Becoming registered

[OmegaPDPrez]

MY school does not allow local organizations to be registered.

Can we call it a sorority even though the school wont grant registration as a sorority?

This is important b/c I feel like since there is a pledge process and a sisterhood is built then sorority is proper name to fit the organization.

I guess the question could also be stated would any of you consider a non-registerd organization, that is well organized, as a sorority?

[PiRhoPres]

I know exactly how you feel. It's next to impossible to get registered as a local at my school as well. We are working now with getting registered with the activities office rather then with the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs. You could try doing that, they seem more helpfull.

[OmegaPDPrez]

I actually just thought of that as i was posting last night... its just when i recruit i want PNM to understand that sisterhood isn't made through a paper form, but rather the bonding that will happen throughout pledging... I dont mind being recoginzed as a stu_org as long as I am able to recruit and hold meetings on campus... Where is your school located?
I am in Pennsylvania

[aopirose]

Find out specifically what the objection is and then figure out how to overcome the objection. Many schools do not allow local organizations because it is felt that there is no oversight and no valuable programming. There are also insurance issues as it can be difficult for a local to obtain liability insurance. Many schools require a minimum of a $1 million policy.

As far as going the Student Activities route vs. the Greek Affairs route, that is understandable and it might work. However, if you do go that route, you might not be able to remain a single-sex organization. Some schools have policies that organizations under Student Activities must not exclude based on gender. You all just need to review your schools policies and talk with the administration.

Good luck!

[OmegaPDPrez]

Originally Posted by aopirose

Find out specifically what the objection is and then figure out how to overcome the objection.


Good luck!

Well the policy is clearly stated in our student organization handbook that local organizations are not granted registration status at the university. So since i cant change that I'd like to register as a student organization. But I was wondering if that meant my organization can no longer be called a sorority. It's important for me to establish this organization because I believe the sisterhood associated with it can not be attained in any other manner. I am just wondering what other people think about groups who address themselves as Greek even tho they are not registerd as Greek.

[aopirose]

What are the requirements to register a student organization? Does your handbook outline those procedures? Will you have to allow men?

Also, as for calling yourselves a sorority, I don’t see why that is a problem even if you can’t be registered through Greek Affairs. Your university might though. Is that how OPD is incorporated?