General Questions
What is a fraternity or sorority?
Fraternities, sororities, or Greek Lettered organizations (GLOs) are social organizations which exist at colleges and universities. These organizations are founded on specific values that the organization's founders and members felt were vital to the development of their members. Greek Life is centered around friendship, leadership, scholarship, philanthropy/service, and organizations have alumni groups and networks which students can stay connected with even after they graduate. That said, Portland State University has a multitude of student organizations so if you don't find your fit within Greek Life we encourage you to check out the Student Activities and Leadership (SALP) website for more opportunities to become involved as a student. Portland State University has a variety of opportunities including other student organizations, student government, student media, student community engagement, student sustainability, student-operated services, not to mention a variety of resource centers we encourage students to utilize and become involved with.
Why join a fraternity or sorority at Portland State?
Greek Life at Portland State University offers countless benefits and leadership development opportunities. Students involved in Greek Life at PSU often share that it helped them find a sense of community on campus even if they weren't living on campus or didn't join as a freshman student. Portland State University has a largely nontraditional student population and our fraternities and sororities at Portland State reflect this uniqueness and embrace it. The first Greek organization at Portland State was established in 1947 and our longest existing chapter, the Delta Omicron chapter of Alpha Chi Omega was established at PSU in 1961 so we've been adapting and changing ever since to best fit the needs of our current students.
Greek Life organizations at Portland State are involved in community service and philanthropy projects, social events, and often take part in annual events held by Student Activities and Leadership Programs (SALP) such as Party in the Park, Leadership Connect Luncheon, SALP student leader retreat, SALPies awards, and SALP leadership conference. Being a part of SALP offers student leaders at Portland State unique benefits including the SALP Leadership Fellows program, a year-long, leadership development program for student group leaders where they can obtain a $500 scholarship per term and an optional three 400-level credits per term (for up to 6 credits). These credits count towards a civic leadership minor practicum for eligible undergraduate students. Students who hold a leadership position within their chapter and/or within Greek Council or Panhellenic Council are encouraged to participate in this program. These are just a few benefits students who are involved in student leadership at Portland State can take advantage of and we encourage students to get involved in various areas on campus.
Which organizations does Portland State have on campus?
Currently Portland State has six organizations with student members at PSU which are recognized student organizations through Student Leadership and Activities Programs (SALP). These include Alpha Chi Omega, Delta Gamma, Kappa Delta Chi, Omega Delta Phi, Phi Delta Epsilon and Phi Delta Theta. While not currently recognized at PSU, there are also campus, city-wide, and state-wide chapters hoping to find student members at PSU including Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, and Zeta Phi Beta sorority. These organizations are all nationally recognized by the National Pan-Hellenic Council and are Historically Black fraternities and sororities. To learn more about these organizations and get in touch with their current contact, email Interim Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] and she will get you connected. Any other organizations representing themselves as PSU Greek Life organizations that are not listed here are not recognized by SALP and students can affiliate with these organizations at their own risk and with no support or resources from SALP, Greek Council, or Panhellenic Council. Portland State University Students who decide to affiliate with unrecognized student organizations are still held to the PSU Student Code of Conduct and Responsibility.
How will I know which organization is right for me?
It is important to consider each organization and the way they recruit new members as you get to know our community. We encourage all students interested in membership within Greek Life at Portland State to fully explore the options available to them to better understand organizational values, leadership structures, and to determine if an organization is a good fit. We encourage you to fill out our general interest form to get connected to our email listserv where chapter presidents and/or recruitment chairs will post about recruitment and informational events throughout the academic year.
Can students bring new organizations to campus or re-activate chapters? How would they do so?
In order for students to bring new organizations to campus or to re-activate a chapter students should contact the Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] or Aimee Shattuck, Director of SALP at [email protected] . They can meet with the student (s) and if eligible to do so can help the student(s) register their group as a forming organization and get connected to the resources they need to connect with other students and student leaders. Once recognized, there will be additional requirements for the chapter to join one of our governing councils as a member chapter. Joining governing councils offers member chapters with additional benefits including additional student leadership opportunities, the opportunity to participate in council events, and the chance to connect with other chapters on campus.
Who helps oversee Greek Life at Portland State?
Fraternities and Sororities at Portland State University are designated as affiliate student organizations and are recognized through the Student Organization Application and Registration (SOAR) committee through the Dean of Student Life office. The Committee consists of the Dean of Student Life, Director of SALP, SALP Director of Student Organization Advising, Rec Clubs Coordinator, SFC Chair (or designee), ASPSU President (or designee), representative from Recreational Club Council, and a representative from the Organization Budget Council. This committee will discuss and recommend policy changes and appeal decisions for final decision by the Dean of Student Life (or their designee). Students should work with the Student Activities and Leadership (SALP) team, the Student Government Relations Coordinator and Adviser to Greek Life as well as their respective council, chapter, or faculty adviser (s) for guidance, structure, and advising. Additionally, individual chapters as well as our governing councils, Greek Council and Panhellenic Council have student leaders elected to leadership roles so we encourage you reach out to these students when applicable.
How do I contact the Adviser to Greek Life at Portland State?
The Coordinator of Student Government Relations & Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk can be reached at [email protected] or [email protected].
What are the requirements to join a fraternity or sorority at Portland State?
Each organization has different criteria for membership that always includes a GPA requirement and may include additional expectations. We encourage students interested in joining a fraternity or sorority to ask questions about membership eligibility as well as expectations for membership once they have joined an organization.
Do I have to identify as a student of color to join a multicultural or culturally-based fraternity or sorority?
No. Multicultural and culturally-based fraternities or sororities are open to students of all ethnic, racial, religious, and cultural backgrounds. Many culturally-based organizations still include an inter/national focus on initiatives and partnerships that benefit the communities which founded them and emphasize a commitment to providing students of color with an opportunity to find support systems and encouragement in higher education. We encourage you to learn more about individual chapters by checking out their chapter pages on our website and connecting with them on social media.
