Multicultural Greek Council (MGC)
The Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) is the governing body for Penn State’s culturally-based fraternities and sororities. These organizations are united by shared values of cultural awareness, community service, academic achievement, and leadership development.
MGC chapters provide students with a supportive space to celebrate heritage, build lifelong friendships, and create positive change both on campus and beyond. Whether you’re looking to connect with your cultural roots or explore new perspectives, joining an MGC organization is a meaningful way to find community and grow as a leader.
Understanding Recognition
In order for a fraternity or sorority to operate at Penn State, it must be recognized as an affiliate group of its inter/national fraternity, otherwise known as a chapter. Chapters must also maintain University recognition by upholding the standards and expectations outlined for all fraternities and sororities. Below you’ll find a list of MGC chapters that are currently recognized by the University.
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Alpha Kappa Delta Phi is the largest and only international Asian-interest sorority, dedicated to promoting sisterhood, scholarship, leadership, and Asian awareness. Founded in 1990 at UC Berkeley, the organization has expanded to more than 60 chapters across North America. At Penn State, sisters are active in philanthropic efforts, especially breast cancer awareness and education, their national philanthropy. Members build lifelong friendships and grow personally and professionally through leadership roles and community engagement.
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Lambda Sigma Upsilon, established in 1979 at Rutgers University, strives to promote Latino unity, cultural awareness, and academic success. At Penn State, the brothers participate in mentoring programs and cultural events while supporting HIV/AIDS research as their national philanthropy. Members foster strong brotherhood and empower each other to be agents of change on campus and in the community.
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As the first Latina sorority in the United States, Lambda Theta Alpha was founded in 1975 to create an inclusive community rooted in Latina heritage. The Penn State chapter is committed to academic excellence, leadership, and philanthropic efforts, particularly supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Sisters gain valuable skills, build supportive networks, and honor their culture through service and scholarship.
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Established in 1981 at Rutgers University, Mu Sigma Upsilon is the first multicultural sorority in the nation, welcoming women from all backgrounds. Their mission centers on academic achievement, unity among all women, and service to the community. Penn State sisters proudly support the American Cancer Society as their national philanthropy and create an empowering space for personal growth.
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Sigma Lambda Beta, founded in 1986 at the University of Iowa, is a Latino-based fraternity focused on brotherhood, scholarship, community service, and cultural awareness. The Penn State chapter supports leadership development and service through culturally grounded programming and campus engagement.
- Learn about Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity, Inc. in Discover
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Sigma Lambda Gamma, founded in 1990 at the University of Iowa, is a multicultural sorority centered on empowerment, service, and cultural awareness. At Penn State, members engage in leadership development and community-building initiatives that support identity and belonging.
- Learn about Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc. in Discover
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Sigma Omicron Pi was founded in 1930 at San Francisco State University to support the personal growth and development of Asian-American women. The sorority promotes sisterhood, cultural awareness, and community service, with an emphasis on developing leadership skills. Members at Penn State engage in philanthropic activities and cultural programs that enrich both the chapter and the campus community.
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Tau Phi Delta is a multicultural fraternity that values brotherhood, leadership, and service. At Penn State, members participate in campus involvement and community engagement opportunities that support growth and shared responsibility.
- Learn about Tau Phi Delta in Discover
Understanding Unrecognized Groups
Unrecognized organizations are groups that have lost University recognition or never had it in the first place. These organizations operate without oversight or support from Penn State, and they do not follow the standards or safety requirements established for recognized chapters. Participation in unrecognized groups can involve serious risks, including dangerous hazing, lack of accountability, and unsafe social environments.
