From the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood to community service, CAMPUSPEAK Partner David Stollman believes there is more to greek life than the stereotypical partying.
In his speech to the Ball State University greek community Thursday night, Stollman said the social aspect of fraternities and sororities is a benefit, not a purpose. Through humor and stories from his college experiences, Stollman spoke about the positive aspects of fraternities but also addressed the negatives, including stereotypes.
Stollman, who spoke at Pruis Hall, visits and speaks at about 60 college campuses per year.
"I hope to be able to remind them that we have high expectations and important values," Stollman said.
The program, titled "Buy In or Get Out," focused on fraternal values and standards.
"I'm not here to blow sunshine up your rears and make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside," Stollman said.
Stollman's blunt way of presenting is part of why he was asked to come to Ball State.
"I knew he wouldn't sugar-coat things," said Kyle Jean Fisher, vice president of Education and Programing for Panhellenic Council.
Stollman said greek values include bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, development of leadership, pursuit of academic excellence, service to communities and moral behavior. Many greek organizations on campus encouraged members to attend.
"I'm here because we were told by our fraternity that it would be informative and beneficial," freshman Bill McNiff of Sigma Nu, said.
Stollman addressed what he says fraternities and sororities should be, as opposed to many common stereotypes.
"The safest place on a college campus for any woman should be among fraternity men," Stollman said. "If yours isn't, you should take your letters off."
Stollman also discouraged hazing. He said anyone who associates hazing with brotherhood does not understand its true meaning.
He also focused on the differences between a friend and a brother or sister. He said the a friend says the things you want to hear and a brother or sister says the things you need to hear.
"Buy into what we are really about, or take the letters off and get the hell out!" Stollman said.
Stollman ended with a quote from Socrates, "The greatest way to live with honor in this world is to be what we pretend to be."
Fisher helped organize the event and said there was a lot of fundraising involved.
Stollman speaks highly of his experiences with the Ball State greek community.
"I've really been impressed," Stollman said. "They aren't the stereotype. They're so much better than that. It's a good greek community."
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