UNC sororities see new policies, no violations

One year removed from a fall 2009 semester of multiple violations, the Panhellenic Council has rebounded with a several new policies — and without further violations.

So far, no violations have been documented by any of the sorority chapters, and Greek leaders attribute this to the results of last years’ violations, said Jenny Levering, assistant dean of fraternity and sorority life.

Levering said two sorority organizations were given national sanctions last fall, as well as recommendations from their headquarters for improvement based on violations.

The sororities, Chi Omega and Delta Delta Delta, were not ultimately closed, Levering said.

Lizzie Hastings, vice president of standards for the Panhellenic Council, said last year’s violations came as a shock therapy, forcing sororities to make improvements.

“Last year was an eye-opener for many chapters”, she said. “And people realize this year if they do something wrong there will be consequences.”

Hastings said the individual chapters have taken their own initiatives to improve this year.

To prevent underage drinking, all chapters have adopted a “Birthday List” of each member’s age.

“It has been really effective, and we’re starting to streamline it,” Hastings said. “Everybody’s going into this year with a positive attitude because we don’t want to perpetuate the sorority stereotype.”

Rhea Keller, president of the Panhellenic Council, said the systemic changes have produced results.

“We are making improvements across the board in all areas as far as our own judicial boards,” she said.

Keller added that she doesn’t believe that there will be any major violations in the coming year.

But if they were to happen, she said each case is handled differently. There are several standards boards to determine outcomes of violations depending on the basis of each case.

Keller attributes the present success to the current leadership.

“There’s always going to be some issues that arise, but the leadership has an eye out for it,” she said. “They are handling many of the things themselves before they become bigger issues”.

Freshman Sarah Cook said her sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, has many programs to ensure safety and rule obedience.

“They make us conscious and make sure we know what’s going on,” she said.

Cook said her sorority has adopted specific programs, including the monitoring of Facebook accounts for inappropriate content, designating of “safe sisters” for helping fellow members at parties and requiring members to complete a two-hour online test on alcohol and sexual assault.

Keller said sorority chapter presidents meet every month to brainstorm about preventing violations.

“Everyone’s done a great job and I’m proud of all the chapters” she said. “Everyone rallied for the cause.”

Contact the University Editor at udesk@unc.edu.