In addition to events sponsored by chapters and/or Councils, the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life also hosts programs, workshops, trainings and other ways to get involved and develop as a leader.
Fraternity and Sorority Life Awards
Each year, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life hosts an awards ceremony to recognize the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations within the affiliated community.
Award recipients are selected through an application/nomination and review process. Visit the FSL Awards page for more information on criteria and how to submit.
Crest Collective
Through a nomination process, each year a small cohort of graduating students who are members in good standing of an FSL organization are invited to join the Crest Collective.
The verb "crest" means to reach the highest point; just as a wave will have a high point (the crest) as it flows on, we know our seniors have reached new heights while here at USD and will carry that momentum into their post-graduate experiences.
The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life dedicated a monthly meeting space for all fraternity and sorority presidents, called the Presidents’ Forum, to come together in leadership, collaboration, and growth.
President Forum covers:
- Leadership Development – Supporting presidents in strengthening their leadership skills to better serve their chapter and community.
- Chapter Operations – Discuss best practices, resources, and updates to enhance chapter success.
- Community Connection – Engage with fellow peers, share challenges, and celebrate wins across councils.
- Office & University Updates – Stay informed on policies, initiatives, and opportunities impacting your organization.
Once a year, the Fraternity & Sorority Life Office invites chapter and Council executive boards to a leadership conference known as Officer Training Academy or OTA. The program creates space for individual members to learn more about their leadership styles, roles, and how to serve their community.
The Fraternity and Sorority Life Standards Board (FSLSB) serves as the conduct process for the fraternity and sorority community at USD. Overseen by OFSL staff, FSLSB supports chapter interviews and investigations, following a peer-led approach with guidance from FSL staff and Office of Ethical Conduct and Restorative Practices. Each chapter must have two trained representatives, with training provided in the fall semester in partnership with the Office of Ethical Conduct and Restorative Practices.
Three governing councils serve as a voice and provide support to their corresponding chapters. These leaders are responsible for making difficult decisions, finding solutions, and advancing the fraternity and sorority community. The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life (OFSL) staff supports the councils by offering group and one-on-one advising to support these elected student leaders.
To support our chapters directly, our staff meets with chapter leadership or any community members to provide advice and guidance. We expect to meet with each chapter president at least once a month to check in on chapter operations, challenges, and successes.