Greek Advancement Program
The Greek Advancement Program (GAP) at the University of Cincinnati serves as a framework for chapters to recognize and address the needs of members, to highlight the work of chapters to improve the fraternal experience, and to identify opportunities for collaboration across the community. GAP relies on authentic reflections about the current state of our chapters and member experiences paired with strategic efforts to improve the cultures in our organizations. GAP is not a “one size fits all” approach and allows chapters to focus on their unique needs and experiences. GAP supports a culture of improvement which helps the entire FSL community to grow.
The focus areas of GAP reflect the strategic priorities of Fraternity and Sorority Life. Within each focus area, chapters develop strategic goals based on the current state of their organization, attend programming related to their goals, and reflect on their progress. Success in GAP is measured not only through meeting deadlines and attendance minimums, but importantly by the improvements made within the organization.
The Fraternity and Sorority Life Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee) will meet with chapters on a rotating basis. The purpose of these meetings is to discuss the points of pride for the chapters and develop an understanding of best practices within the community, provide feedback on areas of additional growth for the chapter, create support plans for chapters failing to meet minimum standards. Chapters on support plans will meet with the Advisory Committee annually until they have achieved minimum standards for 4 consecutive semesters.
Focus Areas
Fraternity and sorority members are students first and all organizations maintain scholarship as a foundational value. Chapters should foster a culture which prioritizes academics and supports the academic achievement of its members.
Minimum Standard: The chapter should maintain a semester GPA at or above the all-undergraduate average.
80% of chapter membership (including new members) must attend at least 1 program related to the academic goal of the chapter. The chapter should make their goal related to one of the following areas, unless otherwise approved by their Chapter Liaison.
Fraternities and sororities have a unique capacity to serve the communities to which they belong. Chapters should develop reciprocal partnerships with one or more community organization(s) and develop a culture of engagement to create positive social change.
Minimum Standard: Chapter members should complete 10 hours of community service each semester.
The chapter should complete at least 1 community service or advocacy-based program each semester.
Fraternities and sororities must maintain strong internal operations in order to support their strategic goals and the development of their members. Chapters should utilize university and council resources and maintain strong relationships through transparency and timely record keeping.
Minimum Standard: The chapter should maintain good standing with their council and the university. The chapter should submit the following paperwork and dues payments by designated deadlines.
Council Dues
Membership Intake/New Member Paperwork
Roster
The chapter should have representatives at the following meetings:
Council Meetings
Liaison Meeting
Presidents Cabinet
The health and safety of members and guests is the foundational priority of fraternities and sororities. Chapters should continuously work to create healthy environments that foster the individual well-being of their members and guests.
Minimum Standard: 80% of chapter membership (including new members) must attend at least 1 program related to the health and safety goal of the chapter. The chapter should make their goal related to one of the following areas, unless otherwise approved by their Chapter Liaison.
Alcohol or Other Drugs
Bystander Intervention
Hazing Prevention
Mental Health
Sexual Misconduct
Fraternities and sororities were founded to create a space of belonging for students which fosters the sharing of ideas across differences. Chapters should strive to create an environment where members can explore their personal identities, find belonging as their authentic selves, and seek to understand the experiences and viewpoints of others.
Minimum Standard: 80% of chapter membership (including new members) must attend at least 1 program related to the identity and inclusion goal of the chapter. The chapter should make their goal related to one of the following areas, unless otherwise approved by their Chapter Liaison.
Ability Status
Ethnicity
Gender/Gender Identity/Gender Expression
Immigration Status
Race
Religion
Sexuality
Social Class
Veteran Status
The undergraduate experiences of fraternity and sorority members should help to develop skills that members use throughout their lifetime. Whether in personal, professional, or volunteer capacities, these skills allow fraternity and sorority members to create a positive impact in any community. Chapters should create an environment where members can learn and practice these skills.
Minimum Standard: 80% of chapter membership (including new members) must attend at least 1 program related to the Leadership and Career Development goal of the chapter. The chapter should make their goal related to one of the following areas, unless otherwise approved by their Chapter Liaison.
Alumni Engagement
Career Development
Leadership Development