In the United States, collegiate social fraternities date to the 1750s but did not fully assume an established pattern until the 1820s. The first known fraternity was founded in 1775. Many organizations were founded for men for various secular goals or religious beliefs, typically Christianity.
At the time colleges were small and coursework was rigidly structured. The first fraternal organizations in America virtually always used Greek letters, a secret handshake, a motto, a ritual of initiation, a membership badge or pin, and a constitution. The first fraternity house was not constructed until 1854.
Other fraternities are also called literary societies because they focus on the literary aspect of the organization and its role in improving public speaking. Today, professional and academic organizations exist with Greek letters but do not have the same qualities as social organizations. Women’s fraternities began to develop in 1851, overcoming social expectations and unequal
Status to men. The National Panhellenic Conference was established in 1902 and is now the umbrella organization for 26 women’s fraternities representing over 4 million women, both collegiate and alumnae. At the start of the 20th century, African- American students at universities were excluded from predominantly white fraternal organizations.
Historically African American fraternities and sororities started forming in 1906. Shortly after in 1930, the National Pan-Hellenic Council was formed and now is the umbrella organization of nine historically African-American fraternities and sororities. Membership in these organizations is open to people of all backgrounds.
The first multicultural sororities and fraternities started to form in the early 1900s. Since the 1980s, these groups have been forming and growing rapidly. Culturally based organizations exist to better support students from diverse backgrounds entering colleges and universities. Culturally based organizations provide students a strengthened cultural pride.
Many groups see the sorority or fraternity as a vessel to educate campus and community on issues of diversity. Many fraternities and sororities, while social in nature also may seek out specific membership based on major or have a specific religious focus.
Membership may be exclusive to these students but remain a focus for the international or national organization. The Iowa State Greek community was founded in 1875 with the first fraternity and the first sorority in 1877. Now, the ISU Greek community has over 5,500 members which represents more than 16.5% of the undergraduate population.
Students represent all colleges and majors, identities and almost every state. 44 of our sixty five chapters have a facility they call home and more than 2,000 students live there each year. Many faculty and staff are members of fraternities and sororities and support the missions of these organizations and contribute to their success.
The Greek Community at Iowa State University is committed to developing lifelong exceptional citizens who will make a positive impact on the world.
source
