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The True Gentleman New Member ProgramNew Member Guide

New Member Guide revised: 09-01-2012

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THE TRUE GENTLEMAN

"The True Gentleman is the man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an acute sense of propriety, and whose self control is equal to all emergencies; who does not make the poor man conscious of his poverty, the obscure man of his obscurity, or any man of his inferiority or deformity; who is himself humbled if necessity compels him to humble another; who does not flatter wealth, cringe before power, or boast of his own possessions or achievements; who speaks with frankness but always with sincerity and sympathy; whose deed follows his word; who thinks of the rights and feelings of others rather than his own; and who appears well in any company, a man with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe." - John Walter Wayland. Virginia, 1899

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PLEDGESHIP: ONLY A BEGINNINGWhen the new brother takes his place in the chapter he should have a pretty good idea of what the fraternity is all about. He should be able to effectively explain the role of Sigma Alpha Epsilon in the collegiate experience, i.e. the development of the individual toward becoming a solid citizen on campus and after graduation.

The new initiate is on the threshold of knowing where he is going in life. His experiences as an active member will continue to shape his philosophy and patter of behavior. He will have the opportunity to observe the best and the worst; he will establish an identity and develop a personality.

He must learn how to associate and cooperate; skills that cannot be learned in a classroom. If he has good models, skills can be learned quickly and effectively.

Fraternity is living and working and enjoying life with friends. These experiences will be invaluable to the individual in his dealings with people throughout his life. How can one conform to fraternity life and at the same time maintain his individuality?

In Sigma Alpha Epsilon, the individual learns to cooperate. He struggles, he wrestles, he debates, he is constantly frustrated by attitudes he perceives in others. He compromises, he shares, he loves, he is constantly awed by the generosity shown by others.

In a fraternity one can learn how other people’s minds work! This experience gives a man the skills, wisdom and perception to deal with people, an asset which will be tested often by the awesome challenges of the future.

Above all, the man’s integrity should stand tall, and his morals and values never compromised.

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MEETING #1: Guide for New MembersThe True Gentleman is the man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an acute sense of propriety, and whose self-control is equal to all emergencies…

2 hours►Welcome from Pledge Educator►Welcome from Eminent Archon & Chapter Adviser►Icebreaker►General Overview of the Pledge Program►Expectations of the Chapter for New Members►Expectations from New Members►Review of Pledge Oath►Code of Conduct►Scope of Association/sae.net account/Online Certification/Online Component►Activity: The Phoenix►Organizational Structure of the Fraternity►Activity: Minerva’s Shield – Risk-Management Policies►We Stand Together►Activity: Minerva’s Shield – Real Life Examples►Case Study: Chapter Social Event►Big Brother Program►Pledge Class Committees►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order

MEETING #2: Our Heritage and Symbolism Who does not make the poor man conscience of his poverty, the obscure man of his obscurity, or any man of his inferiority or deformity…

1 hour

►Welcome►Icebreaker►Meeting #1 Review►Review of Homework Assignments►Songs of SAE►Pledge Class Elections►Pledge Class Committees►Values Discussion

Organizational symbols and values Story of the Phoenix Evolution/History of the Ritual

►Activity: Values Shield►Scholarship►Activity: Discuss the True Gentleman►Big Brother Selection Forms►Homework

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►Comments for the Good of the Order

MEETING #3: Our Organizational StructureWho is himself humbled if necessity compels him to humble another….

1 hour►Welcome►Icebreaker►Meeting #2 Review►Review of Homework Assignments►Songs of SAE►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►Activity: Parliamentary Procedure Game►Video: Purpose and Opportunities within the Fraternity►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order

MEETING #4: Our HistoryWho does not flatter wealth, cringe before power, or boast of his own possessions or achievements…

1 hour►Welcome►Icebreaker►Review of Meeting #3►Review of Homework Assignments►Songs of SAE►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►Big Brother Reveal►Origin of Greek-letter organizations►Historical Videos►Purpose of Membership►Local History►Recruitment►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order

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MEETING #5: Service Learning and Academic PreparednessWho speaks with frankness but always with sincerity and sympathy….

