ongoing support help fraternity and sorority members pursue academic success. Academic achievement is the reason students are at UConn; fraternities and sororities are designed to help their members meet that goal.
Leadership
Developing leaders today for life after college is an important part of Greek involvement. Fraternity and sorority members participate in a variety of programs that provide leadership development. There are many ways to be a leader in UConn’s Greek community, including chapter or council officer positions, national or regional leadership conferences, campus-based leadership opportunities and committee involvement.
Service
Service is a meaningful pillar of fraternity and sorority involvement at UConn. It is perhaps the most personally rewarding of the pillars, as members are provided with opportunities to participate in handson volunteer work and implement philanthropic events to raise money for charitable organizations. The opportunities ensure that fraternity and sorority members will have an impact on their community and develop lifelong habits of giving back.
The four pillars reflect the values that members of the UConn fraternity / sorority community work to emulate.
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Brotherhood/ Sisterhood
Joining a fraternity and sorority is about building lifelong relationships that extend beyond ordinary friendships. Bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood are formed within an organization and provide UConn Greeks with a home away from home, mentorship, career networking and a sense of community at a large university. Fraternity and sorority members enjoy lifelong connections that can provide support and celebration in life’s significant moments.
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 IFC is responsible for advocating for member fraternities, encouraging self-governance among member organizations and coordinating recruitment activities. The council also works to provide educational programming, leadership initiatives, philanthropic and social events and involvement opportunities for fraternity members. IFC fraternities recruit at the beginning of each semester and each fraternity hosts their own events for interested individuals. IFC promotes recruitment by distributing a calendar of all events as well as providing ways for interested students to learn more about fraternity membership. For more information and to register for IFC Recruitment, please visit: greeklife.uconn.edu/ifc Instagram: @UConnIFC
“My experience with Fraternity and Sorority Life here at UConn has been one of discovery, both internally and externally. I have been provided with numerous experiences and opportunities that I otherwise would not have had access to. Through my fraternity and the Greek community, I was able grow in many facets of my life. My social, academic, and professional skills have all benefited greatly from the programs and events put on by both OFSL and the many organizations within this community. Being a member of Greek Life has given me the opportunity to explore new places, give back to the various communities around me, and challenge myself never to be complacent in an ever-changing world. I have made many strong bonds with people that will extend well beyond my years at UConn. Through the support of like-minded and equally motivated peers, opportunities to participate in enlightening philanthropic and service work, and many other unforgettable life experiences, Greek Life for me, has been the perfect storm for personal and professional development, and for that, joining has been the single most influential thing I have done during my college career.”
- Ryan Cunniff, IFC President (2017)
Interested? Please attend:
Fall Tailgate
Saturday, September 2, 2017, 12-2pm Location TBD
Fraternity Fair
Monday, September 4, 2017, 7pm Student Union Ballroom
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IFC Chapters
ADF fiji Alpha Delta Phi
Phi Gamma Delta FIJI
ADF
Chapter: Connecticut Chapter Founded: 1832 / Est. at UConn - 2008 Philanthropy: Special Olympics Symbol: Star and Crescent Colors: Emerald and Pearl
AEP AKL ASF BQP DTD FDQ Alpha Epsilon Pi
AEP
Chapter: Upsilon Kappa Founded: 1913 / Est. at UConn - 1956 Philanthropy: Make a Wish Foundation Symbol: Lion Colors: Blue and Gold
Alpha Kappa Lambda
AKL
