The thought of staying six feet apart in a fraternity or sorority house a year ago would have been unimaginable. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to modify everyday life, it is no different for Greek life at institutions across the country.
“It all changed when we got here,” said Jessica Devous, a senior majoring in global studies and economics who serves as the president of Alpha Phi sorority. Current coronavirus regulations have had a strangling effect on Greek organizations, which thrive on social events and large group gatherings. While fraternities and sororities were once hubs for social events, they must now adapt to new regulations and limit in-person gatherings to no more than 10 people.
Rush week, Greek week and individual organizational philanthropy events all bring significant attention, recruitment and revenue to Greek organizations. With these events now being held virtually, organizations worry they could potentially see less membership and funding.
“We are definitely going to see membership retention going down,” Devous said. “Our recruitment chair is working tirelessly reaching out over social media.”
In addition to having to find new ways to interact and recruit, members of Greek organizations say that having to operate virtually has changed Greek life completely.
“We had to rework the entire organization’s structure,” said Nicolas Sohan, a junior political science major and member of Alpha Kappa Psi fraternity. “It really took a toll on Greek organizations. We can still accomplish things individually, but we won’t be as successful as we would have been in person ... I just really miss seeing my brothers consistently.”
Devous shared similar sentiments about having to restructure her organization.
“We have to change the standard this year,” she said. “If we have to limit the social aspect now, so others can have it in the future, then that’s what we’re going to have to do.”
Other Greek life participants also voiced their disappointment about not being able to meet in-person.
“It is disappointing that we can’t have any in-person events, but it’s definitely helping to keep everyone safe,” said Amelia Sack, sophomore journalism major and member of Alpha Phi.
Although Greek organizations are facing numerous challenges while trying to adapt to COVID-19 regulations, Alexandra Federico, Hofstra’s assistant director of fraternities and sororities, believes there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Federico said that despite the rules and regulations that make the 2020 academic year so difficult, Greek life members will develop more genuine connections.
“Fall will be an adapting phase, but I think in spring they will start to shine,” she said. “We will see [membership] numbers going down, but we will see better retention in the long run.”
Like other clubs and campus groups, Greek organizations will adapt and learn what works best in a situation that is far from favorable. The fall semester provides these organizations with an opportunity to test different programs and figure out what works best amid the new normal.
