Student Leadership & Involvement Center
1. What is a fraternity or sorority?
A fraternity or sorority is a group of men or women who share common goals and ideas. Members of fraternities and sororities develop a special bond known as brotherhood or sisterhood. Fraternities and sororities enhance the educational experience by emphasizing intellectual, interpersonal, and social development. Unlike other student organizations, membership into a fraternity or sorority is a lifetime membership providing members many benefits after graduating from Creighton University.
2. What are the benefits of joining a fraternity or sorority?
In line with the Jesuit tradition of seeking excellence, Fraternity and Sorority Life offers the opportunity to develop the whole person. If you are wondering what the benefits of being involved in a fraternity or sorority are, the following points are stressed in all fraternity and sorority organizations:
LEADERSHIP
Members are encouraged to actively participate in their chapter, as well as in the community and campus-wide leadership roles. Since each chapter is self-governed, members develop leadership skills through involvement and responsibilities in a variety of activities. Many of the most visible student leaders on the Creighton campus are affiliated with our Fraternity and Sorority Life system.
FRIENDSHIP/SOCIAL
The opportunity to meet new friends increases through the social programs offered by fraternities and sororities. The purpose of social development is to create a stimulating environment in which students develop into a mature and responsible individuals. Fraternities and sororities regularly host mixers with other groups, have date parties, and formal dances. In addition, many groups hold retreats for their members to build brotherhood and sisterhood within the organization.
SCHOLARSHIP
Fraternities and Sororities at Creighton promote academic achievement through activities such as study hours, awards, speakers, scholarships, networking and career advice from alumni. All this hard work pays off! The all-Fraternity and Sorority GPA is traditionally higher than the all-campus GPA. In addition, all chapters maintain a GPA requirement for membership. A student must have a 2.5 minimum cumulative GPA to be eligible for recruitment.
PHILANTHROPY/COMMUNITY SERVICE
Fraternity and sorority chapters sponsor a multitude of activities each year to serve the community and to earn money for their various philanthropies. Community service and philanthropic activities are integral components of Fraternity and Sorority Life. A few of the community groups who benefit are: American Heart Association, Girls on the Run, Children's Miracle Network, the Boys and Girls Club, and many more.
ALUMNI OPPORTUNITIES
Participation in a fraternity or a sorority is not just an undergraduate experience! Many students continue their involvement long after college. Members serve as advisors to undergraduate chapters, work in the (inter)national offices, participate in community service, and volunteer in a variety of other roles. Many chapters have alumni networks around the globe to connect with after graduation.
3. Will joining a fraternity or sorority affect my student's academics?
The members in fraternities and sororities strive for excellence when it comes to academics. The Fraternity and Sorority Life community's GPA as a whole is generally higher than the campus' average GPA. Fraternities and the sororities have programs to help out one another when it comes to academics by having study hours in the library and peer tutoring. Each chapter recognizes outstanding academic achievement through a variety of awards and incentives. There are also many opportunities to receive scholarships through individual fraternity and sorority headquarters and Creighton's Inter-Fraternity Council and Panhellenic Council.
4. Are members of fraternities and/or sororities involved in other campus activities?
Fraternities and sororities help their members to develop their leadership skills and encourage their members to become involved in leadership roles in other organizations on campus. Currently, members of fraternities and sororities are represented among Creighton Student Union, Student Orientation Leaders, Residence Advisors, Inter Resident Hall Government, Sports club, Campus Ministry, and many others.
5. What is my role as a parent?
Take the time to find out more about the Fraternity and Sorority community at Creighton University. Ask questions about what the organizations will offer your child and allow your son or daughter to make the best decision for themselves. Once your child chooses to join a chapter, there will be opportunities for Parent's Weekend activities, visiting chapter events, and possibly joining the chapter's Parents Club. Take the time to talk to your child about Fraternity and Sorority Life and their chapter.