Chapter: Gamma Pi Founded: 1914 / Est. at UConn 2014 Philanthropy: Domestic Violence Awareness Symbol: Coat of Arms Colors: Purple and Gold
Alpha Sigma Phi
ASF
Chapter: Gamma Gamma Founded: 1845 / Est. UConn -1943; 2015 Philanthropy: RAINN; Big Brothers Big Sisters Symbol: Phoenix Colors: Cardinal and Stone
Beta Theta Pi
BQP
Chapter: Zeta Chi Founded: 1839 / Est. at UConn - 1999 Philanthropy: Holy Family Homeless Shelter Symbol: Dragon Colors: Delicate Shades of Pink and Blue
Delta Tau Delta
DTD
Phi Delta Theta
FDQ
Chapter: TBD Founded: 1858 / Establishing Fall 2017 Philanthropy: Juvenile Diabetes Research Colors: Royal Purple, White, and Yellow Gold
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Chapter: Connecticut Gamma Founded: 1848 / Est. at UConn - 2016 Philanthropy: ALS Association (Lou Gehrig Disease) Symbol: Sword and Shield Colors: Azure and Argent
Chapter: Sigma Kappa Founded: 1848 / Est. at UConn - 2013 Philanthropy: Red Cross; USO Symbol: Black Diamond Color: Royal Purple
Pi Kappa Phi
PKF
PKF SAM SFE TKE ZBT
Founded: 1904 / Est. at UConn - 2016 Philanthropy: The Ability Experience Symbol: Star and lamp Color: White, Gold and Royal Blue
Sigma Alpha Mu
SAM
Chapter: Epsilon Nu Founded: 1909 / Est. at UConn - 2014 Philanthropy: Alzheimer’s Association Symbol: Octagon Colors: Purple and White
Sigma Phi Epsilon
SFE
Tau Kappa Epsilon
TKE
Chapter: Connecticut Alpha Founded: 1901 / Est. at UConn 1956; 2014 Philanthropy: Big Brothers Big Sisters Symbol: Skull and Crossbones Colors: Purple and Red
Chapter: Delta Gamma Founded: 1899 / Est. at UConn - 1952; 1990 Philanthropy: Autism Speaks Symbol: Equilateral Triangle Colors: Cherry Red and Battleship Gray
Zeta Beta Tau
ZBT
Chapter: Delta Beta Founded: 1898 / Est. at UConn - 2006 Philanthropy: Children’s Miracle Network Symbol: Diamond Colors: Medium Blue, White and Gold
Intercultural Greek Council The Intercultural Greek Council (IGC) governs the culturally-based and multicultural fraternities and sororities at UConn. The Council helps to unify these organizations, plans a variety of educational programming and provides leadership opportunities for members. IGC sponsors multiple events throughout the year, including their Field Day and Neo Night and Senior Night. IGC groups engage in membership intake at various times throughout the academic year. For more information about how you can join an IGC organization, contact each group directly. For more information about all IGC groups, please visit: greeklife.uconn.edu/igc Instagram: @UConnIGC
“I’ve met so many different people and have been provided with countless opportunities through Greek life. My Fraternity brothers are some of my best friends. Greek life is a community that supports you and gives you the tools to succeed in and out of the classroom. Going Greek was one of the best decisions I have made in college, one that I will never regret.” – Marco Wong, IGC President (2017)
Interested? Please attend:
IGC Info Panel
Tuesday, September 5, 2017, 7pm Student Union 304
IGC & NPHC Greek Showcase
Thursday, September 7, 2017, 7pm Student Union Ballroom
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IGC Chapters Beta Chi Theta Fraternity, Inc.
BCQ
BCQ DEY DFL DFW KFL LAU
Chapter: Psi Founded: 1999 / Est. at UConn - 2012 Philanthropy: Beating Heart Disease Symbol: Rampant Lion Colors: Black, Silver, and White Scope: South Asian Interest
Delta Epsilon Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Chapter: Alpha Epsilon Founded: 1998 / Est. at UConn - 2011 Philanthropy: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Symbol: Asiatic Lion Colors: Navy Blue and Silver Scope: South Asian Interest
Delta Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc.
Chapter: UConn Colony Chapter Founded: 1998 / Est. at UConn - 2016 Philanthropy: Osteoporosis Awareness & Prevention Symbol: Butterfly Colors: Navy Blue and Silver Scope: Asian Interest
Delta Phi Omega Sorority, Inc Chapter: TBD Founded: 1998 / Establishing 2017-2018 Philanthropy: Literacy Through Unity Symbol: Bengal Tiger Colors: Red, Black, and Silver Scope: South Asian Interest
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DFL
DFΩ
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
DEY
KFL
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
LAU
IGC Chapters
LFE LQA LQF LUL MSU
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 Interest
LFE
Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc.
