For Parents & Families: A Message from the Fraternity and Sorority Life Staff
On behalf of the fraternity and sorority community at Butler University, welcome! This is an exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking time as your student begins exploring all that college life has to offer. You will likely witness incredible growth as your student engages in experiences both in and outside the classroom.
Fraternity and sorority membership provides rich history for student involvement opportunities on campus. In 1859, Butler’s first Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternity was chartered, followed by Panhellenic sororities that arrived in 1874. In the 1920s, the historically Black National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Greek-lettered organizations were chartered. Today, we have expanded opportunities for students to join city wide chapters, allow members from more than one college/university, in NPHC and Multicultural Greek Council (MCGC) organizations.
At Butler, we believe every student deserves a sense of belonging, meaningful connections, and the support to succeed academically. Fraternities and sororities can offer:
- Engagement in community service and philanthropic activities
- Belonging through lifelong friendships and community building
- Academic support and mentorship
- Leadership and personal development opportunities
- Career preparation and networking
About Our Community
Here are some facts about our fraternity and sorority community:
- Nearly 40% of undergraduate students are involved in a fraternity or sorority.
- We observe deferred recruitment, meaning that the process of joining is delayed until the beginning of the second semester.
- We have 26 chapters available for students to join (7 IFC, 7 Panhellenic, 9 NPHC, and 3 MCGC).
- Fourteen chapters have an off-campus house or residential space (all IFC fraternities & Panhellenic sororities).
- Our fraternity and sorority GPA is above the all undergraduate student GPA.
- Each organization will have their own eligibility requirements, but the minimum requirements include 12 university credit hours, 2.5 cumulative GPA, and student’s are not on conduct probation with Butler University.
- Alumni play an active role in advising and assisting members in self-governance and developing a balanced program of academic, philanthropic, individual development, and social activities.
- Butler also offers involvement opportunities in academic and business fraternities and sororities. Additional information can be found in Butler Engage.
Supporting Your Student
Your student’s journey into fraternity and sorority life can be enriching, and your support makes a difference. Here are ways you can stay engaged:
- Engage in Open Dialogue: Discuss your student’s goals and expectations regarding membership in a social fratneirty or sorority.
- Research Together: Explore the values, missions, and activities of various chapters to find the best fit for your student.
- Discuss Community Impact: Encourage them to learn how each chapter supports local or national philanthropic causes and stays engaged in our community.
- Review Financial Obligations: Membership costs vary by each organization. These include dues, activity fees, and some will include housing. Details are available on individual chapter pages or on our FAQs page.
- Understand the Timeline: Deferred recruitment begins each January. Encourage your student to attend fall information sessions to learn more and meet students before the joining process begins.
- Stay Informed: Connect with our staff and student leaders during new student orientation or Family Weekend activities (the leadership panel and house tours). Be sure to reach out with any questions you or your student may have!
We’re Here to Help
Our office is committed to creating a safe, values-driven, and inclusive fraternity and sorority community. If you have any questions or want to learn more about what to expect as your student joins a chapter, please reach out at 317-940-6590 or fsl@butler.edu, or visit our office located on the third floor of Atherton Union.