1. Campus Leadership: Creating Coalitions Presented by: Dr. Ed Whipple Vice President for Student Affairs, BGSU Dr. Kent L. Gardner Executive Director, National Order of Omega Chris Bullins Doctoral Graduate Assistant, BGSU
2. Session Outcomes Increase participants’ understanding of the necessity for effective partnerships between chapter leaders and institutional administrators Identify critical issues impacting fraternities, sororities, and host institutions Generate suggestions for enhancing collaborative partnerships between chapter leaders and administrators
3. “Our success has really always been based on partnerships from the very beginning.” - Bill Gates
4. Partnerships Between Chapters and Institutions What are essential components of successful partnerships? What are impediments to successful partnerships?
5. Partnership Expectations What should host institutions expect from fraternities and sororities? What should fraternities and sororities expect from host institutions?
6. Critical Issues What are some critical issues impacting institutions of higher education? What are some critical issues impacting fraternities and sororities?
7. Commonalities Among Critical Issues Student recruitment Student retention Scholastic achievement Alcohol abuse / misuse Illegal substance use Budgetary concerns Public relations Relationships with parents Safety and wellness Alumni involvement Diversity / Inclusion
8. Shared Goals Students are the lifeblood of institutions and chapters We all want students to succeed and to be safe Programs and services target scholarship, leadership, service, and community building We strive effective relationships with and engagement from multiple constituents (e.g., parents and alumni)
9. Win-Win Mentality Most of us learn to base our self-worth on comparisons and competition. We think about succeeding in terms of someone else failing--that is, if I win, you lose; or if you win, I lose. Life becomes a zero-sum game. Win-win sees life as a cooperative arena, not a competitive one. Win-win is a frame of mind and heart that constantly seeks mutual benefit in all human interactions. Win-win means agreements or solutions are mutually beneficial and satisfying. -Stephen Covey
10. Challenging Realities Fraternity and sorority members reportedly consume more alcohol than other students Greek affiliation is sometimes a barrier to academic success and student development Bonds of brotherhood/sisterhood can occasionally hinder openness to diversity and appreciation of individual differences
11. Enhancing Relationships Learn about the history of, goals for, and issues impacting your institution Meet regularly with your Greek advisor Be the first to communicate successes and issues to campus administrators Infuse campus programming opportunities instead of doing everything “in-house”
12. Enhancing Relationships Utilize (inter)national offices, consultants, and governing councils Hold regular chapter retreats and meetings that focus on establishing common goals Challenge new, active, and alumni members to see the “bigger” picture Shift your strategies to Win-Win opportunities