Founded in 1967, Illinois State's Greek community provides members with academic, leadership, social, and educational opportunities that contribute to a well-rounded university experience. Over 10 percent of the student population is currently involved with a Greek organization, with 19 fraternities, and 15 sororities (eight chapters are historically African-American in origin). Fraternities and sororities contribute significant amounts of time working with, and raising funds for, local and national community service organizations and agencies.
The Greek community is a diverse group of men and women belonging to a variety of different fraternities and sororities on campuses across North America. The first Greek organization in the United States was founded in 1776, when students realized a need to discuss current events outside the classroom. Greek societies have since taken on a broader role to develop the moral, mental, and social skills of their members. Each individual fraternity and sorority possesses a set of principles that guide the actions of its members.