Greek life has been a major part of tradition at Auburn University for over 100 years. Sigma
Alpha Epsilon (SAE) started this tradition being the first fraternity on campus in 1878. Early
editions of the Glomerata show how these groups quickly became central to student life, creating
standards of what was popular in fashion or involvement, social life, and all the while forming
friendships.¹ The general creation of Greek organizations helped and continue to create a strong
sense of identity and belonging, which became a lasting Auburn tradition. Over time, these
groups grew exponentially in both number and influence, becoming one of the largest forms of
involvement at the university.
At first, fraternities were exclusive to white, wealthy men. Membership was selective and strictly
based on personal relationships, social status, and academic success. Early records and photos
from Auburn’s archives show that these groups reflected larger social hierarchies and
discriminations in the United States.² This meant that much of Auburn’s student body,
specifically women and people of color, were excluded from these kinds of organizations. Greek
life played a role in establishing who did and did not feel included in campus traditions.
Greek life changed as society did. Sororities joined campus life as more women attended college,
especially in the early 1900s. Sororities created a space for women to form friendships and
develop leadership skills. During events like World War I and World War II, when many men left
for service, gender roles shifted and women became even more important on campus.³ This shift
shows how Greek life adapted to historical contexts and changes in society while still
maintaining importance to Auburn.
The Civil Rights Movement marked another shift in Greek life. Across the country, even at
Auburn, students began to challenge segregation and discrimination against the African
American race. With these efforts, Greek organizations' limits to entry became less strict and
invited in students from different racial and economic backgrounds. Documents from Auburn’s
Interfraternity and Panhellenic Councils show efforts to increase diversity and inclusion,
although it did take time.⁴ Today, Greek life at Auburn is more diverse than it was in the past, yet
challenges still remain with inclusion.
Greek life has expanded its purpose beyond a social club. Through years of growth, fraternities
and sororities focus on community service, leadership, and philanthropy. Photos and reports from
recent years show the multitude of philanthropies fraternities and sororities support.⁵ Specific
organizations like Make-A-Wish, Habitat for Humanity, the Food Bank of East Alabama, etc.
This shift reflects a broader transformation in Greek life from exclusive social clubs to
organizations that focus on service.
Overall, tradition and transformation go hand in hand when looking into the history of Greek life
at Auburn. These organizations have shaped student life since early in Auburn’s founding, but
they have also changed with the becoming service-driven opposed to fully self-focused. From
social clubs benefiting themselves alone to changing local and greater communities, Greek life
continues to play a key role in Auburn’s campus culture. This exhibit connects to others by
showing how traditions at Auburn are not simply fixed or erased entirely, but they grow and
change over time
