Y
ITY
life greek life greek life greek life
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
Return service requested
www.m ws u. edu/g reekl ife
Office of Student Development and Orientation 3410 Taft Blvd. Wichita Falls, TX 76308
Midwestern State University MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Wichita Falls, Texas Permit No. 781
[Greek R ecruitment]
Leadership S c h ola r s h i p S e rv i c e Unity
Midwestern State University
greek
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
life Make
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
life greek greek life life greek greek life life
greek
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
your m ark!
Welcome The Greek community at Midwestern State University provides a comprehensive educational and social learning experience for its members through the promotion of brotherhood and sisterhood, leadership and personal development, academics, and service to the university and the Wichita Falls community. More than 300 undergraduates – about six percent of enrolled students – are members of a Greek organization.
Greek Glossary [Bid] A formal invitation to join a sorority or fraternity.
[Crossin g] To be initiated into an NPHC or multicultural Greek organization.
[I ntake] The process through which students become members of a multicultural Greek fraternity or sorority.
[I nitiation] The formal ritual ceremony that brings new members into full membership of a sorority/fraternity.
[I nterfraternity Council (IFC)] The governing body of the four fraternities on campus.
[Multicultural Greek Council (MGC)] The council that represents the historically African American or Latino/a organizations on campus.
[Panhellenic Council (PHC)] The governing body of the four National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sororities on campus.
[Recruitment] The process through which students choose to join an IFC fraternity or PHC sorority.
[Recruitment Guide (Rho Gamma)] A NPC sorority member who has disaffiliated with her sorority during recruitment to assist a potential member through the formal recruitment process.
[2]
[11]
How to Join The process for joining a fraternity or sorority is called “Recruitment” or “Intake.” At MSU, most fraternities recruit informally throughout the year; however, the IFC fraternities and the Panhellenic sororities also host a formal recruitment period in the fall. The process for affiliating with an NPHC or a multicultural fraternity or sorority is frequently referred to as intake and generally begins with information meetings for potential new members. Joining a fraternity or sorority requires making an educated decision about the organization of which you will be a life-long member. The time commitment is similar to any other student organization and will vary based on the individual fraternity or sorority. Like most things in life, the more you put in, the more you will get out of your fraternity and sorority membership. Cost is another factor to consider. Typically, the first semester will have the largest financial obligation, and it will vary based on the fraternity or sorority which you join. It is encouraged to ask the organizational leaders and individual members questions about specific benefits, such as academic programs, professional opportunities, and the requirements to become a member. Please visit both the local chapter and inter/national websites to find out more information about the organizations and membership.
[Benefits of Joining a Greek organization] The support network created by the fraternity/sorority experience promotes close and long lasting friendships. Fraternity and sorority members are committed to the academic success of their organizations. With study hours, tutoring sessions and the motivation of seeing their group’s name at the top of the academic report, Greek Life helps keep academic performance a top priority. Fraternities and sororities play an active role in University events and organizations, such as Homecoming, Family Day and athletic games. With so many opportunities for campus involvement, fraternity and sorority members take on many leadership positions in campus organizations and in the academic environment. Fraternity and sorority membership is the most successful leadership development program available to college students nationwide. The highly organized, student-run groups, with elected leadership, require members to hone skills that will be applicable both in and out of the classroom, as well as after they graduate. From public speaking, budgeting finances, networking and working with people, members of fraternities and sororities will have a leg up on their fellow students. Members of fraternity and sorority organizations give back to their community. As the largest and most visible organizations on campus, members apply their skills to worthwhile causes in the community. By participating in fundraising, philanthropic and other community service projects throughout the year, the economic impact fraternities and sororities have on the community goes unmatched. Studies have also shown that the spirit of philanthropy and volunteerism continues to grow after graduation, making members of fraternities and sororities more likely to get involved in communities, churches and civic groups than non-Greek members.
[10]
[3]
The Four Pillars [Leadership] Being in a fraternity or sorority opens the doors to a multitude of leadership positions within the chapter as well as on campus. Serving in various leadership roles such as student government, governing councils and campus committees, fraternity and sorority members have made a significant and lasting contribution to MSU, improving campus life and fostering school pride.
[Scholarship] Academics are the main reason we are all here. A common concern for many students is that joining a fraternity or sorority will take away from classes and study time. In fact, fraternity and sorority life actually helps keep students focused on their academic achievements.
[Service] Community service and philanthropy drive many of each chapter’s activities. Through hands-on volunteer work and fundraising efforts for non-profit organizations, every fraternity and sorority organization makes an impact on the community.
[Doesn’t it cost a lot of money to be in a fraternity or sorority?] Each organization is self-supported through dues charged to all members. In the first year of membership, a few one-time expenses are assessed. Membership dues often cover social activities, educational programs and leadership conferences. Membership costs vary from chapter to chapter and payment plans may be offered through the chapter.
