090811_GoGreek

SPECIAL SECTION

GO GREEK! THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2011

Where fun meets success

ADSHGFDFJKBVSDMNV NVNBKJDFGKVFDVMK VNKSDFLGJEROI NDSMC

2 • Thursday, September 8, 2011

The Daily Cougar

SKDJFRFHJDSCVNDKJFSD SKJDNFJDNSDNFDKMFSD KADSHGFDFJKBVSDMNV NVNBKJDFGKVFDVMK VNKSDFLGJEROI NDSMC

SPECIAL SECTION

SPECIAL SECTION

GO GREEK! THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2011

SKDJFRFHJDSCVNDKJFSD

GO GREEK!

SKJDNFJDNSDNFDKMFSDK

A special supplement to The Daily Cougar SECTION EDITOR reesha Brown

APA SP

DFV GB KBC

ACL COPY EDITORS Jack Wehman, natasha Faircloth

CONTRIBUTORS darlene Campos, XiaowenVDF ChenFM TKE KDX DEC XV FBS GFD LFE LTF PKF KFG ADVERTISING SALES Victoria gbenoba, ariana UNJ hurst, LUAamanda AKDF DGstarghill SBR SFE GAV XYS SLG ZTA SFV DSU SGR

PRODUCTION lana Flores, Jorge robles

FGD PKA

APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ FBS PKA UNJ KFG LTF SGR AXV SX SLB DZ APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF APA SP DFV GB DEC LFE PKF LUA AKDF ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV ACL FM TKE KBC XV SFE SLG ZTA SFV GAV VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS VDF KDX GFD FGD DY DSU SBR ZFB DG XYS

AXV

ZFB

SX SLB DZ DY WE HAVE MOVED! ROOM N 109 COugAR VillAgE

PHOTOS.COM

A little Greek

mythology darlene Campos | THE DAILY COUGAR

TuTORiNg

“a ll Fraternities do is drinK,” “All they do is party,” “They spend too much time on their fraternities/sororities and not

HOuRS

COuRSES

Accounting Biology Chemistry Computer Science Economics Engineering

English Foreign Language Finance Mathematics Physics Statistics

SChEduLES For SPECiFiC CourSE tutoring hourS ArE AvAiLABLE At

www.LAS.uh.Edu/LSS

Fall/Spring Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday - Sunday

9 am – 8 pm 9 am – 3 pm 1 pm – 4 pm

Summer Monday - Tuesday Wednesday- Thursday Friday

10 am – 7 pm 10 am – 6 pm 10 am – 3 pm

lEARNiNg STRATEgiES workshops: time Management test Anxiety over Procrastination And many more...

www.survey.uh.edu

Student Satisfaction Survey NSSE (National Survey of Student Engagement) for selected Freshmen and Seniors

Counseling: individual assessments and individual instructions in learning strategies

www.las.uh.edu

www.eval.uh.edu

Complete Course Evaluation online for selected courses.

enough time on their studies.” We’ve all heard the rumors that come with being in a fraternity or sorority. They’ve become so prevalent that now they’re a given. You see the letters around campus and you hear the Greek calls and say, “Nope, that’s not me”.

But let’s face it, you can’t believe everything you hear, and you can’t judge a book by its cover. So it’s time to dispel all the nasty gossip and rid the bad publicity about Greeks at UH, and get down to truth.

Myth: Members of fraternities and sororities abuse drugs and alcohol.

Fact: Well, we’re not going to lie and say fraternities and sororities don’t drink. But they do make a point of trying to do it in moderation and take safety precautions. Some Greek organizations even have a designated driver policy. Many UH fraternities and sororities even try to practice healthy living practices.

Myth: Greek organizations haze incoming members.

Fact: Hazing has been a problem in the past, but lawmakers have that under control. An article by USA Today written in January stated that 44 states have laws specifically against hazing.

Protection is possible in all 50 states. Women and men in sororities have the right to report anything that could be considered hazing to the proper authorities.

Myth: Fraternities/Sororities are too focused on their organization to make good grades.

