I agree with Brad that IFC and NPC shouldn't allow themselves to become the enforcement arm of the administration.
And we really shouldn't be limiting ourselves . . . in various ways.
The problem is: who runs the collegiate version of IFC and NPC?
Obviously they have their officers . . . that mostly change every couple years, and usually a vaguely worded consitution to guide them. But lets not forget the power of the advisors which are usually College Administrators.
If an administrator is there 5 years or longer, who has more of a long term affect on the organization? Him/her, or the officers that change yearly? Especially if she also does a lot of the leg work for the group, runs their training program, and sits in on meetings. So as Rudey was saying its often the administrator that is doing it and some times its easier for him/her working through the IFC/NPC because it keeps his hands clean: It looks like IFC/NPC are actually making the rule.
At least NPC has some controls . . doesn't each sorority have some type of alum delegate they are supposed to communicate with also?
ITs easier to influence these organizations because a lot of times, especially for IFC, its not looked upon as a very important position in chapter, so will often be staffed with a very junior member.
Also, its very hard for IFC officers to stand up to adiministrators. One problem is familiarity, the advosr is considered like an acquaintance or friend, which gives a lot of influence. Another is the perceived authority , we tend to be easier influenced by authority positions. And maybe most important is just experience, how many beginning IFC/NPC members will have enough leadership experience and personal authority to really evaluate what is going on in terms of what is most advantageous to the Greeks and then carry it through?
Brad is right when he implies that we sign some of our rights away.
The only thing I can think of to put a stop to this is build a pretty thorough educational program into our National leadership programs so that people will have a better idea of what the goals of IFC/NPC should be and how to accomplish them.
In fraternities at least, there is very little training involving IFC's, or strategies to make the whole Greek System better.
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