Is Greek Life just like they show on movies and tv?
That depends. Often what is depicted of fraternities and sororities in movies and on TV is exaggerated and represents stereotypes and misconceptions. Greek Life like other student organizations at Portland State provide a balance of academic and social activities as well opportunities to stay connected after you graduate. While issues can arise we encourage students to contact the Adviser to Greek Life or their council, chapter, and/or faculty adviser to remedy issues of organizational or individual student conduct.
How will joining Greek Life affect my grades?
Academic success is a key component to being involved in student organizations at Portland State. All fraternities and sororities at PSU place a high value on the academic success of their members and we encourage students to check out the academic resources page on the SALP Student Leader Resource Center wiki. Individual chapters and councils also often support the academics of their members through minimum grade requirements, study halls, and through providing workshops on study skills, test taking, time management, and professional development. National organizations also may offer additional resources to members and students should ask their chapter's leadership and chapter advisers if they are looking for additional assistance.
Recruitment/Joining Questions
What is recruitment?
Recruitment is when fraternities and sororities seek and recruit new members. This typically occurs during fall and spring terms though many chapters recruit throughout the academic year either individually or within their governing council. During recruitment, interested students can learn more about what that organization has to offer. We encourage you to check out individual chapter's pages on our website to get in contact with their chapter's president and/or recruitment chair.
How can I prepare for recruitment?
The biggest way to prepare yourself for membership in Greek Life at Portland State is to become more familiar with our community and individual chapters. This website is a great place to start! All of our organizations with student members here at PSU have pages with their individual contact information and information about the organization itself. By contacting individual chapters and/or the Adviser to Greek Life at Portland State you can learn more about the recruitment processes of organizations, what the benefits are of joining, the financial commitment involvement, and learn about what the experience has been like for other students. This is a great place to start that will help you make the best decision for you and help you feel more prepared when recruitment comes around. Another step we encourage at this point is enquiring with individual chapters and councils about how to sign up for recruitment and if they have a recruitment fee. The more information you have the more prepared you will be when you have the opportunity to attend informational and recruitment events. Don't hesitate to contact the Greek Life adviser, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] with any additional questions or concerns you may have.
I have a conflict during one of the recruitment event dates for a chapter I'm interested in. What do I do?
The best way to determine if an organization is a good fit for you is to attend as many recruitment events as you can. That said, we know Portland State students are busy. You have commitments to school, work, caring for your family members and loved ones, and you may have religious or cultural holidays or events all which may conflict with recruitment events. You should never skip class to attend an event and we know that your education comes first. If you are unable to attend a recruitment event due to a conflict including class, it is a good idea to let the chapter president and/or recruitment chair know about your conflict and express your interest in the organization. Please note that some organizations may require you to meet certain criteria (i.e. attending an informational or service event) to qualify for membership.
How long will joining take?
The joining process varies by chapter. We encourage you to inquire with individual chapters about their joining and new member education process and timeline during recruitment and informational events or by contacting their chapter president. If you have trouble reaching a chapter feel free to contact the Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] and she will make sure you're able to get in touch with the chapter(s) you are interested in learning more about.
How much does it cost to join a fraternity or sorority?
The financial commitment varies by chapter. We encourage you to inquire with individual chapters about their costs and to keep in mind that this is typically covered during chapter or council recruitment or informational events. If you don't receive the information you're looking for feel free to follow up with that chapter(s) via email or talk to their recruitment chair or chapter president at their events.
What is a bid?
A bid is an invitation from a fraternity or sorority to become a member of its organization.
Am I guaranteed a bid or to be able to join a fraternity or sorority at Portland State?
No, just as you’re looking for a perfect fit, these organizations are also looking for new members that are a good fit for their chapters. Each chapter has their own membership criteria, but most chapters look for for individuals with good grades, previous or other campus involvement, community service, leadership experience, etc. The best way to maximize your chance to get a invitation of membership or bid is to make a connection with a current member and to attend recruitment/informational events held by the chapter(s) you're interested in.
I'm a legacy of a Greek organization at Portland State. Does this guarantee me membership in this organization?
A legacy is a student with a family member who is already a member of a particular fraternity or sorority. Students who are defined as legacies of an organization are free to seek membership in any organization and are not required to join the organization they are a legacy of. Additionally, it is up to the organization to select their members regardless of legacy status. Finally, every organization defines legacy classification differently and employs different legacy policies. Legacy status may not be a factor that is considered in their membership selection process at all and students are encouraged to enquire with individual chapters about their legacy policies if they think this may be applicable to them.
What is membership intake?
The membership intake process is the process for which prospective members are educated about a chapter’s history, organization, and community service. It is the initial procedure for some historically multicultural and other culturally-based fraternities and sororities.
What is a probate/new member presentation?
A new member presentation is an event where the newest members of organizations present history, reveal who they are, and often step or stroll. These events are most commonly practiced by historically multicultural and culturally-based fraternities and sororities.
How do I join a fraternity or sorority?
Each chapter has a different way of recruiting or bringing new members into organizations. The Panhellenic Council (which consists of Alpha Chi Omega and Delta Gamma at PSU) holds fall recruitment events together typically during the 2nd or 3rd week of fall term. They often table prior to this on campus at SALP Party in the Park and may have additional tabling prior to their recruitment events. We encourage you to follow them on Instagram as well as check back to their page linked above for updates. These chapters may hold recruitment events during winter and spring terms as well and you should check out their individual pages to get connected with them for more information. The Greek Council which consists of all 6 chapters at Portland State sometimes hosts recruitment or informational events throughout the year and we encourage you to contact the Adviser to Greek Life at [email protected] for more information. Kappa Delta Chi, Phi Delta Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, and Omega Delta Phi typically also take part in tabling at SALP Party in the Park and have their own individual recruitment processes. All chapters typically have fall recruitment events but the individual events vary so we encourage you to fill out our interest form where we will provide you further updates via our email listserv from the adviser to Greek Life, chapter presidents, and recruitment chairs.
