UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The annual Greek Column Awards event recognizes the achievements, leadership and community contributions of fraternities and sororities on the University Park campus, honoring organizations for their outstanding accomplishments across various categories, from academic excellence to philanthropic efforts. With its blend of celebration and tradition, the Greek Column Awards not only highlights the success of individual organizations but also reinforces the core values of fraternity and sorority life: academic achievement, leadership, service and philanthropy, and brotherhood/sisterhood.
The awards ceremony fosters a sense of pride among members and promotes a healthy, supportive environment for growth, according to Megan Pepper, director of Penn State’s Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life. By acknowledging the hard work of Greek-letter organizations, the event reinforces the idea that fraternity and sorority life is about more than just socializing; making a positive impact both on campus and in the world. The Greek Column Awards allows the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, a unit in the division of Student Affairs, to encourage and celebrate members of the community who continue to strive for personal and organizational excellence.
“At its core, the Greek Column Awards serves as an acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication displayed by members of Penn State’s fraternity and sorority community throughout the last calendar year,” Pepper said. “It’s a time to shine a spotlight on the organizations and individuals who go above and beyond, whether it’s maintaining high academic standards, supporting charitable causes, or fostering inclusivity within the community. The ceremony encourages our fraternities and sororities to continually strive for excellence in all their endeavors.”
Categories of awards
The awards given out at the ceremony typically span a variety of categories, so that all aspects of fraternity and sorority life are represented. Below highlights specifically the chapter awards that were presented at the ceremony on Mar. 26.
Standards of Excellence Achievement Award [Fraternities]
The Standards of Excellence Achievement Award is presented to the chapters that have met standards for six or more focus areas in Standards of Excellence.
- Alpha Epsilon Pi
- Alpha Tau Omega
- Phi Kappa Psi
- Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity Inc.
Excellence in Alumni and Family Engagement Award [Fraternities]
The Excellence in Alumni and Family Engagement Award is presented to the chapters that exemplify excellence in alumni and family engagement, who maintain active and positive relationship with their alumni, graduate chapters, families, and growing support systems.
- Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity Inc.
Most Service Hours Per Member Award [Fraternities]
The Award for Most Service Hours per Member is presented to the chapters who have exceeded expectation in participating in hands on community service opportunities and collectively engaging in community service projects.
- Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Inc.
- Triangle
Most Dollars Raised Per Member Award [Fraternities]
The Award for Most Dollars Raised per Member is presented to chapters who have demonstrated exceptional fundraising, leveraging their collective member efforts to make a significant impact on their local and national philanthropic causes.
- Alpha Tau Omega
Most Improved Chapter
The Most Improved Chapter Award is presented to the chapters that had substantial growth in the number of Standards of Excellence focus areas met or exceeded from the previous year.
- Alpha Tau Omega
When fraternities and sororities are celebrated for their leadership, community service, and academic achievements, it helps to foster a more inclusive and understanding atmosphere on campus, said Pepper. For more information on the Penn State fraternity and sorority life at University Park, explore their webpages on the Student Affairs website and follow them on Instagram @pennstatefsl.
