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Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life
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Recent News
- University honored as one of top-10 'great greek life' colleges
- University celebrates years of tradition and excellence
- Phi Delta Theta fraternity contributes time to recycling at Mackay Stadium
- Greek community recognized for outstanding grade-point average
- University Greek organizations to hold community park clean-up
Fratornity and Sorority Calendar
Contact Information
| Contact Information for Greek Life | |
|---|---|
| Phone | (775) 784-4388 |
| greek@unr.edu | |
| Location | Clark Administration |
| Address | 1664 N. Virginia Street Reno, NV 89557-0058 |
| Contact | Contact Us |
Information For Parents
As a parent, you are undoubtedly concerned about your child's college experience and the choices he or she will make.
For your son or daughter, making the transition from high school or a community college to the University of Nevada may seem like an imposing challenge. Fraternities and sororities exist as a proven support network for your child as he or she embarks on this new period in life. Over 600,000 students across the country are currently members of the Greek community (we use the term "Greek" to refer to both fraternities and sororities).
This information is designed to answer some of the questions you may have about membership. If you still have any questions after reviewing this, please do not hesitate to contact us at (775) 682-5409. Our experience with new students and parents tell us one or more of the following questions will be on your mind:
- Aren't fraternities and sororities just like the one's shown in the media (e.g. "Animal House", "Old School", and "Greek")?
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Nobody likes stereotypes. Unfortunately, fraternity and sorority members have been categorized as elitist, spoiled, partiers, irresponsible and abusive since the screening of these shows and others.
In reality, fraternities and sororities are values-based organizations dedicated to the development of character and lifelong friendships.
- Should alcohol be a concern if my son or daughter joins a Greek organization? In other words, what is it really like in a chapter?
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All fraternities and sororities have strict polices regulating the consumption of alcohol at social functions. All chapters are expected to uphold state, county and city laws, as well as the University of Nevada's Policy regarding the consumption of alcohol.
Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and inconsistent with fraternity and sorority ideals. In response, the University's fraternities and sororities are sponsoring (and participating) in many alcohol-free social activities throughout the year. Examples include recruitment events, barbecues, dinner exchanges, bowling nights and lip sync contests.
These risk management guidelines are set by each chapter's local and/or national board and must adhere to Nevada's alcohol policy and the Relationship Agreement. Therefore, we highly encourage your son or daughter to ask about the risk management guidelines at each sorority or fraternity.
- I want my son or daughter to succeed academically. Will his or her membership hinder those efforts?
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The Greek community at the University of Nevada strives for academic excellence and improved scholastic achievement. Each chapter has chosen a grade point average requirement which each member must maintain to be in good standing. Chapters also offer academic assistance for its members, providing study hall areas and peer tutoring.
Every chapter understands that its members are students first and provide recognition to those who excel and improve their academic standing. We also have a chapter of the Order of Omega, an honorary fraternity for both men and women that recognizes student leaders on campus. - What will it cost for my son or daughter to participate in Greek life?
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The financial obligations that accompany membership differs from chapter to chapter. Each organization is self supporting, functioning from dues paid by its members. The first year of membership is generally higher due to one-time membership fees.
Dues and other fees cover items such as room, board, operating expenses (e.g., gas, electricity, water, cable, cleaning supplies, etc.), socials, insurance, composites, leadership programs, alumni functions and new member recruitment.
Fraternity and sorority houses offer a "home away from home." Living within a chapter house furthers student growth and development and provides much of the comfort and support of a family environment. The costs of room and board in fraternity and sorority houses are competitive with - if not below - University rates. Each chapter will be able to provide your son or daughter with specific financial information during recruitment or whenever they happen to visit. - What about the "pledging" process and hazing?
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When your son or daughter joins a chapter, they will participate in a period of orientation where they learn about the history and values of the organization and the University, as well as attend weekly business meetings (also referred to as "chapter meetings").
Hazing is opposed by all fraternities and sororities on the University campus and is not tolerated! Your child should never be asked to do anything he or she does not want to do.
If you believe your child is being hazed, please contact the Greek Advisor at (775) 784-4388.
For more information on hazing, please visit StopHazing.org.
