Programs
The Office of Sorority & Fraternity Life is home to over 50 values based social sororities and fraternities. We are pleased to offer educational programming and trainings for interested students and families as well as current members, student leaders, and alumni.
How to Join a Sorority or Fraternity
Fall 2021
Below is a list of upcoming trainings and orientations for Fall 2021. Please note which officers are required to attend. More programs may be added as the semester evolves.
For those interested in joining a Sorority or Fraternity:
Educational Programs and Trainings for Current Sorority & Fraternity Members:
No New Events (End of Fall 2021 Semester)
Additional Training Opportunities
There are several programs available to students from all organizations, including Sorority & Fraternity Life, on a range of important topics such as Using Campus Groups, Inclusion, Working with your Advisor, Creating Community through Experiences, Delegation, and Branding and Marketing. While these programs are not required for sorority and fraternity leaders, we strongly encourage attendance to learn more and develop your skills in these important areas. You can learn more on the Leadership Workshop Series page.
Community and Lifelong Membership
Providing experiences that expand an individual's worldview and instill within them a sense of home away from home is a core tenet of our purpose. Membership in a fraternity and sorority also extends beyond the college years. In fact, there are a significant number of Cornell alumni who give their time, talent and treasure to help to make sure this experience is available for the next generation. Many of our organizations maintain an alumni database and host alumni/undergraduate events for networking purposes.
Leadership Development
Membership in a fraternity or sorority offers numerous opportunities for leadership development. Workshops and seminars are presented regularly to chapter members helping them develop decision-making skills, strengthen their communication techniques, and encourage involvement in the community. Leadership positions are available to members at many levels: students may choose to volunteer on chapter committees, become chapter officers, or serve as officers at the governing council level. National organizations, local alumni boards, and Cornell staff provide a wide range of leadership training and educational programs which help make the student experience rewarding and beneficial.
Philanthropy and Service
Sorority & fraternity members take it as a part of their mission to support their national and locally supported philanthropies (not-for-profit causes). Throughout the year each chapter spends time fundraising and volunteering to help their philanthropies of choice. Some of the fundraising and hands-on service efforts include pancake breakfasts, dodge ball tournaments, 5K runs, volunteering at elementary schools, visiting retirement communities, taking children to Cornell athletic events, and environmental improvement programs such as Adopt-A-Highway. The time spent together on these events is one of the many opportunities for members to bond while making a difference in someone's life.