LQA
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
Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. Chapter: Lambda Founded: 1975 / Est. at UConn - 1991 Philanthropy: American Heart Asociation Symbol: Conquistador Colors: Brown and White
La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc.
LQF
LUL
Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc
ΩFB
WFB PDY QDS
Founded: 1989 / Establishing 2017-2018 Philanthropy: Violence Against Women Symbol: Hummingbird Colors: Black, Forest Green and Gold Scope: Latin Interest
Pi Delta Psi Fraternity, Inc.
PDY
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
Theta Delta Sigma Society, Inc. Chapter: Vortex Colony Founded: 2001 / Est. at UConn - 2015 Philanthropy: Disadvantaged Youth Symbol: Wolf, Paw Print Colors: Light and Night Blue Scope: Multicultural, Gender-Inclusive
QDS
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
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Greek Opportunities Involvement 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 Community Affairs Board
GCAB exists to promote a spirit of cooperation among members of the fraternity and sorority community and to provide programs aligned with the shared values of citizenship (responsibility and service), friendship, leadership, and scholarship. Throughout the year, GCAB hosts events like Greek Week, Hazing Prevention Week, and Ritual Celebration Week. Any student with an interest in enhancing the Greek experience through purposeful programs is welcome to join.
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 2016, HuskyTHON raised over $836,000 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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Greek 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 dĂŠcor. The lit outdoor volleyball and basketball courts provide for numerous hours of community recreational enjoyment.
Chapter Communities
In addition to Husky Village, several chapters may be housed on floors in residence halls. This provides chapters that are unable to live in Husky Village an opportunity to live together on campus. Each chapter has some ability to decorate their floor to make it unique to their organization.
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 Panhellenic women to join this honor society.
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“When going Greek, some people only think of parties, but really what you get is a lifetime of memories, family, and endless opportunities to grow. So, with that said, going Greek has been the best decision I’ve made. I’m surrounded by people who support me and share the same goal: to be successful at UConn. To be surrounded by that is special, unique, and beautiful. To be surrounded by that is going Greek.” –Rashauna Banks, NPHC President (2017)
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, and the council co-sponsors an annual Step Show featuring teams from various NPHC chapters at UConn and the surrounding area. All of the “Divine Nine” organizations have had a presence at UConn at some point over the past 40 years and five 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 Greek Showcase
Thursday, September 7, 2017, 7pm Student Union Ballroom
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NPHC Info Panel
Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 7pm Student Union 304
NPHC Chapters
AFA IFQ FBS ZFB
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
AFA
Chapter: Kappa Delta Founded: 1906 / Est. at UConn - 1975 Philanthropy: Project Alpha Symbol: Great Sphinx of Giza Colors: Black and Old Gold
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.
IFQ
Chapter: Zeta Theta Founded: 1963 / Est. at UConn - 2008 Philanthropy: National Iota Foundation, Iota Youth Alliance, Afeya Njema Symbol: Centaur Colors: Charcoal Brown and Gilded Gold
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
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
FBS
ZFB
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Panhellenic Council The Panhellenic Council is a group of women elected to represent and oversee the Panhellenic chapters at UConn. The Council works hard to unite each of these groups and is charged with developing leadership opportunities, educational events, social interactions, community service and philanthropic events and advocacy for Panhellenic sororities. The Panhellenic Council meets weekly and is attended by delegates from each member chapter. Ultimately, Panhellenic works to unite chapters, enhance the sorority experience, strengthen values and establish common goals among members. 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 the each fall semester. The process consists of four rounds of events that allow potential new members the opportunity to learn more about each of the chapters at UConn.
