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GREEK LETTER
ORGANIZATIONS
A Greek is a member of a
sorority or a fraternity, so called because the organization bears a Greek-letter name. These Greek organizations provide family-like support and social
activities for their members. They also sponsor community service projects such
as fund-raising for charities and volunteer service to community organizations.
The Greek system at The University of West Alabama consists
of five sororities and six fraternities.
It is through a process called "rush," or
recruitment, that you can learn about UWA’s Greek life. Sorority Rush is
coordinated by Becky Amato, Panhellenic Advisor. Fraternity Rush is coordinated by
Jason Gardner, Director of Student Activities. Information about
fraternity and sorority rush is available through the Student Affairs Office (Webb Hall 323).
Although unique, the principles upon
which each Greek organization was founded are similar, including the pursuit of
academic excellence, good citizenship, the development of leadership abilities
among its members, and fellowship. These shared principles provide the
foundation of the Greek system. Hazing attacks this foundation, challenging the very principles upon
which the Greek system was founded.
Hazing is an illegal activity and is defined as "Any
action taken or situations created, whether on or off fraternity or sorority premises, which
recklessly or intentionally produces mental or physical discomfort,
embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule." Examples of hazing include but
are not limited to the use of alcohol, paddling, the creation of excessive
fatigue, scavenger hunts, public stunts, morally degrading or humiliating games
and activities. Education regarding hazing is a tool in the elimination of this
behavior. Therefore, education is provided to by the University to ensure that
fraternity and sorority members, advisor, faculty advisor, and associate
members, understand that hazing is illegal and will not be tolerated.
Any associate member who feels that he/she
has been physically hazed or any fraternity or sorority member, advisor, or faculty advisor who has
information regarding a hazing incident is required to report this activity to the
Student Affairs Office. Investigations of complaints involving physical hazing
will be taken to resolve complaints without fear of reprisal against the
individual filing such a complaint. Corrective action will be taken in
accordance with established University policies and procedures if evidence supports the claim
of hazing during the investigation.
Any associate member who feels they have been mentally hazed,
harassed, ridiculed, or asked to participate in any activity which violates
their religious or moral beliefs should express their concerns to their Big
Brother/Sister, or organizational officer. Once notified, the fraternity or
sorority must
submit a written report of the incident to the Student Affairs Office, along with
any disciplinary action taken against members found violating the University’s
hazing policy. The Student Affairs Office or a designated representative will,
upon notification, meet separately with the organization’s officers and
advisor, and the associate member lodging the complaint to ensure that the
proper action has been taken and that the problem has been sufficiently
resolved. If an organization fails to respond to a complaint, the associate
member should contact the Student Affairs Office, prompting an investigation.
Organizations are responsible for, and will be held
accountable for, the actions of one or more of their members involved in a hazing
incident. The degree of responsibility of organizations may be lessened or
heightened by the manner and actions taken by an organization following an
incident. Greek organizations found in violation of the University’s hazing
policy will be disciplined by the University. Sanctions levied against an
organization may include a warning, reprimand, disciplinary probation,
suspension, and forfeiture. In addition, the organization may face criminal
charges, as defined under the Alabama State Code, and civil action.
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