The sorority and fraternity community at the University has been a part of campus life for more than a century and has been through many obstacles. It is now established as a flourishing piece to life in Eugene.
When many hear the words  “fraternity” or “sorority,” images of empty red cups scattered across a front lawn or thoughts of an American Pie movie may come to mind, but in real life they serve a more important purpose. Many traditions are lost through the years. Times change, people change and rules change, but one core value that has been carried out in the University’s sorority and fraternity community to this day is the brotherhood within.
“The brotherhood aspect of a fraternity is often overlooked,” said junior Sigma Phi Epsilon member Andrew Willoughby. “It really helps you mature and I know I’ve gained a number of lifelong friends.”
Of course there are the traditional themed parties that fraternities and sororities are known for, but there are also traditions that are commonly overlooked by members outside the fraternity and sorority community.
Community service is a large part of being a member of a fraternity or sorority and has been an ongoing tradition at the University since the early 1900s.
Each fraternity and sorority also takes part in philanthropy. The Delta Gamma sorority hosts Anchor Splash, the largest philanthropy event on campus. Anchor Splash includes every fraternity and sorority in a weeklong fundraising effort culminating in a lighthearted dance and lip-synching competition.  
“Last year we raised over $25,000, ” said Delta Gamma President Emily Spearing, “It’s pretty cool to see so many college students donating their own time and money to a good cause.”
To get started in a fraternity or sorority an incoming student must endure one of the most important traditions, the recruitment process. Initiation week is a part of this process and builds bonds unlike any other experience as new members are put through numerous obstacles to prove their loyalty.
“Rush is a thoroughly enjoyable experience,” said sophomore Sigma Chi member Thomas Moore. “If nothing else, rush provides an opportunity to build campus relationships.”
The rush process also provides a number of important artifacts. Receiving a bid is always a treasured ritual and after being accepted into the fraternity or sorority, the member receives a pin, which can eventually be used in a Greek tradition known as, “pinning.”
Pinning often occurs during spring term when a member of a fraternity, usually a senior, gives his pin to a significant other. This tradition is taken seriously and symbolizes that the significant other is more important than the fraternal brotherhood.
When pinning occurs both chapters will get together and have a ceremony to celebrate. “Pinning is basically the step before engagement,” said Spearing, “It’s a huge deal and it’s a very special ceremony to take part in.”
The aspects of fraternity and sorority life at the University are pivotal pieces to the college community. Through the years traditions have come and gone, but the core values that are held dear to fraternity and sorority members have survived and the fraternities and sororities present today carry on the traditions of familiarity, community service and commitment.
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