

History įurther information: Fraternity § History, and Philhellenism Establishment and early history The fraternity system in North America began at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, where Phi Beta Kappa was founded in 1775. Many colleges and universities have sought to reform or eliminate them due to these concerns, but these efforts have typically been met with intense controversy. A set of complex identification symbols that may include Greek letters, armorial achievements, ciphers, badges, grips, hand signs, passwords, flowers, and colorsįraternities and sororities engage in philanthropic activities, host parties, provide "finishing" training for new members such as instruction on etiquette, dress and manners, and create networking opportunities for their newly graduated members.įraternities and sororities can be tax-exempt 501(c)(7) organizations in the United States.įraternities and sororities have been criticized for practicing elitism and favoritism, discriminating against non-white students and other marginalized groups, conducting dangerous hazing rituals, and facilitating alcohol abuse.

Ownership and occupancy of a residential property where undergraduate members live.Selection of new members on the basis of a two-part vetting and probationary process known as rushing and pledging.Individual fraternities and sororities vary in organization and purpose, but most share five common elements: Generally, membership in a fraternity or sorority is obtained as an undergraduate student, but continues thereafter for life. ( March 2023) ( Learn how and when to remove this template message)įraternities and sororities are social organizations at North American colleges and universities. Please help to ensure that disputed statements are reliably sourced. Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page. This article's factual accuracy is disputed.