[Bein g in a fraternity or sorority sounds like it takes a lot of time.] Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one’s time. Research has shown that involved college students are more likely to graduate and they report greater satisfaction with their college experience. Members will learn how to balance their academic, work, campus involvement and social commitments.
[I have more questions, where do I go to get more information?] Each student is encouraged to seek out additional information regarding the fraternity/sorority experience. The individual chapters are a great resource because you can ask questions and talk directly to their members. Additional information can be obtained online at www.mwsu.edu/greeklife or by contacting the Coordinator of Greek Life at 940-397-3278.
[Unity] The social aspect of fraternity and sorority life provides numerous opportunities to meet new people and make friends. And the tight-knit culture among a sisterhood or brotherhood fosters close, lifelong friendships. Your brothers and sisters are most likely the friends who you will call upon in life’s most significant moments to find a supportive voice or to celebrate happiness and success.
[4]
[9]
FAQs
[Aren’t fraternities and sororities just like the ones shown in the movies “Animal House” and “ Old School?”] Nobody likes stereotypes. Unfortunately, after the showing of those movies, Greek members have been categorized as partiers, irresponsible and are abusive. In reality, fraternities and sororities are values-based organizations dedicated to the development of character and lifelong friendships. Fraternities and sororities have some of the most active students on campus. Every organization devotes countless hours to community service, raises money for their national philanthropies and encourages involvement in a wide variety of campus organizations. They also have frequent organized brotherhood/sisterhood events for their members.
[I’m concerned about grades – what impact would mem bershi p have?] Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college. Fraternities and sororities assist in that transition by offering scholarship programs, mandatory study hours and time management workshops. Members also can access the network of friends who already know how to use campus resources like the library, advisors and campus offices. Additionally, fraternities and sororities receive an end of the semester grade report on each member. These reports help the chapter chart their members’ academic progress and target members who may need additional academic support.
[What about p led ging or hazin g?] New members all experience a period of orientation. During this time, members will participate in weekly meetings to learn about the university and the chapter. All fraternities and sororities oppose hazing and are committed to a membership education period that instills a sense of responsibility and commitment in the new members. This period will assist them in overcoming some of their concerns about success in college.
[8]
What We Do [Greek Week] Greek Week is an exciting, eventful way the entire fraternity and sorority community comes together and participates in many activities. Typical activities include a Greek cookout, Greek Olympics, a recognition banquet, service activities, and the well-known Unity Step/Stroll Competition and Greek Sing-Song.
[Leadership Development] Each year, fraternity and sorority members have the opportunity to take part in multiple leadership workshops, as well as regional and national conferences. The largest, AFLVCentral, brings together over 2,000 Greek student leaders from around the country to discuss leadership, values and ideas to bring back to campus. Each year, MSU has a delegation of at least 10 students who travel to the AFLV-Central conference, held in Indianapolis.
[New Member Institute] One of the most exciting and busiest times for a fraternity and sorority member is the first semester of joining. To make the transition a little easier, every fall semester MSU sponsors the New Member Institute to educate and inform the new members of the chapters on topics ranging from hazing/alcohol, scholarship and values. Each Institute is presented in a fun and informative way to also encourage conversations and networking among all new members.
[5]
The Chapters [Interfraternity Council] The purpose of the Interfraternity Council (IFC) at Midwestern State University is to govern the four fraternities (and growing) with our four pillars in mind: leadership, scholarship, service and unity. IFC also provides educational, philanthropic and social events for the entire Greek Community to get involved with. Interfraternity Council Member Chapters Kappa Alpha Order Phi Sigma Kappa Sigma Alpha Epsilon Sigma Nu Tau Kappa Epsilon
[Panhellenic Council]
[Multicultural Greek Council] The Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) was established at Midwestern State University in 2010. MGC exists to serve as the coordinating council for the chapters that primarily identify as historically black or Latino/a Greek Letter organizations. Its focus is to unify organizations involved in MGC, while upholding scholarship, providing community services, and improving campus and community leadership. Multicultural Greek Council Member Chapters Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. Omega Delta Phi Fraternity, Inc. Sigma Lambda Alpha Sorority, Inc. Kappa Sigma Fraternity
The purpose of the Panhellenic Council (PHC) is to govern the four sororities, while keeping in mind each organization’s ideals and promoting a positive experience for all sorority members. Panhellenic strives to unite chapter women, strengthen their values and establish common goals. Through the development and sponsorship of programs, PHC provides educational opportunities year-round to its chapters and their individual members. Panhellenic Council Member Chapters Alpha Phi Chi Omega Gamma Phi Beta Sigma Kappa
[6]
[7]
