The relationship between Montana State University and its fraternities and sororities is more than recognition or registration; it is a close relationship based upon mutual interests, common goals and reciprocal support. Recognizing that membership in a fraternity or sorority can be a positive and educational experience, the University supports the belief that membership offers additional opportunities for today's students.

 

The foundation for the relationship between the University and the community of fraternities and sororities consists of the following:

  • A student at Montana State University, by virtue of enrollment, is here first and foremost to receive a first rate education both in and outside of the classroom. This basic academic relationship between the student and the University cannot be altered by co-curricular activities such as membership in a fraternity or sorority.
  • The fraternity or sorority chapter is an organization that has received a charter from an approved inter/national office.
  • Each organization has a constitution/governing documents that define the core values of the group, and the organizations leadership establishes the goals. The chapter is accepted at Montana State University on the premise that the goals are compatible with those of the University and that the group will consistently work toward their own goals, as well as those of the University.
  • Each chapter is expected to observe the University regulations relating to the social and personal conduct of its students and organizations.
  • A common bond that exists between the University and the community of fraternities and sororities is the nurturing of individuals' growth. The community can, and is expected to, contribute to the development of the "whole person by:
    1. Providing a small group setting that emphasizes the intellectual, cultural, and social aspects of community living and promotes effective leadership, responsible decision-making, and consideration of the rights of others, regardless if affiliated with a fraternity or sorority.
    2. Encouraging active participation in University events and activities through effective organization and coordination.
    3. Assisting with the development of interpersonal skills by providing opportunities for interaction and relationship building.
    4. Promoting attitudes that stimulate lifetime interest in higher education in general and Montana State University in particular.

Scholastic achievement ultimately depends on the performance and motivation of the individual. However, the drive for excellence can be stimulated and the necessary support and assistance provided by the actions of the chapter and its recognized members. Each fraternity and sorority chapter at Montana State University is to maintain an environment conducive to learning and living throughout one's college career.

Within the guidelines stated in this document, the University expects and encourages these groups, fraternities and sororities, to operate with as much independence as their performance warrants. The university recognizes that self-governance fosters development of personal and group responsibilities as well as maturity. The University values diversity in student groups and lving arrangements and acknowledges that the social opportunities inherent in a small group setting can make a significant contribution to students' university experience and education as a whole.

Other support provided by the University includes access to the names of newly admitted students for the use of coordinating councils and individual chapters; a description of fraternities and sororities in university publications; additional programming as determined by the office of student success, the ability to utilize campus property for recruitment and programming; the assistance and cooperation of the Student Success staff in helping the chapters develop their educational, social, and training programs.

Governing Councils of the fraternities and sororities are currently the IFC (Interfraternity Council) and the CPC (College Panhellenic Council). The governing councils will set policy, provide a unified and informed voice, provide community wide programming, and enforce proper adjudication within the realm of the community of fraternities and sororities in coordination and accordance with University Judicial Process. The fraternity and sorority chapters will have final approval of policy set by each council. Any charter-holding chapter or Colony/Interest Group will be a member of either of the councils or will face non-recognition by the University as a student organization. Recognition, which is required of all fraternities and sororities at Montana State University, is determined ultimately by the Dean of Students Office and the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.

∗Non-recognition stipulates unavailability of any of the privileges accorded to recognized chapters.