Here at Ohio Northern University, fraternities and
sororities enable men and women to establish strong friendships, often lasting
beyond the collegiate years. Affiliation provides students with an opportunity
to interact with members of all ages, and meet people within their Greek
community and other organizations. Membership also offers students a network of
support while making the transition to college life.
Fraternities and sororities are self governing
bodies in which the members take on the responsibilities and offices of the
chapter. There are also numerous leadership opportunities within the Greek
community apart from the individual fraternities and sororities. This hands on
experience teaches leadership skills, and allows them to interact and make
connections with other organizations and departments on campus. This experience
is valuable for the future in that the student learns the importance of working
with others, and responsibility for their actions. The Order of Omega, a Greek Honor Society,
recognizes a select number of Greek members who excel in leadership,
involvement, academics, and service to the community.
One of the most gratifying aspects of fraternity
or sorority life is the sense of satisfaction and pride that comes with
involvement in community service. Greeks throughout the nation
recognize local and national organizations in need of aid, and donate time and
money through their special philanthropies and service projects. Whether
raising money or donating time, service is an important part of the Greek
experience.
The Greek community at ONU strives for academic
excellence and improved scholastic achievement. Each chapter has chosen
a grade point average requirement which each member must maintain to be active.
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.
The financial obligation that accompanies
membership differs slightly from chapter to chapter. Each house is self
supporting, functioning from dues paid by its members. The first year of
membership is generally higher due to initiation fees. In succeeding years the
average dues and fees range from $100-250 per quarter. This covers items such
as operating expenses, socials, insurance, composites, leadership programs,
etc.
Greek chapter houses offer a "away from
home". Living within chapter houses furthers student growth and
development, and provides much of the comfort and support of a family
environment. Living in chapter houses proves to be less expensive than campus
housing. *Each chapter will be able to provide you with explicit financial
information when a student wishes to join.
Each new member participates in a period of
orientation, where they attend meetings and learn about the history of the
chapter, the university and the values each chapter across the nation has in
common. Hazing is opposed by all sororities and fraternities on the ONU campus
and is not tolerated. Consequently, your son or daughter should never be asked
to do anything he/she does not want to do.
All fraternities and sororities have strict
polices regulating the consumption of alcohol at all functions. These risk
management guidelines are set by each chapter's national board, and adhere to
Ohio and ONU policies. The sororities at ONU are not allowed to possess alcohol
in their living environments. The fraternities and sororities on campus also
conduct programs to educate and instill standards and expectations for their
members. All of the houses must abide by these regulations at all Greek
functions.