EDITORIAL: Thoroughly modern Greeks

Penn's Greek system Penn's Greek system is well-prepared forPenn's Greek system is well-prepared forth future, but itsPenn's Greek system is well-prepared forth future, but itsmembers must bePenn's Greek system is well-prepared forth future, but itsmembers must beas enthusiastic asPenn's Greek system is well-prepared forth future, but itsmembers must beas enthusiastic astheir leaders. All in all, the Greeks look to be on firm footing. They have worked to clean up their image, devising a Bring Your Own Beer policy to combat alcohol abuse and working with the University to police its enforcement, albeit not always successfully. They have instituted uniform educational standards for new members and have worked to combat hazing. Greeks contribute hundreds of hours of community service each semester, through chapter activities and individual involvement. Academically, Greeks have higher GPAs, on average, than the University population at large. And the 21st Century Plan for an Ivy League Greek System requires the creation of house libraries and selection of a faculty advisor by each chapter. But there is still work to be done. Big-C organizations presently operate far from the mainstream of Greek life, without official houses or much University support. Integrating the smaller, service-focused Big-C groups into InterFraternity Council and Panhellenic Council activities would offer all members a richer experience. Greek housing will become a more pressing issue in the coming years, if the IFC sticks to its goal of adding one new chapter per year. Procuring and renovating houses will be an expensive proposition, which could unfortunately be jeopardized by the institution of some of the college house systems that have been discussed. Last, the diversification of Locust Walk -- which should mean the addition of sororities, not necessarily the conversion of fraternity houses into University offices or classroom buildings -- must continue. Penn's Greek leaders are dedicated to the ideals of scholarship, leadership and service. It falls to these leaders to make sure each of their members is equally committed to these important goals, and to make sure their successors stay on the road they have mapped out.