Fact: This myth is much on the contrary. Greeks can be geeks too, and must maintain good grades in order to stay in the program. A USA Today article mentioned that in some states all sororities/fraternities require GPA requirements to keep membership. The fraternity, Lambda Theta Phi, says on its website that incoming members must have at least a 2.5 GPA and maintain at least this GPA until graduation.

Myth: By paying to be in a fraternity or sorority, you are ‘purchasing’ friends.

Fact: A fee is required for many collegiate organizations, and these funds actually go to a different purpose. The Alpha Chi Omega sorority at UH uses the money it receives to support its members and other members correlated with their sorority. Alpha Chi Omega strives to spread awareness of domestic violence by working with crisis centers and shelters to provide battered women with some form of assistance. Dues paid by members go towards

twitter.com/thedailycougar

scholarships, social events, charities and community service.

Thursday, September 8, 2011 • 3

advertising supplement

Myth: You must be a freshman to join a fraternity or a sorority.

Fact: Recruitment is open to all freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors at their universities. Sorry, graduate students; there are no graduate chapters at UH.

Myth: Greeks are only for fun and don’t teach members leadership skills.

Fact: The Lambda Theta Phi website says that about 80 percent of executives in Fortune 500 companies are members of fraternities. Seventy-six percent of Congressmen are also members of a fraternity, including 80 percent of Supreme Court justices since 1910. All but two presidents of the United States have been in fraternities. Phi Mu, a sorority at UH, is known for being the first sorority to launch National Philanthropy Day in 1999, a day especially devoted to philanthropic services in communities. National Philanthropy Day takes place on the 3rd Monday of October.

Myth: Once you are a member of a fraternity or sorority, you are not allowed to associate with anyone outside your group.

Fact: Members of fraternities and sororities are actually encouraged to associate with everyone around their campus. The Chi Omega sorority at UH is involved with many other UH organizations including Frontier Fiesta, Homecoming, Coog Crew and several more.

Unlike their reputation says, fraternities and sororities are an option for college students to make new friends, gain leadership skills, give back to their community, and overall, create memories of their college life. So don’t believe the fluff, just read the facts.

— Contributions by Reesha Brown

4 • Thursday, September 8, 2011

The Daily Cougar

Greek Life: Think before you pledge Don’t rush into Rushing — careful planning is a must Reesha Brown | the daily cougar College is more than

help their communities, and

classes, papers and tests.

host functions around campus,

It’s a critical time to build char-

so why can’t they enjoy the

acter and learn about oneself

fruits of their labor?

Greek parties are not just an

through experiences. Over the years, fraternities and sororities

excuse to get drunk or hook up

have been scorned and ridiculed

with the girl/guy you met last

for being a social gateway to lim-

week (or last night).

They give students the op-

itless parties and bought friends.

portunity to network and meet

However, one of the best

others.

ways to discover a student’s

In fact, not all greek func-

highest potential is through the brotherhood and sisterhood of

tions are mixers. Greeks also

Greek society. So before you

have formals, dinners and

answer that burning question,

benefits.

Greek parties are just anoth-

“Should I Rush?” Consider these

er example of how these groups

opportunities and you just might answer “yes.”

Brotherhood/Sisterhood Don’t get the impression that

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALPHA PSI LAMBDA

ity, time management, how to

have a minimum GPA of 2.5 or

into model students and future

become a better speaker, and

there will be repercussions.

leaders.

planning skills. No matter what

try to go above and beyond.

They provide students with a fun and lively atmosphere where they can create memo-

This is just another ele-

you’re paying for friends — be-

leadership role you play, any

ment of challenging students’

Greeks can party

ries with a fraternal family that

cause you’re not. In order for

experience that prepares you for

potential to mold members

Greeks make the grades,

will last a lifetime.

organizations to thrive, they need

the future is well worth it.

money, like any business.

Therefore, one must pay dues

Community Service

in order to be an active member.

Ask any Greek, and they’ll

These dues are put to good use:

tell you, doing service for the

They’re used for community ser-

community is one of the most

vice events, activities and social

important aspects of being in a

events, among other expenses.

fraternity or sorority.

