The Spectrum

Issue date: 9/21/06 Section: News

Media Credit: AP Photo/Ross Andreson

In recent months, the academic, physical growth, and excellence of Sacred Heart has been catching quite a bit of attention. The Princeton Review's 2007 edition of "The Best Northeastern Colleges" recognizes Sacred Heart as a member of the upper echelon of institutions for higher learning. U.S. News & World Report took notice, too, ranking Sacred Heart under the category appropriately named: "Best Universities- Master's in the North."

With an established reputation evident in published reviews, Sacred Heart students have even more of a reason to be confident in their [college of] and to show some SHU spirit.

"It's really comforting knowing that I am attending a school that has received such an honor," said Melissa Daddana, junior, Trumbull. "It makes me feel good about my [college] choice."

A new future for Greek Life at Sacred Heart is on the horizon.

Last year, a committee compromised of Greek Life members, faculty and staff, was formed to begin a thorough evaluation of Sacred Heart University's Greek Life system.

"The goal of the committee is to evaluate our current system and identify areas of weakness, strength, and potential for growth," said Jane Sanders, Sacred Heart University Director of Greek Life and Leadership Programs.

The sorority and fraternity programs here at SHU have yet to become an affiliate with a nation wide organization. Greek Life would have to grow in numbers of brothers and sisters in order for the University to entertain the idea of a system that would include national sororities and fraternities.

"The fact that our school is not part of the national Greek Life system can have an affect on the number of people who join," said Jamie Congilose, senior, Toms River, N.J. "Students who just come into the school may have a misconception that without being national there is no point in joining Greek Life."

Compared to their national counterparts, the University's organizations currently have lower membership numbers.

"A national sorority or fraternity at a different campus typically have 40 to 50 members," said Sanders. "Sacred Heart's Greek Life ranges from 10 to 25 members."

It is a lengthy process to research national sororities and fraternities before a University is able to go national.

"First, the system has to be strong, and healthy and receptive to the idea of transitioning to a national system," said Sanders.

Continued...

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