FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE TASK FORCE REPORT€¦ · FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE TASK FORCE REPORT...

FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE TASK FORCE REPORT

April 4, 2019

FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE TASK FORCE REPORT – APRIL 4, 2019 // 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary………………………………………………………………………………... 2

Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………….. 5

Task Force Framework & Process…………………………………………………………………. 6

Recommendations for Immediate Implementation………………………………………………... 8

Additional Recommendations…………………………………………………………………….. 13

Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………….. 15

Appendix A: Proposed Philosophy Statement on Alcohol & Other Drugs……………………….. 16

Appendix B: Proposed Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy……………….. 17

Appendix C: Proposed Educational Initiatives……………………………………………………. 19

Appendix D: Proposed Educational Resources………………………………………………….. 21

Appendix E: Proposed Financial Resource Allocations…………………………………………. 22

Appendix F: Proposed Student Conduct Process Updates……………………………………….. 24

Appendix G: Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force Membership………………………………… 25

Appendix H: Moratorium Modification Proposal………………………………………………… 26

References………………………………………………………………………………………... 28


EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

On October 31, 2018, the University announced a moratorium on fraternity and sorority chapter events with alcohol following a pattern of concerning incidents. The Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL) Task Force was formed in November 2018 to consider the strategies needed to achieve a safe, vibrant, and successful community. For an environment to change, it is critical to identify gaps in current practices and truly understand the factors that contribute to problems. The FSL Task Force approached its work using the following framework, aided by external fraternity and sorority risk management consultants:

The philosophy of the University and its departments and divisions drives University policies;

The policies of the University and its offices drive its procedures and practices;

Procedures and practices drive the University’s education strategy; and

The education strategy drives enforcement and accountability through the University’s conduct process.

In addition to articulating the GVSU Fraternity and Sorority Life Philosophy on Alcohol and Other Drugs, the FSL Task Force reviewed industry standards and community-specific data to recommended policy changes; resources necessary to support students’ implementation of the revised policy; a strategy to provide students with the education, training, and advising needed to make appropriate choices within the stated expectations; and guidelines for holding chapters accountable for the choices they make. The greatest chance of success comes from creating comprehensive prevention strategies addressing both risk and protective factors (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2014). To reduce health and safety problems, the University should utilize community-based prevention research and best practices. All student health and safety initiatives should be:

Prevention-focused in addition to response-focused;

Comprehensive, addressing multiple issues and stakeholders across the institution;

Planned and evaluated, using a systematic process to design, implement, and evaluate each initiative;

Strategic and targeted, addressing the risk and protective factors of priority problems identified by local data;

Research-based, informed by the current literature and theory;

Multicomponent, using multiple strategies;

Coordinated and synergistic, ensuring efforts complement and reinforce one another;

Multisectoral and collaborative, involving key stakeholders across the institution;

Supported by infrastructure and resources, institutional commitment, and appropriate systems (Langford, 2004).

Each of the recommendations in this report builds on the principles outlined above.


RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMMEDIATE IMPLEMENTATION

The FSL Task Force reviewed industry standards and community-specific data to develop the following recommendations for immediate implementation, which serve as the foundation for sustainable change in the fraternity and sorority community:

1. Adopt and publish the proposed Fraternity & Sorority Life Philosophy Statement on Alcohol and Other Drugs (Appendix A).

2. Adopt and publish the proposed Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy (Appendix B).

3. Develop and implement the proposed educational initiatives and resources (Appendices C & D).

4. Increase the University’s financial resource allocations for the fraternity and sorority community (Appendix E).

5. Increase the University’s financial resource allocations for Alcohol and Other Drugs Campus Education Services (ACES).

6. Clearly define and document protocols related to the student organization conduct process (Appendix F).

7. Develop a Fraternity and Sorority Life Advisory Board.

8. Continue recent Fraternity & Sorority Life staff efforts to consistently communicate and collaborate with chapter advisors.

9. Support governing council leadership in implementing more purposeful recruitment and intake initiatives.

10. Develop and publish Fraternity and Sorority Life Expansion Guidelines which provide a framework to examine the sustainability of adding additional chapters to the community.

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS The FSL Task Force also recommends consideration of the following ideas:

1. Revise the FSL Relationship Agreement to reflect the approved recommendations and

implement in fall 2019.

2. Broadly review the FSL Alcohol and Other Drug Policy to determine whether it is appropriate for all registered student organizations.

3. Revise the GVSU Alcohol and Other Drug Policy Handbook to ensure it is a more user-friendly resource.

4. Increase the frequency of bus routes/transportation (i.e. 85 line) when social events occur to ensure safe and reliable transportation is available to students.


5. Implement initiatives to address concerns related to student alcohol consumption across campus, including the normalization of pre-gaming and after parties occurring in unofficial and unregulated fraternity and sorority chapter houses.

6. Examine the information on alcohol and other drugs provided to incoming students and further enhance it to provide a baseline of critical knowledge and resources.

7. Collaborate with chapter leaders, inter/national headquarter staff, the Promotions Office, and University Communications to promote the positive image of fraternity/sorority life internally and externally.

8. Create a network of GVSU faculty and staff affiliated with fraternities and sororities to provide additional support and resources to the fraternity and sorority community.


