Lawrence's Greek system has contributed to student life since the founding of its first chapter in 1859 and includes three national sororities and five national fraternities. The benefits of involvement in a fraternity or sorority are numerous. Of particular interest to many students are the benefits of community service, social activities, scholarship, and sister/brotherhood that are offered through membership in a Greek organization.
Lawrence University’s Greek community participates in a diverse range of philanthropic and community service projects throughout Appleton and the greater Fox Valley area. Each chapter supports an ongoing philanthropy project and holds events to raise awareness and generate financial support for their chosen causes annually. Chapters often collaborate with one another and with other campus organizations to support organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and to host events including several blood drives each year.
Greek organizations offer students on campus a safe social environment. Social programs range from chapter formals and mixers to parties and the annual Greek Week celebration. Many chapter events are open to the campus. Each chapter follows well-developed procedures to plan their events.
Lawrence’s Greek community prides itself on supporting the University’s high academic standards and encouraging the academic success of members. Individual chapters focus on academic excellence by holding study tables, conducting in-chapter peer advising, and recognizing members for outstanding achievements and progress.
Members of fraternities and sororities often speak of the unique friendships they develop through membership in the Greek system. These friendships become a source of stability and support for members that create strong lifelong bonds. Fraternities and sororities provide one of the few opportunities for students to interact with alumni representing many different age groups and it is not uncommon to develop friendships with alumni.
Sororities
Fraternities
Sigma Phi Epsilon
New Member Recruitment
Lawrence University utilizes a deferred recruitment process (recruitment takes place during second term). The Panhellenic and Interfraternity Councils believe that this system benefits first year students by giving them time to acclimate themselves to university life before committing to the lifelong membership of a Greek organization. Following the period of formal recruitment, students may join a Greek organization at any time during their Lawrence career.
Greek Life is an important part of the Lawrence experience for many students. The Campus Activities Office advises the Greek system governing bodies, the Panhellenic Council (Panhel) and the Interfraternity Council (IFC), and assists each of the sorority and fraternity chapters as needed. The Campus Activities Office works to develop chapter leadership, enhance positive relationships between the chapters, implement social and educational programming for the Greek system, and design effective training programs for Greeks.
For more information regarding Greek life or about how to join a fraternity or sorority, contact the Campus Activities Office.