Welcome
For more than 150 years, Greek organizations have been a staple at Transylvania University. The Fraternity and Sorority community strives to improve the lives of its members and the community through academic excellence, leadership development, and a focus on service and philanthropy. Fraternity and Sorority members are committed to living their values.
For many current students, Fraternity and Sorority Life plays an important role in their development and experience at TU. There are five inter/national fraternities and five inter/national sororities represented on campus. All of the fraternities belong to a governing council called the Interfraternity Council. Four sororities similarly belong to a governing council called the College Panhellenic Association and our two newest chartered groups make up our National Pan-Hellenic Council. Transylvania also hosts three honor societies that you can join, Order of Omega, Gamma Sigma Alpha and Rho Lambda.
Today, approximately 40 percent of the student body is a member of a fraternity or sorority. Though there are different national chapters on campus, all chapters share common founding principles and enhance the educational experience by emphasizing intellectual and social development. Being a part of the Fraternity & Sorority community means learning in and out of the classroom, seeking opportunities for engagement such as leadership positions and service events. Membership in a chapter is a lifelong commitment, not just while in college. Relationship building and network opportunities will extend beyond Transy.
Pillars of Fraternity & Sorority Life
Friendship
One of the greatest aspects of Fraternity & Sorority Life are the friendships that are made through membership. These friendships stand the test of time as alumni/ae can confirm. Involvement in a sorority or fraternity gives members an opportunity to widen their circle of friends beyond their majors, interests, and teams. As you learn more about your brothers and sisters, you will see growth and development in yourself.
Leadership
Leadership development is ingrained in Fraternity & Sorority Life. Early on, members are presented with leadership roles and opportunities. They are given skills and training to fine tune their leadership styles. Campus leaders often are members of the Fraternity & Sorority community. Regularly, Fraternity & Sorority members overlap with other roles such as resident advisors, athletic team captains, Student Government Association, Student Activities Board, Admissions Ambassadors, and First Engagement Scholars.
Academics
Academic excellence is at the core of the liberal arts education. Students come to Transy for the academic rigor and scholastic challenge. Historically, the Fraternity & Sorority GPA remains above the all campus average, term after term. Scholarship is valued by each chapter and as such, each chapter devotes resources and programs to assist members in achieving their academic goals. Tutoring, study sessions, and awards motivate members to do well in the classroom.
Service
Transylvania students and Fraternity & Sorority organizations are committed to community and civic engagement. This commitment is visible on campus through the various fundraisers, volunteer opportunities, and support shown for several non-profit organizations. Students can be seen collaborating on a blood drive, putting together peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, selling baked goods, or practicing for annual philanthropic events.
Interfraternity Council
The Transylvania University Interfraternity Council (IFC) is the governing body for four of our recognized fraternities on campus. The council consists of a delegate from each chapter, the chapter president, six officers from various chapters, and the Fraternity & Sorority Advisor. The council works to implement educational, social, and service activities throughout the year. Formal recruitment for IFC organizations occurs during the start of the Fall Term.
Delta Sigma Phi
Motto: Better Men. Better Lives.
Fraternity Founded: 1899, City College of New York
Chapter Chartered: 1941
Kappa Alpha Order
Motto: A moral compass for the modern gentleman.
Fraternity Founded: 1865, Washington College
Chapter Chartered: 1891
Phi Kappa Tau
Motto: Learning. Leading. Serving.
Fraternity Founded: 1906, Miami University
Chapter Chartered: 1919
Pi Kappa Alpha
Motto: To set the standard of integrity, intellect, and achievement for our members, host institutions, and the communities in which we live.
Fraternity Founded: 1868, University of Virginia
Chapter Chartered: 1888
Panhellenic Association
The College Panhellenic Association is the council that represents the four National Panhellenic Conference sororities on campus. The council is made up of one delegate from each chapter, each chapter president, eight executive officers from various chapters, and the Fraternity & Sorority Advisor. Panhellenic Association is responsible for organizing programs for the betterment of all sororities on campus. Recruitment for PHA occurs during the start of the Fall Term.
