News Reporter
There is no frat house, no rush and no hazing. CMU’s fraternity heavily focuses on campus involvement rather than raging frat parties.
“People should join Kappa Sigma because we ensure their success,” Kappa Sigma member Aaron Tran-Swope said. “We give them a way to further themselves. We give students an alternative to going out and drinking themselves stupid.”
Administration and students made a joint effort to find out how interested students are in the idea of Greek life. Administration gave a survey, went to town hall meetings and lead focus groups on the topic. Vice President for Student Services, John Marshall, said almost half the students between the ages of 18 and 22 were interested in joining a fraternity or sorority.
“It is one more unique opportunity that this school has to offer,” Marshall said. “Two years ago we introduced men’s and women’s lacrosse, and now Greek life is another great opportunity for us.”
Last year a group of eager male students stepped forward and formed the first fraternity, Kappa Sigma. They got the ball rolling in spring of 2011, and by the Fall semester of 2012 Kappa Sigma was in full effect.
“We want something consistent,” Marshall said. “A robust, sustainable Greek life that very much identifies with what CMU is.”
Something that sets CMU apart from Colorado State University and University of Colorado is how involved with the school the fraternity wants to be. Values that Kappa Sigma strives toward are leadership, campus involvement, academics, integrity and healthy relationships. Tran-Swope is thankful for the fraternity and the benefits he’s received already.
“Kappa Sigma is a thing that, once I graduate, I’m not just thrown into the world with a piece a paper,” Tran-Swope said. “It’s a network that makes sure I can find a job and become successful.”
The fraternity has one faculty advisor, and student members take the rest of the reigns. Several more faculty members have voiced their desire to also get involved.
“My hope is that it continues to grow consistent with our values,” Marshall said. The frat has no exclusivity, and strives not to be a clique.
“Many great men have been a part of Kappa Sigma and I am hoping to be one of them,” Tran-Swope said. “Being a part of Kappa Sigma is a way to challenge yourself and see how much you are worth.”
lstroman@mavs.coloradomesa.edu
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