Attention Greek Life Organizations

We have become aware of some understandable confusion about the liability protection provided by The University of Maine through recognition by Student Government as it relates to fraternities and sororities. Fraternities and sororities can be recognized as such through the IFC and Panhellenic Council, however this does not mean they are recognized clubs or student organizations in the same way as other recognized student organizations of Student Government.

As part of longstanding policy, and as required by our constitution and our relationship agreement with the University of Maine, because these groups discriminate on the basis of sex and are separately incorporated as their own legal entities, the University of Maine does not generally protect fraternities and sororities from liability for their actions and events. This is why all fraternities and sororities are required to maintain their own insurance.

Student Government is able to fund the Inter Fraternity Council and the Panhellenic Council in their support of fraternities and sororities broadly, and we are able to partner with fraternities and sororities in hosting charitable events on campus, but we do not directly fund the day-to-day activities of individual fraternities and sororities, and in any event we co-sponsor, we need to make sure either their insurance, or purchased event insurance is in place as otherwise no liability protection is extended by UMSG or the University of Maine. This is generally set up by meeting with our attorney after any funding is allocated by the Senate. Questions should be directed to the Vice President of Student Organizations, the University of Maine advisor to Student Government, and/or the UMSG, Inc. attorney.