Oracle: The Research Journal of the Association of Fraternity Advisors
Vol. 4, Iss. 1, February 2009
LIVING IN YOUR LETTERS: ASSESSING CONGRUENCE BETWEEN ESPOUSED
AND ENACTED VALUES OF ONE FRATERNITY/SORORITY COMMUNITY
Heather Matthews, Leigh Featherstone, Lisa Bluder, Allison J. Gerling,
Sarah Loge, and Rachel B. Messenger
Fraternity and sorority members have long been charged with fulfilling the espoused
values of their organizations. Although several studies have explored the gap between the
actions and values of undergraduate fraternal members and their institutions, few have
examined the degree to which the publicly stated values of fraternal organizations are
enacted by members. Using qualitative methodology, researchers compared the creeds
and mission statements of undergraduate fraternal organizations to member actions
observed on the campus transit system. Results indicated that while there is some
congruence between organizational and institutional values and member actions, there
are also areas of disconnect for members related to their values.
In publicly accessible creeds and mission statements, the values of fraternities and sororities
align with university values (Bureau, 2007; Franklin Square Group, 2003; Wall, 2006).
However, some researchers have questioned the application of values within fraternities and
sororities (Kuh, Pascarella, & Weschler, 1996; Pike, 2000; Whipple & Sullivan, 1998), and
university administrators have noted a widening gap between the rhetoric of these organizations
and the realities of members’ behaviors (Franklin Square Group, 2003; Kuh, Pascarella, &
Weschler, 1996). Examining the consistency between actions and espoused values provides
professionals the knowledge base to create “a Greek community [that] can enhance student
learning and leadership, build strong ties between the institution and its future alumni, and
develop well-rounded students who value community and citizenship” (Franklin...