INTRODUCTION

A moratorium on chapter events with alcohol was announced on October 31, 2018 in response to a concerning pattern of incidents in the GVSU fraternity and sorority community. GVSU is not alone in its challenges; there is no shortage of headlines displaying fraternity and sorority members engaging in high-risk behavior and tragedies involving excessive alcohol misuse. This national conversation is several years in the making, necessitating universities to take a clear stance: embrace the fraternity and sorority community and actively engage with students to help them manage risk, or distance themselves from responsibility entirely. The Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force (Appendix G) was formed in November 2018 to consider the strategies needed to achieve a safe, vibrant, and successful community. As an intentional strategy to provide support for the community, the Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force was formed in November 2018 to consider the strategies needed to achieve a safe, vibrant, and successful community. GVSU believes strongly in the power of a positive fraternity and sorority experience to enhance students’ holistic development and support their success and therefore, is committed to addressing the serious alcohol and other drug misuse and abuse within the community. Furthermore, GVSU is committed to working with students and advisors to create safer environments. Fraternity and Sorority Life at GVSU has historically been described as a model community until recent years which indicated warning signs of alcohol misuse in the community. The FSL Task Force also acknowledges that over the past five years, a number of factors have contributed to the challenges of the fraternity and sorority community including significant growth, strained staffing and financial resources, the implementation of the off-campus Greek Village, and the overall increase in risky behaviors and negative alcohol culture among fraternity and sorority members and other GVSU students. While the recommendations of the FSL Task Force address many of these aspects, the University will need to separately consider some of these areas to ensure the long-term sustainability of the fraternity and sorority community. The greatest chance of success comes from creating comprehensive prevention strategies addressing both risk and protective factors (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2014). To reduce health and safety problems, the University should utilize community-based prevention research and best practices. All student health and safety initiatives should be:

Prevention-focused in addition to response-focused;

Comprehensive, addressing multiple issues and stakeholders across the institution;

Planned and evaluated, using a systematic process to design, implement, and evaluate each initiative;

Strategic and targeted, addressing the risk and protective factors of priority problems identified by local data;

Research-based, informed by the current literature and theory;

Multicomponent, using multiple strategies;

Coordinated and synergistic, ensuring efforts complement and reinforce one another;

Multisectoral and collaborative, involving key stakeholders across the institution;


Supported by infrastructure and resources, institutional commitment, and appropriate systems (Langford, 2004).

Each of the recommendations in this report builds on the principles outlined above.

TASK FORCE FRAMEWORK & PROCESS

FRAMEWORK For an environment to change, it is critical to identify gaps in current practices and truly understand the factors that contribute to problems. The Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force approached its work, with the assistance of external consulting from the Catalyst Agency, using the following framework:

The philosophy of the University and its departments and divisions drives University policies;

The policies of the University and its offices drive its procedures and practices;

Procedures and practices drive the University’s education strategy; and

The education strategy drives enforcement and accountability through the University’s conduct process.

The philosophy statement serves as an expression of shared beliefs about the fraternity and sorority experience at GVSU and expectations about the role of alcohol and other drugs in that experience. The philosophy statement also communicates the commitments members of the University community make in supporting those shared beliefs and expectations. Ultimately, the philosophy statement serves as a backstop — a common language and approach used to make decisions about policies, implementing procedures, resources, educational strategy, and enforcement mechanisms. In addition to articulating the fraternity and sorority life philosophy on alcohol and other drugs, the FSL Task Force reviewed industry standards and community-specific data to recommend policy changes; resources necessary to support students’ implementation of the revised policy; a strategy to provide students with the education, training, and advising needed to make appropriate choices within the stated expectations; and methods for holding chapter accountable for the choices they make.

PROCESS The FSL Task Force convened in December 2018 and held ten meetings through March 22, 2019. The FSL Task Force Chair regularly communicated updates to the community, chapter presidents, and advisors through emails throughout the process. The Fraternity & Sorority Life staff, with the support of the FSL Task Force, also engaged students and advisors from the fraternity and sorority community throughout the winter 2019 semester to provide opportunities for all constituents to voice community concerns, ideas, and engage in dialogue:


The first engagement opportunity for the community was in the form of an online survey to gauge

fraternity and sorority attitudes, beliefs, perceptions, and behaviors. Approximately 30% of fraternity

and sorority students completed the survey and themes were reported to the FSL Task Force.

The FSL Task Force conducted open focus groups for fraternity and sorority members (n = 22).

Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Dr. Loren Rullman, attended a Greek Life

Board meeting to answer questions and explain the University’s current concerns.

Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life staff presented to a University Academic Senate

Committee and the Student Senate.

Approximately 150 student leaders attended the final opportunity for engagement. Hosted by the

Greek Life Board and FSL Task Force, the draft of the recommendations was presented and

participants engaged in small group discussion where feedback was compiled and presented to the

task force for consideration.

A core group of advisors participated in several FSL Task Force update meetings, providing feedback

from chapters.

Additionally, Council leadership drafted a proposal of student-led initiatives to address community

safety concerns. Many of which originated aligned with many of the recommendations of the FSL

Task Force.

Building upon the work produced through following the framework noted previously (i.e. philosophy, policy, etc.), the recommendations were composed by the FSL Task Force Chair and Associate Director for Student Life, Valerie Guzman and supported by the FSL staff, refined by the professional consultant to the FSL Task Force, and deliberated and ultimately approved by the FSL Task Force members. Following the initial submission of the recommendations, an internal review board composed of chapter advisors, GVSU staff from Legal, Compliance and Risk Management, and various fraternity/sorority life practitioners representing all four governing councils, will be consulted for feedback regarding implementation of the recommendations.


RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMMEDIATE IMPLEMENTATION

The Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force recommends the following actions to address immediate gaps and concerns, as well as to set the foundation for sustainable change in the fraternity and sorority community: These recommendations are listed in order of the discussion framework provided by the consultant.

1. Adopt and publish the proposed Fraternity & Sorority Life Philosophy Statement on Alcohol and Other Drugs (Appendix A).