What are the role of parents, guardians, and family members in a student's Greek experience?
We encourage parents, guardians, and family members of students to assist students in researching the organizations they are interested in. This website is a great start and we encourage students to check out individual chapter pages for more information. If students or the parents, guardians, or family members of students have further questions we encourage them to email Adviser to Greek Life at [email protected]. Once your student joins a Greek organization, there will likely be opportunities for your involvement as a guardian or family member such as Family Weekend activities or joining the chapter's Mom's Club, etc. These events vary by chapter but most chapters have ways that they involve guardians or family members of students.
Can I join Greek Life if I'm a student athlete?
Yes, student athletes are encouraged to join student organizations to become more involved on campus. There are no restrictions from student athletes joining any student organization (including PSU Greek Life) as long as they are able to attend and participate in that organization's required events. We encourage interested student athletes to research individual chapters and to attend informational and recruitment events to determine the right fit for them. We encourage student athletes to ask chapters individually how they work with student athletes who are interested in getting involved within Greek Life at PSU.
Can I join Greek Life if I'm a transfer student?
Yes, transfer students are encouraged to join student organizations to become more involved on campus. There are typically 4 categories transfer students may fall into when interested in joining Greek Life. We've outlined these categories to assist transfer students interested in joining our community:
Transfer students who fall into this category are encouraged to explore this website, fill out our general interest form to get connected to our email listserv, and to explore the SALP website for a multitude of ways to get involved as a student here at PSU.
For all chapters, please contact the chapter president listed on your desired chapter’s page on the chapter pages here on our website. The chapter president will assist you in navigating the inter/national organization process for transferring into the PSU chapter. You can also directly contact the inter/national organization to gain more information about the transfer process. It is helpful to contact the PSU chapter president to make an initial connection with the PSU chapter members. Please note that if you do not successfully transfer into your chapter of affiliation or do not desire to become a member of that chapter you are likely ineligible to be a member of a fraternity/sorority at PSU depending on that chapter/council's rules. This may not apply to chapters which fall under other councils on the national or campus level or to chapters with a social and professional focus. We encourage you to contact individual chapters to gain clarity on their affiliation/membership policies.
While not currently recognized at PSU, there are also campus, city-wide, and state-wide chapters hoping to find student members at PSU including Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, and Zeta Phi Beta sorority. These organizations are all nationally recognized by the National Pan-Hellenic Council and are Historically Black fraternities and sororities. To learn more about these organizations and get in touch with their current contact, email Interim Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] and she will get you connected. There will be an additional process and requirements for this organization to become a registered student organization at PSU which the Adviser to Greek Life will help guide you through.
If you are or have ever been an initiated member of an existing National Panhellenic Council sorority you are not eligible for membership in another National Panhellenic Council Sorority. Similar policies exist for inter/national organizations in the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Only in rare and extenuating circumstances will an organization release you from your membership but if you feel this applies to you we encourage you to contact your chapter's inter/national headquarters/staff or volunteers as is applicable. We strongly discourage you from being dishonest about your current or past Greek affiliation in an attempt to become a member of a chapter at Portland State University if this current or past affiliation makes you ineligible for membership. Many Greek-lettered organizations have alumni groups in the area and the Adviser to Greek Life will assist you in finding members of your fraternity/sorority in the area if you need help in doing so. We encourage you to remain connected with your fraternity/sorority through alumni involvement and to remember the values of your organization as you experience life at Portland State University. Additionally, while you may not be eligible for membership in a chapter under the same council you previously were involved in you may be able to find another chapter which you are eligible for or another student leadership opportunity at PSU.
Students may also be interested in activating or re-activating a chapter of their organization at Portland State University. To pursue this process students must meet with the Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk by contacting her at [email protected]. She will get them in touch with the relevant contact(s) whether this is a chapter adviser, alumnae member or member of an alumnae leadership team, or inter/national headquarters staff or volunteer (s) as well as walk that student(s) through the student organization registration process as outlined by Student Activities and Leadership Programs (SALP). There are additional processes for these chapters to become members of the Greek Council and if applicable the Panhellenic Council.
Another option for members of fraternities or sororities that are not represented on the Portland State University campus is to participate as ex-officio members of the Greek Council. Ex-officio members of the Greek Council may not hold any executive positions, may only attend meetings with approval from the Greek Council Adviser and the Greek Council President (or the current leadership/voting members of Greek Council when there is not a serving president), and have no voting power at the Greek Council meetings. That said, they can participate in meetings and use this as a space to stay engaged with the PSU Greek Life community. To be added to the Greek Life email listserv for current members of PSU Greek Life, students can request to be added by the Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk who can be reached at [email protected].
Can I join Greek Life if I'm an upperclassman student?
Yes! Many students within PSU Greek Life have joined as juniors and seniors. We welcome undergraduate students of all years at PSU to join our community and if eligible we welcome graduate students as well. See the below question about graduate students for more information. Membership within a fraternity or sorority offers lifetime benefits and many students get involved as alumni members in alumnae chapters in their local areas to stay engaged and continue to live their values.
Can I join Greek Life if I'm an international student?
All international students who meet the eligibility requirements of individual chapters are welcome to join PSU Greek Life. There are many international students who have joined fraternities and sororities during their collegiate career here at PSU.
Can I join Greek Life if I'm a graduate student?
Each organization has differing membership eligibility. PSU Greek Life has outlined the policies below of the current chapters with student members at PSU to provide more information for graduate students who may be interested in joining our community:
Can I join Greek Life if I'm LGBTQIA+?
Greek Life at PSU is accepting and welcoming of LGBTQIA+ students at PSU and we encourage you to learn more about our individual chapters to find your fit. Campus Pride provides great resources which may provide you with guiding questions to ask chapters during recruitment as well as the insight of other individuals who are LGBTQIA+ and are members of Greek Lettered organizations. For more information check out the Campus Pride Fraternity and Sorority Life resources page. We also encourage involvement in and partnership with the PSU Queer Resource Center and we encourage LGBTQIA+ members of Greek Life and allies to attend their events and to educate themselves on LGBTQIA+ issues.