“I never imagined myself joining a Greek organization when I entered college, but it has turned into one of the biggest and best aspects of my college career. Membership within Greek Life has been a very personal journey for me and it is shaping me into someone I am currently proud of and the strong individual I want to become in the future. As I put more time into my organization, I really began to enjoy the people I was surrounded by and the many opportunities that have helped me improve my leadership skills, academics, interpersonal skills, and management skills. I am pushed outside my comfort zones as a leader, but I have the support of people who are similar to me and who I am lucky to call sisters. Being a part of Panhellenic has enhanced my college career and has given me a chance to make close connections with many incredible women who are intelligent, kind, and very supportive. I really like to live by the words, “We rise by lifting others,” and that’s truly what is noticed within not only Panhellenic, but the Greek community as a whole.” – Caroline Liu, UCPC President (2017)
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During this 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 [registration is required] Thursday, August 31, 2017, 7-9pm Student Union Ballroom
Panhellenic Chapters
ACW AEF AOP AF DZ
Alpha Chi Omega
ACΩ
Alpha Epsilon Phi
AEF
Alpha Omicron Pi
AOP
Chapter: Kappa Tau Founded: 1885 / Est. at UConn - 2014 Philanthropy: Domestic Violence Awareness Symbol: Golden Lyre Colors: Scarlet Red and Olive Green
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
Chapter: Lambda Lambda Founded: 1909 / Est. at UConn 2017 Philanthropy: Arthritus Research and Education Symbol: Sheaf Color: Cardinal
Alpha Phi
AF
Chapter: Iota Lambda Founded: 1872 / Est. at UConn - 2008 Philanthropy: Cardiac Care and Research Symbol: Ivy Leaf Colors: Silver and Bordeaux
Delta Zeta
DZ
Chapter: Gamma Beta Founded: 1902 / Est. at UConn - 1943; Returning Fall 2017 Philanthropy: Speech & Hearing Symbol: Roman Lamp Colors: Rose and Green
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Panhellenic Chapters
GFB KAQ FSR PBF
Gamma Phi Beta
GFB
Chapter: Eta Theta Founded: 1874 / Est. at UConn - 2012 Philanthropy: Building Strong Girls Symbol: Crescent Moon Colors: Light and Dark Brown
Kappa Alpha Theta
KAQ
Chapter: Gamma Zeta Founded: 1870 / Est. at UConn - 1942 Philanthropy: Court Appointed Special Advocates Symbol: Kite Colors: Black and Gold
Phi Sigma Rho*
FSR
Chapter: Theta Founded: 1984 / Est. at UConn - 2001 Philanthropy: Girl Scouts of America and American Cancer Society Symbol: Pyramid & Star Colors: Wine Red and Silver
* 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
PBF
Chapter: Connecticut Alpha Founded: 1867 / Est. at UConn - 1943 Philanthropy: Literacy; Read. Lead. Achieve. Champions are Readers Symbol: Arrow Colors: Wine and Silver Blue
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Frequestly Asked Questions Will joining a fraternity or sorority adversely affect my grades?
Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from a highly structured high school environment to the freedom of college. Greek membership can assist in that transition by offering scholarship programs that may include study partners, mandatory study hours and time management workshops. A student can also access the network of chapter members who already know how to use campus resources like the Homer Babbidge Library, Writing Resource Center, computer labs and academic advisors. Nothing, however, can take the place of a disciplined and academically-focused student to ensure success in college.
How much time 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. The time spent in this program should provide an opportunity to develop leadership and time management skills, learn about the history of the organization and develop friendships among the new member class as well as the rest of the chapter. Generally the program includes a weekly meeting, a project session, review material and scheduled study hours for coursework. Each chapter has weekly chapter meetings and other events (philanthropic, service, social, initiation) throughout the year that are generally planned in advance in order to promote reasonable time management. As with any organization, the time commitment increases as a student assumes leadership responsibilities.
Aren’t fraternities and sororities expensive?
Joining a fraternity or sorority does involve 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 the membership badge is often purchased. Many UConn Greeks cover the cost of chapter dues through a few weeks of pay earned during the summer. Contrary to common stereotypes, many chapter members work during the academic year and are financing portions of their tuition and/or housing expenses. Some organizations offer payment plans in order to help spread the cost over several smaller payments. More specific financial information can be determined from talking with each chapter individually.
