Going Greek is much more than social activities; its about academic achievements, community outreach, leadership opportunities and lifelong friendships, say students at West Virginia University.

And it will be all Greek to WVU students when the third annualMeet the Greeksevent kicks off at 5 p.m. Wednesday (Sept. 12) on the Mountainlair plaza.

The two-hour event showcases WVU s 14 fraternities, eight sororities and five black Greek organizations. Each group will have a booth with information, awards and other accomplishments.

Its a perfect opportunity for students to learn more about WVU s Greek system in an informal environment with no commitments to any organization,said Ashley Staggers, student program adviser for Student Organization Services.

It also spotlights the diversity of the groups, said Matt Modansky, Interfraternity Council president.

Potential members have the opportunity to see which organization is the best fit for them,he said.

Currently, about 1,450 WVU students are involved in the Greek system. That number is expected to increase to 1,600-1,700 as sororities and fraternities recruit members this fall. WVU s newest Greek organization is Lambda Theta Alpha, a Latin sorority.

The focus of this yearsMeet the Greeksevent will be the importance of Greek students as campus leaders.

Many students who are members of the Greek community also have leadership positions in campus organizations,Staggers said.Being part of the Greek system is a good stepping stone for those students who want to get more involved on campus.

Special guests include Ron Justice, director of Student Organization Services, and Jason Parsons, Student Government Association (SGA) vice president and fundraising chair of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Parsons2007 SGA election platform included promoting Greek unity and philanthropy.

WVAQ 101 .9 FM will broadcast live fromMeet the Greeks,and food and beverages will be provided.