Hazing, alcohol abuse and destructive behavior are some of the risky aspects associated with the greek community. But NIU’s greek community is trying to learn how to manage these risks.

The annual greek lecture series begins this evening with an informational speech on the philosophy of risk management.

The annual event will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. tonight in the Carl Sandburg auditorium in the Holmes Student Center. Robert Manley of Manley, Burke and Fisher legal firm of Cincinnati, Ohio, will be speaking on aspects of risk management affecting the greek community such as hazing, alcohol use and abuse and property codes.

The greek chapters are required to have at least 50 percent of their members and their entire executive board present.

In years past, the lecture series has centered on topics such as philanthropy, membership and leadership. This year, the University Programming and Activities greek advisory council decided the topic of risk management was of more interest to the NIU greek community.

“Risk management is a term used to describe how to be responsible in risky situations,” said Chris Gorman, greek graduate assistant. “These are things that may affect a large portion of the NIU greek community.”

Gorman also said the university’s new task force on alcohol in the greek community prompted the committee to choose Manley for the lecture.

“Robert Manley has had experience working with fraternities in these situations,” Gorman said. “He has a great knowledge of the legal issues that can confront the greek community.”

Gorman said Manley has worked with greek communities for more than 20 years and also publishes the Fraternal Law Journal, a journal that discusses legal issues facing the greek community.

UP&A greek advisers said they expect a large turnout for the event. “We make it mandatory that 50 percent of every chapter attends the series,” Gorman said. “This year, since the topic is so relevant we are expecting a much larger turnout than in past years.”