Greek to Me As president of the Interfraternity Council, Reid Dentner ’22 believes the Greek system can be a positive influence in the campus community.

Reid Dentner ’22
March 21, 2022

“…Greek organizations are instrumental in creating a safe and inclusive environment and must always strive to be positively contributing to the student community.”

As I reflect on my time on campus, my fraternity and the Greek system at large have provided me with incredible opportunities for personal development and given me insight into the university in ways I never imagined.

While most people think about fraternities and sororities as social organizations, the responsibility they demand is often overlooked. Most chapters employ several people and operate on budgets of hundreds of thousands of dollars. We have a responsibility not only to active members, but also national organizations, administrators and dedicated alumni who all hold a vested interest. Our chapters have major roles within the university, including student housing and dining, but perhaps most importantly as elements of campus culture. In this sense, Greek organizations are instrumental in creating a safe and inclusive environment and must always strive to be positively contributing to the student community.

As I conclude my term as president of the Interfraternity Council, I am more convinced than ever of its value. My position has given me the opportunity to serve on various university committees, and my main priority is ensuring that every student can join a Greek organization where they feel fulfilled and positioned for success. For this goal, afford-ability is a major concern, and our institution needs to find ways to ensure that finances are never a barrier to any student joining a fraternity or sorority. It may seem odd to consider how organizations which restrict membership can make our campus more welcoming. However, I believe that Greek organizations are uniquely powerful in providing a community for students to develop and learn together, establishing a shared experience which allows for greater connection across the entire student body.