College Fraternal Organizations Offer Experiential Civic Learning and Engagement Opportunities

Abstract

Fraternal organizations are a valuable component of the American higher education experience. Among the many benefits promised by fraternity and sorority organizations is that a student may be connected to a network of powerful leaders in business and politics. As self-funded organizations with democratic processes pulled from the U.S. system of government, fraternal organizations can serve a unique role in preparing college students for a life of civic engagement and democratic leadership. This chapter explores the potential for fraternities, sororities, and inter-fraternal organizations to offer a complimentary, highly personalized, and values-driven form of civic education that may be offered through higher education institutions.