The proposed philosophy statement is intended to serve as a guiding framework for how the University approaches its work with fraternity and sorority students and chapters in the area of alcohol and other drugs, as well as what students can expect from the Fraternity & Sorority Life Office and University. This statement was newly created and composed by the FSL Task Force. Once the philosophy statement is adopted, the University, including the Office of Student Life/ Fraternity & Sorority Life should:

Review and align all communication and education with the philosophy statement

Continue to evaluate and adjust other policies and procedures to align with the philosophy

Incorporate into the Fraternity and Sorority Life Relationship Agreement currently in development

2. Adopt and publish the proposed Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy (Appendix B).

The proposed policy outlines clear expectations that are aligned with inter/national organization and industry practices, including the new North American Interfraternity Conference Alcohol & Drug Guidelines. The policy was newly created and composed by the FSL Task Force. The current GVSU fraternity/sorority life policies are not written in student-friendly language, nor are they concise, accessible to reference, or widely known amongst chapter leaders or members. The current practice is to require chapters to comply with their inter/national organization policies, which is not an affirmative articulation of the University’s expectations in these areas. Adopting this policy creates consistency across councils and from chapter-to-chapter. It also makes the fraternity/sorority life educational strategy more feasible because the staff will be able to advise students on the FSL’s expectations, rather than having to know each organization’s policy. Once adopted, the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy should be reviewed annually by the FSL Advisory Board and by the Office of Student Life/Fraternity and Sorority Life. The policy should also be easily accessible on the Fraternity & Sorority Life website. The policy should also be incorporated into the Fraternity & Sorority Life Relationship Agreement. In addition, this policy could also apply to all registered student organizations but may need to undergo a more extensive approval process.


3. Develop and implement the proposed educational initiatives and resources (Appendices C and D).

The proposed educational initiatives and resources target all key fraternity and sorority life constituents on an annual cycle. The education and resources focus on prevention, intervention, and response education. Building on the plans developed by the Fraternity & Sorority Life staff prior to the moratorium, the proposed educational initiatives and resources incorporate feedback from the community-wide survey, focus groups, and 2017 external review report, as well as the gaps identified by the FSL Task Force. In implementing the proposed educational initiatives, all chapter presidents, risk management chairs, and social chairs will be required to complete annual, in-person training on the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy prior to hosting any events with alcohol. The Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life staff will offer trainings each August and January.

4. Increase the University’s financial resource allocations for the fraternity and sorority community (Appendix E).

Implementing the recommendations outlined in this report requires additional resources. Resource scarcity prevents the University from effectively managing risk and may create liability exposure. First, The University should align its fraternity and sorority staffing model with industry best practices. EAB (Education Advisory Board) and NASPA’s “Framework for Excellence in Fraternity and Sorority Life” identify best practice as one full-time (master’s-level) professional for every 1,000 members of the fraternity/sorority community. Since 2012, the GVSU fraternity/sorority community has grown rapidly from 1,200 students to nearly 1,800 students (fall 2018) with no increase in staffing. To provide more oversight and advising to students, the number of full-time Fraternity & Sorority Life staff members needs to be increased. Additionally, a GVSU March 2014 student organization risk management assessment identified fraternities/sororities and club sports as the highest risk organizations on campus. Exclusive of club sport-specific expenses (i.e. coaching, facility rentals, administrative support, equipment, travel, etc.), a significant resource disparity exists between the two functional areas.1

5. Increase the University’s financial resource allocations for Alcohol and Other Drugs Education Services (ACES).

1 Fraternity & Sorority Life is allocated by the Student Life Fund $14,500 to support approximately 28 fraternities and sororities with 1,800 student members (fall 2018). Comparatively, club sports receive $56,000 to support 50 club sports with 2,000 student participants. The total club sports budget is $440,000 (including travel for competition), which is a significantly higher investment of resources than the current Fraternity & Sorority Life allocation when accounting for staffing and other administrative expenses.


Increased resources for ACES will help all GVSU students make less dangerous, less risky choices related to their use of alcohol and other drugs. To develop and execute the proposed tiered alcohol and other drug education, the Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life must re-establish a strong partnership with ACES. This will initially require significant staffing support to build the infrastructure, followed by additional strategies to effectively manage the education collaboration. An additional desired outcome of the partnership is chapter utilization of opportunities provided by ACES such as peer educator training. The ACES staff is awaiting the appointment of a permanent Director; however, planning for the increased partnership between both offices should begin in May 2019 and be solidified by August 2019 in order to execute for fall 2019. Additional information related to ACES involvement in the educational initiatives is located in Appendix C.

6. Clearly define and document protocols related to the student organization conduct process (Appendix F).

Alignment of the student organization conduct process with best practices will ensure a timely, fair, and outcomes-based process for fraternity and sorority chapters. Three specific updates are articulated but additionally, the Fraternity & Sorority Life staff must continue collaborating with the Office of Student Conduct on student organization investigations and inter/national organization involvement for open communication and support for process improvement.

Although the following recommendations are broader in scope, the FSL Task Force believes that the following recommendations will significantly contribute to the overall emphasis on safety in the community:

7. Develop a Fraternity & Sorority Life Advisory Board.

The Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life, with support of appointments by the Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, should convene an intentionally-composed group of advisors from all governing councils, as well as other key constituents, to assist university leadership in implementing the recommendations outlined in this report, reporting updates to the community, and determining future priorities for fraternity and sorority life at GVSU. The FSL Task Force brought together students, chapter advisors, and university representatives to address the complex challenges within the community and to find solutions in response to a pattern of behavior that resulted in both support and criticism for the university actions. Moving forward, the fraternity and sorority community would greatly benefit from dedicated partners who would provide informed guidance, focused input, and a heightened accountability to the work. The work of an advisory board should be centered on the continuous improvement of the community which will result in reclaiming our reputation and leading nationally. The FSL staff should research effective advisory board models and at least engage the board each quarter. Development of a risk management subcommittee for chapter advisors and group housing is suggested in year one of the advisory board. Alumni and parent subcommittees are suggested for subsequent years.


