Health & Safety in Fraternity and Sorority Life
A thriving fraternity and sorority community starts with care—for ourselves, our members, and our campus. Health and safety efforts within fraternity and sorority life at Penn State focus on education, prevention, and accountability, helping students make informed decisions and create supportive, responsible environments. Through shared commitment and leadership, chapters build the skills and awareness that strengthen both individual well-being and the community as a whole.
Understanding Unrecognized Groups
Unrecognized fraternities and sororities operate without university oversight, putting students at serious risk. These groups do not follow Penn State’s standards for safety, accountability, or values-based membership—and often engage in dangerous or harmful activities. Protect yourself and your Penn State experience by joining only recognized organizations that are committed to your well-being, growth, and success.
Hazing
Hazing undermines the very values that our community stands for — respect, growth, and belonging. At Penn State, hazing is prohibited and students are encouraged to build chapters that challenge one another through positive leadership, not harm. Understanding hazing and its risks turns membership into an opportunity to learn integrity, accountability, and authentic community.
Hazing Prevention Training
We encourage all members to complete preventive education that helps identify risky behaviors, understand the impact of hazing, and promote safer alternatives. Training resources, including Prevent.Zone, offer foundational skills that support a respectful and values-based community.
Alcohol & Drugs
Responsible use of alcohol is a shared expectation within the fraternity and sorority community, rooted in student well-being and respect for the campus environment. Under Penn State policy, chapters must follow clear standards for events with alcohol, helping members develop sound judgment, safe decision-making, and leadership in social settings.
Sexual Assault Prevention & Support
Penn State’s fraternity and sorority community is built on respect, trust, and accountability. Preventing sexual assault begins with education, awareness, and the courage to care for one another. Through training, campus partnerships, and survivor support resources, chapters learn how to create safer environments, intervene when needed, and uphold the values that make our community strong and respectful.