March 2, 1998
CONTACT: Shirley Hulett, (619) 594-2585
Great Photo Op:
SDSU Greeks ‘Bear’ Gifts of Education
Quick. When you think of fraternities or sororities, what image comes to mind? If you answer is beer and parties, you’re probably over 30.
Today, greek life includes community service projects.
Nearly 100 fraternity and sorority members have volunteered to tutor first through fifth graders at Hardy Elementary School, 5420 Montezuma Road, near the SDSU campus. Now in its eight year, the project aims at a one-to-one ratio.
Some two dozen tutors and students meet at Hardy on Tuesdays from noon to 1 p.m. and the remainder study together from 2:20 p.m. to 3:20 p.m. on Wednesdays
Liz Adams, the SDSU sorority member who recruits and organizes the college tutors, says the project offers personal benefits. "It’s really fun," she says. "I’m away at college and I don’t get to see my little brothers and sisters very often. This really fills a void in my life."
Mary Bastien, who has coordinated the project at Hardy Elementary for the past four years, says the educational effort has changed her perception of greeks.
"I’m so impressed with the young people of San Diego State," she says. "They’re really making an effort to give back to the community. And they’re doing all this without pay."
(end)
To arrange photography at Hardy Elementary, contact Mary Bastien at (619) 582-0136.