Additionally, part of the idea of cluster residence halls is that students will retain an identity with their cluster even after they move out of it. Thus, even off-campus residents will be able to participate in special events hosted by their community, and they could make use of the programs available there if they wanted.

Fraternity and sorority life will also see some changes. The Office of Greek Life will eventually transition from the Dean of Students Office, where it currently is, to the Office of Residence Life. According to Smith, the move is designed to bring greek houses under the same umbrella with the other student residence constituencies. He noted, though, that the transition itself will not have a significant impact on the overall governing structure of greek life, as the entire department will be transplanted.

Another possible sticking point for the greeks has been the notion that fraternity and sorority houses will be classified as Institute housing for the purposes of the sophomore residential requirement and housing grants that appear as part of students’ financial aid packages. Only chapters that handled their room and board fees through the Institute bursar are able to take advantage of those benefits, however.

Several chapters were originally wary of this arrangement, as they thought it might handicap their ability to determine their own membership or to handle their own finances. Many of the concerns have largely been ironed out, though. According to Smith, the program is entirely optional, and only the house’s room and board costs (as determined independently through a confidential pro forma review) need to be handled through the bursar; additional dues may remain the responsibility of the chapter if that is desired.

Smith also stressed the fact that the Institute will not attempt to use the faux on-campus status to influence the membership of any chapter.