Dear Parents, Families, and Prospective Members,

Membership within an RPI fraternity or sorority continues to be a valued addition to a student’s college career. These organizations help students adapt to the scholastic and social challenges of university life. Students within our fraternity/sorority community, supported by their peers, are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone, engage in various facets of campus life, contribute to both the Rensselaer and Troy, NY communities, prepare for life after graduation, and establish lifelong bonds with members and alumni.

As you or your student consider joining our Fraternity/Sorority Commons (FSC) community at RPI, it is crucial to ensure that any organization you affiliate with is officially recognized by the institution. Recognized organizations meet stringent standards for safety, academic support, and community engagement, benefiting from ongoing oversight and resources provided by RPI.

Key Points to Consider:

• Safety and Accountability: Recognized organizations adhere to high standards regarding member conduct, health, and safety. They have access to university resources and support to ensure a positive and safe experience.
• Academic Support: Recognized fraternities and sororities prioritize academic success, offering structured programs and resources to help members excel in their studies.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Recognized fraternities and sororities provide exclusive scholarship opportunities, offering financial support to members and students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to personal development. 
• Community Engagement: Officially recognized organizations are actively involved in community service, leadership development, and campus activities, providing a well-rounded and enriching experience.
• Transparency: Recognized groups are required to operate with transparency and accountability, ensuring members and their families can trust in the organization's commitments and practices.

Whether this is your first student to join a fraternity/sorority or your first to go to college with an interest in joining one, we are here to be a resource for you and your students throughout this unique experience. Should you have any questions about the processes and practices of any organization within our fraternity/sorority community, please feel free to contact us. The Fraternity and Sorority Commons takes the conduct of our community very seriously.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We are dedicated to fostering a community where every student can thrive safely and successfully.

For more information, contact:

Fraternity & Sorority Commons (FSC)
518.276-6284 | fscommons@rpi.edu 

Connect with a FSC Staff Members: Staff Contacts

EMERGENCY REMINDER / SPECIAL NOTE:

Unrecognized Organizations
Fraternity & Sorority Commons has long been a key part of the student experience at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). However, due to severe safety concerns and violations of the Handbook of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct, some organizations have had their recognition suspended in recent years. The list of these unrecognized organizations, as well as those suspended that may have had judicial responses levied against them, is updated every five years. For a comprehensive list of conduct reporting's, see Chapter Conduct & Judicial Status | Student Living and Learning (rpi.edu)

Organizations that have lost their recognition due to conduct violations are not overseen or managed by the university or their respective councils. These organizations include:

IMPORTANT:

Fraternity & Sorority Commons strongly advises that students do not affiliate with an unrecognized organization as they lack oversight and support from our office, and any student affiliating with them risks their status at the university. Affiliation with these organizations is a violation of the student code of conduct and could lead to judicial action, potentially jeopardizing the student's standing at the institution. Regardless of what the unrecognized chapters, their members, or alumni might say, involvement with these groups is strictly prohibited.