In recent years, the media and social science experts have reported a troubling trend: American men are facing some pretty big obstacles to health and happiness. The data are alarming: men are more likely to commit suicide, to drop out of school, to grapple with a lack of motivation.
But, something else is true, too: men’s fraternities are thriving. Demand for these organizations is on the rise, even as the number of male college students dwindles. It turns out that what men want is fairly simple: authentic, enduring relationships that last a lifetime.
The Lafayette Company is proud to serve many Greek organizations, including large trade associations representing fraternities and sororities. That’s why we’re passing along this fantastic piece from Wynn Smiley, chairman of the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) and CEO of Alpha Tau Omega, in the October 2025 issue of National Review, “In Praise of Fraternities.”
In it, Wynn argues that now, more than ever, universities and policymakers need to promote groups rather than stand in their way.
Here’s an excerpt:
“Fraternities know a few things about this crisis facing young men. With a history going back to the nation’s earliest colleges, fraternities have offered young men the personal and social moorings they need to thrive. Many teenagers seeking a place to call home on campus have found it in the fraternity house. About three-quarters of a million students belong to fraternities and sororities in the United States today, with alumni of the Greek system totaling approximately 9 million.
“A recent study conducted at Southeastern Conference schools confirmed that fraternities are particularly beneficial for first-generation college students or those from low-income backgrounds, helping them to achieve better ‘learning outcomes.’ The benefits of brotherhood are practical — if you need help moving, you know the guys to call — and emotional — if you are experiencing hardship, you know the guys to call. Men desperately need this network of reliable friends and mentors.
“Fraternities and other men’s organizations play an important role in encouraging their members to become good family men and teaching them the importance of civic-mindedness and charity. Two Gallup surveys, comparing alumni who did not go Greek with those who did, showed that fraternities and sororities helped their members thrive throughout their lives and become engaged community members.”
Read the full piece on National Review, here.