Giving back: the core value of the Greek community.

• Position: CARING PEOPLE

At the center of Greek life on campus is a value that High Point University strives to model to its students every day--that of service and giving back.

So it's suitable that as the university has grown-in academics, the number of people it employs, student population and the number of hours those students volunteer in the community-Greek life also has seen significant growth.

Two new Greek organizations came to the HPU campus this year with the additions of Tri Sigma and Kappa Sigma. The Greek women on campus also voted to add Alpha Chi Omega sorority to the line-up in spring 2012. That will bring the number of Greek organizations to seven fraternities and nine sororities.

The increase of Greek organizations is welcomed by a growing number of students embracing the Greek life. In 2007, 25 percent of HPU students were part of a Greek organization. In 2011, that number grew to 31 percent.

'The additions come with the overall growth of the university," says Gail Turtle, vice president of student life. "More students are looking to be involved-and Greek organizations offer an opportunity."

The involvement of a Greek organization is widespread. Not only does it bond other students with their fellow brothers/ sisters, but it provides leadership experiences that students can add to their resumes as well as opportunities to serve.

"It's not just social activities when it comes to Greek organizations," Turtle says. "These students represent a generation that loves to serve, and Greek organizations do a lot of that."

Each Greek organization has a specific philanthropy that it supports. From the Susan G. Komen Foundation to the Children's Miracle Network, those organizations hold fundraisers and volunteer their time and...