Greek chapters at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are changing their recruitment processes to continue to engage students while adhering to social distancing guidelines.

Sorority recruitment

Traditionally held the week prior to classes beginning at Nebraska, sorority formal recruitment will take place after classes are in session this fall. Organizers say that approximately 75% of the recruitment activities will take place virtually. They hope to host preference rounds (the final invitational event during sorority recruitment) in-person while following social distancing guidelines.

“Given heightened concerns for the safety of incoming students and our current members, we are reinventing the recruitment process,” said Leigh Thiedeman, director of the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life. “We plan to offer an engaging experience that connects students at a time when we greatly need to find ways to support one another.”

Sorority recruitment registration will open June 1. Informational sessions will also be offered twice per week through July.

Fraternity recruitment

Shaking hands, giving fist bumps or hugs are also a thing of the past as students are asked to wear face coverings and use hand sanitizers. While fraternities continue to recruit new members this summer, events now require an RSVP prior to attending to keep within attendee limits required by directed health measures.

To help interested students understand the changes and the recruitment process, the Interfraternity Council is hosting virtual information sessions twice per week.

“Tons of questions come up during recruitment, especially this summer with the safety concerns related to COVID-19,” said Colton Abramo, director of recruitment for the Interfraternity Council. “The online information sessions will provide a place for students and parents to know their questions will be answered.”

Men interested in joining a fraternity can register for recruitment online.

Multicultural Greek Council and National Pan-Hellenic Council recruitment

Multicultural and historically African American Greek organizations at Nebraska host intake activities during the fall semester. More information will be available in the fall.