Increasing the visibility of blacks on the NIU campus this semester is a primary goal for the Black Greek Council.

In the past, blacks did not always feel they were a part of the NIU campus, BGC President Alfred Tatum said.

To reach his goal, Tatum said the BGC is encouraging members to become more involved on campus and in the community.

“The organization will try to become more politically dynamic,” Tatum said.

Tatum also is encouraging members to join different organizations, such as the student senate and the NAACP, he said.

The BGC is planning to install a tutorial program later this semester as well, Tatum said.

The community should be aware the fraternities and sororities are involved in community service as well as academics, said Rick Clark, associate director of University Programing and Activities.

“They’re not just partying and having a good time,” Clark said.

The BGC consists of four fraternities, four sororities and two associate fraternity members, including a co-ed hispanic fraternity, Clark said.

Clark also said the BGC and the Interfraternity Council need to inform each other of events and provide support when the occasion arises.

Black fraternities and sororities conduct rush independently from one another, Tatum said.