To the Editor,
I have followed the Trustee Initiative since its inception. As a member of the Greek community, and a former resident of Hanover, I feel the need to point out a few problems with the plan.
First, this is the first attempt by the administration to "fix" the system. I do not question the notion that the system is in need of change. If you examine the Greek system nationwide, you will find colleges and universities institution stricter alcohol policies, having zero tolerance for misbehavior, and requiring campus fraternities to go through an accreditation process at the end of each year.
Dartmouth has been behind in the times. The problems that plague the system are partly the fault of the administration. They have let the Greeks run loose for too long. For example, it is an absolute farce that only now, in the year 2000, will common sources for alcohol (kegs) will be banned from fraternity houses. Most national fraternities, with the adoption of FIPG risk management, did this in the 1980's.
Secondly, the plan of action by the administration will not help the Greek system, only kill it off. Reducing the number of live-in members is the most obvious example. It is a blatant attempt by the college to ruin the system financially.
My suggestion to the Trustees and administration at Dartmouth is to step back for a second and truly evaluate what they are trying to accomplish. Fraternities and sororities do fit in with the mission of Dartmouth. Greek organizations were founded in part to further the pursuit of scholarship. They were founded to provide the college community with well-rounded leaders who would make a positive impact on campus. They were founded to provide students with a safe and enjoyable place to interact with others. They were founded as places for students to learn those things that couldn't be taught in a classroom -- personal development, social interaction, and leadership.
I do not argue with the Trustees that the Greek system at Dartmouth needs to change. I fully support that notion. But they can't simply take the easy way out. Dartmouth will provide a lesser experience by dismantling the Greek system. I hope they realize that before it is too late.
