Your guide to
FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LIFE
TABLE OF CONTENTS 5
Introduction to Fraternity and Sorority Life
6-9 Benefits of Membership Community Networking Leadership Personal Growth Academics Commitment to Service Expectations of Membership 10
Community Governance
11
Recruitment
12
Academics and Scholarships
12
Living in a Chapter Facility
13
Alumni Engagement
13 Parent and Family Information Fast Facts What is my role as a parent/family member? 16-17 17
Terms and Definitions Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life
4
UNIVER
FRAT SORO Introduction to
FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LIFE PURPOSE Membership in a fraternity or sorority is predicated on a lifelong commitment to personal growth, leadership, scholarship, service, and community. Fraternities and sororities at the University of Idaho provide the opportunity to find a place where you belong, serve, lead, and thrive as a Vandal. We believe that when done right, fraternities and sororities are designed to empower members to become the best version of themselves. Fraternities and sororities strive to provide a supportive atmosphere that leads with learning, furthers the building of relationships, and develops the individual.
5
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP COMMUNITY ››
One of the most important aspects of joining a fraternity or sorority is the bond of siblinghood. There is a sense of unity and friendship among members of each chapter, as well as feeling of community across campus. Recruitment and intake processes introduce students to individuals who come together to share common interests and values. Our chapters strive to create a sense of belonging and celebrate the unique perspectives/identities of their members.
NETWORKING ››
6
Through chapter engagement and worldwide alumni networks, our members understand the value of building a professional network during their time as a Vandal. Members are provided opportunities to build relationships, gain industry specific contacts and access internships/co-ops that lead to fulfilling careers.
LEADERSHIP
ACADEMICS
››
››
Fraternity and sorority members experience leadership skill development unlike any other organization on a college campus. There are many opportunities for members to hold leadership roles within their organization that will provide real life experience in event planning, peer accountability, supervision, financial literacy, change management, and professional networking. Our members are also making an impact across campus by serving in leadership roles within student government, academic clubs, and much more.
PERSONAL GROWTH ››
Members of fraternities/sororities are challenged to grow personally, academically, and socially throughout their time in the organization. This is accomplished through values-based education, leadership development opportunities, service to the community and social events. Our community is committed to fostering hard and soft skills that will last a lifetime. This is accomplished through regular chapter and community education on health/safety, leadership skill development, emotional intelligence, diversity/inclusion, philanthropy, financial literacy, academic skills, and much more.
Our chapters consistently outperform other student groups/ clubs and living communities on campus in retention and graduation rates. Each chapter utilizes a high impact academic plan supported by campus and national headquarter partners. Additionally, our community consistently awards approximately $300,000 in scholarships yearly. Fraternity & Sorority scholarships are awarded in addition to general university scholarships.
COMMITMENT TO SERVICE ››
Each organization holds a deep commitment to serving their community here in Moscow and making a greater impact on the world. Chapters partner with local and national organizations to support their missions through fundraising, education events, service trips and much more. Each year our community raises over $50,000 through philanthropic events and provides over 10,000 hours in service hours in the local community.
7
EXPECTATIONS OF MEMBERSHIP ››
8
chapter has an elected/appointed officer dedicated to connecting members in the chapter with campus resources to ensure they excel academically. The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life recommends potential news members maintain a minimum of a 2.75 GPA to join a chapter.
Joining a fraternity or sorority is a lifetime commitment that requires hard work and time to devote to the organization’s functions. You should be sure that you are able to commit to each aspect of the organization including education processes, philanthropy, chapter events. ››
Financial: Joining a fraternity or sorority comes with a financial commitment to cover the cost of participation in chapter activities, membership fees, member benefits and housing/meals for housed organizations. Additionally, all members of the fraternity and sorority community pay a $50 Greek activity fee each semester with supports community-wide education, leadership opportunities, and staffing in the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life.
››
Academics: Academic success is greatly valued in all fraternities and sororities. Each chapter has a minimum GPA requirement to join and maintain membership in their organization. In addition, each
››
Time & Participation: The time commitment varies from chapter to chapter and from member to member. New members can expect to invest more time in the first semester of membership as they go through their new member education or intake program. This period is devoted to learning the history of the organization, chapter operations, and rituals; all while developing leadership, time management, and academic success skills. Although it can be time intensive, membership in our chapters should not interfere with academic commitments. Members can make their experience even more impactful by taking on leadership roles, serving on chapter committees, or running for elected positions on their chapter’s executive board.
