A pair of marketing seniors earned the titles of “Greek Man” and “Greek Woman” for 2001.
Jennifer Dirksen, former president of Sigma Kappa sorority, was awarded by the Panhellenic Council for her efforts in her organization. Paul Mitchell, former president of the Intrafraternity Council and member of Lambda Chi Alpha, was awarded by the council for his contributions.
“It is the most important thing that has ever happened to me,” Mitchell said. “It showed that hard work and dedication to the system that I belong to can be rewarding with an honor like this.”
Mitchell served as president of the council from December 1999 to December 2000. He enjoyed increases in recruiting and improved relationships with area police and university officials.
“I got to meet a lot of people in the greek system and show my ideas and show how I wanted to run this community for the better,” he said.
But Mitchell came under scrutiny early in his tenure when the council voted to reenact list parties at fraternities and sororities.
“We had to figure out how to make it work, so the community and university could understand why we (reinstated the old policy),” he said.
Mitchell came into the media spotlight thanks to those who disagreed with ending the eight-month ban on list parties.
“I took a lot of flack when that happened,” he said. “People didn't understand why we did. We reassured them that we could make it work. For the last year and half, it has worked very well.”
Dirksen, a four-year member, has held three executive positions with her sorority. She joined as a freshman, not knowing much about sororities. She said the recognition was an honor because it affirmed her commitment to the greek system.
“Being a senior now, and graduating in December, I realized that Sigma Kappa has made my college experience,” she said. “The leadership experience, through activities and things we can get involved in, really provide a good learning experience.
Dirksen has taken part in recruiting, sorority relations programs, assisting with charities and starting a “girls night out” with mothers, aunts and grandmothers.
Rachel Kuchar, a member of Zeta Tau Alpha and the vice president of internal relations for the Panhellenic Council, coordinated the awards process.
Kuchar said the awards showcase the ability of the greek community to make a positive impact on and off campus.
“Both Paul and Jen really demonstrate the positive ideals that all greeks try to achieve,” said Kuchar, a social relations junior.