1 hour►Welcome►Icebreaker►Review of Meeting #4►Review of Homework Assignments►Songs of SAE►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►Children’s Miracle Network ►Service Project►Individual Grade Review ►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order

MEETING #6: Fraternal Relevance Whose deed follows his word…

1 hour►Welcome►Icebreaker►Review of Meeting #5►Review of Homework Assignments►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►The Story of Fraternal Greatness►Fraternal Relevance►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order

MEETING #7: Greek DebateWho thinks of the rights and feelings of others, rather than his own…

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1 hour►Welcome►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►Review of Meeting #6►Greek Community►Greek Debate►Values Review/Discussion►Homework

MEETING #8: Honor is Sacred and Virtue SafeAnd who appears well in any company, a man with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe.

1 hour►Welcome►Day 1 - Final Test►Day 2 – Etiquette Dinner►Day 3 – Service Project►Day 4 – Initiation

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James Irwin, 08/30/12,

Need to add this to the book

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THE MISSION AND PRINCIPLES OF SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON

The MissionThe mission of Sigma Alpha Epsilon is to promote the highest standards of friendship, scholarship, and service for our members based upon the ideals set forth by our Founders and as specifically enunciated in the True Gentleman.

The Principles1. To develop in our members the skills that will facilitate their making deep and meaningful friendships

throughout their lives.

2. To provide our undergraduate members with a physical and organizational environment conducive to their pursuit of academic excellence.

3. To help our members better understand and experience diversity and change and to enhance their respect for individuality and personal integrity.

4. To foster personal development of our members including leadership, scholarship, citizenship, and social responsibility.

5. To develop in our members a sense of duty for individual and group involvement in social interactions, service and community outreach.

6. To provide our members with guidance, support and standards based upon the ideals embodied in our Ritual.

7. To develop, maintain and enforce standards and expectations for the conduct of our members within and outside the fraternity.

8. To provide our members with life-long fraternal experiences that are productive, rewarding and enjoyable.

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MEETING #1: Guide for New MembersThe True Gentleman is the man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an acute sense of propriety, and whose self-control is equal to all emergencies…

2 hours

OUTCOMES1. Have an understanding of the responsibilities of being a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon2. Become familiar with new members, pledge educators, big brother candidates3. Become familiar with the Phoenix4. Learn about the Risk Management policies of Sigma Alpha Epsilon5. Be able to successfully complete the New Member Online Certification Process6. Learn about committee structures of the chapter

MEETING OUTLINE►Welcome from Pledge Educator►Welcome from Eminent Archon & Chapter Adviser►Icebreaker►General Overview of the Pledge Program►Expectations of the Chapter for New Members►Expectations from New Members►Review of Pledge Oath►Code of Conduct►Scope of Association/sae.net account/Online Certification/Online Component►Activity: The Phoenix►Organizational Structure of the Fraternity►Activity: Minerva’s Shield – Risk-Management Policies►We Stand Together►Activity: Minerva’s Shield – Real Life Examples►Case Study: Chapter Social Event►Big Brother Program►Pledge Class Committees►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order

THIS BINDER This binder supplements your copy of The Phoenix in addition to the online resources that are available at

thetgi.sae.net.

THE PHOENIX

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The Phoenix is the pledge manual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. You will each receive a hard-bound copy as part of your membership fees.

Additionally, a PDF version may be downloaded from thetgi.sae.net under the Pledge Education section of The True Gentleman Initiative Library

HAZING HOTLINE INFORMATIONSigma Alpha Epsilon has ZERO tolerance for hazing. By joining this chapter, you will not be hazed, and you also agree that you will not be hazed. If you believe that you have been hazed or that hazing is occurring, please never hesitate to call our hazing hotline, 1-888-NOT-HAZE. Your call will be confidential, and you should fear no personal ramifications.

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PLEDGE CLASS OFFICERSYou will elect your own pledge class officers during Meeting #2. Here are the duties for the respective offices. Consider well if you want to run for one of these positions.

Presidento Is responsible for the general progress of the pledge class. He should motivate and inspire the

pledge class to succeed. A good president will lead by example and be able to communicate the expectations of the brothers to the class.