I identify as transgender. Am I allowed to join an organization that aligns with my gender identity?
Trans-inclusion within fraternities and sororities has been a hot topic on campus and around the nation. PSU Greek Life has outlined the policies below of the current chapters with student members at PSU to provide more transparency for students interested in joining our community:
Currently, Phi Delta Epsilon is the only chapter at PSU that has a policy which specifies that their organization is open to non-binary, genderqueer, or agender members. If you are interested in bringing another gender-inclusive organization to campus or in starting a new organization, please contact the Adviser to Greek Life at [email protected] or Aimee Shattuck, Director of SALP at [email protected]. We also encourage you to check out the other student organizations at PSU on Connect.
Risk Management/Safety Questions
Is hazing a part of Greek Life at Portland State?
All fraternities and sororities forbid hazing, and are committed to a membership experience that instills a sense of responsibility and personal excellence. Hazing is against the law in the State of Oregon and is taken seriously by Portland State University, the Student Activities and Leadership Programs (SALP) staff, Greek Council, Panhellenic Council, and all of our chapters. For more information about the Oregon Anti-Hazing law check out the Stop Hazing resource here. All members of recognized student organizations at PSU are held to the PSU Code of Student Conduct and Responsibility and the SALP Community Standards Process and there may be additional processes through the governing council which the chapter is a member of. All fraternities and sororities at PSU are encouraged to engage with their members in talking about these policies, providing training and resources internally or attending relevant events held by SALP staff, and to bring concerns to the SALP Greek Life adviser as well as their council, chapter, or faculty adviser when applicable. We encourage students to report incidents of hazing as they will not be tolerated within our community.
How are members of Greek Life at PSU educated on responsible alcohol use?
The choice to drink alcohol is an individual one, and there are members of fraternities and sororities who choose not to consume alcohol at all. There are also fraternities and sororities who do not host events at which alcohol is present. In terms of education for new members, many chapters require their new members to participate in alcohol programming through chapter-specific training or online modules. Chapters may also choose to partner with the Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC)or individual members may utilize the resources they have available. We also encourage members in recovery or members looking to recommend treatment resources for alcohol and drug abuse to consult Multnomah County Addictions Services, OHSU treatment resources for alcohol and drug abuse, and the SHAC Peer Recovery Support Program. All members of recognized student organizations at PSU are held to the PSU Code of Student Conduct and Responsibility which includes the University Alcohol and other Drugs Policy and the SALP Community Standards Process and there may be additional processes through the governing council which the chapter is a member of as well as actions by their (inter)national organization or governing council if applicable.
What are fraternities and sororities at PSU doing to prevent sexual violence?
Many chapters address sexual violence prevention through educational programs facilitated by their (inter)national headquarters staff, volunteers, chapter/council advisers, or the student leaders of individual chapters. Chapters and/or councils may also choose to partner with departments on campus which provide resources including but not limited to Student Health and Counseling (SHAC), Confidential Advocates located at resource centers and departments across campus, and Student Legal Services in order to put on educational programs and provide more information to their members and/or other members of the PSU community to encourage them to explore their role in addressing sexual violence. We encourage students and student leaders of fraternities and sororities to share the full list of sexual misconduct response resources at PSU and in the community with their members.
Does Greek Life at Portland State have housed chapters?
Currently, there are no housed chapters at Portland State University. Fraternities and sororities hold meetings and events both on and off campus and it's not uncommon for members to live with each other as they develop friendships.
What is a fraternity or sorority?
Fraternities, sororities, or Greek Lettered organizations (GLOs) are social organizations which exist at colleges and universities. These organizations are founded on specific values that the organization's founders and members felt were vital to the development of their members. Greek Life is centered around friendship, leadership, scholarship, philanthropy/service, and organizations have alumni groups and networks which students can stay connected with even after they graduate. That said, Portland State University has a multitude of student organizations so if you don't find your fit within Greek Life we encourage you to check out the Student Activities and Leadership (SALP) website for more opportunities to become involved as a student. Portland State University has a variety of opportunities including other student organizations, student government, student media, student community engagement, student sustainability, student-operated services, not to mention a variety of resource centers we encourage students to utilize and become involved with.
Why join a fraternity or sorority at Portland State?
Greek Life at Portland State University offers countless benefits and leadership development opportunities. Students involved in Greek Life at PSU often share that it helped them find a sense of community on campus even if they weren't living on campus or didn't join as a freshman student. Portland State University has a largely nontraditional student population and our fraternities and sororities at Portland State reflect this uniqueness and embrace it. The first Greek organization at Portland State was established in 1947 and our longest existing chapter, the Delta Omicron chapter of Alpha Chi Omega was established at PSU in 1961 so we've been adapting and changing ever since to best fit the needs of our current students.
Greek Life organizations at Portland State are involved in community service and philanthropy projects, social events, and often take part in annual events held by Student Activities and Leadership Programs (SALP) such as Party in the Park, Leadership Connect Luncheon, SALP student leader retreat, SALPies awards, and SALP leadership conference. Being a part of SALP offers student leaders at Portland State unique benefits including the SALP Leadership Fellows program, a year-long, leadership development program for student group leaders where they can obtain a $500 scholarship per term and an optional three 400-level credits per term (for up to 6 credits). These credits count towards a civic leadership minor practicum for eligible undergraduate students. Students who hold a leadership position within their chapter and/or within Greek Council or Panhellenic Council are encouraged to participate in this program. These are just a few benefits students who are involved in student leadership at Portland State can take advantage of and we encourage students to get involved in various areas on campus.
Which organizations does Portland State have on campus?
