Information Provided by the National Panhellenic Conference, Inc.

For more insight as a parent visit: thesororitylife.com 


What is a sorority/women's fraternity?

A: Nation Panhellenic Council member sororities/women's fraternities are values-based Greek-letter organizations that have been in existence for over 150 years. They are located on accredited college and university campuses across the United States and Canada.


What are the practical benefits of membership?

A: Women's fraternity membership offers many practical benefits to its members. All NPC groups provide scholarship opportunities, loans, and other financial aid to members. There are numerous chances to develop leadership and interpersonal skills through attending seminars and holding officer and committee positions within the chapter. Volunteering within the community sets a pattern of lifelong service to others. On top of that, women's fraternities offer a lifetime of networking with women of all ages throughout the world.


What is the cost of membership?

A: Each group has a certain fixed expense including dues, new member fees, initiation fees, and housing fees (determined by local facilities). The Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life can answer any further questions or concerns about dues.


What about the use of alcohol and controlled substances, irresponsible behavior, and hazing?

A: Every NPC group expects its members to obey all local, state, and federal laws and to abide by the organization's policies, guidelines, and standards. Each group allocates significant resources to educate its members about alcohol and substance abuse.

Furthermore:

  • Alcohol is not allowed in any chapter facility, house, lodge or suite.
  • Chapter funds may not be used to purchase alcohol.
  • The illegal use and abuse of alcohol and controlled substances is not tolerated by any of the NPC member groups.
  • Hazing is against the law, and all of the inter/national organizations have policies prohibiting hazing in any form.

NPC groups provide extensive guidelines for hosting social events, and chapters are expected to provide a safe environment for their members. If an incident occurs where policies are violated, the organization intervenes with disciplinary measures and further education to achieve a heightened level of safety at events.


How can membership assist my daughter in succeeding academically?

All NPC sororities expect every member to strive to fulfill her academic potential. Groups offer assistance in varying ways such as study resources, quiet study areas, and tutoring. Chapters also acknowledge improved and high scholastic achievement with various awards and forms of recognition.


My daughter will make friends in her residence hall and classes. What would be different about sorority friends?

A: Membership in a women's fraternity is a living and learning experience for women who share values and objectives. Chapter members develop a special bond of sisterhood. These friendships last beyond the college years and are nurtured by alumnae activities and networking programs that provide opportunities for continued camaraderie, service, and personal development.