8. Continue recent Fraternity & Sorority Life staff efforts to consistently communicate and collaborate with chapter advisors.

Recognizing the critical role of chapter advisors, these constituents have recently expressed benefits from having increased communication and transparency from the University and Fraternity & Sorority Life. Chapter advisors receive varying levels of support from their inter/national organizations and all advisors could benefit by additional support and engagement with the university to succeed as partners in supporting our students. , including support related to housing, and there is a high need to better support and the additional advisors supporting the chapter in their volunteer roles. The Fraternity & Sorority Life staff communication and collaboration strategy should address risk management concerns, as well as housing resources. The staff should also explore launching an online platform to allow for peer-led discussions.

9. Support governing council leadership in implementing more purposeful recruitment and

intake initiatives.

Although student interest in fraternities and sororities at GVSU has continued to rise, students, predominantly in our Panhellenic and Interfraternity communities, have expressed concern over students joining Greek-letter organizations for the wrong reasons. Panhellenic organizations in particular feel pressured to meet chapter size expectations. Potential new members, parents, and the entire community can make more educated decisions about membership when provided with details about organizational financial expectations, conduct history, etc. The Fraternity & Sorority Life staff should work with student governing council leadership to:

Educate council and chapter leadership on values-based best practices for the purposes of recruitment/intake. This is especially key to occur before recruitment of fall 2019.

Create a pre-member experience for students to better understand the expectations of what it means to be a fraternity and sorority member at GVSU. This will also include the creation and distribution of data points for pre-members to understand the commitment of joining a chapter (including dues, housing information, etc.). This may be council based, as information and delivery needs may vary.

Create and publish data points that includes chapter accountability measures, resulting in transparency with potential new members and overall with all internal and external audiences. Student organization conduct statuses have recently become more transparent through a dedicated webpage, but collecting additional information would aid in this process.

10. Develop and publish Fraternity and Sorority Life Expansion Guidelines which provide a framework to examine the sustainability of adding additional chapters to the community.

As part of the administrative action, expansion was paused while the FSL Task Force worked through the framework previously described. During this process, Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) has voiced concerns about their inability to participate in the expansion of their community. Two organizations, one returning and one new, were halted in their expansion process due to the administrative action.


We acknowledge the importance that our MGC organizations play at GVSU as retention organizations for our students of color. As such, the OSL/FSL staff and partners within Inclusion and Equity will support MGC in resuming expansion efforts. Expansion interest for MGC will be prioritized at this time as we continue to assess expansion for the Panhellenic Association and the Interfraternity Council. Expansion for the Black Greek Council at this time is unlikely as 8 of the 9 National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations are present, with the ninth being on a long term sanction from the University.


ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force also recommends consideration of the following ideas:

1. Revise the FSL Relationship Agreement to reflect the approved recommendations and implement in fall 2019. As a part of the moratorium, the implementation of the Fraternity & Sorority Life Relationship Agreement, the foundational document that outlines the relationship between GVSU, its recognized chapters and their respective inter/national organizations, was paused in order to fully integrate the recommendations of the Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force. Upon the adoption of the aforementioned recommendations, the Relationship Agreement will reflect the various documents, strategies, and timelines noted and go into effect fall 2019 and that a signing ceremony with key administrators including, for example, the Vice Provost of Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Provost and Executive Vice President, and other university and student leaders, is coordinated by the Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life in order to highlight this important occasion and create a fresh start for all constituents.

2. Broadly review the FSL Alcohol and Other Drug Policy to determine whether it is appropriate for all registered student organizations. To increase the positive impact on campus culture with alcohol, the FSL Task Force recommends that the Student Organization Review Board and Office of Student Life consider adopting the policy for all registered student organizations. The policy should first be piloted by the FSL community, broadly reviewed, and gaps are addressed.

3. Review the GVSU Alcohol and Other Drug Policy Handbook to ensure it is a student-

friendly resource.

This document is referenced with the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy. It is required by the Drug Free Schools Act to contain specific information, and ACES is responsible for the handbook. Any changes to this document require approval by the President’s Cabinet. Students may be able to better utilize this resource if appendices were incorporated, with improved formatting, and simplified language when possible.

4. Increase the frequency of bus routes/transportation (i.e. 85 line) when social events occur

to ensure safe and reliable transportation is available to students.

Student feedback through the survey and focus groups indicated that infrequent transportation contributes to student safety concerns (i.e. students who are not on the guest list and denied entry do not depart the location immediately and create additional liability and event management challenges). Student Senate and/or councils may consider advocating for this concern in 2019-2020.

5. Implement initiatives to address concerns related to student alcohol consumption across

campus, including the normalization of pre-gaming and after parties occurring in unofficial and unregulated fraternity and sorority chapter houses.


GVSU administrators have examined recent alcohol data and trends finding that the frequency and quantity of alcohol use has risen, there are more incidents include larger numbers of students (groups), and issues surrounding students partying off-campus and returning to campus with no ramification. Increased on campus alternative weekend programming, especially for north campus residents, should be considered. Furthermore, the OSL/FSL staff should consider collaborating with inter/national organizations to combat the negative behaviors associated with unofficial chapter houses.

6. Examine the information on alcohol and other drugs provided to incoming students and further enhance to provide a baseline of critical knowledge and resources.

The student education module and Transitions New Student Orientation Program both address this topic but participation is not required resulting in some students never receiving the pertinent information. The information covered during the Transition program is dense and shared during an overwhelming time of change for students. Messaging shared regularly and over time during the entire first-year may be more impactful than front-loading first weeks. GVSU should consider learning from other institutions that may have more effective approaches, such as utilization of an online course.

7. Collaborate with chapter leaders, inter/national headquarter staff, the Promotions Office, and University Communications to promote the positive image of the fraternity and sorority community internally and externally.

