Fraternities & Sororities in Charlotte

Fraternities and sororities are groups of individuals of similar interest bonded together by common goals and aspirations. These bonds are created through the rituals in which members participate. Rituals are based on common principles such as honor, friendship, truth and knowledge. Each group works to instill and support these ideals in their members through their everyday activities.

Some fraternities and sororities organize a formal process of meeting people and making friends. This process is called recruitment. Recruitment introduces prospective members to the FSL community and gives unaffiliated students the chance to learn what makes fraternities and sororities unique organizations. Students who wish to participate in the recruitment process are not required to join any organization. Recruitment is a time to see what fraternities and sororities can offer you and to meet members of the chapter as well as alumni/ae. 

JWU Charlotte students can start by filling out the Fraternity & Sorority Life Interest Form in the “How to Join” section above. This will be shared directly with the organization they select on the form. The recruitment process usually happens at the beginning of both the fall and spring semesters. 

1. Gain a support group that will help transitioning to college life significantly easier 
2. Cultivate friendships that will last a lifetime 
3. Access resources to help encourage and achieve academic goals 
4. Develop leadership skills with hands-on opportunities to practice and lead 
4. Maximize involvement on campus and in the community 
6. Serve the community through active participation in community service projects 
7. Network with alumni to develop priceless career opportunities 
8. Maximize the college experience while having a lot of fun 

New members experience a period of orientation and education once they express interest in joining a fraternity or sorority. During this time, you will participate in weekly meetings to learn about the university and their chapter. Other events include leadership retreats, community service projects, and activities designed to build friendships among the newer and older members of chapter. Both the state of North Carolina and Johnson & Wales University have a zero-tolerance policy for hazing and take any allegations seriously. If you feel that you or someone you know is participating in inappropriate activities as a result of membership in a fraternity or sorority, you are encouraged to contact Student Engagement or Campus Safety & Security. 

Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one’s time. A fraternity or sorority is like any co-curricular activity; it does require a time investment. Students have the opportunity for a well-rounded college experience that includes learning how to balance academics, work, campus involvement and social commitments. 

Each chapter is self-supported through dues charged to all members. In the first year of membership, a few one-time expenses are assessed. After those initial payments are made, your expenses will be your regular dues. Each chapter has a different dues structure and thus finances will vary between chapters. 

Johnson & Wales University’s Charlotte Campus does not support housing for fraternities or sororities. Many chapter members live together, either on or off campus, but these accommodations are not sanctioned by the university nor their inter/national headquarters.