Since reopening this fall, the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity has recruited 30 members within about two months.

Pi Kappa Phi started a chapter on NIU’s campus in 1958 and left in 1960 because of low membership. Since its return, the fraternity continues to attract potential members.

“At least one person shows up every week at our meetings to check us out,” Pi Kappa Phi president Steve Peters said.

By returning to NIU, fraternity members hope to make people aware of their national philanthropy – a fundraiser for underprivileged children both mentally and physically handicapped called “Push America,” Peters said.

Fraternity members also want to become fully recognized by the university by gaining their charter. After going through the Greek Life Standards Board recognition, Pi Kappa Phi was given an associate chapter status. An official charter would allow the fraternity to be recognized by both its national chapter and the university. To gain its charter, at least 50 members have to be recruited and they have to raise at least $2,000 for their philanthropy. The fraternity expects to have its charter by fall 2005, Peters said.

Pi Kappa Phi does not have a house but hopes to get one within a year, he said.

Pi Kappa Phi members said part of their success in recruiting members comes from offering different ideals.

“I’m a junior and never thought I would be in a fraternity, but Pi Kappa Phi is about being men of class and deconstructing the Greek stereotype,” Peters said.

For more information, call Steve Peters at 708-476-5057 or e-mail [email protected].