Despite various mechanisms in place to support fraternity and sororities sharing positive news, most positive news has remained in the “echo chamber” within the community versus reaching outside students, faculty/staff and beyond. It is recommended that Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life collaborate with Promotions Office and University Communications to offer training for council and chapter officers who manage public relations and social media as well as creating the space for all chapter public relations chairs to share best practices. Additionally, the Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life can support chapters in collaborating with their inter/national headquarters to develop communication strategies (i.e. press releases) which can be effectively shared with University Communications.

8. Create a network of GVSU faculty and staff affiliated with fraternities and sororities to

provide additional support and resources to the fraternity and sorority community.

Compiling this list would aid the Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life in identifying future advisors, best practices, and providing networking opportunities for students.


CONCLUSION

Upon the adoption of the aforementioned recommendations, the Relationship Agreement, the foundational document that outlines the relationship between GVSU, its recognized chapters and their respective inter/national organizations, must reflect the various documents and strategies articulated. As noted previously, GVSU is challenged with a student alcohol culture as a community health concern that stretches beyond students engaged in fraternities and sororities. However, it is clear that there are systemic problems within the GVSU general student body that also must be addressed to fully combat how these issues transcend the fraternity and sorority experience. The Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force believes that reform is possible if students will embrace the opportunity to be collaborative partners in shaping risk management education and hold each other accountable. While the various recommendations outline industry supported actions to address the concerning pattern of behavior with alcohol, ultimately, the Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force believes that the current fraternity and sorority life culture and attitudes will not see a significant change until students participate in the proposed educational components during the Fall 2019 semester. Furthermore, it is recognized that attitudes of many fraternity and sorority community members have been critical and will continue to take time to recover. The negative feedback is largely based on the intention to self-govern (impose a dry period) when the moratorium was announced at the planned Town Hall to discuss a Greek Life Board proposal. Moving forward, students must understand that within the culture of the university engaging in the process of a task force, that this significant investment of time and energy is a testament to the commitment to improve fraternity/sorority life at GVSU. Key student leaders involved in the creation and delivery of education and resources, as well as the Fraternity & Sorority Life Advisory Board, will need to lead the community to this realization. The proposed implementation of the Fraternity & Sorority Life Advisory Board will help ensure that the recommendations are implemented and that the community continues to move forward with health, safety and wellbeing at the forefront of the fraternity and sorority experience at GVSU. In sum, the fraternity and sorority community adds value to the richness of GVSU student life and to the University’s success as a high quality public institution. The Task Force and the Office of Student Life are confident that adoption of these recommendations will position our community as an example for the nation.


APPENDIX A: PROPOSED PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT

Grand Valley State University - Fraternity & Sorority Life

Philosophy on Alcohol & Other Drugs

Grand Valley State University values excellence, integrity, inquiry, inclusiveness, community, sustainability, and innovation. The university promotes a fraternity and sorority life experience that enhances these values by focusing on students’ personal growth, academic achievement, diverse community involvement, and development of lifelong friendships. Paramount to the fraternity and sorority life experience is the health, safety, and well-being of all community members. We believe that the misuse and abuse of alcohol and other drugs prevents our community members from realizing their full potential as citizens and exemplifying the values of both their inter/national organization and the institution. We believe strongly in the power of a positive fraternity and sorority experience to enhance students’ holistic development and support their success. Seeking to promote a healthy university community and positive fraternity and sorority life experience, we uphold the following philosophy on alcohol and other drugs:

We expect our students to follow federal, state, and local laws regarding alcohol and other drugs.

To address the negative behaviors associated with the misuse and abuse of alcohol and other drugs, the University collaborates with chapter and governing council leaders, as well as inter/national organizations.

Through education, training and advising, the University provides our students with the tools to make good choices and to understand the consequences of their choices.

The University holds chapters and individual students accountable for the choices they make.

We expect our students to take responsibility for their actions and inactions.

We empower our students to self-govern and hold their peers accountable for choices that fail to exemplify our shared expectations.

We expect all members of our community to demonstrate a concern for the health, safety, and well-being of others.

This Statement was composed and approved in Winter 2019 by Fraternity and Sorority Life Task Force representatives from the following: Greek Life Board, Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Association, Multicultural Greek Council, Black Greek Council, Student Senate, Alcohol and Other Drug Campus Education Services, Division of Inclusion and Equity, Dean of Students Office, Alumni Relations, History Department (faculty representative), Young Alumni Board, chapter advisor representative, an unaffiliated graduate student, and an ex officio staff member from the Office of Student Life/ Fraternity and Sorority Life.


APPENDIX B: PROPOSED POLICY

Grand Valley State University - Fraternity & Sorority Life

Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy The Student Code applies at functions, activities, or events hosted by Registered Student Organizations, on or off campus. The Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy supplements the provisions of the Student Code and other documented University Policies. This policy applies in any situation sponsored or endorsed by a fraternity or sorority at Grand Valley State University, including those occurring on or off campus.2 If the inter/national organization of a fraternity or sorority at Grand Valley State University has policies that are more restrictive than this policy, the fraternity or sorority must comply with the more restrictive policy. 1. The organization, its members, and guests must comply with all federal, state, local laws, and

University policies.3

2. No person under the legal drinking age may possess, consume, provide, or be provided alcohol.

3. The organization, its members, and guests must comply with all federal, state, and local laws, and University policies regarding the illegal use of drugs and other controlled substances, including marijuana. No person may possess, use, provide, distribute, sell, or manufacture illegal drugs, other controlled substances, or drug-related paraphernalia.4

4. Alcohol may only be present if (a) provided and sold on a per-drink basis by a licensed and insured

third-party vendor or (b) brought by individual members and guests (i.e. BYOB). 5. Common sources of alcohol, including bulk quantities (e.g. kegs, cases of beer, “handles” and fifths

of liquor, etc.), are prohibited unless provided and used by a licensed and insured third-party vendor to sell alcohol on a per-drink basis.