Vice-Presidento Assists the President in his duties

Treasurero Works with the Eminent Treasurer to assist in collections of dues and monies owed from the

pledge class Secretary

o Takes minutes at all pledge meetingso Take roll at the start of all meetingso Oversee communication with the pledge class, which may include txt messages, emails, etc

CHAPTER OFFICERSJust as your pledge class will elect officers, your chapter elects officers to run specific aspects of the chapter. This listing is available in Appendix B, along with Province Officers, National Officers, and additional individuals who may be a resource to you and the chapter.

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EXPECTATIONS OF NEW MEMBERS The chapter has four basic areas of expectations. These are: Scholarship, Behavior, Financial, and

Fraternal. Scholarship

o Go to class, study hard, and make your grades for your classes. You are here for a degree first and above all else.

o If you are having trouble with your classes, ask for help. Talk to your teachers, take advantage of university tutoring services, ask your brothers for assistance. No one here can read minds or know you need help unless you ask.

o Achieve the minimum grade point average required by chapter by-laws, however do the best that you can. If you are capable of a 4.0, then work towards a 4.0. To be initiated, you must meet the minimum grade point average required for initiation, as defined by the chapter. This is a XXXXXX GPA.

Behavioro All activities that we will host will be in accordance with Minerva’s Shield, Fraternity Laws, and the

Ritual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Your activity and conduct should follow these as well, and be in-line with The True Gentleman.

o Do not act in a way that is unbecoming of a True Gentleman. We will discuss with you if your conduct does and we can discuss how best to improve your actions.

o Be respectful to women at all times.o Be courteous and respectful to alumni and brothers – but remember that respect is a two-way

street. You should respect your brothers and the brothers should respect you. Their conduct should also meet all the points above. If at any point they do not, contact myself (Pledge Educator), Eminent Archon, or Chapter Adviser

Financialo You must pay all bills that you incur, including your pledge fee, initiation fee, as well as any fees or

dues that the chapter requireso These fees are $85 pledge fee, $225 initiation fee, _________________ in chapter dues

Fraternalo You will be asked to learn to recite The True Gentleman as a requirement of your membership.

Focus on reciting the words and understanding their meaning, rather than learning to say them as quickly as possible.

o You are required to attend all meetings of the Pledge Class and other meetings as required of the chapter.

o You are to participate in activities of the Fraternity so as to build a spirit of brotherhood among members.

o You must sign the Scope of Association (by claiming your sae.net account) as well as complete the Carson Starkey Online Certification Program.

o You should bring your copy of The Phoenix, as well as this pledge handbook, with you to all meetings.

o We ask that you do not say, “Phi Alpha”, unless as part of singing one of the SAE soungs. This is our guiding motto, and we ask that you do not say something that you do not understand the full meaning of. You will learn it’s meaning in due course through your initiation.

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o Be aware that as you joined, you are a candidate for membership in the Fraternity. This means that you are in the process of becoming a brother of our order.

o Respect is a two way street (yes, this is worth repeating a second time). Respect the brothers and they will respect you. If they do not, contact your pledge educator (me), Eminent Archon, or Chapter Adviser

o Be prepared that while you are a brother, there will be different levels of friendship with the brothers. Do not expect to be as close with one brother as you are with another.

o Ask before doing – for example – do not go into a brother’s apartment and proceed to make a sandwich with his food. Some may be okay with that, but others are not.

o All activities of the fraternity will be in line with Minerva’s Shield, Fraternity Laws, the Ritual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and The True Gentleman.

o If you are hazed or believe you are being hazed, do not hesitate to contact the National Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE

o By joining Sigma Alpha Epsilon, you agree that you will not be hazed nor will you allow yourself to be hazed.

o Remember that we are a part of Sigma Alpha Epsilon – it’s a national organization, and exists in more places than just this college/university. Learn about our national organization and if you ever have the chance – travel and experience all that the Fraternity has to offer.

