Parents Information

Dear Parents,

Fraternities and sororities were founded on the basic principles of leadership, accountability, fraternalism, scholarship, servant leadership, values and the Office of Student Involvements strives to assist our chapters as they aim to fulfill these basic principles. We are extremely proud of the positive influence that fraternities and sororities continue to have on our members and each works to provide a safe and high-quality undergraduate Greek experience for the entire community. We write to share our beliefs and also to explain some expectations we have for all of our students

Our office encourages a well-rounded student experience, and one way to promote this is through campus involvement. Social development is an essential component for college students to understand and grasp in order to thrive in life after school. Students who actively get involved with their organizations get hands-on experience leading committees, interacting with faculty and staff advisors, networking with alumni members, and giving back to the community through service projects. There are over a hundred different student organizations at Rider University, but there are opportunities provided by fraternity and sorority life that may not be offered by our other organizations. The focus on developing personally and creating a well rounded individual is one of the primary purposes of fraternity and sorority life.

As a parent, this decision deserves your input and careful consideration. Understand that getting involved while at college is tough when trying to balance school work and the possibilities of being away from home or commuting long distances, working a part time job, and becoming socially connected. However, research has proven that students who are involved with co-curricular activities and organizations are more likely to graduate and be satisfied with their college experience.They are not joining to only make friendships that last a lifetime, but also learn how to work with many diverse people toward a common goal- the development of the chapter and its members. As the Office of Student Involvement, we strongly support the Greek community and firmly see it is an opportunities to be involved with an organization that is rich with traditions, pride, and sense of community. It is also as hub for several leadership roles, including chapter officers, programming, recruitment, money management, and can help your son or daughter make tremendous contributions to the Rider Community.   

Last year, 13% of the student population belonged to a Greek organization at Rider University. There are currently 14 active chapters, all of national affiliation and we are continuing to grow. Our students take great pride in academic achievement and they have taken massive strides to ensure the future academic success of their members. The All Fraternity/Sorority Average continues to remain above the All-University average. 

Community service and philanthropy is another strength of our Greek Community. Rider University Greeks continually contribute approx. 3000 hours of community service in the greater Trenton area each semester while spending over 6500 hours raising money for various charities. Fraternity and sorority members raise approx. $10,000 for charity each semester as well. Additionally, one of our most popular sponsorships is our involvement with Relay for Life. Students donated over 24% of the total money raised and over $15,000.00 for the American Cancer Society. 

Rider University fraternities and sororities promote a positive environment to assist in the development and men and women’s intellect, values, leadership, and citizenship. Educational seminars are always offered for new members through a program called Rider G.O.A.L.S. Some of the seminar topics include time management, alcohol awareness, hazing issues, and study skills, to name a few. We hope that these programs not only communicate our expectations, but also prepare our members for life beyond college. Educational seminars are also offered for initiated members, but these topics cover more broad leadership focuses.

No student should ever be subjected to any form of hazing. Rider University has a strict policy against hazing for all student groups. If you have concerns about hazing, please call Public Safety at 609-896-5029. Our ability to stop inappropriate behavior increases dramatically when we know of problems early on. So please feel free to call our office if you are worried about any activities or if you have any other questions and concerns. We hope that this short letter eases your mind and is the beginning of a great working relationship. Our Office looks forward to your continued support and are ecstatic to have your son/daughter become part of our flourishing community.

Sincerely,

Barbara Perlman
Director of Student Involvement

If after reading the material, you still have questions, please contact Fraternity and Sorority Life at 609-896-5235 and we will be happy to assist you.