Fraternity and sorority life are among the many ways Oglethorpe students can get involved around campus and find their community. With seven different organizations, each unique and upholding its own values, students can find the right fit to enhance their OU experience.
Currently, 10% of students are members of one of the following organizations:
Every organization is different, but they still share similarities in their commitment to volunteering, service and community. Becoming a fraternity or sorority member comes with access to a robust alumni network, life-long friends, and events supporting one’s social and academic lives.
Demir Dumanlar ’27 is currently the president of Chi Phi and has been a member since his first year at Oglethorpe. Originally from Turkey, Dumanlar shares that his fraternity experience gave him friendships that made him feel welcome and helped him adapt to the new chapter of his life.
“From social events to philanthropy, it’s been wonderful to be involved in Oglethorpe’s campus via Chi Phi events,” said the business administration major. “Open-campus study night events we organize every mid-term and finals season also helped me out whenever I had to speak to a TI or an older brother who took that class before.”
Like Dumanlar, Catie Rooks ’26 joined Tri Sigma as a first-year student to meet new people and get involved on campus. Her recruitment process mirrored most potential new members, where she explored the values of each sorority and learned what opportunities they offered. Rooks has held leadership roles in Panhellenic and Tri Sigma that cultivated essential skills like collaboration, planning and problem-solving.
“Beyond leadership, sorority life has given me a strong and consistent support system,” said the psychology major. “My sisters have encouraged me through every challenge, both academically and personally. As a freshman, I looked up to older members who mentored me by helping me choose classes, manage my time, and adjust to college life. Now, I love being able to do the same for the newer members and helping them find their place in the sorority and on campus.”
Both Dumanlar and Rooks highly encourage students to seek information on fraternity and sorority life and explore their options.
“It’s a chance to find supportive friends and mentors, develop leadership and teamwork skills, and get involved in meaningful service opportunities,” shared Rooks. “More than anything, fraternity and sorority life is about personal growth, building a sense of community, and finding people who will challenge, inspire and uplift you throughout your college experience.”