You will have the opportunity

That’s right. Fraternities and

to join a family outside your own,

sororitites are not all fun and

full of brothers and sisters who

games. Members dedicate their

will support you and be there for

time and services to different

you forever.

charities and organizations

Lifetime friendships even ex-

area, sometimes nationally and

and includes all members of the

even internationally. Most chap-

national and international Greek

ters participate in fundraising

community, affording students

events for a cause that’s unique

great opportunities to network

to them.

UH fraternities and sororities are committed to their

Greeks are leaders Fraternities and sororities

“We’re big on elevating, educating and empowering women and making a difference and elevating ourselves in the community at large. We hold true to our morals and we are really big on politics.”

— Crystal Aguilar, Chi Epsilon Sigma

“We are very down-to-earth people. We don’t have a stereotype. You know, we’re not like other fraternities that say we’re this, we’re that.

We’re not discriminating. We may be a predominantly black organization, but we are very multicultural.”

— Jason Holiday, Phi Beta Sigma

philanthropic service and see it as a social responsibility and

provide a solid foundation for

a privilege. And a lot of times,

leadership training that prepares

it gives members something to

members to meet the demands

do and a sense of accomplish-

of others.

ment. Plus, charity work is

All members learn to work

What’s so great about being a member of a Greek organization? Your fellow Cougars have the answer.

around the greater Houston

pand beyond individual chapters

and share common interests.

GREEKS SPEAK

another great way for members

within their chapters with of-

to network and produce a good

ficers who are elected to manage

resume.

“Part of the reason I joined is because I have core values. And I believed that my organization supports my core values...With co-ed fraternities you get to see the best of both worlds. There will be drama, there will be male egos, but we’re like a family because we have both genders. So we have nothing to lose. ” — Marvin Marcia, Alpha Psi Lambda

day-to-day operations.

There are plenty of opportunities for students to show

Scholarships Each fraternity and sorority

leadership in their organizations.

provides learning assistance in

This can be anything from being

areas such as tutoring, scholar-

in charge of event planning to

ships, study sessions and other

passing out flyers or training

incentives.

newcomers. Regardless of what

It’s true. Greeks must make

task you take on, every experi-

the grades.They don’t have a

ence will teach you new skills,

choice. In order to stay in the

like organization, responsibil-

program, it is required that you

“I’m having a great time. I love college. I love academia. I love being part of my organization. When I finally graduate it’s gonna be hard to let go of because it’s just been such a big part of my life. And I’m glad that I got to share these experiences with these people that if I hadn’t been Greek I probably wouldn’t have been able to share.”

— Dennis Holloway, Sigma Phi Epsilon

Thursday, September 8, 2011 • 5

advertising supplement

Why go Greek? Why not?

Student success? Check. Good times? Check. reesha Brown | THE DAILY COUGAR

iF You stop a greeK at uh and ask them why they joined a fraternity or sorority, you better hope you’re not in a rush. Their response will be passionately

RUSH1301

communications sophmore communications sophmore communications sophmore

reesha Brown | THE DAILY COUGAR

rush WeeK is right around the Corner. And you

“It forces you to get out there. It forces you to get up and do something…I’ve donated my blood, sweat and tears to my organization, not because I had to, but because I wanted to.”

— Tiffany Dennette, of Gamma Alpha Omega

detailed. That’s because at the

need a plan. Just follow these steps.

1. Research

Before you decide to join a fraternity or

sorority, go online and research a Greek organization that best fits you. Ask family members what Greek organizations they joined and continue the legacy.

University of Houston, fraternal

2. Get involved

students pride themselves on

ties around campus this week and next week to become

their organizations. For those

involved. This means plenty of opportunities to meet the

interested in wearing the letters,

get to carry the letters with you

joining a brotherhood/sisterhood,

for the rest of your life.

and becoming an active member

There are many events and opportuni-

“They’re different from student

Delta Sigma Theta said.

