During my time as a graduate student at Syracuse University, I had the pleasure of teaching many students involved in Greek life, many of whom were great individuals. I agree with Benjamin Castaneda’s premise that there’s value in Greek life, and that many Greek organizations contribute positively to the SU campus.

However, I agree far more with James Franco when he states that we need a wide audit of the Greek community on campus. As a leader of graduate student government, I heard many stories of systemic issues with substance abuse, hateful and inappropriate speech and other conduct that’s unbecoming of the university. It has been made clear through the multiple suspensions and a multitude of other disciplinary issues that Greek life at SU has contributed to a campus environment that doesn’t reflect the culture we wish to see at SU.

If there are good apples in the Greek community, let them be the loudest in calling for systemic change to prevent these abuses. Allow a third-party audit, in the spirit of seeking change and reconciliation with the wider campus community. Be open to the idea that we can create a Greek system that’s more respectful, responsible and no longer suffers from systemic issues and abuses. The community can tolerate nothing less.

Sincerely,

Sam Leitermann-Long, former GSO vice president

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MORE COVERAGE: 

• Syverud: SU will start ‘top to bottom’ review of all Greek life policies, activities and culture
• Student Association leaders call for SU Greek life audit in wake of Theta Tau suspension
• Students protest Theta Tau videos outside Chancellor Kent Syverud’s house
• Gallery: SU campus community reacts to Theta Tau videos

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Published on April 19, 2018 at 1:33 pm