Some members of TCU’s fastest growing student population has turned to the Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) to help build community.

The seven fraternities and sororities that make-up the council are grounded in culture traditions that bring students together. While some still chose to go through the Pan-Hellenic and Interfraternity council, others are turning to the Multicultural Greek Council.

TCU’s student body is 65% white, compared to about 19% Hispanic or Latino and less than 3% Asian. For the seven organizations, a common goal is to connect with students who are new and seeking a sense of belonging.

The community these organizations are building go far beyond TCU’s campus and remain after students receive their diploma, so much so that alumni are willing give back to support cost and fees of potential new members when needed.

“From school to work to career, so many of us are available for any advice the undergrads need,” Cristian ArguetaSoto, a Lambda Theta Phi alumna, said. “It’s nice that us alumni now with our own careers are able to financially support whether that is donations, supporting fundraisers or financially supporting undergrads, we have a DFW alumni chapter that remains available for any possible needs.”

MGC represents seven organizations: Chi Upsilon Sigma, Kappa Delta Chi, Kappa Lambda Delta, Lambda Theta Alpha, Lambda Theta Phi, Omega Delta Phi and Sigma Lambda Alpha.

These organizations are dedicated, but not limited to Hispanic and Asian American culture, creating a space for students to build connections and relationships with peers. Each group hosts events, engages in philanthropy, has a big/little mentorship system and organizes nightlife activities, continuing to foster community across all aspects of college life.

“When I reflect on my journey, I see how much I’ve grown since my freshman year,” Nayeli Santamari, a member of Sigma Lambda Alpha, said. “MGC has allowed me to connect with students from diverse organizations who share similar dreams and challenges. These connections are powerful because of the unity cultivated. We come together year after year to inspire each other to grow—whether academically, culturally or personally. From boosting academic achievements to fostering cultural awareness, expanding networks and enjoying life as a community, we work together to build each other up.”

Each semester the council hosts “Meet the Greeks,” a week where all organizations are introduced, and individual rush weeks take place afterward. Events are open to any student interested, it gives them a chance to talk to each organization and move forward with the one where they feel most at home.

“The whole rush process pushed me out of my comfort zone, and it’s been amazing to be surrounded by other women who genuinely care about my growth and who are also juggling similar struggles,” Mia Rivera, a member of Kappa Delta Chi, said. “This sisterhood is so kind and gentle, it holds a special place in my heart.”

Organizations announce new pledge classes every semester and host new member presentations, also known as probates, or they release the line on social media. At these presentations the newest members present their org’s history, reveal who they are, and is usually followed by stroll, stepping or saluting. This celebrates the new members and is where they share with friends and family all that they have been learning and working on while in the process of becoming a member. One of the common themes among the seven organizations is how private their potential new members are kept; a majority of probates include the new members masked and their face hidden for the beginning of the presentation.

No matter if a student joins as a first year or a senior fall semester, the relationships built and the connections made go beyond TCU’s campus.

“The connections and relationships I have made within CUS and MGC are truly invaluable,” said Brianna Sanchez, a senior fashion merchandising major and president of Chi Upsilon Sigma, who crossed Spring ‘22 as a first year. “These organizations create a sense of belonging and provide a network of support that goes beyond just the college experience. I’d encourage everyone to look to MGC organizations as the connections you make aren’t just about now, but for creating a foundation of support and encouragement for years to come.”