|
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 and Fraternity Rush is coordinated by Byron Thetford, Director of Student Life. Information about fraternity and sorority rush is available through the Student Life Office (Student Union Building, Room 203B).
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 Life 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 Life Office, along with any disciplinary action taken against members found violating the University's hazing policy. The Student Life 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 Life 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.
|