The Chapters [Interfraternity Council] The purpose of the Interfraternity Council (IFC) at Midwestern State University is to govern the four fraternities (and growing) with our four pillars in mind: leadership, scholarship, service and unity. IFC also provides educational, philanthropic and social events for the entire Greek Community to get involved with. Interfraternity Council Member Chapters Kappa Alpha Order Phi Sigma Kappa Sigma Alpha Epsilon Sigma Nu Tau Kappa Epsilon
[Panhellenic Council]
[Multicultural Greek Council] The Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) was established at Midwestern State University in 2010. MGC exists to serve as the coordinating council for the chapters that primarily identify as historically black or Latino/a Greek Letter organizations. Its focus is to unify organizations involved in MGC, while upholding scholarship, providing community services, and improving campus and community leadership. Multicultural Greek Council Member Chapters Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. Omega Delta Phi Fraternity, Inc. Sigma Lambda Alpha Sorority, Inc. Kappa Sigma Fraternity
The purpose of the Panhellenic Council (PHC) is to govern the four sororities, while keeping in mind each organization’s ideals and promoting a positive experience for all sorority members. Panhellenic strives to unite chapter women, strengthen their values and establish common goals. Through the development and sponsorship of programs, PHC provides educational opportunities year-round to its chapters and their individual members. Panhellenic Council Member Chapters Alpha Phi Chi Omega Gamma Phi Beta Sigma Kappa
[6]
[7]
FAQs
[Aren’t fraternities and sororities just like the ones shown in the movies “Animal House” and “ Old School?”] Nobody likes stereotypes. Unfortunately, after the showing of those movies, Greek members have been categorized as partiers, irresponsible and are abusive. In reality, fraternities and sororities are values-based organizations dedicated to the development of character and lifelong friendships. Fraternities and sororities have some of the most active students on campus. Every organization devotes countless hours to community service, raises money for their national philanthropies and encourages involvement in a wide variety of campus organizations. They also have frequent organized brotherhood/sisterhood events for their members.
[I’m concerned about grades – what impact would mem bershi p have?] Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedoms of college. Fraternities and sororities assist in that transition by offering scholarship programs, mandatory study hours and time management workshops. Members also can access the network of friends who already know how to use campus resources like the library, advisors and campus offices. Additionally, fraternities and sororities receive an end of the semester grade report on each member. These reports help the chapter chart their members’ academic progress and target members who may need additional academic support.
[What about p led ging or hazin g?] New members all experience a period of orientation. During this time, members will participate in weekly meetings to learn about the university and the chapter. All fraternities and sororities oppose hazing and are committed to a membership education period that instills a sense of responsibility and commitment in the new members. This period will assist them in overcoming some of their concerns about success in college.
[8]
What We Do [Greek Week] Greek Week is an exciting, eventful way the entire fraternity and sorority community comes together and participates in many activities. Typical activities include a Greek cookout, Greek Olympics, a recognition banquet, service activities, and the well-known Unity Step/Stroll Competition and Greek Sing-Song.
[Leadership Development] Each year, fraternity and sorority members have the opportunity to take part in multiple leadership workshops, as well as regional and national conferences. The largest, AFLVCentral, brings together over 2,000 Greek student leaders from around the country to discuss leadership, values and ideas to bring back to campus. Each year, MSU has a delegation of at least 10 students who travel to the AFLV-Central conference, held in Indianapolis.
[New Member Institute] One of the most exciting and busiest times for a fraternity and sorority member is the first semester of joining. To make the transition a little easier, every fall semester MSU sponsors the New Member Institute to educate and inform the new members of the chapters on topics ranging from hazing/alcohol, scholarship and values. Each Institute is presented in a fun and informative way to also encourage conversations and networking among all new members.
[5]
The Four Pillars [Leadership] Being in a fraternity or sorority opens the doors to a multitude of leadership positions within the chapter as well as on campus. Serving in various leadership roles such as student government, governing councils and campus committees, fraternity and sorority members have made a significant and lasting contribution to MSU, improving campus life and fostering school pride.
[Scholarship] Academics are the main reason we are all here. A common concern for many students is that joining a fraternity or sorority will take away from classes and study time. In fact, fraternity and sorority life actually helps keep students focused on their academic achievements.
[Service] Community service and philanthropy drive many of each chapter’s activities. Through hands-on volunteer work and fundraising efforts for non-profit organizations, every fraternity and sorority organization makes an impact on the community.
[Doesn’t it cost a lot of money to be in a fraternity or sorority?] Each organization is self-supported through dues charged to all members. In the first year of membership, a few one-time expenses are assessed. Membership dues often cover social activities, educational programs and leadership conferences. Membership costs vary from chapter to chapter and payment plans may be offered through the chapter.
