Gryphon Society
Gryphons
- Known as Resident Assistants at most other colleges and universities.
- Undergraduate and graduate students .
- Selected by the professional staff and their peers to live with the students and serve as an immediate source of support and assistance.
- Complementing and supplementing the process of formal education by enhancing the quality of life in the residence halls.
- Concerned with the growth and development of each individual in his/her building.
- Responsible for promoting an environment conducive to the individual rights and responsibilities of students.
- There are both Gryphon and Head Gryphon positions.
The History of the Gryphon Society
- Founded in 1957.
- Began with an application of 40 undergraduates to the Committee on Student Activities for recognition as another campus "living group." Its primary purpose was to provide social opportunities for its members.
- For many years, Gryphons served as counselors in only freshman residence halls.
- Initial Gryphon Society members were Lehigh students who exhibited qualities of leadership and academic scholarship.
- This group has evolved from 40 Gryphon for 750 freshmen to 100 Gryphons who live and serve in both first-year and upperclassmen residence halls that house over 2400 students.
- The position of a Gryphon has increased from primarily a counseling role to one that is far more encompassing.
- Today, the Gryphon can be described as an advocate, mentor, role model, policy enforcer, administrator, programmer, resource, and leader.
The origin of the term Gryphon
- The word "Gryphon" in Greek Mythology is a winged beast; half eagle and half lion.
- The Gryphon is the mythological beast said to have guarded the gold of ancient Scythia.
- The creature is defined as "a fabulous monster" and "a strict chaperon" it possesses the body and legs of a lion, the wings and beak of an eagle, and pricked ears.
- The name was proposed by the students who founded the Gryphon
Society in 1957.