These Greeks would agree that

Greeks and determine which organization is the right fit.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

there are many positive aspects

of a Greek organization, you may

organizations,” Victoria Valdez, of

to being in a fraternity or sorority,

3. Mission

have made one of the best deci-

Alpha Psi Lambda said. “Everyone

but there are also some negative.

statements are and match them with your core values.

sions of your life.

can get in. Everyone can pay a flat

“One of the biggest challenges

Find out what the organization’s mission

Know their involvement on campus and in the community.

rate of money. And it’s optional.

was the stereotypes,” Dennis Hol-

Find out their grade requirements, scholarships offered

act quickly – fall recruitment

With Greek, it’s exclusive. You

loway, of Sigma Phi Epsilon said.

and sports initiatives; what their main focus is, whether it’s

begins Sept. 16-18.

earn it.”

“Being in a fraternity has a nega-

philanthropy, high GPA’s, strong historical values, etc.

Most importantly, you better

“You have so many learning opportunities with fraternities and sororities,” Jason Bergeron,

But like anything else, it’s not for everyone.

“I believe that as a born-again

tive connotation, but when I joined I really dove into it. But that’s the

4. Check online

whole point, really being part of

information and the local UH website for specific details

Check out national websites for more

associate director of the Center

Christian, I am a walking volun-

this and finding what you like.”

about Greek organizations on campus at http://uhgreeks.

for Leadership and Fraternity

teer service,” communications

While UH Greek life has

theginsystem.com. There are four governing councils. Visit

& Sorority Life said. “It’s about

sophmore Brittany Auzenne said.

excelled tremendously with 19 so-

creating some lasting experiences

“I don’t need a sorority or any

rorities and 24 fraternities, includ-

with others. There’s a lot of op-

other particular organization be-

ing one of the newest chapters

5. Go to the office

portunity to learn about yourself

cause I can serve my community

to the Cougar Community, Sigma

and Development & Fraternity and Sorority Life in room 52,

and others through that experi-

anytime, every day.”

Nu, they still have a ways to go.

on the bottom floor of the University Community Center for

ence.”

Let’s not forget about the

“Only about 3 percent of the

fun. From homecoming events to

student body is Greek,” Holloway

campus said once you take that

fashion shows and the wild step

said. “It’s disappointing when

pledge, students are immersed

shows, UH Greeks know how to

into a world with limitless op-

throw a good soirée.

Several Greeks around

portunities, like graduating with

but it’s an earned privilege,” Den-

morals/values, building friend-

nette said. “We earn the right to

ships that last a lifetime, helping

party because we work hard and

the community, maintaining a

we’re doing community service

legacy, and most importantly have

and putting together events. So

the best of times.

it’s more of a reward.” bit out of control, safety is heavily

something you love to do,” Tiffany

enforced. Dennette said there’s

Dennette, of Gamma Alpha Ome-

a designated driver for every car

ga said. “Once you’re in, you’re

populated with beer pongers and

part of a family. No matter what

funnel guzzlers. Greeks enforce

you do you’re part of a family.”

these social rules because they member makes on or off campus

not all fun and games. Once you

reflects their organization. Once

cross, you have to donate your

you take the step, your actions

time, some of your money, and a

bare more weight.

organization.

“Losing your letters is the worst thing,” she said. “If you

“I feel like I have a full-time

lose your letters, it feels like your

job,” Dennette said. “It forces you

whole world is coming down be-

to get out there. It forces you to

cause it’s so important to you.”

get up and do something…I’ve do-

It’s all about upholding the

nated my blood, sweat and tears

legacies of different Greek organi-

to my organization, not because I

zations and those built at UH.

had to, but because I wanted to.”

Once a Greek always a Greek.

6. Pay up

Save your money, fees will be due.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 8

at

believe that every decision a

a wife studying English, said it’s

lot of community service to your

brochures, or for networking opportunities.

Even when the parties get a

it’s something you want to do; it’s

Dennette, a mother of two and

Visit the Center for Leadership

“Yes, we party, that’s a given,

a good GPA, learning to uphold

“It’s not just about the parties,

WhY?

www.uh.edu/clfsl for a list of active chapters.

