What it means to be Greek
Perspective
Tim Johnson
Issue date: 2/8/10 Section: Opinions
Recently, some Greek-letter organizations on campus have gotten bad press. While the UIC InterFraternity Council will not comment on specific allegations, we want to separate ourselves from these events. The IFC represents eight fraternities of varying character, but let's be clear: Greek letters do not make a fraternity.
We are not a group of organizations fixed on drinking and parties, nor are we what you see in Animal House. A fraternity is an organization of men working toward a common goal. The fraternities within the IFC are social organizations, but our emphasis is on personal development, such as philanthropy, leadership, and cultural awareness.
For instance, Theta Xi hosts a biennial date auction open to all and raises over $3,000 for charity. Since its inception, the members of Omega Delta have embraced and championed the ideals promoted through the fraternity: education, respect, the importance of community, the greatness of shared experiences, and the value of diversity. Zeta Psi, the oldest national organization (founded in 1847) focuses on academic excellence, leadership, character, intellect and service. Phi Kappa Psi has national leadership conferences where successful alumni teach the virtues of leading with morals. Sigma Alpha Mu is dedicated to scholastics, athletics and community service. Sigma Lambda Beta, the largest Latino-based fraternity in the world, and Chi Sigma Tau, a fraternity dedicated to advancing the Asian culture, both promote cultural awareness. The newest IFC member, Tau Kappa Epsilon, believes that membership is based on the strength of one's character, not wealth or status.
It is apparent that each organization is different. However, each of them exists to create better men after graduation. The best tool we have in this regard is our accountability. Each national organization has insurance, a national chapter advisor, and a national board to govern conduct and watch over chapter operations. Our personal conduct becomes a reflection on our chapter, and we are not allowed to forget it. In short, we are held accountable by people who are far more involved than the University.
We are not a group of organizations fixed on drinking and parties, nor are we what you see in Animal House. A fraternity is an organization of men working toward a common goal. The fraternities within the IFC are social organizations, but our emphasis is on personal development, such as philanthropy, leadership, and cultural awareness.
For instance, Theta Xi hosts a biennial date auction open to all and raises over $3,000 for charity. Since its inception, the members of Omega Delta have embraced and championed the ideals promoted through the fraternity: education, respect, the importance of community, the greatness of shared experiences, and the value of diversity. Zeta Psi, the oldest national organization (founded in 1847) focuses on academic excellence, leadership, character, intellect and service. Phi Kappa Psi has national leadership conferences where successful alumni teach the virtues of leading with morals. Sigma Alpha Mu is dedicated to scholastics, athletics and community service. Sigma Lambda Beta, the largest Latino-based fraternity in the world, and Chi Sigma Tau, a fraternity dedicated to advancing the Asian culture, both promote cultural awareness. The newest IFC member, Tau Kappa Epsilon, believes that membership is based on the strength of one's character, not wealth or status.
It is apparent that each organization is different. However, each of them exists to create better men after graduation. The best tool we have in this regard is our accountability. Each national organization has insurance, a national chapter advisor, and a national board to govern conduct and watch over chapter operations. Our personal conduct becomes a reflection on our chapter, and we are not allowed to forget it. In short, we are held accountable by people who are far more involved than the University.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
impartial observer ("watchdog" if you weeeel)
posted 2/08/10 @ 10:28 AM CST
phenomenal editorial
and so we're clear, he's talking about BKZ
Lisa
posted 2/10/10 @ 9:28 AM CST
I think being in a Greek organization is great. Yes many people view Greek organizations such as a bunch of college kids who party and drink,but in reality there is so much more that they don't see. (Continued…)
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