Pillars of Fraternity & Sorority Life
Fraternities and sororities are values-based organizations. By that, we mean that each fraternity and sorority has a shared set of values commonly referred to as a mission statement, creed or motto. These values are based on the rituals of our organizations and help our members strive to live to a higher standard than their peers. It is the values of a fraternity or sorority that set them apart from each other and any other club or organization on campus. The fraternity and sorority community at IWU focuses on the following core standards: Fellowship, Leadership, Scholarship, and Service and Philanthropy.
FELLOWSHIP
The bonds forged within fraternities and sororities are extraordinarily unique and cherished for a lifetime. Through the sharing of ideals, teamwork and ritual, members of fraternities and sororities grow incredibly close with one another. Members continue to strengthen their bonds beyond their college years through participating in alumni events as well as meeting brothers and sisters from other chapters across the country. Joining a fraternity or sorority will transcend your college experience, immediately connecting you through a shared tradition with thousands of past, current, and future members of your organization locally and globally.
Fraternities and sororities also assist students in developing socially which is an important part of college. By developing socially, we don't mean becoming a better partier. Joining a fraternity or sorority is a great way to cultivate social skills, meet new people and to get the most out of the college experience. While there are many fantastic social events hosted by chapters every year, including formal dinners and dances, themed parties, barn dances, and brotherhood/sisterhood events, there are many more opportunities to develop the social skills that will help prepare you for life after college such as meeting people, learning how to have better conversations and how to develop deeper friendships.
LEADERSHIP
Joining a fraternity or sorority can provide a student with a multitude of leadership opportunities. Each chapter functions as a self-governing organization as well as a member of a governing council, meaning there are numerous elected offices to be filled, such as President, Vice President, Scholarship Chair, and Treasurer, to name a few. There are also committees and cabinet positions for members to be a part of, in areas such as Social, Recruitment, and Philanthropy.
In addition to being active within their own chapters, fraternity and sorority members are also heavily involved with other campus activities. Nearly all of the NCAA sports at IWU have members of the fraternity / sorority community on their rosters. Many positions in Student Senate, including some of the highest offices, are routinely held by fraternity and sorority members. You will also find fraternity and sorority members participating in the various music ensembles, intramural sports, clubs, and special interest groups on campus.
SCHOLARSHIP
Fraternities and sororities provide an academic support system for their members through conducting study sessions and peer mentoring. Each organization elects a scholarship chairperson to support the academics of the organization. Fraternities and sororities hope for their members to succeed in life, and that begins with academics.
SERVICE & PHILANTHROPY
Helping others is a core value of all fraternities and sororities. Members of each fraternity and sorority on campus spend countless hours doing community service and raise thousands of dollars for charity each year. In addition to being an opportunity to benefit the community, service work supports personal growth and development, becoming active citizens, and strengthening friendships among members.
QUESTIONS?
The Office of Student Involvement is more than willing to answer any questions you may have about membership in the fraternity and sorority community. Please feel free to contact our office and we will get back with you as soon as possible.