10 FREE

5 FREE

wings with wings with 50-pack 35-pack Pick up your wings today at: 712 Gulfgate Center, Gulfgate Shopping Center, Houston, TX 77087 (713) 643-9464

“Being in a black sorority means history. It gives you a bet-

One of the best parts about being

ter sense of knowing where you

in a fraternity or sorority is you

came from,” Nadirah Shakir of

Recycle this paper

6 • Thursday, September 8, 2011

The Daily Cougar

Nu kid on the block

Sigma Nu aims to be UH’s best fraternity Xiaowen Chen | the daily cougar

Jason and the Argonauts Adviser Bergeron guides greek development Reesha Brown | the daily cougar For anyone who has seen Jason Bergeron around campus,

Headquartered in

Bremmeyer said.

has a four-year ethical leadership

in his office, or outside jogging;

development program called the

it’s clear that he is not your

announce the recolonization of

the high goal of UH becoming

LEAD Program, which stands for

average Joe — given his title as

their Zeta Chi Chapter at the

a Tier One University, strong

Leadership, Ethics, Achievement

associate director of the Center

University of Houston during

student involvement on campus,

and Development.”

for Leadership and Fraternity &

Lexington, Va., Sigma Nu will

theis fall semester.

“Sigma Nu was attracted to

and a diverse student popula-

Sigma Nu’s goal is to be-

Sorority Life.

tion. These motivations drove us

come one of the best student

For those who are not aware of

1869, Sigma Nu began to ad-

to make up our minds to come

organizations on UH campus.

what the title entails, let’s break it

dress its mission to foster the

back.”

Since its founding year in

personal growth of each man’s

There are more than 840

“We are interested in recruiting all male leaders, who

down so you are.

The six-foot two (give or take)

mind, heart and character; to

Sigma Nu alumni from the

are involved in other areas of

red-haired UH employee, super-

perpetuating lifelong friendships

University of Houston and they

campus life with a strong focus

vises CLFSL staff along with stra-

passionate about; and that led me

and commitment to the fraternity.

have contributed in different

on academics, and could set a

tegically planning and establish-

to identify what I was passionate

The Nu-est Greek group’s creed

ways to UH and Texas. Guy

great example for the rest of

ing programs and initiatives for

about, learning within the under-

of vision is shortened to the fol-

Lewis, Hall of Fame basketball

the student population,” Brem-

service leadership and fraternity

graduate experience.”

lowing, “To believe in the love of

coach, guided the Cougar men’s

meyer said.

and sorority life. His functional

life; To walk in the way of honor;

basketball team to 27 straight

To serve in the life of truth”.

winning seasons and coached at UH for 30 years. Bert

Famous Sigma Nu alumni

He is confident about the out-

STAFF PHOTO

The Phi Lambda Phi member

responsibility is leadership. Most

took on several leadership roles as

look of the Sigma Nu fraternity

of his time is spent with develop-

an undergraduate, which he used

in UH within the near future.

ment programs that help navigate

as stepping stones to lead him to

students into playing vital roles in

the position he has now. From stu-

“First, the Sigma Nu staff

have included men of note in

Winston Jr. helped to fund the

the arts, media, politics, sports

new football stadium as well as

on campus will work to recruit

the community through leadership

dent program officer to resident

and numerous other fields in-

numerous athletic scholarships

the highest quality men that

skills obtained during the course

assistant and orientation leader,

cluding governor of Georgia and

through generous donations.

will commit to our values and

of CLFSL programs.

Bergeron has a strong belief that

our mission. These men will

US Senator Herman Talmadge,

Sigma Nu does have simi-

President of CNN Tom Johnson

larities with other fraternities

then work to fulfill that mission

surface. But strip away the title

and Olympic figure skating Gold

on campus such as brother-

through community service op-

and catch him off campus, and

Medalist Hayes Alan Jenkins.

hood and a basis of alumni to

portunities, philanthropic work,

one sees quickly there’s more to

think that they’re (passion and

network with. These Greeks also

partnering with other student

Bergeron than what meets the eye.

making money) mutually exclu-

have several distinctive features.

organizations, and promoting

The Ohio Northern University

Originally founded in 1956, the Zeta Chi Chapter was an

This is who he is on the

even the smallest jobs can have the biggest impact.

