Fraternity and Sorority Life

Rochester Institute of Technology is home to 29 diverse inter/national social fraternities and sororities focused on academics, leadership, service, and improving the overall collegiate experience for all students.

Fraternity and Sorority Life at RIT strives to:

  • Continuously support all RIT-recognized social fraternities and sororities.
  • Develop a sense of community and belonging among the members, chapters, and governing councils.
  • Assist the governing councils in their goals to achieve self-governance.
  • Support the development of leaders within all Greek organizations.  
  • Assess all chapters to determine their individual strengths and opportunities.

Benefits of Fraternity and Sorority Life

Joining a fraternity or sorority at RIT offers numerous benefits. Members develop leadership skills, engage in community service, and form lifelong friendships. The Greek community provides a supportive environment that encourages academic excellence and personal growth. By becoming part of our Greek community, students can enhance their college experience and build a foundation for future success. 

The Greek community is dedicated to building future societal leaders by providing a wealth of leadership opportunities for Greek members. From social issues to academic, business to philanthropy, the leaders of today are gaining their leadership edge from their fraternity and sorority experiences. Membership in a fraternal or sororal organization is one of the most outstanding means of discovering and refining your leadership potential.

Within each chapter, members have the chance to assume a wide spectrum of leadership roles. These roles may range from serving as rush chair to treasurer and social chair to president. Within each fraternity, there are typically anywhere from five to twenty different leadership positions, all requiring varying degrees of skills and commitment. Opportunities to learn and practice leadership stretch beyond chapters. There are many system-wide leadership roles open on the IFC, CPC, and MGC. Beyond the Greek community, fraternity men and sorority women are involved in many other organizations on campus. Some of these include Student Government, athletic teams, and many student clubs.  

Philanthropy projects are events in which Greek communities or individual chapters donate their time and efforts to raise funds for a worthwhile cause. Chapters on campus plan many philanthropy and community service projects during the year to benefit a variety of agencies. One of the significant philanthropy projects undertaken by the Greek community each semester is "Adopt a Highway" on East River Road.

Most chapters require members to maintain community service hours; however, these requirements are not a burden due to the satisfaction one gets when they are completed. Philanthropy projects and community service are more than just helping a cause; they are a way to make a lasting impact. They show the community what Greeks are really like, and they are a lot of fun for everybody involved. 

Academic achievement is the first and foremost priority of all University students. Scholastic achievement is also central to the mission of most fraternities and sororities. Each fraternity or sorority places a strong emphasis on creating an atmosphere conducive to high academic performance, while also challenging each individual to reach their highest academic potential.

Each fraternity and sorority generally implements various programs designed to assist members in their academic pursuits. Programs range from tutoring, help with scheduling, quiet study areas in the house, study tables for new members, test files, and awards for good grades. Additionally, most organizations offer financial scholarships, which are often supported by their national organizations and local alumni groups. These efforts reinforce the belief that academic achievement is an integral part of the fraternity and sorority experience.  

Throughout your college experience at RIT, the friendships that our members make within their chapters are the ones that last a lifetime. Whether you came to college not knowing a single person or knowing several people, the opportunity to be a part of a brotherhood or sisterhood transcends your RIT college experience. Brotherhood and sisterhood are the bonds of unity and friendship that last a lifetime. These bonds are not only among members within each individual chapter but also among chapters nationwide, due to the history and ideals that each chapter was founded upon.

By becoming a member of the Greek community, you will meet people who will grow to become your closest friends, those who will cheer you on when you're successful, and who will support you when the going gets tough. Lifelong friendships and associations are made through active participation in a Greek organization. These relationships are deeper than going to parties and more meaningful than wearing the same letters. They are about the growth and development of individuals as they begin their lives at RIT. Each new member brings his or her unique talents to the fraternity or sorority and is valued and respected for the way they are.

While academics are the main reason for one to attend RIT, you will achieve the best college experience possible through the proper balancing of academics and social activities. Joining a fraternity or sorority will offer you the most extensive social outlets possible on the RIT campus. Being Greek gives you the opportunity to meet new friends through participation in events like Brick City Festival, Alumni Weekends, Date Nights, Formals, Theme Parties, Greek Weekend, and many other social activities. Fraternity men and sorority women pride themselves on the ability to help their fellow brothers and sisters develop socially and learn to have fun in a safe environment. 

