This commentary is in regard to an article written about fraternity conduct and its relations to University policy (“Fraternity incidents elude University sanctions,” ODE, March 12). This commentary is more an invitation and challenge to University students and the community. You could argue many of the statements and implications being made about fraternity men and sorority women could be directed toward other student groups or university-related organizations as well, but I chose to focus on greek life, as did the Emerald.

Greek life in general is the largest student organization in the ASUO. And, in my opinion, it is one of the most active with regard to the fostering of personal development and community impact, not to say that other student groups don’t share the same values and goals. It is true that greek life does have its fair share of problems; however, they are very specific and, I feel, negatively glorified by the press. Who wants to hear about the thousands of dollars fraternities and sororities raise for charities? Who wants to hear about the service that is assisting all aspects of our community on a consistent basis? Who wants to hear about the Fortune 500 company leaders, or political figureheads, or number of times a member of one of our organizations has been in the history books? Who wants to hear about the sheer impact this organization has on our beloved university? Instead of focusing on the successes, the media focus is on the negative, based on mistakes that are not exclusive to our organization. It seems the spotlight shines just a little bit brighter on our parties and the “rumors.” The truth of the matter is, we are not a perfect group. I want to clearly get across to our community, by virtue of having a label, I gladly accept the responsibility that comes with being greek.
What is right about our organization is we are not afraid to be called out. Come into the Greek Life office, ask us questions, or better yet, talk to Director of Student Activities Gregg Lobisser, or speak with Chris Loschiavo (judicial affairs). Their jobs are to help our students, and they can provide you with definitive, reliable answers to your questions.
Do you want to know what fraternity and sorority life is about? Have you taken the time to actively seek the truth? Find out if the rumors are true; find out if we spend more time planning parties or more time studying and planning brotherhood/sisterhood events. Find out if we invest more time in drinking and causing damages than supporting one of our struggling brothers or sisters. Find out and see why we are the biggest student organization, and why no matter where you go you will see, hear, or experience a positive reflection of what a greek member has to offer. All it takes is a little bit of effort and a conversation. As a matter of fact, this is an open opportunity to challenge and prove we are not passive students and that positive actions, although not necessarily getting the press desired, do cultivate that which is important and relevant to nurturing leadership, continuing education and creating family.