Fraternity & Sorority Life

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Fraternities and sororities have a rich history at the University of Michigan. During 1845, less than 10 years after the University of Michigan moved from Detroit to Ann Arbor, the first two fraternities were established.  The first sorority was chartered in Ann Arbor in 1879 and culturally-based fraternal organizations in the early 1900’s.  In 1909 the first historically African-American organization was chartered and in 1989, the first Latinx fraternity was formed.  For 175 years, fraternities and sororities have provided students with opportunities outside of the classroom.

In future years, the addition of several multicultural fraternities and sororities made Michigan's fraternity & sorority community the unique and culturally diverse student experience it is today. Our community has grown to over 5,500 students within 4 councils. The Interfraternity Council (IFC), the Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and the Panhellenic Association (Panhel) pride themselves on individuality, while recognizing common values and principles.

UM Announces Updated Fraternity & Sorority Life Institutional Eligibility Requirements for Fall 2023

During the 2022-2023 academic year, valued members and partners of the Michigan fraternity and sorority life community  engaged with our external consultants from RISE Partnerships to study the impacts of institutional eligibility on our community.  As a result of their extensive engagement with a variety of stakeholders, RISE Partnerships found that there was strong support for all aspects of the policy—other than the 12 post-secondary credit hour requirement.

Campus Climate Concerns Regarding Violence in Middle East

In response to the ongoing violence in the middle east, the Dean of Students Office has done direct outreach to students who are from the affected areas.  Also, out of an abundance of caution, the Department of Public Safety & Security (DPSS) will strategically deploy additional sworn officers and non-sworn personnel throughout campus over the next few days. The increased visibility is to reassure our community while staying alert to any matters of concern. (10/13/2023)

Programming Grants for CBFOs

Fraternity & Sorority Life is pleased to offer microgrants to UM Culturally-Based Fraternal Organizations (CBFO) to provide support around individual, chapter, and community wellness. These micro-grants will support well-being programming that aligns U-M Dimensions of Well-being in NPHC and MGC chapters and councils. While the model of well-being will serve as a guide, CBFOs are encouraged to consider the ways in which wellness manifests in their communities and incorporate that into their new or existing programming.