6. Alcohol may not be purchased with organizational funds or funds pooled by members or guests (e.g.

admission fees, cover charges, funds collected through digital apps, etc.). 7. The organization may not co-host, co-sponsor, or in any way participate in an event or activity with

a registered student organization (RSO) or other entity (e.g. athletics team, club sports team, organization not affiliated with the university, etc.) that purchases or provides alcohol.

8. The organization may not co-host or cosponsor with a bar, event promoter, or alcohol distributor;

however, a chapter may rent a restaurant, bar, or other licensed and insured third-party vendor to host a chapter event.

2 GVSU Student Code STU 1.4 (Jurisdiction) 3 GVSU Student Code STU 2.5.6 (Legality) 4 GVSU Student Code STU 2.5.1 (Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy) and STU 2.5.6 (Legality)


9. Attendance by non-members must be by invitation only at any event where alcohol is present, and the organization must utilize a guest list.

10. Alcohol may not be present if the event or activity relates to the new member joining process (e.g.

recruitment, rush, intake, etc.). 11. Alcohol may not be present if the event or activity relates to new members or their initiation into

the organization (e.g. new member meetings, rituals, “bid night,” “Big/Little” events or activities, “family” events or activities, new member presentations, etc.).

12. The organization, its members, and guests may not permit, encourage, coerce, glorify, or participate

in activities involving the rapid consumption of alcohol, such as drinking games (e.g. beer bongs or funnels, taking shots).


APPENDIX C: PROPOSED EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES

Education on risk management and other related topics is needed at every level of fraternity/sorority life stakeholders and perhaps most significantly, with new and current members. Some of the gaps identified by the Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force were being addressed through the response from the external review process but had not been fully implemented. Focusing on prevention, intervention, and response, the following education and initiatives are recommended to be led by the Assistant Director for Fraternity and Sorority Life and implemented effective fall 2019.

NEW MEMBERS & GENERAL CHAPTER MEMBERS Consistent feedback from students regarding new and general member education is to focus on peer-led, skill-based, interactive and inclusive to all councils. Recommendations include:

Revamping Greek 101, the required, in-person new member onboarding experience driven by councils and led with staff support effective fall 2019. The overall purpose of the program is to orient students to the community and introduce risk management topics, including alcohol and other drug education by ACES (tier one education). This program should occur each semester.

Partnering with ACES to establish a chapter-based alcohol and other drugs education program for general chapter members. The chapter-based program may meet a chapter’s inter/national organization programming requirements, and chapters with established national education requirements that exceed the tier two program may be able to receive an exemption. The Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life will help consolidate a calendar of chapter programs in an effort to reduce ACES staff time. The proposed implementation timeline is as follows:

o Fall 2019: All chapters will receive the tier level one to establish the baseline education.

o Beginning fall 2020: All chapters will receive tier two.

o The third tier will be offered as a part of the ACES programming calendar and will be offered to individuals.

Establishing other partnerships to develop and execute chapter-based programs.

o Partner with the Center for Women and Gender Equity Victim Advocate to establish a chapter-based tiered sexual assault prevention program.

o Partner with the Office of Student Conduct to establish a chapter-based Conduct 101 program.

Implementing online education modules (e.g. Evolution Labs) effective to reach 100% compliance of membership for critical risk management/wellbeing topics, including hazing prevention, sexual assault prevention, and emotional health.


CHAPTER OFFICERS & KEY CHAIRS

Prior to hosting any events with alcohol, chapter presidents, risk management chairs, and social chairs, and if applicable, housing managers must complete in-person training on the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy, which will be offered annually in August and January.

Following the policy education, chapters will need to annually document how they shared the policy and related information with their members and provide a copy of their chapter risk management processes to the Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life.

Presidents will continue to be required to attend a President’s Retreat each semester which will cover new policy updates, a variety of risk/crises management topics, and goal setting related to chapter required programming.

The Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life should implement a position-based cohort model for all chapter risk managers to share best practices and increase communication through occasional round tables and an online collaborative platform. This should also be considered for other key leadership positions such as new member educators, treasurers, housing managers, etc.

GOVERNING COUNCIL OFFICERS Fraternity & Sorority Life staff will work with councils to establish an understanding around the relationship between self-governance, accountability, and the university conduct process. The Fraternity & Sorority Life staff will empower council leadership to establish self-governing best practices related to council policies and procedures.

CHAPTER ADVISORS Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life staff will develop and conduct an annual chapter advisors training in July, incorporating the following risk management and safety topics: GV Policy, Conduct, Social Policies, Counseling, GVPD, Victim Advocate, QPR, and Event Services. Additional topics related to student success will be included. Incorporate advisors in the development and facilitation of the training. Record training in July 2019 to onboard advisors who are not in attendance.

OTHER KEY STAKEHOLDERS Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life staff should continue receiving professional development, including risk management education, through associations and events, including the Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors (AFA). Additionally, the Fraternity & Sorority Life staff should consider developing risk management education for other stakeholders, including parents, landlords, and event venues.


APPENDIX D: PROPOSED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

To align with the new Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol and Other Drug Policy, the following resources will be created and accessible on the Fraternity & Sorority Life website:

A GVSU interpretation for what is considered an event in collaboration with the Office of Student Conduct staff.

A GVSU-specific Event Planning Guide incorporating the proposed policy language and GVSU-specific recommendations. This will also incorporate resources on guest lists, BYOB third-party vendors, and recognizing the signs of overconsumption.

Best practices for transportation to help members and guests get home safely after an event that has alcohol, including designated/sober drivers, third-party transportation (e.g. buses), and ride sharing programs (e.g. Uber and Lyft).

