Pinks, reds, blues and yellows. A sea of colors and greek lettering. The front of
West Hall’s lawn was packed with everyone from greeks to freshmen. Even the tiger mascot was in attendance.
Greek Fest is an annual event hosted by the Greek councils here at The University
of Memphis. Each fall, U of M students look forward to the colorful campus event held during the first week of school.
“Oh yes, definitely,” said Pi Kappa Phi member, Ronnie Fittes, when asked if he was looking forward to this year’s fest.
Greek Fest allows those in attendance the opportunity to experience the bond between the 24 greek organizations.
“It lets them see everyone working together,” said Danni Holdern, a Delta Gamma sorority member, about the non-greek students participating.
“I saw how they interacted with one another,” a sister of Alpha Gamma Delta said of her previous experience.
Randy Carothers, a member of Phi Beta Sigma, said the event definitely influenced
his choice to become involved in Greek life.
“It helped make my decision a lot easier,” Carothers said of last year’s event. “There was a lot of brother and sisterhood, a lot of unity. And the food was good. Everybody should experience Greek Fest.”
Although it serves as an introduction to greek life, Greek Fest is not just intended
for those interested in rushing. It is open to all students.
“I’m just here for the festivities,” said freshman Lynn Jenings.
“At first I was just thinking about the food,” said sophomore Samantha McWhite. “But it Freshman Kinsey Betts said that another benefit of the event is to help break down stereotypes and generalizations of the greek system by providing students with a closer look into each organization.
“It helped ease stereotypes because everybody’s friendly,” Betts said.
“It breaks stereotypes and brings unity,” said Darcy Richards, a recruitment counselor.
With toga-clad students participating in the varied games and activities, it leaves everyone anticipating the next.
“I’m really looking forward to next year’s,” said U of M sophomore Ashley Koon.
