IFC and Panhellenic presidents dating, collaborating

The Greek community has a new power couple.

Brent Macon and Lindsey Stephens, both juniors, were recently elected presidents of the Interfraternity Council and the Panhellenic Council, respectively. But their story goes back about two years when Macon was introduced to Stephens through a mutual friend.

“Obviously, I thought Lindsey was a beautiful, sweet girl, and I still do,” Macon said.

After their first date at Sigma Chi’s Christmas cocktail in November 2008, Macon said that he was excited about the outcome.

“I was definitely looking forward to going out with her again,” Macon said. “Luckily, she gave me the chance.”

After being together for two years, both credit their ascents to leadership to one another.

“We’re able to bounce ideas off of each other and offer advice, which has been helpful to me,” Stephens said.

“She’s been extremely supportive through the entire process,” Macon said.

The two will be taking their seats on their respective councils in January. Macon said he hopes next year will be calmer for all four Greek councils.

“Now that the rush issue has been taken care of, I don’t think that next year we will be having many problems with our separate councils,” Macon said, in reference to the Board of Trustees’ recommendations for changes to the Greek system.

Stephens’ goals for next year include more collaboration between the Greek councils, more successful philanthropic events and the formation of a long-term partnership with a women’s-interest organization along with a mentor program that she and Macon are developing together.

“In the past, there has not been much communication between the four Greek councils, and I think our relationship will aid in enhancing communication between our two councils and other groups with whom we each have a connection,” Stephens said.

Both Macon and Stephens said that their relationship will help the build toward that collaboration.

“Coordination between the IFC and Panhellenic is definitely easier and more convenient,” Stephens said. “I think we’re both looking forward to watching each other achieve great things within our respective councils.”

Kayte Fry, coordinator of fraternity and sorority life, said the pair’s relationship will not play a large role in future collaborations and was not a factor during the election.

“Lindsey and Brent are both exceptional leaders within our community,” Fry said in an e-mail. “I believe Lindsey and Brent will continue to forge these cross-councils partnerships in the same way as before, regardless of their personal lives.”

Contact the University Editor at udesk@unc.edu.