Pi Beta Phi President Describes Threats to the Greek World

Tim Burke, Manley Burke, tburke@manleyburke.com

At this summer’s Convention, Pi Beta Phi completed its celebration of its first 150 years.  As a part of the State of the Fraternity presentation, the presidents of Pi Beta Phi Foundation, Pi Beta Phi’s Fraternity Housing Corporation, and the Fraternity, did a joint presentation, highlighting many positive accomplishments, including its growth of membership, its housing programs, scholarship, philanthropy and community service.  Toward the end of the presentation, Grand President Paula Shepherd offered a serious concern accompanied by a challenge applicable not only to Pi Beta Phi, but to the entire Greek world.  Her message is applicable to every fraternity.  Simply substitute any other fraternity name for that of Pi Beta Phi.

I would be remiss if I did not share my perception of the state of Greek Life in our world today.  Let me be clear friends, Greek Life is under fire.  It continues to be a challenging time for fraternities and sororities and we, like other organizations, have been tested.  From threats to our freedom of association as evidenced at Harvard, to a pervasive culture of alcohol abuse and hazing leading to tragic deaths and far reaching implications as seen at Penn State, to what seems to be an epidemic of sexual assaults, to conversations regarding transinclusion and discrimination, our sisters and brothers are threatened daily by choices which could be the demise of the Greek world.

To ensure the legacy of Pi Beta Phi for the next generation, we have work to do.  There are critical moments when we as Pi Phis have to put our values squarely on the table to show everyone what guides us.  We must lead bravely and with conviction as our founders taught us to do.  Only when we have the courage to stand up for what is right, denouncing the things that will tear us apart like discrimination, hazing, and turning a blind eye on that which is wrong, will we be able to truly ensure the future of our sisterhood.

I challenge all of us to put our values of integrity, lifelong commitment, honor and respect, philanthropic service to others, personal and intellectual growth, and sincere friendship at the center of our decision-making.  So, it boils down to this, commit to living the values of Pi Beta Phi each and every day and we will be the change we wish to see in the Greek World.