It’s A Rush For Greeks, Even With Dry Policies

The rush to “dry” Greek Rows on the campuses of the University of Idaho and Washington State University began Friday and will continue through this week.

And, contrary to predictions by some students last spring that new alcohol bans would result in fewer fraternity and sorority pledges, early figures show recruitment has not suffered.

“I think it’s great. Finally the focus will be on what we’re all about,” said Amy Czarniecki, a University of Idaho sorority member and chairwoman of this year’s rush committee.

Students at both schools last year adopted policies that all but ban alcohol at fraternity houses. Only students ages 21 and older will be allowed to consume alcohol in their rooms. Sororities at both the University of Idaho and Washington State University have been dry for several years.

“The sororities and fraternities really hashed it out last spring,” Czarniecki said, describing debate over a national trend to bring activities on Greek Row into line with local and state alcohol consumption laws.

Registration numbers for sororities on both campuses are reported to be up from last year. The University of Idaho said 269 students registered, as compared to an average of 220. Washington State University sorority figures show an increase from last year’s 427 to 442 this year.

University of Idaho registration figures for fraternities are slightly higher, with Washington State University showing a slight decline. A total of 290 men have registered to pledge at fraternities at the University of Idaho, compared to 285 last year. Washington State University recruitment has dropped from 320 last year to 310 this year.

“I don’t think (lack of) alcohol accounted for the drop,” said Daniel J. O’Connor, coordinator of fraternity affairs at WSU. Students warned that dry houses will simply mean the parties move elsewhere.

“It’s almost a nonissue now, because it’s been such a small part of the Greek experience,” Czarniecki said of the drinking.