Greek Governance

Greek Leadership Committee (GLC)

The purpose of the Greek Leadership Committee (GLC) is to promote unity, advocacy, and collaboration among Greek organizations. Through leadership, service, and community engagement, we aim to enhance the Greek experience and foster a strong relationship between Greek Life, the university, and the student body.

Learn more about GLC at RIT

College Panhellenic Council (CPC)

The College Panhellenic Council (CPC) is the governing body of the five Panhellenic sororities at RIT and serves as a liaison between National Panhellenic Council and RIT's Fraternity & Sorority Life. 

Learn more about CPC at RIT

Interfraternity Council (IFC)

The Interfraternity Council (IFC) is the governing body of the eleven NIC fraternities at RIT and serves as a liaison between the North American Interfraternity Conference and RIT's Fraternity & Sorority Life. 

 

Learn more about IFC at RIT

Multicultural Greek Council (MGC)

The Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) is the governing body of the thirteen culturally based fraternities and sororities at RIT and serve as a liaison between the National Pan-Hellenic Council, National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations, National Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Panhellenic Association, and RIT's Fraternity & Sorority Life. 

 

Learn more about MGC at RIT 

Explore Fraternities and Sororities

Joining a fraternity or sorority on campus offers a unique and enriching college experience. Greek Life at RIT provides students with opportunities for leadership, community service, and personal growth. With 29 diverse inter/national social fraternities and sororities, students can find a community that aligns with their values and interests. Membership in these organizations fosters lifelong friendships, enhances academic achievement, and offers extensive networking opportunities with alumni. By joining a fraternity or sorority, students become part of a supportive and engaged community that helps them thrive both during their college years and beyond. 

Browse Fraternity and Sorority Chapters

Honor Societies

Gamma Sigma Alpha (ΓΣΑ, or GSA) is a National Academic Greek Honor Society recognizing academic excellence among members of Fraternities and sororities. Gamma Sigma Alpha states that its mission is "to recognize and advance academic excellence as a core value of fraternities and sororities". Student membership is limited to members of Greek-letter social organizations based on academic achievement.  If you are interested in joining our GSA chapter, click the link below. 

Learn more about Gamma Sigma Alpha

The Order of Omega is an undergraduate Greek society that recognizes fraternity men and women who have attained a high standard of leadership in interfraternity activities. It functions as an adjunct to traditional fraternal organizations. Student membership is limited to members of Greek-letter social organizations. Order of Omega is a representation of our entire Fraternity & Sorority community, across all councils. If you are interested in joining our Order of O chapter, click the link below. 

Learn more about Order of Omega 

Expansion

The process for expanding fraternity and sorority life at RIT involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and successful integration of new chapters. Interested organizations must first submit an application for expansion, which includes detailed information about their mission, values, and plans for contributing to the campus community. Once the application is reviewed and approved, the organization must adhere to the expansion guidelines provided by the university. This process includes collaborating with existing Greek councils, participating in recruitment activities, and demonstrating a commitment to the principles of leadership, scholarship, and service. By following these steps, new fraternities and sororities can establish a strong presence on campus and contribute to the vibrant Greek community at RIT. 

  • Expansion Application (Expected Fall 2025)
  • Expansion Guidelines (Expected Fall 2025)

Resources

Fraternity and Sorority Life within Campus Life supports the continued development of Greek Life at RIT.  Through administrative support, advisor development, risk management, recruitment, and community building, RIT's Fraternity and Sorority Life program continues to strive for excellence and inclusivity, ensuring a positive and impactful experience for all its members.  

Recognition & Awards

Fraternity and Sorority Life at the Rochester Institute of Technology holds an annual awards ceremony to recognize the achievements of the RIT Greek community, its chapters, and members as they continue to uphold the values and goals of Fraternity & Sorority Life, Leadership, Service, Scholarship, Community & Alumni Connections. Chapters within the College Panhellenic Council (CPC), the Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) & the Interfraternity Council (IFC) are all eligible to apply for and be chosen as the award recipients. These awards are based on a chapter's activity throughout the calendar year and are of the highest honor an organization on campus can receive within Fraternity & Sorority Life.  

