From staff and wire reports
Michigan State University's fraternities and sororities have received a federal grant to combat high-risk drinking behaviors and consequences.
The $157,162 grant was one of 10 given to universities across the country by the U.S. Department of Education's Safe and Drug-Free Schools Program.
It will be used to pay for educational programs on responsible drinking, relationship violence, gender communications and sexual assault prevention.
It will also finance leadership development, a substance abuse expert speakers series, a media campaign to reinforce positive messages about Greek life and increased enforcement of current policies, including better monitoring of Greek social events.
''We have made important strides over the last year in educating our community about the dangers of alcohol abuse,'' said MSU Greek Life Coordinator Billy Molasso. ''This grant will enable us to do even more and help us focus on the founding values of the Greek letter organizations: leadership, service, scholarship and friendship.''
Michigan State students aren't the only Greek members seeking to educate others on the dangers of alcohol abuse; University Greeks are informing their members as well.
Bradley Holcman, president of the University of Michigan's Interfraternity Council, said that although the University did not apply for the federal grant, much is being done to educate University students about the dangers of alcohol.
"Our number one goal is to provide a safe place. If (alcohol abuse) is going to happen, we need to educate people on how to provide a safe environment," Holcman said.
The Panhellenic Association and the IFC have formed a task force to take a serious look at the way alcohol is provided and consumed in the Greek social scene, Holcman said.
Panhel, IFC and the University Health Services are sponsoring an Alcohol Awareness Week in November.
Also all new Greek students will attend a convention on Nov. 1 to become educated on the effects of alcohol and drug abuse, Holcman said.
-Daily staff reporter Melissa Andrzejak contributed to this report.
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