Conclusion
The letters of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity
Beginning with a long, rich history, the issue of hazing began and has remained a controversial issue that only becomes more divisive as communities realize that the practice is moot. Although some fraternities still cling to the old, violent means of the pledge process, other fraternities are adapting, changing their ways to both conform to the ideals of today’s society and respect the lives of new members. These adaptable fraternities are utilizing more sustainable pledge models that oppose the traditional ways. For example, the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity has a national program known as the Balanced Man Program that provides chapters with an alternative to hazing. This program focuses on compelling new members to better themselves and their local chapters by requiring them to perform certain actions that help themselves and their local chapters grow by fostering brotherhood through personal growth rather than the break down and reconstruction of one's identity through hazing (“Balanced Man Program”). This particular fraternity finds itself on the right side of the law in terms of hazing as the Greek system enters a new era as more schools are punishing fraternities for hazing. As more fraternities adopt programs similar in nature, the hazing epidemic will slowly subside and the line will gradually fade as it becomes less and less of an issue, resulting in a healthier, stronger Greek system in American Universities.