U of Manitoba/Winnipeg Greeks! Why Go Greek?

Welcome to the University of Manitoba community and, more specifically, to Greek life! University of Manitoba is an exciting and dynamic university where your student will find many opportunities to get involved in campus life. As the President of Greek Council, I encourage students to become involved in activities outside of the classroom in order to enhance their academic experience. Research has shown that 70% of what a student learns during their college years results from out-of-class experiences. Additionally, research has proven that fraternity and sorority membership helps keep students in college. Greek students are 28% more likely to stay in college than other students.

The challenges and rewards of college life can be greatly enhanced through a sorority or fraternity experience. At a large university like the University of Manitoba, many students are in search of a smaller group where they feel comfortable and can work with others to achieve common goals. Since 1921, University of Manitoba has provided students with the Greek life experience. Being Greek at U of M means an intentional focus on leadership, scholarship, community service, and friendship, as well as social activities. Greek-letter organizations give individuals a more well-rounded college experience while encouraging students to be as successful as they can be.

University of Manitoba is proud that your student has chosen our institution to further their education. If your son or daughter decides to join the Greek community, we hope that the experience will be beneficial to his or her growth and development. Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have questions or concerns about Greek life on campus.

Sincerely,

Scott MacLeod
President
U of Manitoba Greek Council
manitobagreeks@hotmail.com

These concerns are very common. Everyone wants to feel like they belong. We know that, as a parent, you share some of your student's concerns. You want them to succeed and have a beneficial experience. Greek organizations offer students a chance to meet a variety of people who share their interests and values.

University of Manitoba has 6 International Greek organizations. The Greek community provides a "home away from home" and creates a more intimate environment on such a large, urban campus. Through academic enhancement programs, educational seminars, community service, leadership development, and social functions, the Greek community produces successful alumni and strong citizens for the future.

Stereotypically, all Greek organizations have been perceived to be social outlets which promote carefree and irresponsible behaviors and attitudes. This "Animal House" image is extremely outdated and misleading. Today's fraternities and sororities have adopted more responsible approaches to socializing and have created a safer and more effective environment for their members. They are also accountable to their international organizations for maintaining a certain set of standards.

Greek students at University of Manitoba are often found in leadership positions across campus - from the Student Government Vice President to the University One leaders to Campus radio. While comprising only less than one percent of the university population, Greek students are visible on campus through their involvement and community service efforts.

There are two governing bodies for the fraternities and sororities at University of Manitoba. These councils belong to larger national organizations:

In addition, University of Manitoba has a Greek Council comprised of one member from each of the six fraternities and sororities. The Greek Council is responsible for planning all-Greek events such as Greek Week as well as managing the Greek calendar of events.

In short, the Greek community at University of Manitoba is a dynamic group of diverse students. We are growing and becoming stronger as we welcome a new fraternity to campus this fall. With more and more traditionally-aged college students (18 to 22) coming to U of M, we expect that our Greek community will flourish and continue to be the center of scholarship, leadership, and community service excellence on campus.

Your role as a parent is important as your student decides whether to join a fraternity or sorority. Encourage your student to find out more information about the University of Manitoba Greek community. They can do this at University One, through a Go Greek booklet, on the World Wide Web, by talking with members, and by going through Recruitment. Ask questions about the groups your student is considering, but trust that they will make the best decision for themselves. If your student joins a Greek organization, stay involved with them by attending Parents' Day functions, mother/daughter teas, father/son golf outings, or attending community service projects with them. Chapter advisors are available to answer any questions or concerns you may have or provide you with additional information. Most importantly, be as supportive as you can. The decision to join a fraternity or sorority is a lifelong commitment with benefits extending far beyond one's college years.

Q: Will my student's academics be compromised by joining a Greek organization?

A: On the contrary, a central mission of all Greek organizations is academic excellence. Fraternities and sororities understand that their members are students first and foremost. All chapters have scholarship programs that include required study hours, tutoring, recognition for academic success, etc. At University of Manitoba, the All-Greek grade point average is higher than the All-U of M average.

Q: Is hazing considered a tradition among U of M fraternities and sororities?

A: Hazing has no place in any Greek organization. The University of Manitoba will not tolerate hazing in any student organization. In addition, hazing is against the law in the province of Manitoba. All fraternity and sorority members know that hazing is against their international policies, university policy, and the law. If you feel your student is participating in inappropriate activities, you should contact the Chapter Adviser immediately.

A: Joining a fraternity or sorority does carry a financial commitment. Each chapter is self-supporting with revenue coming from dues paying members. When students join a Greek organization, they agree to pay dues and fees while enrolled at University of Manitoba in order to maintain membership. While Greek membership is affordable, some chapters are able to make accommodations for special circumstances, but students should discuss the financial obligations with you before they join.

Q: Does being a member of a Greek-letter organization have benefits after graduation?

A: Absolutely. Greek membership is a lifelong commitment. Once you are an initiated member, you remain a member for life. As such, each national organization has an extensive alumni network. As you know, in today's job market, it is not only important what you know, but who you know. Being a fraternity or sorority member means having an immediate connection with thousands of other members. There are many successful Greek alumni all over the country who are always looking to hire the best and the brightest that our Greek community has to offer. In addition, there are alumni groups or graduate chapters that operate in most cities across the country. If you find yourself in a new city, you can start your networking with your brothers or sisters in the local alumni group.

A: All students may complete a Greek Interest Form available on our website. We will forward your form to the groups you express interest in and will send you a Go Greek booklet full of information on all of the chapters on campus.