Do I have to be of a specific ethnicity to join a culturallybased (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.
Did You Know?
44% 39% 31% 24% 15% 3.8 20.3
of all US Presidents are Greek
of all US Senators are Greek
of all US Supreme Court Justices are Greek
of the US Congress are Greek
of Fortune 100 CEOs are Greek
million Community Service Hours
million Philanthropic Dollars Raised And yet, Greeks make up only
3%
of the US population Source: North-American Interfraternity Conference: www.nicindy.org/
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FAQs continued… What are these 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, admission 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.)
Aren’t fraternities/sororities primarily social in nature?
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There is a social aspect to the Greek community, but the intent is to create members who will become contributing members of society. “Social” events include many education programs/workshops, community service events, intramural sports, Family Weekend brunches, Homecoming and dinners, in addition to social gatherings and formals. Culturally-based chapters hold alcohol-free parties in University facilities to raise money for their service projects, and no events with alcohol are permitted in the Husky Village chapter houses. While the term “social” may conjure images of Animal House or Old School, this image is largely outdated and inaccurate.
What’s the buzz about alcohol?
At the University of Connecticut, high risk binge drinking is addressed through educational programs and a partnership with the Wellness and Prevention Services Office. Fraternities and sororities are required to submit a notification form prior to any event where alcohol is served and are required to follow federal, state, UConn and their inter/ national organization’s laws and policies. Chapters are restricted from using chapter funds to purchase alcohol. Instead, they use their funds to participate in non-alcoholic socials, intramurals, and other activities on campus. Many fraternity and sorority members choose not to drink at all.
If I join a Greek organization, can I still be involved on campus?
Fraternities, sororities, and the OFSL encourage members to get involved across campus. The OFSL provides a program called Greek 101 for all new members. This seminar explains the opportunities available to new members within the Greek and larger UConn community. Students are encouraged to expand their involvement beyond their specific fraternity or sorority into the greater community by participating in numerous activities. Greek organizations are unique in the well-rounded and lifelong membership they provide, but they also believe strongly in encouraging members to use their leadership skills to benefit the larger campus and community.
Greek Glossary: Active Member – A fully initiated, lifelong fraternity or sorority member who is active at the collegiate level. Alumna/Alumnus – 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). Bid – A formal invitation to join a particular fraternity or sorority. Chapter – A local group at an individual campus of the larger inter/national organization, designated by a special name. Colony – 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. Membership Intake – The process for some culturally-based fraternities and sororities to bring in new members. Neophyte – The most recently initiated member of an IGC or NPHC organization. New Member – A person who has accepted a bid to join an IFC fraternity or a Panhellenic sorority. Potential New Member (PNM) – A college woman who is participating in the Panhellenic recruitment process. Recruitment – The IFC/Panhellenic process through which students become members of fraternities and sororities. Recruitment Counselor – A neutral member of a Panhellenic sorority who temporarily disassociates from her chapter to serve as an unbiased guide during Panhellenic recruitment.
Greek Alphabet:
A ALPHA (al-fuh) B BETA (bey-tuh) G GAMMA (gam-uh) Δ DELTA (del-tuh) E EPSILON (ep-suh-lon) Z ZETA (zaey-tuh) H ETA (ay-tah) Q THETA (they-tuh) I IOTA (ahy-oh-tuh) K KAPPA (kap-uh) L LAMBDA (lam-duh) M MU (myoo) N NU (nyoo) X XI (zahy) O OMICRON (om-i-kron) P PI (pahy) R RHO (roh) S SIGMA (sig-muh) T TAU (taw) U UPSILON (yoop-suh-lon) F PHI (fahy) C CHI (kahy) Y PSI (sahy) W OMEGA (oh-mee-guh)
Stepping/Strolling – Creative and unique forms of artistic dance unique to some culturally-based fraternities and sororities.
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