This year marks the 40th anniversary of Greek Life’s official recognition as student organizations at Texas A&M University. But the story of fraternities and sororities at A&M stretches back much further—into the changing landscape of the late 1960s, when the university experienced transformative shifts in its student body and campus culture.

In 1963, the Corps of Cadets membership became optional, and, for the first time, women were admitted to the university. These changes led to a more diverse and dynamic student population, and with that came new desires for community, leadership, and camaraderie.

Greek Life at Texas A&M began taking root during this period, driven by students seeking a sense of belonging beyond the traditional military structure of the Corps.

The first sororities were officially chartered in 1975, with the guidance of local alumnae from Greek organizations at other universities. Shortly after, fraternities followed suit. However, in those early years, Greek Life faced significant challenges.

There was resistance from both students and the university administration, and for the first decade, Greek organizations were not formally recognized by A&M. Without university support, these early Greek organizations held their meetings off-campus, recruited through word of mouth, and operated without official sanction from the administration.

Despite these challenges, the Greek community at A&M steadily grew, fueled by the determination and perseverance of its founding members.

In 1978, three sorority chapters received permits for what would become Sorority Row—a landmark moment for Greek Life at Texas A&M.

By the early 1980s, the Greek community had swelled to around 2,000 students, making up about 10% of the university’s student body. Their success, despite the resistance they faced, set the stage for the eventual recognition of Greek organizations by the university.

The momentum for official recognition continued to build through the 1980s. In 1985, the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), which represents historically Black fraternities and sororities, received recognition from the university.

This was followed by the recognition of the Interfraternity Council (IFC) in 1987 and the Collegiate Panhellenic Council (CPC) in 1991. Ann Goodman, the former Greek Life Director at Texas A&M, credits the hard work and resilience of the founding Greek members for the strong community that thrives today. “It’s a testament to the dedication of those early members that the Greek community is so strong today,” she said.

Though initially met with resistance, Greek Life at Texas A&M has grown into a vibrant and influential part of campus life, embodying the Aggie Spirit and the university’s Core Values.

In the 2023-2024 academic year alone, the four Greek councils and over 6,000 members raised over $1.36 million for various national and local philanthropies, showcasing their commitment to service, leadership, and community.
Beyond philanthropy, Greek Life continues to provide students with opportunities for personal growth, professional networking, and lasting friendships through a strong sense of brotherhood and sisterhood.
“It truly was the tradition that almost wasn’t because there were so many things that were going against them, “Goodman said. “And yet they embodied Core Values in action.”

As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Greek Life’s recognition as official student organizations at Texas A&M, we honor the students who persevered in the face of adversity and laid the foundation for the thriving community that exists today.

Their determination and vision continue to shape the legacy of Greek Life at Texas A&M, fostering a strong, service-oriented, and supportive network for generations of Aggies to come.