9
COMMUNITY GOVERNANCE ››
With 36 recognized fraternities and sororities, our members make up approximately 23% of the student population here in Moscow. Our community is supported by a team of professional staff in the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life and by three governing councils: the Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), Panhellenic Association (PHA), and the Interfraternity Council (IFC). ››
Multicultural Greek Council (MGC): 4 Sororities and 2 Fraternities
››
Panhellenic Association (PHA): 10 Sororities with housing opportunities
››
Interfraternity Council (IFC): 19 Fraternities, 17 with housing opportunities R
ENT
10
RECRUITMENT AND INTAKE ››
There are several ways to get involved and join a chapter on campus. Students are encouraged to explore each chapter through a formal recruitment process in the fall semester or join at their own pace through informal recruitment. Formal Recruitment events offer an organized introduction to our community and the opportunity to meet members from each recognized organization on campus. The experience is designed intentionally to help students find an organization that shares similar values and empowers them to become the best version of themselves. We know making connections can be challenging during the first few moments on campus. The governing council officers and Fraternity & Sorority Life professional staff are here to help you find your people!
››
Students interested in joining a sorority or fraternity can find the dates and registration information for formal recruitment by visiting www.uidaho.edu/belong.
11
ACADEMICS AND SCHOLARSHIPS ››
Fraternities and sororities at U of I consistently outperform other student groups/clubs and living communities on campus in GPA, retention, and graduation rates. Each chapter utilizes a high impact academic plan supported by campus and national headquarters partners. To support academic endeavors, our community awards approximately $300,000 in scholarships yearly. Fraternity & Sorority scholarships are awarded to individual members by their organization and stack on top general university scholarships.
LIVING IN A CHAPTER FACILITY ››
The Moscow campus is home to 27 active chapter facilities that house all our Panhellenic Sororities and most of our IFC Fraternities. Students that join a chapter can live in the facility throughout their time at U of I. Living in a chapter facility also satisfies the university’s first-year live-on requirement. The average cost of living in a chapter facility is $3,700-$5,000* per semester (which includes membership dues, room rent, meals and more). *Amounts based on fall 2021 house bill totals and are subject to change.
››
All chapter facilities at U of I are owned and operated by local or national housing corporations. All financial agreements, payments, and housing contract details are handled independently from the university. Students are encouraged to review housing contracts thoroughly with the support of parents/family members and direct all questions to the local or national housing corporation.
››
Chapter facilities are private property and residences. If you are interested in a tour during a university event (i.e., UIdaho Bound), we ask that you remain respectful of our organizations, members, and the facilities during your tour.
12
ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT ››
Among the many benefits of membership in a sorority or fraternity is the worldwide network of alumni. Every organization on our campus connects their members with a global network of alumni across all career fields and walks of life.
››
We believe that membership is a lifelong commitment. Our graduates remain connected by giving of their time, talent and resources to our community here in Moscow and their local communities around the globe.
PARENT & FAMILY INFORMATION: ››
Joining a sorority or fraternity at the University of Idaho is an important decision for your student and one you should feel comfortable with as well. Your student will be part of a self-governing community that provides a multitude of opportunities for both personal and professional development, all of which will help lead your student to a bright and successful future.
13
››
Fraternity and sorority membership at U of I provides an immediate connection to a close-knit group of students, helping to make U of I feel more like home. Fraternity and sorority members are some of the most active student leaders on campus and can introduce your student to a multitude of other student organizations and leadership opportunities. Participating in Fraternity and Sorority Life is a great way to ensure a wellrounded undergraduate experience.
FAST FACTS: ››
There are 36 recognized fraternities and sororities at the University of Idaho.
››
Over 1,600 students are affiliated with a chapter, about 23% of the Moscow campus population.
››
More than 100 alumni and volunteers work year-round to advise our chapters.
››
On average, fraternity and sorority members complete over 10,000 hours of community service and donate around $50,000 annually to local and national philanthropic partners.
WHAT IS MY ROLE AS A PARENT/FAMILY MEMBER?
14
››
Take the time to learn more about the Fraternity and Sorority Community at the University of Idaho and familiarize yourself with the resources available to your student.
››
Ask questions about what the organizations will offer your student. Guide them to identify the capacity for authentic connections, leadership opportunities, and the overall return on investment. Fraternities and
sororities are different on every campus, so allow your student to choose the group with whom they feel most comfortable. ››
Keep an open mind and celebrate your student’s experience. You may have experience as a member of a fraternity/sorority yourself, or this may be your first time learning about our organizations. Your student’s experience will be unique and full of developmental opportunities.
››
Discuss the financial obligations with your student. Determine who will pay for what and any financial limitations. Joining a fraternity or sorority is a lifetime commitment, both personally and financially.
››
Above all, be supportive!
CHAPTER ACCOUNTABILITY AND OVERSIGHT: ››
Operating as a recognized fraternity or sorority at the University of Idaho is a great privilege. Each organization is expected to maintain the operational standards and responsibilities determined by their inter/national organization and U of I policies and procedures. Individual members hold equal responsibility to understand and abide by the Student Code of Conduct, Fraternity and Sorority Life policies, and the membership expectations of their fraternity/sorority.
