Information for Parents

Where Your Greek Ragin Cajun Thrives

As a parent, family member, or supporter, you play a crucial role in your Ragin’ Cajun’s university experience—including their involvement in Fraternity and Sorority Life.

At the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, joining a fraternity or sorority offers students opportunities for leadership, friendship, academic growth, and community engagement. We know you want the best for your student, and we’re here to help you understand the lifelong value and safety of Greek Life at UL Lafayette.

Many organizations also offer parent clubs, newsletters, and annual events to help families stay connected and involved. Explore how you can support your student’s Greek Life journey below.

Parent Orientation and Fraternity & Sorority Life Sessions

Learn more about how UL Lafayette supports your student’s success—on campus, in the classroom, and beyond. Visit the University’s Parent & Family Information page for helpful resources, key contacts, and ways to stay connected throughout your Ragin Cajun’s journey.

Explore Parent & Family Information

FAQs

Joining Fraternity and Sorority Life at UL Lafayette gives students the opportunity to build lifelong friendships, develop leadership skills, and connect with a supportive network of peers and alumni. National studies show that students involved in campus organizations are more engaged, perform better academically, and graduate at higher rates than their peers.

Fraternity and sorority members also gain practical experience in leadership, community service, event planning, and teamwork—skills that benefit them long after graduation.

Academic excellence is one of the core values of Fraternity and Sorority Life.

Each chapter provides tutoring, study sessions, mentorship programs, and academic accountability systems to help members achieve their goals.

On average, UL Lafayette fraternity and sorority members maintain a higher GPA and have a 45% higher four-year graduation rate than the overall student body.

Membership costs vary by organization, but UL Lafayette’s fraternity and sorority community is affordable and accessible for students. Dues typically cover chapter operations, national fees, social events, and philanthropy contributions.

Many students offset these costs through scholarships, financial aid, jobs, or payment plans. Parents are encouraged to ask chapters about specific financial expectations during recruitment or intake.

The University maintains a Zero Tolerance Hazing Policy.

Hazing is strictly prohibited by University policy and Louisiana state law. Fraternity and Sorority Life staff provide annual training, educational workshops, and ongoing support to ensure safe, healthy member experiences.

Learn more about the Zero Tolerance Hazing Policy

Student safety is our highest priority.

All events involving alcohol must comply with UL Lafayette’s Events with Alcohol Policy and go through the event approval process. Chapters receive guidance on risk management, bystander intervention, and responsible hosting.

Parents can be confident that the University maintains strong oversight of all registered chapter activities.

Review the Events with Alcohol Policy

Time commitments vary by chapter and leadership role.

New members typically attend weekly meetings, participate in service projects, and engage in social and academic activities. On average, members spend three to six hours per week on chapter activities—a manageable balance that enhances, rather than hinders, academic success.

Fraternity and sorority members take on leadership roles within their chapters, the Fraternity & Sorority Life councils, and throughout campus. They gain experience in event planning, budgeting, communication, and governance—skills that prepare them for professional and civic leadership.

Service and philanthropy are at the heart of Greek Life.

Each chapter supports local and national causes through volunteer projects, fundraising, and community partnerships. UL Lafayette’s fraternity and sorority members collectively contribute thousands of service hours and raise significant funds for charities such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the American Heart Association, and the Children’s Miracle Network.

Definitely!

Fraternities and sororities provide a vibrant social network where members make lifelong friends and memories. From Homecoming and Greek Week to intramural sports and parent weekends, Greek Life helps students build confidence, connections, and balance during their college years—all within a values-based, supportive environment.

Many organizations offer parent associations, newsletters, and family weekends to help you stay connected. You can also support your student by attending University events, volunteering during recruitment, or joining chapter-sponsored parent activities.

Contact the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life to learn more about family involvement opportunities.

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