Best practices related to event monitors. On a semester basis, the Fraternity & Sorority Life staff should also update a contact guide, identifying how staff members on campus can support chapters in safely and successfully planning events with alcohol and assist in an after-hours crisis. Additionally, to increase transparency in the University Conduct Process, create a conduct information guide for fraternities and sororities to better understand what happens, how to navigate the process, and other relevant considerations. In addition to developing the resources, the staff will continue to identify additional resources to create to address any gaps and will review all resources on an annual timeline.


APPENDIX E: PROPOSED FINANCIAL RESOURCE ALLOCATIONS

To meet the educational outcomes identified by the FSL Task Force and to provide more oversight of risk management to the community, university resource allocations need to be increased.

CURRENT FINANCIAL RESOURCES – BACKGROUND INFORMATION In 2018-2019, the FSL community was supported by a base budget of approximately $26,000 for community programs, professional development of one full-staff and two graduate assistants, general administration, and student wages which account for approximately 46% of the budget. An additional $14,500 from the Student Life Fund through the Greek Life Board supports community-wide initiatives for training, development (i.e. student conference travel to AFLV), and overall community engagement (i.e. Greek Week events).

ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL RESOURCES NEEDED As university resource allocations are explored, the following should be addressed:

Increasing the number of full-time, master’s-level Fraternity & Sorority Life staff members to align with industry best practices, effectively serve the students at GVSU, and accomplish institutional priorities. A competitive salary for an entry level position is minimum $40,000.

Increase the funding for the current full-time, master’s level staff position and professional development. The current position should be better resourced to reflect the position responsibilities and to ensure that GVSU can secure qualified candidates in the future. Professional development funding for current (and future) staff and graduate assistants, as appropriate, should allow for additional involvement in new training opportunities through NASPA and the Hart Institute, and existing opportunities such as the Novak Institute for Hazing Prevention (in total approximately $4,500). These important opportunities will ensure that staff are current with best practices and industry trends.

Increasing Student Life Funding, through the Greek Life Board, to support educational experiences for fraternity and sorority leaders/members. The Greek Life Board Vice President of Finance leads the allocations for the overall Student Life Fund budget and the executive officers of the Greek Life Board allocate the funds toward student-driven initiatives for training, development, and overall community engagement. The Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life staff provide support through these processes and general oversight of the funds. As of March 28, 2019, the current projected budget for 2019-2020 is $17,500 which reflects a nominal increase of $3,000.

Increasing base budget funding to fund the following FSL Task Force Recommendations:

Education Initiatives & Resources (Recommendation #3)

i. $6,000 - Revamping Greek 101 for sound and video costs associated with a set up in the Fieldhouse/Kelly Family Sports Center.


ii. $1000 - Printed materials for risk management education including design and print for a permanent posted publication for all chapter facilities and printed resources for the president, risk management officer, and advisors.

iii. $8,000 - Coordination an annual off-campus FSL Community Retreat for 1 representative per chapter and 1 per governing council (approx. 35 student attendees) as an investment in community leaders focusing on core community issues and solutions through a unifying experience. This idea was proposed in 2018-2019 but resources were not available. Cost covers transportation, lodging and meals, and other associated expenses for materials.

Chapter Advisors (Recommendation #8)

i. $1,500 - Advisor Trainings & Meetings – additional resources will be needed in order to increase the frequency of contact with advisors. Cost associated include printing training materials, food (advisors are volunteers and most work full-time, necessitating evening meetings), etc.

ii. $9,000 - Recruitment Education for council and chapter leadership – in person training programs selected with council leadership (i.e. trainers from Phired Up Productions; IFC and NPC focus, and an additional trainer for culturally based fraternal organizations)

Promote Positive Image of FSL (Additional Recommendation #7)

i. $2,000 - Video production and printed materials


APPENDIX F: PROPOSED STUDENT CONDUCT PROCESS UPDATES

Currently, the Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life and Office of Student Conduct collaborate on student organization conduct, resulting in process improvement and open communication. In addition to continuing the current collaboration, the Office of Student Conduct should consider the following changes:

1. Amend the Code to clearly articulate the factors considered when determining if a student organization should be held collectively responsible for an alleged violation. Lancaster and Waryold (2008) suggest that the following criteria should be considered, either individually or as a whole, when determining whether an activity constitutes organizational conduct: (1) A reasonable person would understand the behavior to fall within the scope of the organization’s activity; (2) The behavior was committed by one or more members and sanctioned by the organization and/or its officers; (3) The behavior was committed by one or more members during the course of an activity financed by the organization and/or on property owned or leased by the organization; (4) The behavior was committed by one or more members of an organization and supported by its members; (5) The officers of the organization had prior knowledge that the behavior would take place; and (6) Members of the organization lied about the incident.

2. Update the Code to provide student organizations with five days to file an appeal. This change allows chapter presidents additional time to consult with various internal stakeholders, including advisors and inter/national organization representatives.

3. Revise the student organization conduct process to include members of the fraternity/sorority community on the Student Conduct Hearing Board for fraternity and sorority cases. Because members of the fraternity/sorority community can provide additional context to the conduct hearing board, Conduct should consider revising the student organization conduct process to intentionally include these representatives for fraternity/sorority cases. In order to consider this change, the Office of Student Conduct would need to replicate this process for all student organization classifications. Training for all members of the process including faculty and staff representatives is also needed.

Additionally, Office of Student Life/Fraternity & Sorority Life staff should collaborate with the Office of Student Conduct staff to educate members of the fraternity/sorority community about the University’s student organization conduct process.