Alpha Omicron Pi
Motto: Inspire Ambition.
Sorority Founded: 1897, Barnard College
Chapter Chartered on Campus: 1987
Chi Omega
Motto: To work earnestly, to speak kindly, to act sincerely.
Sorority Founded: 1895. University of Arkansas
Chapter Chartered on Campus: 1903
Delta Delta Delta
Motto: Let us steadfastly love one another.
Sorority Founded: 1888, Boston University
Chapter Chartered on Campus: 1908
Phi Mu
Motto: The Faithful Sisters.
Sorority Founded: 1852, Wesleyan College
Chapter Chartered on Campus: 1939
National Pan-Hellenic Council
In Fall 2022, Transylvania University welcomed its first historically black greek letter organization, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated, by Spring 2023 they added Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated. These new additions to the Fraternity & Sorority community expand FSL’s student outreach and create opportunities for more students to see themselves within the fraternity sorority experience.
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.
Motto: Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor
Fraternity Founded: 1911, Indiana University
Chapter Chartered on Campus: 2022
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc.
Motto: Greater Service, Greater Progress
Sorority Founded: 1922. Butler University
Chapter Chartered on Campus: 2023
By the numbers
1903 — Transy’s first sorority is Chi Omega’s Chi chapter, The organization was founded at the University of Arkansas in 1895.
10 — Nationally recognized chapters
1888 — Pi Kappa Alpha, First fraternity chartered at Transy in 1888 while under the name Kentucky University. It is also the 10th chapter of PIKE.
40% — over forty percent of Transy students are affiliated with a Greek-lettered organization.
213 — sorority membership as of Spring 2024
189 — fraternity membership as of Spring 2024
3.421 — Spring 2024 all-Greek GPA
- all university — 3.368
- all fraternity — 3.287
- all men — 3.282
- all sorority — 3.545
- all women — 3.422
3.434 — Fall 2023 all-Greek GPA
- all university — 3.366
- all fraternity — 3.281
- all men — 3.272
- all sorority — 3.559
- all women — 3.437
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits to joining a fraternity or sorority?
Fraternity & Sorority organizations have a foundation of leadership, service, academics, and brother/sisterhood. Today’s members feel that Fraternity and Sorority Life provides ample opportunities to engage on and off campus, create lasting friendships, and land top notch leadership positions.
How do I register for recruitment?
Complete this application to register for sorority recruitment. Sorority recruitment will take place September 10-21. Registration opens July 1 and will close at Midnight on September 17.
Submit this form to register for fraternity recruitment. Fraternity recruitment will take place from September 15-September 28, 2025. Registration opens July 1and will close at Midnight on September 23rd, 2025.
Registration costs $35 and it covers a T Shirt, Bid Day Breakfast, and technology usage. If this fee wouldprevent you from signing up for recruitment, the College Panhellenic Association and InterfraternityCouncil have a process to waive the fee. Please email Michelle Thompson (mithompson@transy.edu) and Ryan Benjamin (rbenjamin@transy.edu) to request a fee waiver.
Membership Intake for our historically black fraternity and sorority takes place after IFC and Panhellenicrecruitment. First year students are unable to join in their first semester as our NPHC organizationsrequire a semester GPA from Transy and time to acclimate to campus. For additional information, pleasereach out to Ernest Bowen at ejbowen26@transy.edu for questions about Kappa Alpha Psi, FraternityInc., or LaDonna Walker at upsilonlambdaadvisor2023@gmail.com for questions about Sigma GammaRho, Sorority Inc.
What are the requirements for joining a sorority or fraternity?
People wishing to participate in recruitment must register for recruitment and release their GPA to the chapters. Potential New Members wishing to participate in IFC recruitment must have at least a 2.75 high school GPA or a 2.5 college GPA. Sororities have internal GPA thresholds for membership that vary from chapter to chapter.
