As of December 19, 2021, Penn State Altoona no longer recognizes any social fraternities and sororities. This decision is the result of a five-year examination of the sustainability of these organizations. The decision was not punitive but proactive with the realistic consideration of the groups' long-term success.
Students are highly discouraged from joining any student-led organization that is not recognized, supported by, or accountable to the University. It is highly encouraged that if a student wants to have a fraternal experience, they wait to join at University Park if applicable.
While at Penn State Altoona, there are many other recognized and supported student organizations that could provide the intrinsic benefits of fraternities, namely friendship, leadership development, soft-skill building, and civic engagement. To browse the always up-to-date list of recognized organizations, please visit Penn State Altoona Connect.
Please note, Greek-lettered honor societies are different than social fraternities. If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to [email protected].
Defining levels of discipline and recognition
Simply stated, a fraternity or sorority does not exist in the Penn State community when it loses recognition. At Penn State, the health and safety of our students has always been a priority in all spaces. All student organizations are held to a high standard of operating according to guidelines and regulations.
Independent Chapters
Independent fraternities and sororities are those that operate without official approval or recognition from Penn State. These groups operate independently, without any formal affiliation with the University. They are not permitted to use University names, images, spaces, or resources as part of their operation.
Unrecognized organizations are not subject to the same oversight and regulations as officially recognized groups, which can pose significant threats to the health and safety of their members, as well as jeopardize the broader fraternity and sorority system.
The Impact of Being an Independent Chapter
An independent chapter is one that is not formally affiliated with Penn State, even if the members of the groups happen to be Penn State Altoona students. The group does not enjoy any of the privileges granted to recognized student groups at the University and operates outside of oversight provided by an established fraternity and sorority system.
- Independent chapters lose the ability to participate in any activities through the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life and are prohibited from participating in any University function as a group, including Homecoming and THON.
- These groups often persist in operating as if they have University recognition, falsely presenting themselves as officially sanctioned. If a group is not listed in Connect, they are not part of an established University system with oversight and safeguards in place.
- Oversight and the ability to respond to concerns with these groups is incredibly limited. While individual students can be held accountable under the Student Code of Conduct, the student group is not held to the same standards, limiting the effectiveness and impact of potential sanctions or disciplinary actions.
Known Independent Chapters:
- Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity
- Sigma Pi Fraternity
