Information for Parents

National research projects conducted by the Center for Advanced Social Research at the University of Missouri provide data on why membership in a fraternity or sorority may be a beneficial choice for your student.

Following graduation, Greek-affiliated alumni have higher average incomes than non-Greek alumni.  Even when accounting for parents’ education levels, graduation year, and gender, student who were affiliated with fraternities and sororities have significantly higher average incomes following graduation.

Students who join fraternities and sororities are more likely to return to college the following year.  Students who return to college will be able to complete their degree programs and graduate.  Students who join fraternities and sororities are 28 percent more likely to return to school the following year than students who choose not to join a fraternity.

There are 8 Greek-letter organizations at Transylvania University with over 500 members – typically, around 55 percent of the student population.

The Greek organizations are divided into two groups, one for men and one for women.  The women's governing organization is called the Panhellenic Association; the men's governing organization is called the Interfraternity Council (IFC).  The following is a list of the fraternity and sorority chapters at Transylvania and their web pages:

Many Greek organization members are employed outside the classroom in order to help finance their education. 

Each Greek organization is a self-governing business.  Students with the assistance of alumni advisors, collectively budget, collect and expend over $200,000 per year.

The following questions are ones frequently asked by parents.  If you have a question not answered below, please contact Troy Leforge, Coordinator of Greek Life at 859/233-8660 or tleforge@transy.edu.

What is a fraternity or a sorority?

A fraternity is a group of men or women joined together by friendship, common goals and interests.  Women’s fraternities are commonly referred to as sororities. The slang term for talking about both populations is greek. These organizations focus on several important elements including scholarship, leadership, service, social activity, and friendship. 

The first sororities and fraternities were established over  two centuries ago and since 1888 at Transy by students who felt the need to enrich their college experience.  Fraternities and sororities continue to encourage students to learn, grow and make long lasting bonds with peers.  Though there are many different chapters, they all share common founding principles and endeavor to enhance the educational experience by emphasizing intellectual and social development.   

What will it cost for my son or daughter to be involved in a Fraternity or Sorority?

Contrary to popular belief, fraternities and sororities are not just for the “rich” students.  There is a financial obligation but it is affordable and payment plans are available for those not able to pay in lump sum. The first year of membership is generally higher due to national initiation fees.  In succeeding years, the average dues and fees range from $150-250 per semester.  Fees cover such things as operating expenses, socials, insurance, composites, leadership programs, scholarship programs and membership recruitment.  The chapters at Transylvania do not have houses so costs are lower than housed chapters on other campuses.  Each chapter should provide your student with more detailed financial information at the time they are seriously considering membership.  

Will my son or daughter’s membership hinder academic efforts?

The Greek community at Transylvania University strives for academic excellence.  The Greek GPA consistently remains above the all-campus average.  Each chapter has a grade point requirement which each new member must attain to become an active member.   There is also a GPA requirement to maintain active status.  Chapters offer academic assistance to members by providing peer tutoring, study sessions, and educational programming.  Members are also rewarded for academic excellence through chapter awards, scholarships, or dues reductions. 

What about Alcohol?

All fraternities and sororities have strict risk management guidelines set forth by their national organizations.  These guidelines dictate how social functions must be managed in order to control for underage consumption of alcohol, safe transportation, etc. In addition, chapters are to adhere to Transylvania’s alcohol policy or face organization and/or individual sanctions.     The chapters conduct programs to educate members on their alcohol policy and social host responsibility on an annual basis.  The Greek community does provide a social outlet, but the “Animal House” image of the past is misleading.  In reality, Greek organizations are value-based  and dedicated to the development of character and life long friendship of its members.

What is the University’s involvement?

The fraternity and sorority community is advised by a member of the Student Life staff, the Coordinator of Greek Life.  Additionally, each chapter has an individual advisor who is a faculty/staff member and/or an alumnus/a. Transylvania supports a strong partnership between each organization and the University.  Meetings are held on a regular basis with the advisor and chapter leaders.  Many services are provided to benefit and advance the Greek community and resources are made readily available to those seeking assistance. 

What is my role as a parent? 

Your role is to ask questions about the chapters your student is considering, but allow your student to make the final decision about which group is best for her/him.  Keep in mind that chapters change a great deal over the years and are different on each campus.  Your experience with Greek life may not reflect the current Transylvania experience.  If your student decides to join an organization, keep involved through parent activities and committees.        

How does my student get involved?

Membership recruitment is the term used to describe the mutual selection process for joining a fraternity or sorority.  At Transylvania, the formal membership recruitment process is currently held in late September and early October.  The dates and times for each event and a more thorough explanation of the process are provided in a booklet sent to each incoming student in the summer.  The process consists of a series of organized events designed to give both chapter members and prospective members a fair and equal opportunity to become acquainted as friends.  There is no obligation or commitment on any individual’s part to join after participating in the recruitment process.