Greek life at USM is still flourishing; Phi Kappa Sigma can prove it. While many people may think only of “Animal House” and “Old School” when the word “fraternity” is brought up in a conversation, those affiliated with Greek life think otherwise. Phi Kappa Sigma, one of four fraternities and one of eight Greek chapters here at the USM campus has and continues to break down those barriers in a multitude of ways.
This year the members of Phi Kappa Sigma have planned a number of community service, and philanthropy activities. The fraternity has already begun this process this semester by donating their time at the Portland food kitchen once a month. The fraternity also has an April 29, date set up for their annual “Highway Cleanup,” in which members of the fraternity volunteer their time in order to provide a cleaner turnpike system. Phi Kappa Sigma has also extended their volunteering efforts to the local level with the help of community schools. Later in the semester the brothers of Phi Kappa Sigma will be attending some of the local elementary and middle schools and volunteering at the schools libraries explaining the importance of reading. Brothers have also gathered and donated clothing to the local Good Will here in Gorham, and in the near future they will be helping underprivileged families move to better homes as part of Portland’s “Care Partners” program.
While the brothers of Phi Kappa Sigma stress the importance of community service, they also understand the need for philanthropy as part of their organization. In March, the brothers participated in a “light-bulb sale” in the greater Portland area. Portions of the proceeds benefited the leukemia and lymphoma society. In May, the fraternity will be traveling to the Wal-Mart in Scarborough to host two car washes which will also benefit the leukemia and lymphoma society.
With the continuing participation of Greek life on- and off-campus here at USM, one thing seems to be clear: Greek life is still a staple in the campus community. So, while many people wish to assume the stereotypical fraternity/sorority view, many others hope that those assumptions can be broken down and that with the continued success and efforts put forth by Phi Kappa Sigma, and others, Greek life will continue to strive.