Getting Involved
What is Vanderbilt’s Non-discrimination policy, and how does it apply to student organization membership?
Vanderbilt University’s non-discrimination policy is an “all comers” policy, under which all students are presumed to be eligible for membership in registered student organizations (“RSO”) and all members of RSOs in good standing are eligible to compete for leadership positions. The University has no role in selecting leaders of RSOs; that is for the members of each organization to decide for themselves. Therefore, students are permitted to join any RSO regardless of their gender identity and/or gender expression.
Does the University’s nondiscrimination policy permit single-sex fraternities and sororities?
Yes. The University’s policy explicitly incorporates and follows Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, which allows for single-sex social fraternities and sororities. However, We encourage you to check in with the specific fraternity or sorority you are interested in for exact information and individualized policy depending on the organization.
Does the University’s nondiscrimination policy permit single-sex registered student organizations other than fraternities and sororities?
As noted, the University’s policy incorporates and follows Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972. In addition to fraternities and sororities, Title IX provides for certain other single-sex groups. Title IX also permits singing groups to establish requirements based on vocal range or quality that may result in single-sex choruses, but such groups must permit all interested students to try out. Single-sex intramural sports teams are allowed pursuant to Title IX where selection for such teams is based upon competitive skill or where the activity involved is a contact sport.