_______________________________Signature of New Member

______________________________Date

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EXPECTATIONS OF NEW MEMBERS The chapter has four basic areas of expectations. These are: Scholarship, Behavior, Financial, and

Fraternal. Scholarship

o Go to class, study hard, and make your grades for your classes. You are here for a degree first and above all else.

o If you are having trouble with your classes, ask for help. Talk to your teachers, take advantage of university tutoring services, ask your brothers for assistance. No one here can read minds or know you need help unless you ask.

o Achieve the minimum grade point average required by chapter by-laws, however do the best that you can. If you are capable of a 4.0, then work towards a 4.0. To be initiated, you must meet the minimum grade point average required for initiation, as defined by the chapter. This is a XXXXXX GPA.

Behavioro All activities that we will host will be in accordance with Minerva’s Shield, Fraternity Laws, and the

Ritual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Your activity and conduct should follow these as well, and be in-line with The True Gentleman.

o Do not act in a way that is unbecoming of a True Gentleman. We will discuss with you if your conduct does and we can discuss how best to improve your actions.

o Be respectful to women at all times.o Be courteous and respectful to alumni and brothers – but remember that respect is a two-way

street. You should respect your brothers and the brothers should respect you. Their conduct should also meet all the points above. If at any point they do not, contact myself (Pledge Educator), Eminent Archon, or Chapter Adviser

Financialo You must pay all bills that you incur, including your pledge fee, initiation fee, as well as any fees or

dues that the chapter requireso These fees are $85 pledge fee, $225 initiation fee, _________________ in chapter dues

Fraternalo You will be asked to learn to recite The True Gentleman as a requirement of your membership.

Focus on reciting the words and understanding their meaning, rather than learning to say them as quickly as possible.

o You are required to attend all meetings of the Pledge Class and other meetings as required of the chapter.

o You are to participate in activities of the Fraternity so as to build a spirit of brotherhood among members.

o You must sign the Scope of Association (by claiming your sae.net account) as well as complete the Carson Starkey Online Certification Program.

o You should bring your copy of The Phoenix, as well as this pledge handbook, with you to all meetings.

o We ask that you do not say, “Phi Alpha”, unless as part of singing one of the SAE soungs. This is our guiding motto, and we ask that you do not say something that you do not understand the full meaning of. You will learn it’s meaning in due course through your initiation.

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o Be aware that as you joined, you are a candidate for membership in the Fraternity. This means that you are in the process of becoming a brother of our order.

o Respect is a two way street (yes, this is worth repeating a second time). Respect the brothers and they will respect you. If they do not, contact your pledge educator (me), Eminent Archon, or Chapter Adviser

o Be prepared that while you are a brother, there will be different levels of friendship with the brothers. Do not expect to be as close with one brother as you are with another.

o Ask before doing – for example – do not go into a brother’s apartment and proceed to make a sandwich with his food. Some may be okay with that, but others are not.

o All activities of the fraternity will be in line with Minerva’s Shield, Fraternity Laws, the Ritual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and The True Gentleman.

o If you are hazed or believe you are being hazed, do not hesitate to contact the National Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE

o By joining Sigma Alpha Epsilon, you agree that you will not be hazed nor will you allow yourself to be hazed.

o Remember that we are a part of Sigma Alpha Epsilon – it’s a national organization, and exists in more places than just this college/university. Learn about our national organization and if you ever have the chance – travel and experience all that the Fraternity has to offer.


______________________________Date

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EXPECTATIONS OF SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON BY NEW MEMBERS

What are your expectations of membership? Be specific – more than just brotherhood and a group of friends.

How will Sigma Alpha Epsilon make you a better person?

What are you looking to get out of Sigma Alpha Epsilon?

How do you expect to be treated?

Why did you join Sigma Alpha Epsilon?

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PLEDGE OATHI, ______________, conscious of the honor of having been deemed worthy of becoming a candidate for Sigma Alpha Epsilon, solemnly swear that I will never reveal by any means whatsoever, any of the ritual, or other secrets of the Fraternity which have been disclosed to me, or which may be discovered, or communicated to me at any time.

Prompted only by the highest motives, I solemnly place myself on probation to Sigma Alpha Epsilon; and I will do my utmost to attain and prove myself worthy of the brotherhood in Sigma Alpha Epsilon.

I will not join any organization forbidden by the Fraternity Laws of Sigma Alpha Epsilon or by the laws of the collegiate institution of which I am a student.

I will wear my pledge badge at all appropriate times, and I will protect it and the name it symbolizes, from every quarter whatsoever.

