Fraternity & Sorority Life

The following fraternities and sororities are supported by and follow guidelines and regulations established by the university. If you do not see the name of a particular organization listed, you should inquire about its current university status before joining. Students face possible disciplinary action for joining an unrecognized organization that has been banned or suspended. Educate yourself about a group’s affiliations before making a decision.

Interfraternity Council (IFC) Recognized Chapters

Theta Delta Chi “TDX”

Theta Delta Chi believes that it is the duty of every member to improve himself intellectually, morally, and socially through friendship.

Nationally founded: October 31, 1847
Locally founded: December 3, 2013

Tau Epsilon Phi “TEP”

The brothers of the Omega Alpha Chapter of Tau Epsilon Phi Fraternity have come together to form a fraternal and social organization within JWU’s Greek community. This organization’s brotherhood shall be diverse and foster a strong foundation of friendship, chivalry, and service.

Nationally founded: October 10, 1910
Locally founded: November 2, 1996

TEP JWU Chapter

Lambda Chi Alpha
Lambda Chi Alpha’s vision is to lead a co-curricular Greek movement, predicated on partnership and collaboration amongst the undergraduates, host institutions, alumni and General Fraternity, and to offer an experience that focuses on the maturational development of today’s college man

Nationally founded: November 2, 1909
Locally founded: December 2016

Lambda Chi Alpha JWU Chapter

Sigma Alpha Mu

Sigma Alpha Mu’s mission is to foster the development of collegiate men and alumni by instilling strong fraternal values, offering social and service opportunities, encouraging academic excellence and teaching leadership skills. We will continue to attract members of all beliefs who appreciate our great heritage as a fraternity of Jewish men.

Nationally founded: November 26, 1909
Locally founded: Fall 2022

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Recognized Chapters

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African-Americans, was founded at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, by 7 college men who recognized the need for a strong bond of brotherhood among African descendants in this country. The Alpha Gamma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was founded on February 2, 1921.

Nationally founded: December 4, 1906
Locally founded: Fall 2019

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. “S-G-Rho”

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority's aim is to enhance the quality of life within the community. Public service, leadership development and education of youth are hallmarks of the organization's programs and activities. Sigma Gamma Rho addresses concerns that impact society educationally, civically, and economically.

Nationally founded: Nov 12, 1922
Locally founded: Nov 2, 1991 (Brown University)

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. “The Zetas”

Zeta Phi Beta was founded based on four important principles needed in every woman’s life: finer womanhood, scholarship, sisterly love and service. Zeta Phi Beta was the first greek-letter organization to have chartered a chapter in Africa; first to have adult and youth auxiliary groups; first to have all operations organized at a national headquarters; and first to be constitutionally bound to a brother fraternity (Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.).

Nationally founded: Jan 16, 1920
Locally Founded: Mar 12, 1988

United Cultural Council (UCC) Recognized Chapters

Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship, Inc. “The Grooves”

This fellowship was founded with the purposes of promoting academic awareness, ethical standards, and unity among men in undergraduate and graduate college programs; creating intelligent and effective leadership; and studying and helping to alleviate the social and economic problems of society to generally improve the world.

Nationally founded: Oct 12, 1962

Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated “OPB” “Betas” “Sunflowers”

Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated (OPBSI) is a national sorority committed to the development of collegiate and professional women through sisterhood, diversity, leadership, service and academic excellence. The purpose of OPBSI is to Serve and Educate people of diverse backgrounds through sisterhood, leadership, and guidance. As positive role models, we promote unity of all cultures, focus on the empowerment of our gender and raise the standards of excellence in our academic, social, and personal endeavors. OPBSI envisions a world without oppression, where empowered women celebrate the essence of womanhood and act as resources in the advancement of their communities.

Nationally founded: Mar 15, 1989
Locally founded: February 23, 2013
Social Media network link is: @OPBSI_BetaNu

Sigma Lambda Upsilon, Senoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority Inc. “Senoritas”

The hermanas of SLU effectively bridge the gap between the Latino community and the JWU campuses. The sorority’s goals and ideals are exemplified by Sisterhood, Leadership, Community Service, Cultural Awareness and Academic Excellence. Though Latina-based, SLU is a non-discriminatory Greek-lettered organization made up of women from all cultures, creeds, disabilities, political beliefs and sexual preferences. Their motto is: sincerity, loyalty, and unity.

Nationally founded: Dec 1, 1987
Locally founded: 1999

Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship Inc.

Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship, Inc.® is a nonprofit organization dedicated to community service, promoting and achieving academic excellence, and enhancing community and cultural consciousness. Our specific purpose is Supporting Women In Need of Growth, which facilitates the attainment of goals that are necessary for personal and professional growth. SWING welcomes diversity, encourages individuality, and offers a haven for women who feel a strong connection with their ethnic heritage.

Nationally founded: April 4, 1969

Panhellenic Council (PC) Recognized Chapters

Alpha Sigma Tau “A-S-T”

This sorority promotes growth in character, unity of feeling, sisterly affection and social communion among its members. The group’s objective is to help promote womanhood by creating a positive attitude toward women, both on campus and throughout the community.

Nationally founded: November 4, 1899
Locally founded: May 17, 1997

Delta Phi Epsilon “D-Phi-E”

The mission of Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority is to develop in women a social consciousness and a commitment to think and act for the greater good. They assure continuous development and achievement for women through individual attention and smart strategic growth. For more information on this organization at JWU, call Fraternity & Sorority Life, 401-598-1120.

Nationally founded: Mar 17, 1917
Locally founded May 12, 2012

Delta Phi Epsilon JWU Chapter

Delta Zeta “Dee-Zee”

In 1902 when 6 women came together, they had a vision of creating a lifelong sisterhood for generations to come. The women of Delta Zeta make up a sorority with a purpose to make life more full, more meaningful and more rewarding. We enrich our sisters, community and the world by giving opportunities, positive development and truly making a difference.

Locally founded: 2015
Nationally founded: October 24, 1902

Philanthropy: Speech and Hearing

Sigma Delta Tau “S-D-T”

Sigma Delta Tau brings the true meaning of sisterhood and unity to JWU through its community service activities.

Nationally founded: September 25, 1917
Locally founded: May 4, 1991

Being a member of a fraternity or sorority is about making lasting friendships, committing to a common set of ideals and enhancing your personal development. It’s also about being part of a brotherhood and sisterhood where individuals share common core values.

Friendship
This is the principle foundation upon which all FSL organizations are built. As a member of a fraternity or sorority, you’ll meet students from disparate backgrounds and all corners of the globe. Together, you’ll explore new interests, learn new skills and forge friendships that will last a lifetime.

Scholarship
FSL organizations encourage and develop high scholastic achievement. Strong academics are encouraged through peer tutoring, counseling, special scholarships and chapter study hours.

Leadership
Through FSL involvement, you’ll develop leadership skills that will benefit you long after graduation. You’ll learn practical skills like coordinating events, managing budgets, running effective meetings and motivating others. You may also hold office on an executive board, participate in committees or represent your chapter on campus boards and governing councils.

Philanthropy
One of the advantages of being a part of a sorority or fraternity is the opportunity to help others in need. FSL organizations sponsor many philanthropic and service events that benefit campus, city and statewide organizations.

If you’re interested in learning more:

• Research the local and inter/national headquarter websites
• Talk to people who are involved in FSL on campus
• Attend events sponsored by the FSL community

This will help you choose the one that’s right for you.

Membership Requirements

To be eligible for membership, you must:

• Have a minimum of a 2.5 cumulative GPA (from Johnson & Wales University)
• Be enrolled as a full-time student
• First semester students cannot join any fraternity or sorority until at least their second semester, and must have a JWU GPA.

Recruitment

Organizations on campus within the following councils conduct recruitment and/or intake all year:

• National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC)
• United Cultural Council (UCC)

The following organizations conduct a more formalized recruitment every term.

• Interfraternity Council (IFC)
• Pan-Hellenic Council (PC)

It is important for students and families to be as informed as possible regarding the costs associated with obtaining a college education. Understanding the financial obligations associated with fraternity or sorority membership is just as important.

Fraternity or sorority membership is a contractual agreement. When you join, you assume many financial obligations and it is important to be aware of these obligations and take them into consideration. During recruitment, a potential member should ask members about financial obligations and payment options. Each organization sets its own fees and the payment schedules.

The first term of membership is usually the most expensive due to many one-time fees (headquarter fee, initiation fee, etc.). All organizations are willing to work with their members on an individual basis to create payment plans if necessary. These financial obligations do not include every expense for a member. Additional expenses (t-shirts, jackets, etc.) may occur and expectation of these expenses will be communicated by the organization.

For specific financial information before or during recruitment, direct your questions to the organization of interest. You can also contact Elizabeth Zmarlicki, associate director for student engagement, 401-598-2086.

Each of the fraternities and sororities on campus belongs to one of four governing councils that oversee the various organizations. Each council elects officers to manage council operations, oversee recruitment, organize programs and activities and serve as representatives of the Fraternity & Sorority Life Community. You can also review our information on Unrecognized Groups, below.