Learn more about Greek Awards and past recipients 

Frequently Asked Questions

Fraternities and sororities are groups of individuals with similar interests who are bonded together by common goals and aspirations. These bonds are formed through rituals based on common principles, such as honor, friendship, truth, and knowledge. Each group works to instill and support these ideals in their members through their everyday activities. Membership in a Greek letter organization is a lifetime obligation.

The decision to join the sorority/fraternity community means working with a group that can share and advocate for common goals and ideas while being held to a higher standard than other college students. The Greek experience during the college years is a gateway to many rewards and connections later in life. Each chapter fosters a special bond known as sisterhood or brotherhood. Both are nurtured through common work, laughter, service projects, intramurals, and the shared success and frustrations of all. Throughout the student's life, membership will be an unwritten bond of friendship no matter what course his/her life takes.  

All of the fraternities and sororities at RIT are chapters of inter/national organizations. Each chapter falls under one of three governing councils:

All RIT-recognized fraternities and sororities are a part of one of these councils and are held accountable to their policies, rules, and regulations.  

There is a different process for joining organizations, depending on the council under which the organization falls. Panhellenic Recruitment starts during the beginning of the Fall or Spring Semester. Typically, at the beginning of the semester, organizations host events where potential members can meet sisters from all five chapters. The Interfraternity Council also has similar recruitment as CPC.

Many of our MGC organizations conduct intake to bring in new members, but there are also several that host more open recruitment practices. The best way to find out is to reach out to a member of the organization and ask about their process. The organizations host events throughout the year to help students get to know them. If a student is interested in joining an organization, it is best to conduct some research first. Head to the Chapters Page to learn more about MGC organizations on a national level. After you find an organization that fits well with your values, reach out directly to a member of an organization and set up a time to meet one-on-one to talk about the possibility of joining.  

You can join whenever you feel ready to be part of a chapter. It is very common for freshman to join IFC and CPC, it is less likely for MGC chapters. 

The dues for each chapter vary, and new member dues are often higher than annual dues because new members cover the cost of their pins, national dues, and insurance. This can range from $300-$1,000 per year. 

Recruitment is a series of events designed to get to know the different brothers and sisters. At the end of the recruitment week, if chosen, you will receive a bid (invitation) to join. 

RIT supports housing for some fraternities and sororities both in the Greek Free-standing Housing within the apartment area. You should inquire about the housing requirements of each chapter during the recruitment process, prior to accepting a bid for membership, so that there are no surprises once you have become a member of a fraternity or sorority. 

Many students involved in the RIT Greek community are also employed outside of their academic pursuits. In today's world, the reality is that only the lucky few can afford to attend college without outside employment. Fraternities and sororities recognize that it is important for members to be able to meet their financial obligations and that many students will work to help finance their education. Working students can still take advantage of the opportunities available through the Greek community. 

It's more likely that a fraternity or sorority will help your grades. When a student joins a fraternity or sorority, they become part of a larger group of students who can provide assistance in most of the courses they will be taking. There are few other places where a student can gain access to the variety of resources that the Greek community can offer. Ultimately, the responsibility for succeeding in the classroom belongs to the individual, but with the broad range of resources available within the Greek community, students are more likely to achieve their academic potential. 

Fraternity and sorority members elected to officer positions manage the day-to-day operations of the organization. These officers are assisted by members serving on committees and by alumni who act as advisors. Additionally, all Greek organizations at RIT are affiliated with a national organization that provides support, guidance, and direction through professional staff and regional volunteers. Professional staff from the University are employed to assist and monitor the activities of Greek organizations.  

Be supportive and learn as much as you can by asking questions of your son or daughter as they meet people through the recruitment process. Also, be an active parent during your child's years in a fraternity or sorority. Encourage and support your child. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the professional staff who work with fraternities and sororities at RIT, as mentioned above. 

Greek Terminology