Friday, March 27, 1998

Latino fraternity gets IFC blessing

By CHERYL FRANKENFIELD
Collegian Staff Writer

The Interfraternity Council has recently approved a new fraternity chapter.

Members of Sigma Lambda Beta fraternity have been given probationary status for a year in which to uphold its own set standards and the standards of the IFC. Sigma Lambda Beta is the second Latino fraternity recognized by the IFC.

Diversity, leadership, brotherhood and community are the basis for the new fraternity, said Michael Benitez, president of Sigma Lambda Beta.

"I want others to learn about Latin culture and not look at us as different. I want a closer bond between cultures."

- Michael Benitez, Sigma Lambda Beta president

"I want others to learn about Latin culture and not look at us as different. I want a closer bond between cultures," said Benitez (junior-human and family development).

The members will be involved with the Sigma Lambda Beta Walk-a-Thon for Habitat for Humanity Sunday and a self-esteem workshop Wednesday, as well as a Latino Knowledge Bowl.

Sigma Lambda Beta wants to get involved with the Latino Caucus and the Undergraduate Student Government, said Julio Marrero, vice president.

"(The members) want to have an impact on many groups on campus," Marrero said.

The fraternity members are currently working on expanding membership for the future, Benitez said. The members will also become involved with the IFC and the community.

"We want to make sure (new) members have had community service experience," he added.

However, the members will not be recruiting freshmen because, Benitez said, freshmen are not ready to make a decision on whether to join a fraternity.

To become recognized by the IFC, the fraternity must meet certain requirements. Its constitution, recruitment policy, financial statement and philanthropy statement were reviewed by the IFC, said Andrea Gaspardino, director of Greek and Community Life.

"They had a thorough, wonderful proposal. They will add diversity from a cultural perspective," Gaspardino said. "I think their energy and enthusiasm will rub off onto the other members (of the IFC)."

Brad Nestico, IFC president, said Sigma Lambda Beta is in touch with its founding principles, which is one factor in a successful fraternity.

"I hope to see other fraternities embrace this chapter and learn from all that they have to offer," he said.