Interfraternity Council

The Interfraternity Council (IFC) is the governing council for the North-American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) member organizations.

Recognized IFC Chapters:

• Lambda Chi Alpha
• Tau Epsilon Phi
• Theta Delta Chi
• Sigma Alpha Mu

National Pan-Hellenic Council

The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) is the governing council for the divine nine organizations.

Recognized NPHC Chapters:

• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Panhellenic Council

The Panhellenic Council (PC) is the governing council for the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sororities on campus.

Recognized Panhellenic Chapters:

• Alpha Sigma Tau
• Delta Phi Epsilon
• Delta Zeta
• Sigma Delta Tau

United Cultural Council

The United Cultural Council (UCC) is the governing council for the culturally based fraternities, sororities, and social fellowships on campus.

Recognized UCC Chapters:

• Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship, Inc.
• Sigma Lambda Upsilon Sorority, Inc.
• Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship, Inc.
• Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Fraternities and sororities have a language all their own. For common references and their definitions, refer to the “Definition of Terms” section under the “Appendix A: Fraternity & Sorority Life Standards and Guidelines” portion of the Handbook (PDF).

The decision to join a fraternity or sorority at Johnson & Wales University is a big one. We hope you will recognize the benefits and rewards of joining a fraternal organization — and encourage your students to join!

Refer to these frequently asked questions to learn more.

What is a fraternity or sorority?

Fraternities and sororities are groups of individuals of similar interest bonded together by common goals and aspirations. These bonds are created through ritual in which members participate. Rituals are based on common principles such as honor, friendship, truth, and knowledge. Each group works to instill and support these ideals in their members through their everyday activities.

How do you join a fraternity or sorority?

Some fraternities and sororities organize a formal process of meeting people and making friends. This process is called recruitment. Recruitment introduces prospective members to the FSL community and gives unaffiliated students the chance to learn what makes fraternities and sororities unique organizations. Students who wish to participate in the recruitment process are not required to join any organization. Recruitment is a time to see what fraternities and sororities can offer you and to meet members of the chapter as well as alumni/ae.

The recruitment process usually happens at the beginning of both the fall and spring semesters.

What are the benefits of joining a fraternity or sorority?

• Gain a support group that will help transitioning to college life significantly easier
• Cultivate friendships that will last a lifetime
• Access resources to help encourage and achieve academic goals
• Develop leadership skills with hands-on opportunities to practice and lead
• Maximize involvement on campus and in the community
• Serve the community through active participation in community service projects
• Network with alumni to develop priceless career opportunities
• Maximize the college experience while having a lot of fun!

What is it like to be a new member?

New members experience a period of orientation and education once they express interest in joining a fraternity or sorority. During this time your child will participate in weekly meetings to learn about the University and their chapter. Other events include leadership retreats, community service projects, and activities designed to build friendships among the members of the newer and older members of chapter. Both the State of Rhode Island and Johnson & Wales University have a zero tolerance policy for hazing and take any allegations seriously. If you feel that you or someone you know is participating in inappropriate activities as a result of membership in a fraternity or sorority, you are encouraged to contact Student Involvement & Leadership or Campus Safety & Security.

How much time does it take to be in a fraternity or sorority?

Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one's time. A fraternity or sorority is like any co-curricular activity; it does require a time investment. Students in the FSL community have the opportunity for a well-rounded college experience that includes learning how to balance academics, work, campus involvement, and social commitments.

Are there costs associated with joining?

Each chapter is self-supported through dues charged to all members. In the first year of membership, a few one-time expenses are assessed. After those initial payments are made, your child's expenses will be their regular dues. Each chapter has a different dues structure and thus finances will vary between chapters.

Will my son/daughter live in a "house?"

Johnson & Wales University's Providence Campus does not support housing for fraternities or sororities. Many chapter members live together, either on or off campus, but these accommodations are not sanctioned by the University nor their inter/national headquarters.

The following organizations are not recognized by JWU Providence, and do not have any rights and privileges to operate as an organization. Please contact Student Engagement if you have any information related to student participation in activities for the following organizations:

• Alpha Chi Rho Fraternity
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
• Kappa Sigma Fraternity
• Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
• Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity
• Phi Sigma Phi Fraternity (PSP)
• Phi Sigma Sigma Fraternity (PSS)
• Sigma Lambda Gamma Sorority, Inc.
• Sigma Pi Fraternity
• Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority
• Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity (Teke)
• Theta Phi Sigma Christian Sorority, Inc.
• Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity (ZBT)