APPENDIX G: FSL TASK FORCE MEMBERSHIP

The Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force included:

Student representatives from Greek Life Board, Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Association, Multicultural Greek Council, Black Greek Council, Student Senate, and one unaffiliated graduate student;

Faculty and staff representatives from Alcohol and Other Drug Campus Education Services, Division of Inclusion and Equity, Dean of Students Office, Alumni Relations, the History Department (faculty representative), and an ex officio staff member from the Office of Student Life/ Fraternity and Sorority Life;

An alumni representative from the Young Alumni Board; and

An IFC chapter advisor representative. Lori Hart, Ph.D., and Justin Angotti served as external consultants for the FSL Task Force. Additionally, an internal review board was utilized to further vet the recommendations amongst additional chapter advisors, GVSU staff from legal counsel and risk management, as well as various fraternity and sorority life practitioners in the field representing all four governing councils.


APPENDIX H: MORATORIUM MODIFICATION PROPOSAL

Submitted on: 3/3/19 | Approved on: 3/22/19

The Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force has spent the past several months developing recommendations to address student welfare and safety concerns related to fraternity and sorority events with alcohol. Final recommendations will be reported in the coming weeks. In the interim, the Fraternity and Sorority Task Force proposes a modification of the moratorium that addresses student welfare and institutional obligations. This is a chapter-by-chapter pathway for organizations to host one event with alcohol in the winter 2019 semester at a third party venue with a licensed and insured vendor after completing appropriate risk management and event planning education and planning. These recommendations outline required steps for the Office of Student Life / Fraternity and Sorority Life and individual chapters with the support of their advisor and inter/national organization. The Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force recommends the Office of Student Life / Fraternity and Sorority Life (OSL/FSL) take the following steps: 1. Effective immediately, adopt and publish the proposed Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol &

Other Drugs Policy (attached) to supplement the provisions of the Student Code and other documented University policies.

2. Develop an in-person training for chapter leadership and advisors on the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy. A draft of the training outline is attached.

3. Schedule and facilitate a reasonable number of training opportunities on the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy for chapter presidents, risk management chairs, and social chairs. If a chapter intends to host a formal, the chapter’s formal chair or the member primarily responsible for planning the formal must also attend the training.

4. Schedule and facilitate a training opportunity for advisors on the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy. The training will be recorded and distributed to advisors. Advisors may also attend the in-person student trainings if preferred.

5. Modify a chapter’s indefinite suspension of events with alcohol to allow one event with alcohol at a third party venue with a licensed and insured vendor during the winter 2019 semester following the completion of the requirements outlined below.

6. Publish an updated list of chapters permitted to host one event with alcohol at a third party venue with a licensed and insured vendor during the winter 2019 semester to the fraternity and sorority community as suspensions are modified.

7. Based on the Task Force report, develop additional plans to implement immediate, required education allowing chapters to regain the ability to host events with alcohol for the 2019-2020 academic year.

The Fraternity & Sorority Life Task Force recommends chapters requesting to host one event with alcohol at a third party venue with a licensed and insured vendor during the winter 2019 semester complete the following steps: 1. Submit the “Event with Alcohol Request Form” form (available on the FSL website under

“resources”) to officially notify the Office of Student Life / Fraternity and Sorority Life about its proposed event.


2. The chapter president, risk management chair, social chair, and advisor participate in training on the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy. If a chapter intends to host a formal, the chapter’s formal chair or the member primarily responsible for planning the formal must also attend one of the scheduled trainings.

3. Schedule a meeting with an OSL/FSL staff member to discuss the chapter’s proposed event with alcohol. The chapter president, risk management chair, social chair, and formal chair (if applicable) must be available for the meeting. The meeting may not occur until all required student leaders participate in a training session on the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy.

4. The chapter president or risk management chair must submit written risk management procedures for its proposed event to the OSL/FSL at least 48 hours prior to its scheduled meeting. This must document how the chapter will comply with the Fraternity & Sorority Life Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy, as well as any additional steps the chapter will take to promote the health, safety, and well-being of members and guests during the event. The advisor must email the OSL/FSL staff indicating they reviewed the chapter’s written risk management procedures prior to their submission.

5. The chapter president, risk management chair, social chair, and formal chair (if applicable) must meet with an OSL/FSL staff member to review the written risk management procedures for its proposed event and submit any requested follow-up by the agreed upon date.

6. The chapter president or risk management chair must submit its written risk management procedures to its inter/national organization for review and cc: OSL/FSL staff. The inter/national organization must provide documentation to OSL/FSL that the procedures, if executed as written, would comply with inter/national organization policies.

7. Review, in person, all event-specific policies and procedures with all members who will be in attendance at the event at least five business days before the event. This will result in signed liability waivers from every member attending the event. If the national organization does not already have a form, an example can be provided.

8. Communicate the event-specific expectations to all guests who will be in attendance at the event. The host chapter is responsible for ensuring that all guests at the event are also informed on all event specific policies and procedures at least five business days before the event. This will result in signed liability waivers from every guest attending the event. If the national organization does not already have a form, an example can be provided.


REFERENCES

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2014). Preventing sexual violence on college campuses: Lessons from

research and practice. Lancaster, J. M., & Waryold, D. M. (2008). Student conduct practice: The complete guide for student affairs professionals.

Sterling, VA: Stylus. Langford, L. (2004). Preventing violence and promoting safety in higher education settings: Overview of a comprehensive

approach. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools, Higher Education Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse and Violence Prevention.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2002). A call to action: Changing the culture of drinking at

U.S. colleges. Washington, D.C.: Author. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2015). Planning alcohol interventions using NIAAA’s

CollegeAIM alcohol intervention matrix. Washington, D.C.: Author.

FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE TASK FORCE REPORT€¦ · FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE TASK FORCE REPORT...

Documents

Transcript of FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE TASK FORCE REPORT€¦ · FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE TASK FORCE REPORT...