What is a Rho Gamma?
If you participate in Panhellenic recruitment, you will have a recruitment counselor called a Rho Gamma. A Rho Gamma is a member of a Panhellenic organization who is disaffiliated from their chapter during recruitment. Rho Gammas are impartial, unbiased recruitment resources. They are trained on how to best support you as you progress through recruitment. You will be connected to your Rho Gamma as you officially register for recruitment.
How much does this membership cost?
For all fraternities and sororities, membership dues support the chapter’s operational expenses, social functions, and national fees. New members can expect to pay higher dues during their first year due to new member and initiation fees, insurance fees and badge costs. Some chapters offer payment plans and some even offer scholarship opportunities to help make membership affordable. A detailed membership breakdown for Panhellenic sororities is given to each potential new member during recruitment.
President Messages
Hello everyone! The Panhellenic Community is so excited to welcome you to Transy! I am so excited to see where your college journey takes you! College has been one of the most enriching and fulfilling experiences of my life. I encourage you to take advantage of any opportunities and experiences that come your way over these next four years. One of the most fulfilling experiences on Transylvania’s campus for me and many others has been being a part of fraternity and sorority life (FSL).
When I got on campus, I was sure that sorority life was not for me. I had a lot of preconceived notions about sorority life from what I had seen in the media and on T.V. However, once I was on campus for a bit, I started to realize that FSL at Transy seemed a lot different than what I thought it would be. I met a lot of great people involved with FSL, and I decided that I would give recruitment a try.
Our campus is home to four Panhellenic sororities: Alpha Omicron Pi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, and Phi Mu. Each organization has its own set of values, local and national philanthropies, and a number of Transy students. This year, our theme for recruitment is “Your next stop, home!” The theme was chosen to encourage everyone to find their own home based on their individual values and personality. Recruitment begins with our Panhel meet and greet event, where you can meet members of our Panhellenic council, followed by an orientation session. You will then meet members of each chapter at our open house round. Open house is open to anyone, even if you haven’t registered yet, and is a great way to try things out! Open house is followed by invitational rounds and pref night before recruitment ends with bid day. Recruitment allows everyone the opportunity to get to know each chapter. It is a great way to make new friends and find a group of people who share your values and interests!
I know recruitment can seem intimidating to some, but I encourage you to give it a try! At Transylvania, we have a values-based recruitment system, which means you will find your home based on your personal values and how they align with each chapter. Anyone can go through recruitment no matter who you are or where you come from. We want you to bringwhat you have to offer. Be yourself and discover your new home away from home!
Fallon Cross
fscross27@transy.edu
President, Panhellenic Council
Class of 2027
Hello and welcome to Transylvania University! I’m beyond excited to welcome you to our vibrant, warm, and dynamic campus, your new home for the next four years. Transy is a place where you’ll not only learn more about yourself and the world, but also discover that opportunities here are truly limitless. I invite you to spend your first few weeks as a Pioneer exploring, growing, and challenging yourself to see just how much you can accomplish.
One of the most impactful steps in my journey of self-discovery was getting involved in Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL), specifically through fraternity recruitment. To be honest, I was initially hesitant, even opposed, to going through recruitment, and the idea of joining a fraternity felt completely off the table, but I had made a promise to myself: to take advantage of every opportunity college offered. Plus, something about FSL, especially at Transy, felt different from the media stereotypes. Though I was nervous, the layout of the events and the people I met along the way were incredibly rewarding. After recruitment and Bid Day, I found my home, and to this day, I’ve never regretted my decision to go through the process.
This fall, fraternity recruitment will take place just a few weeks after the semester begins. The Interfraternity Council (IFC), in collaboration with all four chapters, has worked hard to make sure recruitment is welcoming, well-organized, and fun. Recruitment will run from September 15 to September 28, giving you the chance to meet all four of our chapters: Delta Sigma Phi (SIG), Kappa Alpha Order (KA), Phi Kappa Tau (Phi Tau), and Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE). Events will range from an Orientation Night, where you can ask questions and meet executive leaders, to casual evenings hanging out in Back Circle, playing yard games, and having conversations with current members. Full details about each event can be found in the recruitment form. During these two short weeks, you’ll meet some truly inspiring people who may become lifelong friends.
