Safety
Are there safety risks associated with membership in a sorority or fraternity?
It can be perceived that sorority or fraternity membership may compromise a student's safety and well-being. The University works very hard to make a student’s involvement in any student organization educational and safe. Greek organizations at the University of Florida are required to follow alcohol and risk management policies in accordance with state, local, and federal laws, which are enforced by University administrators as well as the members themselves. In addition, all organizations should have at least one chapter advisor and university faculty or staff liaison to assist and ensure that the chapter is promoting a safe environment for its members (both in and outside of the physical facility).
What are the rules regarding alcohol?
Each sorority or fraternity on campus has (Inter)National alcohol policies, which require members to follow all federal, state, and local laws, governing alcohol consumption. The University also has policies for all students regarding alcohol consumption, that can be viewed here. All of our chapters, housed or un-housed, participate in educational programs about alcohol use and abuse.
What are the rules regarding hazing?
Hazing is both against university policy as well as state law. Hazing is contrary to the purposes of the Florida Greek community and the University of Florida. Both chapters and individual members sign off stating they understand these rules and regulations and will not partake in any form of hazing. If it is discovered that hazing has taken place and the person(s) involved are found responsible judicially, those being hazed and the perpetrators may face sanctions up to and including removal from the University. The chapter may face charges as well. Please refer to www.dso.ufl.edu/sccr/ for more information on the Anti-hazing Policy and procedures for the Greek Conduct Committee.
If you sense your student may be participating in inappropriate activities as a result of membership in a fraternity or sorority, you should contact Sorority & Fraternity Affairs at (352) 392-1671. Calls will be handled in a discreet manner.
Who is actually in charge of the fraternities and sororities?
Students elect their own officers to manage the day-to-day operations of the organization. These officers are assisted by chapter members serving on committees and alumni who serve as advisors to the officers and general chapter members. Housed chapters are owned by a "House Corporation" that oversees the chapter facility and employs a live-in adult House Director who manages the chapter house and kitchen.
Each chapter is governed by its (Inter)National Headquarters, and governing council here on campus. Additionally, the Center for Student Activities and Involvement, Sorority & Fraternity Affairs, staff supports and advises the governing councils, chapter officers, and advisors. These professional staff members also enforce the policies of the University of Florida.