››
Should violations occur, university staff will collaborate with inter/national headquarters staff to investigate and hold individuals or organizations accountable. As a parent or family member, you are encouraged to submit a university CARE Report should a concern arise.
15
OFFICE OF FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE Our team loves connecting with current and prospective students and their family members. We look forward helping make meaningful connections on campus and in our chapters. Our team is here for you! Reach out with your questions or schedule a time to chat by emailing fsl@uidaho.edu, or follow us on social media: Instagram and Facebook: @IdahoGreekLife
DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS 875 Perimeter Drive MS 4205 Moscow, ID 83844-4205 208-885-1114
fsl@uidaho.edu uidaho.edu/fsl
TERMS AND DEFINITIONS Active: a fully initiated and dues paying member of a fraternity or sorority Badge/Pin: worn by new and/or active members to visually represent their membership in a specific organization
Bid: a formal invitation to membership in a fraternity or sorority Big: an initiated member of a fraternity or sorority who serves as a mentor to a Potential/ Prospective New Member, guiding them through the new member program and initiation
Aspirant/Candidate: a term used by some NPHC and MGC organizations to refer to members that have submitted their application packet and been approved to go through the intake process
Crossing: ceremony during which new members of culturally-based and historically black Greek-letter organizations become active, life-long members of their organizations
Chapter: the local collegiate membership unit of a national or international fraternity or sorority
16
Continuous Open Bidding (COB): a process in which a woman can be offered a bid after
New Member: an individual who has accepted a bid to join a fraternity or sorority but who has
Dues: The monetary costs of membership in a fraternity or sorority that are used to fund the
New Member Presentation: a presentation process that celebrates and welcomes new
the formal recruitment process within PHC
costs of operations, events, housing, meal services, and activities
Dry: refers to alcohol-free and substance-free events and/or organizations. Recruitment and new member periods are dry by inter/national standards
not yet been initiated; also called associate member
members into the MGC or NPHC community. A general set up of new member presentation consists of welcoming fellow Greeks, local and national chapter history, and revealing of the new member(s)
Emerging Chapter: a new group affiliated with an inter/national organization in the process
New Member Period: the time between acceptance of a bid and initiation. Chapters
Governing Council: peer elected executive board from the member groups within one
Order of Omega: a national honor society for fraternity and sorority members who maintain a
of forming a chapter on the campus
community. Generally supports and acts as a voice for organizations within it, including being the official liaison between the university and the members of the member organizations
Formal Recruitment: a period of time during which chapters select their new members through a formal, structured process
Hazing: illegal and unethical mental, physical, or emotional abuse and activities that are prohibited by the University of Idaho, the local and state government, and all U of I Greek councils and organizations
generally take this time to educate their new members in the organization’s history and traditions
GPA above the All-Greek average have distinguished themselves as leaders in the University of Idaho community, have exemplary character, and hold either junior or senior academic standing
Panhellenic Association (PHA): one of two governing bodies of sororities on campus comprised of a chapter delegates and peer-elected executive officers
Philanthropy: a fundraising event hosted to raise money for a charitable organization with which the chapter or community has a relationship
Initiation: a traditional ritual or formal ceremony that brings a new member into full Greek
Potential New Member (PNM): a person who is interested in joining a Greek-letter
Intake: term for the process by which NPHC and MGC chapters recruit, select, educate, and
Ritual: the traditional rites and ceremonies of a fraternity or sorority; these are almost always
Interfraternity Council (IFC): one of two governing bodies of men’s fraternities on campus
Recruitment: a series of events offering members and potential members the opportunity to
Line: the new member class of a culturally-based or historically black organization Little: short for Little Brother/Sister – a new member of an organization who is being mentored
Saluting: a unique art form of reciting information in a line formation. Members perform
membership
initiate new members of their organizations
comprised of a voting senate and peer-elected executive officers
by an older member of their organization
Multicultural Greek Council (MGC): the peer-elected governing body for culturally-based, but not exclusive, sororities and fraternities on campus
National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC): the governing body of historically, but not
exclusively, African-American fraternities and sororities, also known as the “Divine Nine”
Neophyte: a new member of a culturally-based or historically black organization which usually
organization, and will participate in intake or recruitment
private and known only to initiated members of a fraternal organization get to know each other
intense, in-sync, and sharp movements with greetings attributing to each other, honoring accomplishments, or cherishing the cultural history, heritage, and traditions of the organization
Stepping: a tradition where members synchronize their moves so that they are performing their own dance-like moves without music. In stepping, the members will clap, stomp with their feet, jump, chant, and create their own beat. Stepping is traditionally done by NPHC organizations, but some multicultural Greeks are also known to do it
Strolling: a synchronized dance or rhythmic movement, performed with music by culturally based organizations
defines the stage between the completion of the new member/pledge requirements and being initiated
17
18
GREEK ALPHABET
FRATERNITY AND SORORITY HOUSING MAP
19
