Why Colleges Tolerate the Activities of Fraternities and Sororities

Fraternities and sororities are a longstanding tradition in higher education institutions. While some critics may view them as sources of chaos and misbehavior, they are often embraced by colleges and universities due to their role in shaping student life and culture. Here, we explore the reasons why these organizations continue to exist and the benefits they bring to college campuses.

The Need for Oversight and Connection

The reason colleges tolerate fraternities and sororities is multifaceted. Firstly, they represent a social and cultural phenomenon that can't be eliminated entirely. Without government or university oversight, these organizations can operate outside of set standards, which leads to unregulated behavior. By attaching them to the Dean of Students' Office, universities can exert control and influence over the actions of these groups on campus. This approach ensures that students are held to the university's behavioral and policy guidelines.

When fraternities and sororities exist independently of the university, it can be challenging to manage their activities. If they cause disturbances, it is often outside of the university's jurisdiction, resulting in a lack of accountability. Over the years, there have been occasional incidents where fraternities and sororities have gone beyond acceptable behavior. However, these occurrences are becoming less frequent due to increased regulation and oversight.

Fraternity and Sorority Culture: When It's Positive

Not all fraternities and sororities are inherently bad. For many students, these organizations serve as a means to build a support network, socialize, and enhance their college experience. They offer a sense of community and belonging, especially for first-year students and international students who are far from home. These organizations often focus on academic success, community service, and creating lasting friendships.

For instance, the sorority I was involved with during my college years was excellent. We prioritized sisterhood, education, and personal growth. While there were some parties and social events, the emphasis was always on creating a strong support system for each other. We helped each other academically, supported one another emotionally, and celebrated our achievements as a group. Our sisterhood and academic pursuits were central to our experience, and it greatly impacted my personal and professional development.

The Challenges and Dilemmas for Administrators

Despite the benefits, college administrators face a complex challenge in managing fraternities and sororities. Private schools often struggle with the social aspects of these organizations, which can sometimes be a source of crime. However, universities can't completely suppress these societies due to the legal and logistical challenges involved. Public schools, on the other hand, lack the legal power to close down all fraternities en masse.

While administrators can remove specific fraternities for serious violations, the fact remains that some private schools close down fraternities altogether. This action, however, triggers another issue: alumni involvement. Many alumni were members of these fraternities and become vocal and powerful advocates for their retention. Alumni claim to generate significant revenue, but this assertion has not been widely supported by data. Alumni engagement, though beneficial, is often pursued by individuals with more free time, as opposed to fraternity alumni who tend to be highly active in expressing their opinions to the administration.

Therefore, while the presence of fraternities and sororities presents challenges, they also offer valuable opportunities for student development, socialization, and community building. Universities and administrators must strike a balance between fostering the positive aspects of these organizations and maintaining an environment where student behavior is in line with institutional standards.