Currently Portland State has six organizations with student members at PSU which are recognized student organizations through Student Leadership and Activities Programs (SALP). These include Alpha Chi Omega, Delta Gamma, Kappa Delta Chi, Omega Delta Phi, Phi Delta Epsilon and Phi Delta Theta. While not currently recognized at PSU, there are also campus, city-wide, and state-wide chapters hoping to find student members at PSU including Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, and Zeta Phi Beta sorority. These organizations are all nationally recognized by the National Pan-Hellenic Council and are Historically Black fraternities and sororities. To learn more about these organizations and get in touch with their current contact, email Interim Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] and she will get you connected. Any other organizations representing themselves as PSU Greek Life organizations that are not listed here are not recognized by SALP and students can affiliate with these organizations at their own risk and with no support or resources from SALP, Greek Council, or Panhellenic Council. Portland State University Students who decide to affiliate with unrecognized student organizations are still held to the PSU Student Code of Conduct and Responsibility.
How will I know which organization is right for me?
It is important to consider each organization and the way they recruit new members as you get to know our community. We encourage all students interested in membership within Greek Life at Portland State to fully explore the options available to them to better understand organizational values, leadership structures, and to determine if an organization is a good fit. We encourage you to fill out our general interest form to get connected to our email listserv where chapter presidents and/or recruitment chairs will post about recruitment and informational events throughout the academic year.
Can students bring new organizations to campus or re-activate chapters? How would they do so?
In order for students to bring new organizations to campus or to re-activate a chapter students should contact the Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] or Aimee Shattuck, Director of SALP at [email protected] . They can meet with the student (s) and if eligible to do so can help the student(s) register their group as a forming organization and get connected to the resources they need to connect with other students and student leaders. Once recognized, there will be additional requirements for the chapter to join one of our governing councils as a member chapter. Joining governing councils offers member chapters with additional benefits including additional student leadership opportunities, the opportunity to participate in council events, and the chance to connect with other chapters on campus.
Who helps oversee Greek Life at Portland State?
Fraternities and Sororities at Portland State University are designated as affiliate student organizations and are recognized through the Student Organization Application and Registration (SOAR) committee through the Dean of Student Life office. The Committee consists of the Dean of Student Life, Director of SALP, SALP Director of Student Organization Advising, Rec Clubs Coordinator, SFC Chair (or designee), ASPSU President (or designee), representative from Recreational Club Council, and a representative from the Organization Budget Council. This committee will discuss and recommend policy changes and appeal decisions for final decision by the Dean of Student Life (or their designee). Students should work with the Student Activities and Leadership (SALP) team, the Student Government Relations Coordinator and Adviser to Greek Life as well as their respective council, chapter, or faculty adviser (s) for guidance, structure, and advising. Additionally, individual chapters as well as our governing councils, Greek Council and Panhellenic Council have student leaders elected to leadership roles so we encourage you reach out to these students when applicable.
How do I contact the Adviser to Greek Life at Portland State?
The Coordinator of Student Government Relations & Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk can be reached at [email protected] or [email protected].
What are the requirements to join a fraternity or sorority at Portland State?
Each organization has different criteria for membership that always includes a GPA requirement and may include additional expectations. We encourage students interested in joining a fraternity or sorority to ask questions about membership eligibility as well as expectations for membership once they have joined an organization.
Do I have to identify as a student of color to join a multicultural or culturally-based fraternity or sorority?
No. Multicultural and culturally-based fraternities or sororities are open to students of all ethnic, racial, religious, and cultural backgrounds. Many culturally-based organizations still include an inter/national focus on initiatives and partnerships that benefit the communities which founded them and emphasize a commitment to providing students of color with an opportunity to find support systems and encouragement in higher education. We encourage you to learn more about individual chapters by checking out their chapter pages on our website and connecting with them on social media.
Is Greek Life just like they show on movies and tv?
That depends. Often what is depicted of fraternities and sororities in movies and on TV is exaggerated and represents stereotypes and misconceptions. Greek Life like other student organizations at Portland State provide a balance of academic and social activities as well opportunities to stay connected after you graduate. While issues can arise we encourage students to contact the Adviser to Greek Life or their council, chapter, and/or faculty adviser to remedy issues of organizational or individual student conduct.
How will joining Greek Life affect my grades?
Academic success is a key component to being involved in student organizations at Portland State. All fraternities and sororities at PSU place a high value on the academic success of their members and we encourage students to check out the academic resources page on the SALP Student Leader Resource Center wiki. Individual chapters and councils also often support the academics of their members through minimum grade requirements, study halls, and through providing workshops on study skills, test taking, time management, and professional development. National organizations also may offer additional resources to members and students should ask their chapter's leadership and chapter advisers if they are looking for additional assistance.
Recruitment/Joining Questions
What is recruitment?
Recruitment is when fraternities and sororities seek and recruit new members. This typically occurs during fall and spring terms though many chapters recruit throughout the academic year either individually or within their governing council. During recruitment, interested students can learn more about what that organization has to offer. We encourage you to check out individual chapter's pages on our website to get in contact with their chapter's president and/or recruitment chair.
How can I prepare for recruitment?
The biggest way to prepare yourself for membership in Greek Life at Portland State is to become more familiar with our community and individual chapters. This website is a great place to start! All of our organizations with student members here at PSU have pages with their individual contact information and information about the organization itself. By contacting individual chapters and/or the Adviser to Greek Life at Portland State you can learn more about the recruitment processes of organizations, what the benefits are of joining, the financial commitment involvement, and learn about what the experience has been like for other students. This is a great place to start that will help you make the best decision for you and help you feel more prepared when recruitment comes around. Another step we encourage at this point is enquiring with individual chapters and councils about how to sign up for recruitment and if they have a recruitment fee. The more information you have the more prepared you will be when you have the opportunity to attend informational and recruitment events. Don't hesitate to contact the Greek Life adviser, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] with any additional questions or concerns you may have.
I have a conflict during one of the recruitment event dates for a chapter I'm interested in. What do I do?
