PULLMAN, Wash. — Fraternity and sorority leaders at Washington State University have approved a new resolution that will set higher standards and encourage major improvements to the Greek system. The resolution was passed at a Greek senate meeting April 25 and will go into effect this fall.
“The adoption of these standards will help ensure that fraternal organizations provide a safe and appropriate environment for students in the Greek system,” said WSU President V. Lane Rawlins. “I’m very pleased that the Greek chapter leaders and alumni have taken this very positive action. They are to be commended for all the hard work that has been done to improve their own system. It is a clear confirmation that our Greek system is a responsible and constructive element at Washington State University.”
Fraternal organizations that sign the document will commit to meeting the following standards:
— Chapters with 20 or more members will have a live-in adviser.
— Chapters must pass fire inspections, including sprinkler installation, and meet basic health and safety standards.
— Fraternities and sororities will abide by all university alcohol policies.
— Fraternities and sororities will meet or exceed a minimum grade point average of 2.8.
Acting Dean of Students Al Jamison said WSU will continue to grant Greek chapters the opportunity to house freshmen students as long as the standards are met.
Chapters that violate or do not meet the standards in a reasonable amount of time will be subject to loss of recognition by the university.
“These standards have a greater chance of success because they originate within the system itself,” said Jamison. “We have been working for the past two years with Greek alumni and chapter leaders to develop an alliance that will help the Greek system become stronger. This is a very positive step.”
Jamison said WSU would continue working with Greek leaders to refine the broader Greek Alliance document. The agreement would provide further incentives for chapters, including financial assistance for physical improvements.
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