Sororities and fraternities on campus are finding meaningful ways to bring people together, deepen community connections, and be of service to others
Built into the mission statements of Tufts’ fraternities and sororities is a dedication to creating community and helping others. For as long as Greek organizations have been a part of Tufts—which is nearly as long as the university has existed—membership has afforded students the opportunity to convene diverse groups, develop leadership and engagement skills, and serve others, often through philanthropic endeavors.
According to Mary Kate Kelley, who is the advisor for Greek life in the Student Life department for the schools of Arts and Sciences and Engineering, Tufts’ fraternity and sorority leaders have worked hard this year to build relationships with campus partners and community partners to create and grow programs that highlight their mission and core values.
“Each chapter has hosted events that positively impact their community this year,” said Kelley. “It has been great to see how excited the chapters are to host these events and to attend community service events as a Greek life community, like the university’s Day of Service last fall.”
Below are some of the recent ways in which Greek organizations have worked toward fulfilling their missions—and having that positive impact on the Tufts community and beyond.
Spotlighting Sustainable Leadership
In November 2023, as part of its speaker series, the Delta Upsilon fraternity convened a panel on sustainable leadership in real estate and private equity, featuring Rebecca Bendetson, A13, an associate at the investment firm Fvlcrum Funds; Dan Doherty, H03, a principal at Eastern Real Estate; and Brian Kavoogian, A84, managing partner of the investment firm National Development.
The panel was moderated by Jack Derby, professor of the practice at the Derby Entrepreneurship Center, and David Radlo, A86, an expert in sustainable leadership, growth, and innovation. Kavoogian and Doherty are trustees emeriti, and, with Radlo, are all former Delta Upsilon members.
“We are fortunate to have an exceptionally successful and supportive alumni network,” noted Will Duncanson, A25, a co-coordinator for the event. “Collaborating with our alumni, we aimed to create valuable opportunities not only for Delta Upsilon brothers but for the entire student body at Tufts.”
The fraternity’s larger aim, Duncanson added, is to organize philanthropic activities and educational events, with an emphasis on academic achievement, leadership development, and professional networking. “We believe active engagement in campus life fosters personal growth in our undergraduate brothers while also benefiting the Tufts community,” he said.
