Greek Community History at Iowa State
The tradition started in 1875 when the first fraternity, Delta Tau Delta, was established at Iowa State, soon followed by the first sorority, I.C. Sorocis, in 1877, only six years after Iowa State opened. I.C. Sorocis would later become a chapter of the first national sorority on campus, Pi Beta Phi. These organizations had frequent exchanges and the members of each were active in college affairs.
A nationwide movement began against fraternities during the latter part of the 19th century. Opponents objected to the fraternities as selective and exploited the secrecy as an indication of evil and undemocratic tendencies. During this time, fraternities were banned on some campuses, including Iowa State Agriculture College.
However, at the turn of the century the anti-fraternity movement was diminishing and college officials were recognizing their value on campus. With the lift of the ban on fraternities at Iowa State in 1904, many national fraternities were established and numerous non-Greek clubs were formed. Among these were the Dragon Society, Arcade Club, Ozark Club, and many more. Most of these clubs petitioned national fraternities and later became Greek societies.
The Greek Community is a growing and viable element on the Iowa State campus today with 33 fraternities and 18 sororities recognized by the University. Approximately ten percent of all undergraduates are members of the Greek community, with over 2,200 students maintaining residence in Greek chapter dwellings.
A timeline of Greek Community history at Iowa State
A timeline of Greek chapter establishment