[Bein g in a fraternity or sorority sounds like it takes a lot of time.] Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one’s time. Research has shown that involved college students are more likely to graduate and they report greater satisfaction with their college experience. Members will learn how to balance their academic, work, campus involvement and social commitments.
[I have more questions, where do I go to get more information?] Each student is encouraged to seek out additional information regarding the fraternity/sorority experience. The individual chapters are a great resource because you can ask questions and talk directly to their members. Additional information can be obtained online at www.mwsu.edu/greeklife or by contacting the Coordinator of Greek Life at 940-397-3278.
[Unity] The social aspect of fraternity and sorority life provides numerous opportunities to meet new people and make friends. And the tight-knit culture among a sisterhood or brotherhood fosters close, lifelong friendships. Your brothers and sisters are most likely the friends who you will call upon in life’s most significant moments to find a supportive voice or to celebrate happiness and success.
[4]
[9]
How to Join The process for joining a fraternity or sorority is called “Recruitment” or “Intake.” At MSU, most fraternities recruit informally throughout the year; however, the IFC fraternities and the Panhellenic sororities also host a formal recruitment period in the fall. The process for affiliating with an NPHC or a multicultural fraternity or sorority is frequently referred to as intake and generally begins with information meetings for potential new members. Joining a fraternity or sorority requires making an educated decision about the organization of which you will be a life-long member. The time commitment is similar to any other student organization and will vary based on the individual fraternity or sorority. Like most things in life, the more you put in, the more you will get out of your fraternity and sorority membership. Cost is another factor to consider. Typically, the first semester will have the largest financial obligation, and it will vary based on the fraternity or sorority which you join. It is encouraged to ask the organizational leaders and individual members questions about specific benefits, such as academic programs, professional opportunities, and the requirements to become a member. Please visit both the local chapter and inter/national websites to find out more information about the organizations and membership.
[Benefits of Joining a Greek organization] The support network created by the fraternity/sorority experience promotes close and long lasting friendships. Fraternity and sorority members are committed to the academic success of their organizations. With study hours, tutoring sessions and the motivation of seeing their group’s name at the top of the academic report, Greek Life helps keep academic performance a top priority. Fraternities and sororities play an active role in University events and organizations, such as Homecoming, Family Day and athletic games. With so many opportunities for campus involvement, fraternity and sorority members take on many leadership positions in campus organizations and in the academic environment. Fraternity and sorority membership is the most successful leadership development program available to college students nationwide. The highly organized, student-run groups, with elected leadership, require members to hone skills that will be applicable both in and out of the classroom, as well as after they graduate. From public speaking, budgeting finances, networking and working with people, members of fraternities and sororities will have a leg up on their fellow students. Members of fraternity and sorority organizations give back to their community. As the largest and most visible organizations on campus, members apply their skills to worthwhile causes in the community. By participating in fundraising, philanthropic and other community service projects throughout the year, the economic impact fraternities and sororities have on the community goes unmatched. Studies have also shown that the spirit of philanthropy and volunteerism continues to grow after graduation, making members of fraternities and sororities more likely to get involved in communities, churches and civic groups than non-Greek members.
[10]
[3]
Welcome The Greek community at Midwestern State University provides a comprehensive educational and social learning experience for its members through the promotion of brotherhood and sisterhood, leadership and personal development, academics, and service to the university and the Wichita Falls community. More than 300 undergraduates – about six percent of enrolled students – are members of a Greek organization.
Greek Glossary [Bid] A formal invitation to join a sorority or fraternity.
[Crossin g] To be initiated into an NPHC or multicultural Greek organization.
[I ntake] The process through which students become members of a multicultural Greek fraternity or sorority.
[I nitiation] The formal ritual ceremony that brings new members into full membership of a sorority/fraternity.
[I nterfraternity Council (IFC)] The governing body of the four fraternities on campus.
[Multicultural Greek Council (MGC)] The council that represents the historically African American or Latino/a organizations on campus.
[Panhellenic Council (PHC)] The governing body of the four National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sororities on campus.
[Recruitment] The process through which students choose to join an IFC fraternity or PHC sorority.
[Recruitment Guide (Rho Gamma)] A NPC sorority member who has disaffiliated with her sorority during recruitment to assist a potential member through the formal recruitment process.
[2]
[11]
Y
ITY
life greek life greek life greek life
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
Return service requested
www.m ws u. edu/g reekl ife
Office of Student Development and Orientation 3410 Taft Blvd. Wichita Falls, TX 76308
Midwestern State University MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Wichita Falls, Texas Permit No. 781
[Greek R ecruitment]
Leadership S c h ola r s h i p S e rv i c e Unity
Midwestern State University
greek
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
life Make
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
life greek greek life life greek greek life life
greek
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
your m ark!