Greek life is as old as the United States Constitution. For more than 200 years, fraternities and sororities have been a part of the collegiate experience.
A fraternity is a group of men who form together to form a brotherhood. A sorority is a group of women who become like each other’s sisters. Together, they are referred to as “Greeks” because of the Greek letters that are used to identify the various groups. The men and women of fraternities and sororities are bound to each other by their common values.
Greeks strive to achieve the greatest potential from each of their members, utilizing their talents and skills. They support each other in their endeavors and open doors to new opportunities.
Being a member of a group will allow your son or daughter to share his or her interests with other students who have his or her best interests at heart. The members, working together toward common goals, develop the basis for lasting and lifelong friendships.
Unfortunately, the positive side of fraternity and sorority life is often not deemed newsworthy. Northern Kentucky University Greeks are among the most progressive in the country. Alcohol continues to be an issue for campuses across the country. The reality is that your son or daughter comes to college already having been exposed to alcohol and drugs and more importantly, educated about the consequences of abusing these substances. Each chapter has a group of advisors, many of whom are parents themselves, who advise and oversee the activities of the chapter. Each chapter provides educational programs regarding the use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs.
Hazing is not tolerated, and members are fully aware of the penalties for such actions. We are proactive in education regarding hazing. Our office requires all new members to complete a hazing workshop and mandates that all chapters complete a workshop as well. NKU Greeks truly do not view hazing as appropriate behavior.
Originally written by Latorria Griffith, University of Memphis for AFLV Connections Magazine.
Griffith, L. (2014). A Parent's Guide for Surviving Fraternity & Sorority Life. Connections, the Magazine of AFLV, 6(22), 12-15.
"I am continually impressed by the service opportunities and leadership initiatives across the many Greek organizations on NKU’s campus! Both of my daughters found a group of women who motivate, inspire, and embolden them to be the best versions of themselves. Year after year, I hear about the great synergy and support amongst each fraternity and sorority chapter on campus. Being surrounded by individuals dedicated to service, fellowship, excellence, inclusivity, unity, integrity, and leadership has been pivotal in my children’s undergraduate experience and beyond. As a parent, knowing that every fraternity and sorority demonstrates these core values gives me comfort and truth in the process. There’s a sense of great pride by the Greek community in representing NKU well through strong academic achievements and philanthropic endeavors. The sororities and fraternities on NKU’s campus are distinctly special and unlike any other. I have seen first-hand the positive impact the students who make up each of these chapters has had on my daughters, and I will forever be proud of them for learning the value in being a part of something much bigger than themselves!"
-- Dawn Hils
Northern Kentucky University
Student Union 316
20 Kenton Drive
Highland Heights, KY 41099
Local: +1 (859) 572-6469