The best way to determine if an organization is a good fit for you is to attend as many recruitment events as you can. That said, we know Portland State students are busy. You have commitments to school, work, caring for your family members and loved ones, and you may have religious or cultural holidays or events all which may conflict with recruitment events. You should never skip class to attend an event and we know that your education comes first. If you are unable to attend a recruitment event due to a conflict including class, it is a good idea to let the chapter president and/or recruitment chair know about your conflict and express your interest in the organization. Please note that some organizations may require you to meet certain criteria (i.e. attending an informational or service event) to qualify for membership.
How long will joining take?
The joining process varies by chapter. We encourage you to inquire with individual chapters about their joining and new member education process and timeline during recruitment and informational events or by contacting their chapter president. If you have trouble reaching a chapter feel free to contact the Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] and she will make sure you're able to get in touch with the chapter(s) you are interested in learning more about.
How much does it cost to join a fraternity or sorority?
The financial commitment varies by chapter. We encourage you to inquire with individual chapters about their costs and to keep in mind that this is typically covered during chapter or council recruitment or informational events. If you don't receive the information you're looking for feel free to follow up with that chapter(s) via email or talk to their recruitment chair or chapter president at their events.
What is a bid?
A bid is an invitation from a fraternity or sorority to become a member of its organization.
Am I guaranteed a bid or to be able to join a fraternity or sorority at Portland State?
No, just as you’re looking for a perfect fit, these organizations are also looking for new members that are a good fit for their chapters. Each chapter has their own membership criteria, but most chapters look for for individuals with good grades, previous or other campus involvement, community service, leadership experience, etc. The best way to maximize your chance to get a invitation of membership or bid is to make a connection with a current member and to attend recruitment/informational events held by the chapter(s) you're interested in.
I'm a legacy of a Greek organization at Portland State. Does this guarantee me membership in this organization?
A legacy is a student with a family member who is already a member of a particular fraternity or sorority. Students who are defined as legacies of an organization are free to seek membership in any organization and are not required to join the organization they are a legacy of. Additionally, it is up to the organization to select their members regardless of legacy status. Finally, every organization defines legacy classification differently and employs different legacy policies. Legacy status may not be a factor that is considered in their membership selection process at all and students are encouraged to enquire with individual chapters about their legacy policies if they think this may be applicable to them.
What is membership intake?
The membership intake process is the process for which prospective members are educated about a chapter’s history, organization, and community service. It is the initial procedure for some historically multicultural and other culturally-based fraternities and sororities.
What is a probate/new member presentation?
A new member presentation is an event where the newest members of organizations present history, reveal who they are, and often step or stroll. These events are most commonly practiced by historically multicultural and culturally-based fraternities and sororities.
How do I join a fraternity or sorority?
Each chapter has a different way of recruiting or bringing new members into organizations. The Panhellenic Council (which consists of Alpha Chi Omega and Delta Gamma at PSU) holds fall recruitment events together typically during the 2nd or 3rd week of fall term. They often table prior to this on campus at SALP Party in the Park and may have additional tabling prior to their recruitment events. We encourage you to follow them on Instagram as well as check back to their page linked above for updates. These chapters may hold recruitment events during winter and spring terms as well and you should check out their individual pages to get connected with them for more information. The Greek Council which consists of all 6 chapters at Portland State sometimes hosts recruitment or informational events throughout the year and we encourage you to contact the Adviser to Greek Life at [email protected] for more information. Kappa Delta Chi, Phi Delta Epsilon, Phi Delta Theta, and Omega Delta Phi typically also take part in tabling at SALP Party in the Park and have their own individual recruitment processes. All chapters typically have fall recruitment events but the individual events vary so we encourage you to fill out our interest form where we will provide you further updates via our email listserv from the adviser to Greek Life, chapter presidents, and recruitment chairs.
What are the role of parents, guardians, and family members in a student's Greek experience?
We encourage parents, guardians, and family members of students to assist students in researching the organizations they are interested in. This website is a great start and we encourage students to check out individual chapter pages for more information. If students or the parents, guardians, or family members of students have further questions we encourage them to email Adviser to Greek Life at [email protected]. Once your student joins a Greek organization, there will likely be opportunities for your involvement as a guardian or family member such as Family Weekend activities or joining the chapter's Mom's Club, etc. These events vary by chapter but most chapters have ways that they involve guardians or family members of students.
Can I join Greek Life if I'm a student athlete?
Yes, student athletes are encouraged to join student organizations to become more involved on campus. There are no restrictions from student athletes joining any student organization (including PSU Greek Life) as long as they are able to attend and participate in that organization's required events. We encourage interested student athletes to research individual chapters and to attend informational and recruitment events to determine the right fit for them. We encourage student athletes to ask chapters individually how they work with student athletes who are interested in getting involved within Greek Life at PSU.
Can I join Greek Life if I'm a transfer student?
Yes, transfer students are encouraged to join student organizations to become more involved on campus. There are typically 4 categories transfer students may fall into when interested in joining Greek Life. We've outlined these categories to assist transfer students interested in joining our community:
- I am not a member of a fraternity or sorority but I am interested in seeking membership:
Transfer students who fall into this category are encouraged to explore this website, fill out our general interest form to get connected to our email listserv, and to explore the SALP website for a multitude of ways to get involved as a student here at PSU.
- I'm a member of a fraternity or sorority that has a campus chapter at PSU:
For all chapters, please contact the chapter president listed on your desired chapter’s page on the chapter pages here on our website. The chapter president will assist you in navigating the inter/national organization process for transferring into the PSU chapter. You can also directly contact the inter/national organization to gain more information about the transfer process. It is helpful to contact the PSU chapter president to make an initial connection with the PSU chapter members. Please note that if you do not successfully transfer into your chapter of affiliation or do not desire to become a member of that chapter you are likely ineligible to be a member of a fraternity/sorority at PSU depending on that chapter/council's rules. This may not apply to chapters which fall under other councils on the national or campus level or to chapters with a social and professional focus. We encourage you to contact individual chapters to gain clarity on their affiliation/membership policies.
