A Conclave audience of nearly 1,000 listened intently to Caitlin Flanagan, investigative journalist for The Atlantic, as she discussed the relevance of fraternities today with the University of Virginia’s associate vice president and dean of students, Allen Groves. Flanagan’s 2014 article, “The Dark Power of Fraternities,” brought attention to flaws she sees in today’s Greek system. The provocative conversation, moderated by SigEp CEO Brian Warren, Virginia ’04, served as the opening session of SigEp’s 54th Conclave.

“Fraternities are at a historic crossroads,” said Flanagan. “There is a need for them to evolve.” This was presented not just as a warning, but as an opportunity for change. Many in attendance, including Flanagan and Groves, believed there were many opportunities for SigEp to lead.

Flanagan and Groves also took questions from the audience during the open dialogue about fraternities. The outstanding amount of good performed by Greek organizations was recognized throughout the discussion. However, it was acknowledged that the poor behavior of individual members and chapters can easily cast a dark shadow over the entire system, making it hard to reconcile stories of “frat boy” behavior with the honorable goals expressed by fraternities.

Watch the full session:

After a thought-provoking discussion with Flanagan and Groves, brothers joined representatives from SigEp’s National Board of Directors for a panel discussion on why the need for SigEp is greater than ever. Undergraduates and volunteers discussed how SigEp, a pioneer of significant improvements to the modern Greek system, could continue to lead in communities of higher education at a time when more people are challenging the importance of fraternity life. Proposed solutions included the prospect of dry housing and the end of pledge programs. Although the Board agreed that fraternities were at a pivotal time in their histories, they shared a firm belief that SigEp was taking the right measures to ensure continued success and partnership with higher education.

A common theme throughout the session was the importance of undergraduate brothers taking leadership in their chapters on controversial issues. “Hold your peers accountable,” advised National Director Thomas Jelke, Florida International ’90, “because it is hard for 17- to 25-year-old males to change male groupthink.” Grand Treasurer Christopher Bittman, Colorado ’85, added to this sentiment, saying, “SigEp needs heroes, champions and leaders. One guy can make a huge difference—you have to make that difference.” These words and the conversations they sparked carried forward throughout the Conclave as chapter delegates made important decisions about SigEp’s future.

Watch the full session: