Article misrepresented Pi Kappa Phi’s new colony

TO THE EDITOR:

Brian Austin’s article, “Greeks, UNC at new crossroads,” (Sept. 24), misrepresented the situation and men of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity.

As a re-founding father of Pi Kappa Phi, I question The Daily Tar Heel’s reckless disregard for the truth of the situation while continually marginalizing the Greek community.

Although the fraternity’s charter was taken in 2005, it was removed by the national organization and had little to do with the University.

As a result, Pi Kappa Phi did not operate for four years. Then, last spring, because of the chapter’s historical significance, the national organization decided to establish a colony.

It is vital to understand that this group is not the group of the past, and in an optimistic light, things can change.

These men have worked tirelessly to rebuild a once proud heritage by following all procedures necessary for re-chartering, and all University rules by the letter.

This group of men is active on campus with countless organizations and volunteer relationships. They are planning the “Heels 4 Hope” 5k on Halloween, and even had a brother cycle from San Francisco to Washington D.C. to help people with disabilities by raising awareness and funds for the philanthropy owned and operated by the fraternity, Push America.

Divergent to implication, this fall Pi Kappa Phi secured a very competitive recruiting class.

Finally, I ask, why not frame this dialogue with optimism? Instead of focusing on the negativity of the past, why not focus on the positives of the present?

If the Greek community is to respond to the call, we cannot denounce those who already do their part. The purpose of this response is simply to correct the manner in which the organization was used in the article.

If other Greek organizations feel misrepresented, I hope they will respond in a similar manner.


Cody M. Poplin
Member, Pi Kappa Phi