“I think that sometimes people

sive…like I can either do some-

a strong sense of community

graduate traded snow storms for

thing passionate or make money.

community until closing in

Nu is creating a brand new

through not only fraternity and

record-breaking heat and humidity

And I think that we’re finding now

2008, Adam S. Bremmeyer,

student organization where men

sorority life but at the University

when he took his civil engineering

that you can engage in some-

Expansion and Recruitment

will have the opportunity to

of Houston as a whole. “

degree and moved south to Hous-

thing that you feel like is going

Consultant for Sigma Nu said.

build it from the ground up into

ton on a quest to explore opportu-

to benefit other people and I’m

“Sigma Nu has a large

what they feel an ideal fraternity

recruitment phase. Anyone inter-

nities outside of his career path.

passionate about, and also create

alumni base within the greater

will be. This would require lots

ested to know about Sigma Nu

Houston area that has planned

of leadership positions,” Brem-

can contact Adam Bremmeyer

parture. I have a great case study

take on some social entrepreneur-

on the chapter returning to form

meyer said.

by e-mail at adam.bremmeyer@

in the college experience allowing

ship and I can do some good and

sigmanu.org.

me to explore more personally

still pursue my passions.”

active member of the UH Greek

a great fraternity once again at the University of Houston,”

“First and foremost, Sigma

“Additionally, Sigma Nu is the only men’s fraternity that

Sigma Nu is currently in the

“For me it was a drastic de-

and professionally what you’re

a sustainable lifestyle. Like I can

Of course his passion extends way beyond his occupation. Toss him some running shoes and dump him onto a track, and his passion runs about 13 miles deep, so far. The “travel nut” as he calls himself has taken up a fairly new hobby – distance running.

In fact, he’s training for his next half marathon, which is 13.1 miles in January. But like any challenge, he said it takes a lot of preparation and discipline.

“I had to really adhere to a training schedule. But it was something I was passionate about and wanted to get that sense of accomplishment. I’m passionate about my fitness so it does take a lot of discipline. You can’t just wake up one morning; unless you’re one of the best athletes in the world, you can’t just say I’m gonna run a full marathon.

JASON

continues on page 8

Thursday, September 8, 2011 • 7

advertising supplement

Learning to lead

UH wants to craft tomorrow’s leaders today reesha Brown | THE DAILY COUGAR it’s not enough to taKe a pledge and become part of fraternity or sorority at UH. Greek organizations are interested in students who strive to excel in all

“A leader is one who is able to affect positive change for the betterment of others, the community, and society. All people, in other words, are leaders.”

— Courtney Reynolds, instructional assistant

facets of their academic careers and offer their services for the betterment of the community in and

ested in building leadership skills.

two years now, and has gained

around campus through leader-

The workshop will be held Oct. 3-7

many friends in his chapter at UH

ship opportunities.

and will focus on student’s inner

and across the nation. He also

strengths. Strengths will be deter-

assisted with several community

the perfect student? No, just those

mined based on an assessment

service events while keeping his

interested in playing a lead role in

test that will be completed online.

grade point average well above the

their organizations.

Participants (Greek or not) will

required 2.5. This of course was

learn how to use those strengths

all while working his way up from

the Univeristy Community Center,

to guide them when taking on

being an active member to full-

The Center for Leadership and

leadership roles. Participants will

time president of the fraternity.

Fraternity & Sorority Life strives

also have an opportunity to meet

to develop students into future

others who share common goals,

done this without support from

leaders through programs offered

interests and strengths at the end

his brothers and leaders in the

mainly for on-campus Greek

of the week.

fraternity and the experiences he

Does this mean Greeks want

Housed on the bottom floor of

Utilizing these types of leader-

society.

The department’s instructional

ship development programs are

But he says he couldn’t have

STAFF PHOTO

gained through them.

“You have so many opportuni-

department’s brochure, leader-

are leaders.”

