Will the economic downturn affect expansion?

[SWTXBelle]

It seems like Greek life has really been on a roll the last few years - do you think we will see fewer campuses opening for expansion? Given the great cost of colonizing, will fewer groups be interested? I realize at this point in time it is mere speculation - but it is something to think about.

[AnchorAlumna]

I certainly can see expansion slowing, or even halting for awhile. Enrollments will start decreasing because of the expense of going to a 4-year college, not to mention students eschewing the Greek experience because of the cost. I see a LOT more students spending more time at the local junior college and then finishing up their degree at a 4-year closer to home.

[Elephant Walk]

Ideally.

[KSUViolet06]

It could. Also consider the fact that some women are having to cut back on spending, which means that some alumnae will be unable to contribute to sorority foundations/pay alumnae dues/make other financial contributions. This could lead to fewer dollars being avaliable to the sorority to support colonization efforts (particularly ones essentially requiring the purchase of expensive housing to be competitive).

Also consider that fewer alumnae members may be able to contribute their time to support a new chapter, because they may need to put those hours toward working and making money for their families.

[crescent&pearls]

I agree that I think we'll see a lot more students making a two year stop at a community college before investing in big college loans. Interesting that an article in my local paper last week reported that applications to Cal State schools are up 20% over the same period last year. There is a population bump among high school seniors that may carry over for a few years. Some students may choose to attend less expensive public schools over private, or attend campuses closer to home. So we could see expansion at schools that have been flat or not open to Greek life previously. Put the right product out there for the campus environment- including affordable cost of participation...there's a lot of potential for growth out there!

[Kevin]

From a house corporation standpoint, it might make it really hard to find private financing for houses or renovations.