Molloy University will introduce fraternity and sorority life for the first time in its 70-year history beginning in the 2026–27 academic year, university officials announced, marking a significant expansion of campus life and student engagement opportunities.
The initiative, led by the Division of Student Affairs, will bring two Greek-letter organizations to campus in its inaugural phase: Theta Phi Alpha sorority and Phi Kappa Theta fraternity. Administrators say the addition reflects a broader effort to strengthen student involvement, leadership development and community at the Rockville Centre campus.
The move follows several years of growing student interest, particularly in the period after the COVID-19 pandemic. University officials began receiving consistent inquiries about Greek life from both prospective and current students, with some students reportedly choosing not to enroll because it was not offered.
In response, Molloy began formally exploring the possibility about three years ago, working with national Greek life governing organizations to assess feasibility and institutional fit.
“We are excited to bring fraternity and sorority life to Molloy as a meaningful way to deepen student connection and engagement, leadership development and community building on campus,” said Janine Biscari, vice president for student affairs.
As part of the selection process, the university evaluated potential partner organizations based on mission alignment and campus compatibility. Administrators developed a detailed institutional profile — including Molloy’s Catholic identity, student demographics and relatively small residential population of about 350 on-campus students — to identify organizations that would align with its values.
“We wanted to make sure that these were organizations that aligned very closely with who we are at Molloy and the values we believe in — service to our community, leadership development and becoming positive contributors to society after graduation,” Biscari said. “We felt that these organizations really mirrored that.”
The rollout of Greek life will begin this summer, with both organizations participating in New Student Orientation events, including Lions Fest, where incoming students can meet representatives and learn more. Virtual information sessions also will be offered for upperclassmen and other interested students ahead of a formal recruitment process in the fall semester.
University leaders say the introduction of Greek life is intended to foster a stronger sense of belonging among students, offering additional pathways for connection and involvement on campus. The initiative has received broad institutional support, including from the university’s president and board of trustees.
“My hope really is that more students find more reason to belong at Molloy,” Biscari said. “A sense of belonging is so important now more than ever, as students look for comfort and connection on the campuses they choose. I think adding Greek life will be another layer of offering students an opportunity to find a place where they belong.”
Founded in 1955 by the Dominican Sisters of Amityville, Molloy University serves approximately 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students and has not previously had a formal fraternity or sorority presence. Officials described the launch as part of a long-term vision to build a more vibrant and inclusive campus culture, with the possibility of adding additional organizations in the coming years.
