THE FACTS: The Kappa Alpha Order, Alpha Omega Chapter is returning to N.C. State after disbanding five years ago due to poor conduct, academics and leadership.

OUR OPINION: If Kappa Alpha leaders wish to restore their organization’s reputation, they must focus on real service and set a strong example for the rest of Greek Life to follow.

After five years, the Kappa Alpha Order, Alpha Omega Chapter is on its way to returning to the University.

Considering Kappa Alpha was disbanded due to academic problems, weak leadership and allegations of general misconduct, the leaders of the new chapter of Kappa Alpha should take a careful look at the goals of their organization and make a strong effort to promote good conduct, academics and philanthropy.

Kappa Alpha leaders should also endeavor to become an example for any Greek organization facing current or potential problems regarding poor conduct, grades and service efforts.

Thus far, leaders of the new Kappa Alpha have said the right things and promoted the right ideas: looking to find quality members who value academics, excellent conduct and in general are “Southern gentlemen.”

This is an admirable goal, but chapter leaders should look at Kappa Alpha’s return to N.C. State as if the organization was starting a brand new chapter at the University. No tradition is too timeless, and no goal is too important – anything that may contribute to detrimental conduct or detract from the service efforts of the organization should be cast aside. If Kappa Alpha truly wishes to redeem its reputation at this University, then they should focus on working closely with the community with real service instead of attempting to gild a wild party as a philanthropic fundraiser.

In general, fraternities and sororities should evaluate their standards of service and philanthropy – holding a party, calling it a mixer and donating the proceeds to charity is good, but going out and doing actual community service has merit in and of itself. For the Greek organizations already doing so, continue the good work and keep supporting the community. For the Greek organizations who preach service, yet tend to hold more fundraisers and do less to go out and work in the community, re-evaluate your organization’s goals and the plans to meet them.

Actions speak louder than words, and if Kappa Alpha and other Greek organizations wish to change their image on campus, their actions should be the first order of business.