Final answer:
Fraternity officers in college organizations perform duties similar to political officeholders, ensuring policies and actions reflect the interests of their members.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fraternity officers who formulate policy and oversee the development of the fraternity as a whole play a pivotal role similar to officeholders in governmental institutions. These officers are responsible for representing the interests of their members (constituents), making decisions, and developing strategies for the fraternity's success. In particular, these leaders are akin to those within the Federal Reserve (commonly referred to as the Fed), who, though officially separated from political influence, interact with various political figures and are subject to external pressures.
Historical examples of fraternity leadership include the establishment of Black Greek letter organizations, such as those within the National Pan-Hellenic Council, which includes Howard University's Alpha Kappa Alpha. Such organizations have seen renowned members like Kamala Harris and Toni Morrison, showcasing their influence on society. The reference to Lawrence Ross's book The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities underscores the significant cultural and historical development of these institutions over time.