University, greeks commit to improve community, adhere to academic standards

University officials and the greek community recently signed and released a formal partnership statement.
The partnership will focus on academics, student development, leadership, community service and housing, according to a University press release.

Greek students will adhere to certain standards, such as high academic standing, diverse membership, active community service, engaged University leadership and intolerance for hazing, the press release stated.

“We wanted something formal that would announce that the University thinks that the greek system has a good deal to offer to our students,” said Jerry Rinehart, associate vice provost for student affairs. “(It) would

allow the greeks to feel like an important part of the University itself.”

He said that while the agreement is not legally binding, it is symbolic of a commitment from both sides to further develop the vitality of the greek system.

The greek community has done a lot of good philanthropic work, some of which has gone unnoticed, Rinehart said.

The partnership is meant to give greater visibility to the system and hopefully help with recruitment, he said.

“I think what’s important is that the greek system is not really just another set of student organizations or activities,” he said.

During the last 130 years, Rinehart said, the greek community has done good things and turned out good alumni. He said their contributions make greeks special.


Minnesota Daily : University, greeks commit to improve community, adhere to academic standards