University of Maryland campus

The Lafayette Company has had the privilege of working closely with Greek organizations to advance their core values and missions, even in the face of challenging public narratives. 

We’ve led efforts to support countless fraternities and sororities with strategic public relations and crisis communications. Our clients have included ATO, Theta Chi, KA, and national organizations such as NIC and FSAF. Known for our personal, energetic, and agile approach, we focus on delivering real results that matter. 

In February 2024, the University of Maryland abruptly suspended all Greek Life following an anonymous report alleging hazing and alcohol abuse. Though the claims were later proven false, the damage was real. The university imposed sweeping restrictions,  including a no-contact order that even applied to siblings and roommates, and hired an outside law firm to conduct invasive investigations, denying students legal representation in the process.

The move drew national backlash. Civil liberties groups like FIRE called the actions unconstitutional, and students were left in limbo under what many saw as a prejudiced crackdown on Greek culture.

That’s when several organizations turned to us.

Working alongside legal counsel, we helped coordinate a high-stakes response, filing for a restraining order, and preparing for legal action. The university backed off within 24 hours. A year later, a judge dismissed the case after finding the school had ceased its unconstitutional practices.

We managed all media relations throughout the ordeal, placing stories in top-tier outlets and authoring op-eds, including in The Baltimore Sun. We hosted high-profile events, including a panel at the National Press Club, to shed light on the broader implications. As concerns continued to mount about the future of student civil liberties, we extolled the virtues of Greek life through op-eds, including in the Wall Street Journal. 

Most importantly, we helped elevate this issue from a campus controversy to a national conversation. Millions of Greek-affiliated students and alumni saw their experiences validated, their voices amplified, and their rights defended.

The fight isn’t over, but this case made one thing clear: Students have the right to associate freely, and when that right is threatened, we’re ready to respond.

If you’re looking for public relations assistance, don’t hesitate to contact me here: ellen@thelafayettecompany.com or visit thelafayettecompany.com.