Greek organizations to have more on-campus housing options

In a move that could set the stage for an increase in Greek involvement in on-campus housing, the Kappa Sigma fraternity has been granted housing in a section of Berry Hall, located across Highway 50.

James Vanbebber, a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, got the ball rolling.

"I was talking to Dean [of Campus Life and Student Development] Brian Nichols and we were talking about some issues at the Sam Rayburn Student Center, and the topic turned to why there was no campus housing for fraternities," Vanbebber said.

This initial conversation evolved into housing for the Kappa Sigmas, and opened the door for more Greek organizations to request housing in the future.

"I asked if Kappa Sigma and other Greeks such as Kappa Delta Chi [sorority] could be included in that, and he said we could," Vanbebber said.

The housing option for members of Kappa Sigma has struck a chord with members who either lived in other campus housing or have been looking for a better option.

"I personally like living at Berry better than New Pride," senior radio and television major Adam Sparks said.

"I previously lived in New Pride for two years, and it was good. However, at Berry I have a much bigger room and I am living with my brothers. I have my own room, but it is still cheaper than New Pride. I believe I am saving anywhere from $100.00 - $300.00."

Living with other fraternity members was a big factor in the on-campus housing move.

"I enjoy living with my brothers" freshman Justin Leho said. "It's nice being close to people I know and that have the same issues and interests as I do."

The housing option for Kappa Sigma costs the same as it would for any other student, but allows members of the fraternity to live in close proximity to each other. The only requirement for fraternity members to live in Berry Hall is that they must be active members of the fraternity and fulfill all the typical requirements to live in university housing.

"The group building is much better," Sparks said. "Plus, we have a place of our own. I have called it The Kappa Sigma Hall on Facebook. It is awesome having a place that we can call our own."

Kappa Sigma finding housing at Berry Hall opens the door to more options for both fraternities or sororities.

As housing and enrollment increase, so too do the options for people who wish to join a Greek organization and live close to their fellow members.