If Greek life conjures images of out-of-control parties, ornate brick buildings with tall columns and chapter letters hanging in windows, and late-night trips for rowdy doings under the stars…think again.
Fraternities and sororities on urban campuses offer a world of different – and vital -- opportunities to students, says New York Institute of Technology Dean of Campus Life Ann Marie Klotz.
“Greek life can be the ‘glue’ that keeps students coming back to urban campuses on the weekends and encourages them to stay late during the week,” says Klotz, who works at NYIT’s Manhattan campus. “In addition, some fraternities and sororities have scholarship and mentoring opportunities that help provide incentives and role models for students.”
Klotz is a frequent presenter, blogger, and podcast guest on student affairs, higher education, and social media.
Klotz is available to discuss her experience working with fraternities and sororities in an urban setting – and the need to promote Greek Life to a changing demographic of college students.
The chance to network with professionals is also a key benefit for urban fraternal organizations, says Klotz, giving students practical links to internship and job opportunities.
“It’s important to reframe the traditional ideas of fraternity and sorority life,” says Klotz. “For urban students – many of them veterans, international students, and commuters – Greek life can open new doors that lead to higher grades, better graduation rates, institutional connections, and leadership beyond their college years.”
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