Often times, the term “Greek life” may bring up visual images of lavish house parties with neon lights, red Solo cups and music-blasting speakers. Sorority sisters in coordinated outfits practicing choreographed chants and fraternity brothers clad in matching jerseys, tossing footballs on manicured lawns. Behind the stereotypes, is a community that fosters collaboration in ways that may not necessarily come to mind immediately. Especially in Stetson’s relationship-rich environment, sororities and fraternities alike are able to collaborate within their respective communities and beyond.

According to Appalachian State University, Greek life was established in the mid to late nineteenth century, when students formed debating and literary societies to explore topics beyond the rigid college curriculum. These groups fostered intellectual growth and camaraderie, eventually expanding their focus to include social activities involving sports and dances while maintaining an emphasis on academic discourse. “That’s in their nature,” Director of Fraternity & Sorority Life Renee Dubois said. “That’s what they are called Social Greek organizations…they have to work together with other groups.”

A commonly overlooked aspect of Greek life that requires collaboration is the philanthropic efforts from each Greek organization. Typically, every fraternity and sorority will have a national or local philanthropy that they raise money towards. “They’ll host a [philanthropy week],” Dubois said. “The other organizations rally around them and all come together to support one another, which is really awesome to see happen.” By the end of the 2023-24 academic school year the fraternities and sororities raised a total of $80,000 for their respective philanthropies, Dubois told The Reporter.

Greek life at Stetson is more than just a social experience—it’s a force for positive change. The money raised in these philanthropy weeks supported organizations like St. Jude’s and MeStrong, benefiting both the larger and immediate DeLand community. By coming together for meaningful causes, fraternities and sororities show that Greek life isn’t just about tradition—it’s about making a difference. 

Student Reflections on Their Involvement in Greek Life:

“Working with other guys in the Greek community helps to build my network and opens me up to new opportunities. I have gained different perspectives on both my own chapter as well as my individual school work. It helps to build lifelong connections that will benefit both your personal and professional life.” -Jack Mertz ’26, Interfraternity Council president

“I have learned so much collaborating with my fellow peers in Greek Life. It has allowed me to become open minded to differing perspectives and experiences that I may have never considered before.” -Clara Wait ’25, Panhellenic Conference president

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