This semester here at Rensselaer, we have made enormous strides in the area of greek life. As this semester ends, I would like to report some of our achievements and to discuss some of the issues which have come to the floor recently. To begin the semester, the 2006 Executive Board took the reins of an already vibrant and excited greek community and channeled that energy into creating positive results. Greeks became heavily involved in the recent Relay For Life and now have combined to raise a total of over $85,000!
Several chapters, and the Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council also got involved with helping Martha McElligott, from the Union Administration Office, with the Sunnyside Center annual silent auction. Combined, over 10 different items were donated and auctioned off to help the children of Troy improve their lifestyles. Greeks have also begun to expand into the neighboring regions of Troy. Rory Arredondo ’08, the IFC vice president of public relations, has started work to revitalize the Greek Neighborhood Relations Committee to meet with neighbors of greek houses and to offer services and mutual consent during social events. Additionally, we have started to work with the Troy Police Department and soon hope to work hand-in-hand with the police in cleaning up and beautifying Prospect Park. All in all, this semester has been both busy and extremely productive. I am proud of the steps my brothers and sisters have taken to exemplify their ideals and improve the Rensselaer campus and the community which it is a part of.
Now, onto the greek life initiatives. Both the IFC and Panhel, in conjunction with our alumni, would like to work with the administration in finding a realistic plan for greek life to implement. With that being said, when the administration is ready to come to the table and actually discuss the matter at hand, the greeks will be the first ones at that meeting. Together, I whole-heartedly believe we can elevate greek life here at Rensselaer to something even more amazing than it already is. We need to do it, however, in a civil and democratic manner. With all that being said, I hope everyone has a safe and relaxing break, and I look forward to coming back next semester refreshed and ready to propel greek life to the next level.
