A Student’s Death: Dartmouth and American Greek Life’s issues and benefits.

The recent death of a Dartmouth College student has brought the role of Greek life in American colleges into the spotlight once again. Fraternities and sororities, long celebrated for fostering camaraderie, leadership, and philanthropy, have also faced criticism for promoting a culture of excess, exclusivity, and, at times, danger. At Dartmouth, where Greek life has been deeply entrenched in campus culture for decades, this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that these organizations pose and the complexity of their legacy.

Greek life at its best offers students a sense of belonging—a “home away from home” during the often-turbulent college years. For many, these organizations provide emotional support, leadership opportunities, and networking connections that last a lifetime. Dartmouth’s fraternities and sororities are no exception, drawing in more than half of the eligible student population. The bonds formed within these houses often extend far beyond graduation, creating a robust network of alumni who are deeply invested in the success of their organizations. Beyond social connections, many Greek organizations champion philanthropic causes, organizing fundraisers and volunteering efforts that positively impact their communities.

Yet, the benefits of Greek life coexist with its darker side. Reports of hazing, binge drinking, and exclusivity have plagued fraternities and sororities nationwide. The recent death at Dartmouth underscores the risks inherent in environments where traditions like initiation rituals and high-stakes parties can foster dangerous behaviors. The insular nature of Greek organizations often exacerbates these issues, creating a sense of invincibility among members. Self-governing structures, coupled with a reluctance to welcome external oversight, make it difficult for universities to intervene effectively when problems arise.

Gender dynamics within Greek life further complicate its impact. Traditional fraternities and sororities often reinforce outdated gender norms, shaping social dynamics that can feel exclusionary or even unsafe. This is particularly evident at social events, where women are sometimes placed in vulnerable positions, raising concerns about consent and power imbalances. At Dartmouth and elsewhere, efforts have been made to reimagine Greek life to be more inclusive. Co-educational houses and organizations focused on gender equity have begun to emerge, signaling a potential cultural shift. However, change is slow, and many traditional organizations resist reform, holding tightly to their storied traditions.

Alumni influence adds another layer of complexity. The robust alumni networks associated with Greek organizations offer mentorship, job opportunities, and financial support, making these groups attractive to students. At the same time, this alumni power often poses a significant barrier to reform. At institutions like Dartmouth, where Greek traditions run deep, alumni opposition can stymie efforts to regulate or rethink the role of fraternities and sororities. Many alumni view these organizations as integral to their college experience and are reluctant to support changes that might diminish their legacy.

The death of a student should never be the catalyst for change, but too often, it serves as the tipping point. Dartmouth now finds itself at a crossroads, faced with mounting pressure to address systemic issues within its Greek system. Across the country, other universities have already begun to take action. Harvard and Williams College, for instance, have implemented measures to eliminate or heavily regulate Greek life, citing concerns about hazing, exclusivity, and substance abuse. These decisions reflect a growing belief that the risks associated with Greek organizations may outweigh their benefits.

Still, banning Greek life entirely may not be the solution. At Dartmouth and beyond, reform advocates argue for changes that increase transparency and accountability while preserving the positive aspects of these organizations. Enhanced oversight, such as requiring Greek houses to register events and adhere to strict alcohol policies, could help mitigate risky behavior. Mandatory anti-hazing training and mental health resources tailored to Greek life members could further address issues of peer pressure and substance abuse. Encouraging co-educational membership or promoting houses that prioritize inclusivity may also help dismantle the problematic dynamics that have historically defined many fraternities and sororities.

Despite its flaws, Greek life holds undeniable value for many students. It provides leadership opportunities, fosters a sense of community, and offers avenues for philanthropy and personal growth. At Dartmouth, countless students credit their Greek experience with shaping their identity and preparing them for professional success. These organizations often fill gaps in the college experience, offering opportunities to network, lead large-scale initiatives, and form meaningful relationships. In smaller college towns like Hanover, New Hampshire, fraternities and sororities often serve as vital social hubs, creating spaces for students to connect and engage.

The tragedy at Dartmouth is a moment of reckoning, not only for the college but also for Greek life as a whole. It forces a difficult but necessary question: Can Greek life evolve to meet the needs of a modern student body, or has its time passed? For Dartmouth, the challenge lies in finding a way to retain the aspects of Greek life that enrich students’ lives while addressing the systemic issues that have caused so much harm. This is not just Dartmouth’s challenge—it’s a national conversation. How universities navigate these tensions will shape not only the future of Greek life but also the broader landscape of American higher education.

The answers to these questions will not come easily, but they will be pivotal. They will determine whether Greek life remains a cornerstone of campus culture or becomes a relic of the past. For now, as the Dartmouth community grieves, the focus must turn to accountability, reform, and the hope of creating a safer and more inclusive college experience for all.