- I'm a member of a fraternity or sorority that has a citywide or statewide chapter which PSU falls under:
While not currently recognized at PSU, there are also campus, city-wide, and state-wide chapters hoping to find student members at PSU including Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, and Zeta Phi Beta sorority. These organizations are all nationally recognized by the National Pan-Hellenic Council and are Historically Black fraternities and sororities. To learn more about these organizations and get in touch with their current contact, email Interim Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk at [email protected] and she will get you connected. There will be an additional process and requirements for this organization to become a registered student organization at PSU which the Adviser to Greek Life will help guide you through.
- I'm a member of a fraternity or sorority that does not have a chapter at PSU or a citywide or statewide chapter locally:
If you are or have ever been an initiated member of an existing National Panhellenic Council sorority you are not eligible for membership in another National Panhellenic Council Sorority. Similar policies exist for inter/national organizations in the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Only in rare and extenuating circumstances will an organization release you from your membership but if you feel this applies to you we encourage you to contact your chapter's inter/national headquarters/staff or volunteers as is applicable. We strongly discourage you from being dishonest about your current or past Greek affiliation in an attempt to become a member of a chapter at Portland State University if this current or past affiliation makes you ineligible for membership. Many Greek-lettered organizations have alumni groups in the area and the Adviser to Greek Life will assist you in finding members of your fraternity/sorority in the area if you need help in doing so. We encourage you to remain connected with your fraternity/sorority through alumni involvement and to remember the values of your organization as you experience life at Portland State University. Additionally, while you may not be eligible for membership in a chapter under the same council you previously were involved in you may be able to find another chapter which you are eligible for or another student leadership opportunity at PSU.
Students may also be interested in activating or re-activating a chapter of their organization at Portland State University. To pursue this process students must meet with the Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk by contacting her at [email protected]. She will get them in touch with the relevant contact(s) whether this is a chapter adviser, alumnae member or member of an alumnae leadership team, or inter/national headquarters staff or volunteer (s) as well as walk that student(s) through the student organization registration process as outlined by Student Activities and Leadership Programs (SALP). There are additional processes for these chapters to become members of the Greek Council and if applicable the Panhellenic Council.
Another option for members of fraternities or sororities that are not represented on the Portland State University campus is to participate as ex-officio members of the Greek Council. Ex-officio members of the Greek Council may not hold any executive positions, may only attend meetings with approval from the Greek Council Adviser and the Greek Council President (or the current leadership/voting members of Greek Council when there is not a serving president), and have no voting power at the Greek Council meetings. That said, they can participate in meetings and use this as a space to stay engaged with the PSU Greek Life community. To be added to the Greek Life email listserv for current members of PSU Greek Life, students can request to be added by the Adviser to Greek Life, Madeline Frisk who can be reached at [email protected].
Can I join Greek Life if I'm an upperclassman student?
Yes! Many students within PSU Greek Life have joined as juniors and seniors. We welcome undergraduate students of all years at PSU to join our community and if eligible we welcome graduate students as well. See the below question about graduate students for more information. Membership within a fraternity or sorority offers lifetime benefits and many students get involved as alumni members in alumnae chapters in their local areas to stay engaged and continue to live their values.
Can I join Greek Life if I'm an international student?
All international students who meet the eligibility requirements of individual chapters are welcome to join PSU Greek Life. There are many international students who have joined fraternities and sororities during their collegiate career here at PSU.
Can I join Greek Life if I'm a graduate student?
Each organization has differing membership eligibility. PSU Greek Life has outlined the policies below of the current chapters with student members at PSU to provide more information for graduate students who may be interested in joining our community:
- Alpha Chi Omega: Graduate students are not eligible to join but if eligible may be able to join on the national level through their national alumna initiate program.
- Delta Gamma: Graduate students are not eligible to join but if eligible may be able to join on the national level through their national alumna initiate program.
- Kappa Delta Chi: Graduate students are not eligible to join the PSU undergraduate chapter but if eligible may be able to go through their Graduate/Professional Intake process and be initiated into the Delta Alpha chapter of Kappa Delta Chi and involved with a local alumnae chapter of Kappa Delta Chi. Source: Kappa Delta Chi FAQ
- Omega Delta Phi: Graduate students are eligible to join Omega Delta Phi. Source: Membership requirements
- Phi Delta Epsilon: As the PSU chapter is a pre-medical chapter graduate students are not eligible to join Phi Delta Epsilon. If PSU alumni become medical students they may be interested in starting a medical chapter. For more information about this process go to their membership page.
- Phi Delta Theta: A person pursuing a graduate or a graduate professional course where a chapter is established may be initiated. Source: The Code of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity
Can I join Greek Life if I'm LGBTQIA+?
Greek Life at PSU is accepting and welcoming of LGBTQIA+ students at PSU and we encourage you to learn more about our individual chapters to find your fit. Campus Pride provides great resources which may provide you with guiding questions to ask chapters during recruitment as well as the insight of other individuals who are LGBTQIA+ and are members of Greek Lettered organizations. For more information check out the Campus Pride Fraternity and Sorority Life resources page. We also encourage involvement in and partnership with the PSU Queer Resource Center and we encourage LGBTQIA+ members of Greek Life and allies to attend their events and to educate themselves on LGBTQIA+ issues.
I identify as transgender. Am I allowed to join an organization that aligns with my gender identity?