If you think you have what it

assistant, Courtney Reynolds

sometimes necessary to ensure

ties to network,” he said. “I can

ship is “not necessarily a person

says the programs are useful for

one’s success before and after

honestly say I know people from

who holds some formal position

takes to take on a leadership role

students who are not familiar with

graduation. Prasheen Laxmidas,

coast to coast. It’s a lot of Cougar

of leadership or who is perceived

or are interested in becoming a

their inner strengths and weak-

president of Sigma Beta Rho said

pride you build in the organization

as a leader by others. Rather a

leader at UH, contact the Center

nesses, and those who are familiar

those who don’t take advantage of

because you get to network.”

leader is one who is able to affect

for Leadership and Fraternity &

with their strengths but don’t

these opportunities will fall behind

But what exactly is a leader?

positive change for the betterment

Sorority Life at (832) 842-4955;

know how to use them to their

the competition.

To Reynolds and her col-

of others, the community, and

clfsl@uh.edu or visit them at the

society. All people, in other words,

UC Underground,

“With any organization you

benefit.

“Our whole department, be-

have to show intitiative,” he said.

cause what Jason (Bergeron) and

“You have to take a leap once you

I focus on is leadership programs

take on a position. Because you

that are specifically just for leader-

don’t get many opportunities to

ship, and then we have fraternity

take on leadership skills.”

and sorority life, and then we

Laxmidas could be deemed a

have community service through

prime example of students who

the Metropolitan Volunteer Pro-

have worked their way to the top

gram or MVP,” she said.

of their organization. The multicul-

Reynolds mentioned Cougar Strengths Week for those inter-

tural fraternity member has been with the organization for about

GET SOME DAILY In print. Online. On the go.

THE DA D ILY L COU LY OUG OU UGA GAR

the official student newspaper of the university of houston since 1934

leagues, and according to the

8 • Thursday, September 8, 2011

The Daily Cougar

Make the Tier One choice Pick the fraternities or sororities that match your style and values

JASON

From page 8

It really takes preparation. It takes discipline. It takes time management. For me I had to think if I’m gonna train four

Multicultural Greek Council

days a week, where’s that going

Founded at UH in 2003, MGC governs 18 culturally-oriented and faith-

to come from because that’s

based fraternities and sororities. MGC sponsors community service

personal time. It’s just a great

projects and leadership development for its member organizations.

experience.”

Growing up as a chunky kid,

Sororities

Name

Email

Interfraternity Council

Alpha Kappa Delta Phi

Christie Nguyen

president@uhakdphi.org

Self-governing organization of 14 NIC fraternities that promote chap-

Chi Upsilon Sigma

Alice Valdez

valdez.alice@yahoo.com

ter collaboration and unified fraternal action. With some of the most

Delta Phi Omega

Rafiah Khan

rafiahkhan@hotmail.com

to my health and really trans-

prestigious national organizations in the University of Houston Greek

Gamma Alpha Omega

Elizabeth Lopera

elopera06@hotmail.com

formed my physical shape, and

community, IFC strives to build a stronger community by providing

Kappa Delta Chi

Katrina Bedoya

uh_thetapresident@yahoo.com

I really made a conscious deci-

leadership, educational and intramural opportunities for all of its

Kappa Phi Gamma

Neha Abassi

emeraldnabassi@gmail.com

sion to change my weight.”

chapter members.

Lambda Theta Alpha

Abigail Guevara

abby.sp10deuce@yahoo.com

Delta Upsilon

Alborz Mehdi

borzm@hotmail.com

Kappa Alpha Order

Andrew Hoffman

andrew.r.hoffman@gmail.com

Kappa Sigma

Michael Krill

mckrill89@gmail.com

Lambda Phi Epsilon

Viet-Tu Nguyen

vdnguyen180@gmail.com

Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI)

Maged Ayaad

maged.ayyad@gmail.com

Phi Kappa Psi

Neal Bahkta

neal.bhakta@gmail.com

Pi Kappa Alpha

Hank Walden

hjwalden89@gmail.com

Pi Kappa Phi Sigma Chi

Paul Sierra Alex Wilkins

psierraii@yahoo.com alexwilkins84@yahoo.com

Sigma Phi Epsilon

Chris Casto

ccasto34@hotmail.com

Sigma Pi

Jorge Miranda

jor13ge@yahoo.com

Tau Kappa Epsilon

Toby Castro

tobyacastro@gmail.com

Triangle

Murtaza Zaidi

tazzaidi786@yahoo.com

the new challenge.

