Episode 12: Is There Really Diversity of Leadership in Fraternities & Sororities?
May 2024
The conversation explores the theme of leadership in the context of Greek life, touching on topics such as promoting inclusivity across diverse councils, debunking common misconceptions about fraternity and sorority membership, and contributing to the larger university community. The presidents discuss their experiences and strategies for navigating cultural differences within their organizations, actively working against stereotypes, and the personal growth they’ve garnered through their positions.
Episode Competencies (coming soon!)
Episode Resources
Reflection Questions:
- What were your preconceived notions about fraternity and sorority life before listening to this podcast, and how have they changed after hearing from the council presidents?
- Which leadership strategies discussed by the council presidents resonated with you the most, and how can you apply these strategies to your own leadership roles or team environments?
- The presidents spoke about the importance of inclusivity within their councils. Reflect on your own experiences in various groups. How do you or could you contribute to creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment?
- Considering the balance between academic obligations and leadership roles discussed in the podcast, how do you currently manage or plan to manage your time and priorities to ensure success in both areas?
- The council presidents shared how their experiences in Greek life have contributed to their personal development. Reflect on a community or organization you are a part of—how has it contributed to your personal growth and development as a leader?
- Are there myths or stereotypes you hold about other groups or communities that might mirror those mentioned by the council presidents and how might you address or reassess these beliefs?
- What new insights did you gain about the different councils (IFC, MGC, NPHC, Panhel) and their unique challenges and contributions to the University of Michigan?
Speaker Bio
Mattew Barrie
2024 President of the Interfraternity Council
Matthew Barrie serves as the 2024 President of the Interfraternity Council (IFC). Matthew is a junior studying Computer Science. Matthew is a member of Theta Xi Fraternity and joined in Winter 2022.
Axel Mar-Pulido
2023-2024 President of the Multicultural Greek Council
Axel Mar-Pulido serves as the 2023-2024 President of the Multicultural Greek Council (MGC). Axel is a junior studying Architecture. Axel is a member of Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity, Inc. and joined in Winter 2023
Tylan Porterfield
2023-2024 President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council
Tylan Porterfield serves as the 2023-2024 President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Tylan is a graduating senior studying Business Administration. Tylan is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and joined in Fall 2023.
Victoria Nigoghosian
2024 President of the Panhellenic Association
Victoria Nigoghosian serves as the 2024 President of the Panhellenic Association (Panhel). Victoria is a junior studying Business Administration. Victoria is a member of Kappa Delta Sorority and joined in Winter 2022
Travis L. Martin, Ph.D.
Associate Dean of Students and Director of Fraternity & Sorority Life.
Travis Martin serves as Associate Dean of Students and Director of Fraternity & Sorority Life. Travis is a staff member in Student Life at the University of Michigan. Travis is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and joined in Spring 2003 at Mississippi Valley State University.
