Fraternity changing stereotypes

Pi Kappa Phi fraternity coordinator Ben Phelps is looking to steer the Greek image away from the idea of a drunk and toga-clad John Belushi.

“There’s that general ‘Animal House’ stereotype that all fraternities do is party and drink,” he said. “But nowadays the Greek system is trying to get away from that image of drinking and debauchery.”

And while Phelps said the fraternities at Utah State University are among the best he has seen when it comes to helping the community, he’s looking to take that progress another step forward by establishing the 133rd national chapter of Pi Kappa Phi – a fraternity he said is completely dedicated to philanthropy.

Phelps said Pi Kappa Phi is the only national fraternity to establish and maintain its own non-profit organization, Push America.

Push America’s primary focus is enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities, Phelps said. The fraternity has raised more than $10 million for Push America, he said.

Phelps said funds are raised through a series of events, including a cross-country bicycle ride.

Thursday, Phelps met with the first group of potential recruits for the new fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi’s first chapter in Utah.

“We’re not looking for the average,” he said. “We’re looking for people who will step up and challenge each other, challenge the system.”

Support from other campus fraternities and sororities has been overwhelming, Phelps said. He added that the administration has also been helpful in establishing the chapter.

Currently, Pi Kappa Phi has no house on campus, but Phelps said the fraternity’s property management board will be looking into the matter.

Other presentations for those interested will be held on Sept. 28 and 29 at 7:03 p.m. in Room 335 of the Taggart Student Center.

-acf@cc.usu.edu