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Originally Posted by ladygreek
Because that is how a 501(c)(7) is defined by the IRS.
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And because Title IX makes a distinction between "social fraternities and sororities" and professional/honorary/academic organizations.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Senusret I
Baird's categorizes them as "General Fraternities" rather than "social."
I like that phrase because it doesn't eliminate the social aspect from NPHC organizations, many of which are service or social action oriented.
It also embraces the (slightly) new approach to NIC fraternities which seem to be more about developing the total man.... mind, body, spirit....leadership, service, social graces.
"General" works for me.
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"General" and "social" aren't necessarily synonymous, though. "Social" implies that the organization exists for the social betterment and benefit of its members (in the fullest sense) rather than the professional or academic betterment or benefit of its members. "General" implies that the organization draws members from the student body generally rather than favoring certain areas of study, disciplines or interests. While in most cases, if one term applies to a group then both do, there are "social" fraternities that are not "general" fraternities.
And if you saw the pledge books/membership manuals of many "general' fraternities from 50 or 75 years ago and saw the amount of space devoted to etiquette, study habits, attire, leadership and the like, I don't know that you'd consider it a "(slightly) new approach."