Trans-inclusion within fraternities and sororities has been a hot topic on campus and around the nation. PSU Greek Life has outlined the policies below of the current chapters with student members at PSU to provide more transparency for students interested in joining our community:
- Alpha Chi Omega: Alpha Chi Omega does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, religion or other characteristics protected by applicable law. Women, including those who live and identify as women, regardless of the gender assigned to them at birth, are eligible for membership in Alpha Chi Omega based solely on five membership standards. The National Membership Standards are: 1] academic interest; 2] character; 3] financial responsibility; 4] leadership ability; 5] personal development. Alpha Chi Omega remains, as it always has been, a women's organization. Those assigned female at birth who live and identify as men are not eligible for membership. Source: Alpha Chi Omega Statements of Position
- Delta Gamma: Our Positional Statement on Inclusivity states: Delta Gamma Fraternity is committed to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment and experience for our members, potential new members and communities. In our membership selection processes and in the life-long membership experience, Delta Gamma Fraternity and its members do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religious affiliation, color, creed, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, physical disability or other protected identities. Membership is open to all individuals who identify as women and who have a sincere desire to uphold our shared values, as outlined in Article II. We resolve to eliminate inequities and address behaviors that do not align with our values. Source: Positional Statement on Inclusivity
- Kappa Delta Chi: It is the policy of Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. to provide equal membership opportunity to all female persons regardless of age, citizenship status, color, creed, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, parental status, physical/emotional/developmental/mental ability, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, socio-economic status, status as a disabled veteran and/or status with regard to public assistance. The sorority will not tolerate or condone any abusive or discriminatory behavior on the part of its members, based on age, citizenship status, color, creed, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, parental status, physical/emotional/developmental/mental ability, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, socio-economic status, status as a disabled veteran and/or status with regard to public assistance. Source: Code of Conduct National Diversity Policy - Non-discrimination clause
- Omega Delta Phi: As Omega Delta Phi Fraternity grows, so does our vision leading us towards the future of our Brotherhood. Omega Delta Phi Fraternity membership will not be restricted on the basis of age, ability, ethnicity, race, creed, religion, or assigned sex at birth. As our mission statement reads: The purpose of this Brotherhood, a Service/Social fraternity dedicated to the needs and concerns of the community, is and shall be to promote and maintain the traditional values of Unity, Honesty, Integrity, and Leadership. This Brotherhood was founded in order to provide, to ANY man, a diverse fraternal experience, which coincides with a higher education. As a national organization, Omega Delta Phi Fraternity embraces the diverse and inclusive atmosphere we provide for our Brothers as we continue towards our goal of graduating and providing service to our community. Source: Non-Discrimination Policy
- Phi Delta Epsilon: In Phi Delta Epsilon Medical Fraternity, we celebrate and support difference rather than just accepting it. Each member contributes to inclusion and our culture is the result of our commitment and collaboration. As current and future physicians, we believe every person and patient should be treated with equity and respect. We are committed to equal opportunity regardless of race, color, creed, gender identity, pregnancy, genetic information, marital status, military service, veteran status, age, non-disqualifying disability, religious preference, sexual orientation, ethnic or national origin. Source: Inclusion Statement
- Phi Delta Theta: Phi Delta Theta does not have a stated non-discrimination policy nationally but we encourage interested students to contact the chapter here at PSU as this does not mean that they do not accept transgender male students. Their membership qualifications are stated as such: Each chapter shall select its members from among the male students who are in regular attendance at the college or university at which it is established, expect in special cases as approved by the general council. Those chosen by the chapter must be men who exemplify friendship, sound learning, and rectitude. Source: The Code of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity
Currently, Phi Delta Epsilon is the only chapter at PSU that has a policy which specifies that their organization is open to non-binary, genderqueer, or agender members. If you are interested in bringing another gender-inclusive organization to campus or in starting a new organization, please contact the Adviser to Greek Life at [email protected] or Aimee Shattuck, Director of SALP at [email protected]. We also encourage you to check out the other student organizations at PSU on Connect.
Risk Management/Safety Questions
Is hazing a part of Greek Life at Portland State?
All fraternities and sororities forbid hazing, and are committed to a membership experience that instills a sense of responsibility and personal excellence. Hazing is against the law in the State of Oregon and is taken seriously by Portland State University, the Student Activities and Leadership Programs (SALP) staff, Greek Council, Panhellenic Council, and all of our chapters. For more information about the Oregon Anti-Hazing law check out the Stop Hazing resource here. All members of recognized student organizations at PSU are held to the PSU Code of Student Conduct and Responsibility and the SALP Community Standards Process and there may be additional processes through the governing council which the chapter is a member of. All fraternities and sororities at PSU are encouraged to engage with their members in talking about these policies, providing training and resources internally or attending relevant events held by SALP staff, and to bring concerns to the SALP Greek Life adviser as well as their council, chapter, or faculty adviser when applicable. We encourage students to report incidents of hazing as they will not be tolerated within our community.
How are members of Greek Life at PSU educated on responsible alcohol use?
The choice to drink alcohol is an individual one, and there are members of fraternities and sororities who choose not to consume alcohol at all. There are also fraternities and sororities who do not host events at which alcohol is present. In terms of education for new members, many chapters require their new members to participate in alcohol programming through chapter-specific training or online modules. Chapters may also choose to partner with the Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC)or individual members may utilize the resources they have available. We also encourage members in recovery or members looking to recommend treatment resources for alcohol and drug abuse to consult Multnomah County Addictions Services, OHSU treatment resources for alcohol and drug abuse, and the SHAC Peer Recovery Support Program. All members of recognized student organizations at PSU are held to the PSU Code of Student Conduct and Responsibility which includes the University Alcohol and other Drugs Policy and the SALP Community Standards Process and there may be additional processes through the governing council which the chapter is a member of as well as actions by their (inter)national organization or governing council if applicable.
What are fraternities and sororities at PSU doing to prevent sexual violence?
Many chapters address sexual violence prevention through educational programs facilitated by their (inter)national headquarters staff, volunteers, chapter/council advisers, or the student leaders of individual chapters. Chapters and/or councils may also choose to partner with departments on campus which provide resources including but not limited to Student Health and Counseling (SHAC), Confidential Advocates located at resource centers and departments across campus, and Student Legal Services in order to put on educational programs and provide more information to their members and/or other members of the PSU community to encourage them to explore their role in addressing sexual violence. We encourage students and student leaders of fraternities and sororities to share the full list of sexual misconduct response resources at PSU and in the community with their members.
Does Greek Life at Portland State have housed chapters?
Currently, there are no housed chapters at Portland State University. Fraternities and sororities hold meetings and events both on and off campus and it's not uncommon for members to live with each other as they develop friendships.