“Running helped me commit

While Bergeron has made

Sigma Lambda Gamma

Daniella Lahoud

daniela_lahoud@yahoo.com

a lot of changes during the

Sigma Phi Omega

Kimberly Coleman

jrcoleman1@aol.com

course of his career, one thing

Theta Nu Xi

Jackie Castaneda

jackiejcastaneda@yahoo.com

Fraternities

Name

Email

Alpha Psi Lambda

Carlos Hernandez

Tm_burgos@yahoo.com

Delta Epsilon Psi

Philip Thekkekara

pthek24@gmail.com

Gamma Beta

Kevin Vi Lu

kdlu@uh.edu

wake up one day and say I’m

Lambda Theta Phi

Victor Reynoso

crusade1975@yahoo.com

a leader. It takes a constant

Omega Delta Phi

David Williams

david_oldeta@yahoo.com

knowing of self and a constant

Sigma Beta Rho

Prasheen Laxmidas

prash33n@gmail.com

knowing of others, and that’s a

Sigma Lambda Beta

Jose A Aguayo (Tony)

slbancla86@gmail.com

lifelong process.”

Gamma Phi Delta

Brandon McCoy

bdmccoy2010@yahoo.com

has not changed – he continues to be a leader in his community and his school.

“Leadership is a journey.

It’s part of a journey. You don’t

And he’s trying to help others in his path become leaders too through the programs at UH.

National Pan-Hellenic Council

Houston Panhellenic Council

his past drove him to take on

“We get to help build more

Governing body for the “Divine Nine” historically African-American

rounded scholars and more

Governing body for six of the 26 national/international sororities that

fraternities and sororities, NPHC aims to unify the six member organi-

rounded individuals. That’s how

belong to the National Panhellenic Conference. Panhellenic sponsors

zations represented at UH through an emphasis on community service,

we support UH.”

and coordinates formal recruitment each fall semester. Members

academics, leadership development and collaboration.

have been recipients of some of the largest national and local schol-

Sororities

Name

Email

Delta Sigma Theta

Lucy Udofia

laudofia@gmail.com

lorinfotehaxo@yahoo.com

Sigma Gamma Rho

LaTiffany Williams

lwilliams11@uh.edu

arships.

Alpha Chi Omega

Lorin Foteh

WHY?

From page 5

Chi Omega

Amanda Von Tilborg

a.vantilborg@gmail.com

Zeta Phi Beta

Ashely Williams

williamsash@msn.com

we’re one of the largest schools

Delta Gamma

Emily Clonginger

emilyc8730@yahoo.com

Fraternities

Name

Email

in the state and we don’t have a

Delta Zeta

Ana Velasquez

aevelas.2@gmail.com

Alpha Phi Alpha

James Lynn III

jelynn2@mail.uh.edu

lot of people joining.”

Phi Mu

Jesenya Fernandez

jesenyafernandez@yahoo.com

Kappa Alpha Psi

Quione Cooke

qbcooke@uh.edu

Zeta Tau Alpha

Chelsea Snyder

chelsea.snyder@gmail.com

Phi Beta Sigma

Olu Afolabi

junior8480@aol.com

This is mainly due to student beliefs that they’re not “Greek material”. Holloway

believes that everyone is Greek material, but it’s matter of finding a fraternity or sorority that fits you.

“I think that everyone should try to be in one,” Holloway said.

“I know they’re not for everyone, but you get the privilege of sharing a special bond with someone, to share a sisterhood and brotherhood.”

The choice to Rush is not a momentary decision, it’s a lifetime commitment.

“I love all my sisters in Chi Omega so much,” kinesiology junior Megan Henry said. “I can’t imagine what my college career would have been like without joining Greek life, and especially without my sisters.”

With all of the advantages, you better ask yourself, “Are you ready to take the pledge?”