I know starting college and considering FSL can feel overwhelming. I can, however, confidently say this: going through fraternity recruitment was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Through my fraternity, I’ve found a community that is supportive, empowering, and full of opportunity. From taking free trips across the country to spending countless hours with my best friends, this experience has shaped my college years in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
I hope to see you getting involved, and especially hope you consider exploring Fraternity and Sorority Life at Transy!
Quincy Elliott
qgelliott27@transy.edu | 606.315.9904
President, Interfraternity Council
Class of 2027
Sorority Recruitment
Sorority Recruitment takes place over the course of a week and a half. Our schedule this year allows PNMs to hav a couple days off in between. Our meet and greet and open house events are a great way to try out recruitment before deciding if you’d lidke to sign up!
September 10: Panhel Meet and Greet
PNM’s attend an overview of the recruitment schedule while participating in a potted plant activity while getting to meet sorority members and ask questions about the recruitment process
September 12: Orientation
During orientation, you will receive a detailed schedule of recruitment, meet your Rho Gamma, and learn more about the recruitment process.
September 15-16: Open House Rounds
PNM’s will have the opportunity to meet all four chapter’s before Registration closes at 11:59pm on Wednesday the 17th (A try before you buy experience).
September 18: Invitational Rounds
PNM’s are invited back to no more than three chapters to learn more about their involvement with local and national philanthropies.
September 20: Preference Night
PNM’s meet with up to two chapters maximum and make their final selection.
September 21: Bid Day
Bid Day is the day that invitations to join a chapter are distributed. After receiving bids, you will join your chapter for sisterhood activities.
Fraternity Recruitment
September 15: IFC Kick Off & Orientation
Meet the IFC Executives and get a full overview of the recruitment process. You’ll hear from each chapter’s president, see what makes them unique, and have a chance to ask questions.
September 16: chapter showcase
During chapter showcase, you will receive a short presentation from each fraternity. This will give you a chance to learn about each organization’s values, events, philanthropy, and new member education programs.
September 18: tent/spirit night
You will have the opportunity to interact with each chapter in Back Circle. Fraternity chapters will host different activities in order to get to know the PNM’s.
September 18-22: on/off campus events
You will be free to attend events with fraternities in which you are interested. You will be able to talk with members of each organization and learn more about each fraternity. These events also give the fraternity a chance to learn more about the potential new members.
September 23: IFC Philanthropy
PNMs will support a local cause to ensure the value of philanthropy is known and core to FSL.
September 24-27: formal smoker events (Invite only)
You will have the opportunity to attend fraternity smokers. Each smoker is planned to give you the most information possible about the fraternities. This will also be a chance to meet chapter leaders and alumni.
September 28: Bid Day
Bid Day is the day that invitations to join a chapter are distributed. After receiving bids, you will join your chapter for brotherhood activities.
Anti-Hazing Statement
Hazing is strictly prohibited by Transylvania university and all fraternities & sororities.
Hazing is strictly prohibited by Transylvania University and all fraternities and sororities. Hazing is defined as an act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or that destroys or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in an organization/group. Participation or cooperation by the person(s) being hazed does not excuse the violation. Failing to intervene to prevent and/or failing to discourage and/or failing to report those acts may also violate this policy.
Such activities and situations may include but are not limited to paddling in any form, excessive fatigue, physical or psychological shocks, kidnaps, degrading, humiliating or fear-provoking games or activities, forced alcohol consumption, late work sessions which interfere with scholarship, menial tasks, and any other activity that is not consistent with the ideals and purposes of the student organization, or the regulations and policies of Transylvania University. Sanctioning will be decided in conjunction with the appropriate inter/national office and may include loss of campus recognition.