I will be loyal and true to Sigma Alpha Epsilon. I will observe its teachings. I will be guided by its ideals.

I will be governed by its rules of conduct as long as they do not conflict with my allegiance to my home, to my best self and to my God.


______________________________Date

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PLEDGE OATHI, ______________, conscious of the honor of having been deemed worthy of becoming a candidate for Sigma Alpha Epsilon, solemnly swear that I will never reveal by any means whatsoever, any of the ritual, or other secrets of the Fraternity which have been disclosed to me, or which may be discovered, or communicated to me at any time.

Prompted only by the highest motives, I solemnly place myself on probation to Sigma Alpha Epsilon; and I will do my utmost to attain and prove myself worthy of the brotherhood in Sigma Alpha Epsilon.

I will not join any organization forbidden by the Fraternity Laws of Sigma Alpha Epsilon or by the laws of the collegiate institution of which I am a student.

I will wear my pledge badge at all appropriate times, and I will protect it and the name it symbolizes, from every quarter whatsoever.

I will be loyal and true to Sigma Alpha Epsilon. I will observe its teachings. I will be guided by its ideals.

I will be governed by its rules of conduct as long as they do not conflict with my allegiance to my home, to my best self and to my God.


______________________________Date

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CODE OF CONDUCTI understand and accept the obligations stated in the Formal Pledging Ceremony, The True Gentleman, and the Mission Statement. I will strive to incorporate them into my daily life.

I will strive for academic achievement and practice academic integrity. I will protect the health and safety of all human beings.

I will respect the dignity of all persons; therefore I will not physically, verbally, psychologically, or sexually harm any human being.

I will not tolerate the practice of hazing; I will maintain and promote a fraternity free from hazing; and I will take the proper action if I believe hazing is occurring.

I will respect my property and the property of others and will neither abuse nor tolerate the abuse of property.

I will neither use nor condone the use of illegal drugs; I will neither misuse nor condone the misuse of alcohol.

I will meet my financial obligations when they are due.

I will read and understand the Fraternity Laws of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and the by-laws of the XXXXXX Chapter and will see that I and my chapter are following those laws.

Paramount to this pledge is my promise to confront my peers whose actions conflict with the standards of membership in Sigma Alpha Epsilon.

I accept these responsibilities and commit myself as a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.


______________________________Date

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CODE OF CONDUCTI understand and accept the obligations stated in the Formal Pledging Ceremony, The True Gentleman, and the Mission Statement. I will strive to incorporate them into my daily life.

I will strive for academic achievement and practice academic integrity. I will protect the health and safety of all human beings.

I will respect the dignity of all persons; therefore I will not physically, verbally, psychologically, or sexually harm any human being.

I will not tolerate the practice of hazing; I will maintain and promote a fraternity free from hazing; and I will take the proper action if I believe hazing is occurring.

I will respect my property and the property of others and will neither abuse nor tolerate the abuse of property.

I will neither use nor condone the use of illegal drugs; I will neither misuse nor condone the misuse of alcohol.

I will meet my financial obligations when they are due.

I will read and understand the Fraternity Laws of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and the by-laws of the XXXXXX Chapter and will see that I and my chapter are following those laws.

Paramount to this pledge is my promise to confront my peers whose actions conflict with the standards of membership in Sigma Alpha Epsilon.

I accept these responsibilities and commit myself as a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.


______________________________Date

ONLINE RESOURCES

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The Fraternity has several online components for education, membership, and that works in conjunction with this pledge program.

Claim sae.net account/Scope of Associationo Every member must claim their sae.net member accounto In doing so, you also sign the Scope of Association, which defines your relationship with the

Fraternity and several other aspects from a legal point of view. You should read this document in its entirety, and you must sign and accept the Terms and Conditions if you wish to be a member. This is no different from when you sign the Terms and Conditions of use when joining a gym or healthclub.

o To claim your account/sign the scope of association – this can be done with your smart phone Go to www.sae.net. In the upper right-hand corner, click login Click “Create a SAE.net account/Sign Scope of Association” under the LOGIN button Read the entire document and complete the registration and click “Submit” Your account will be processed in two-three business days. You will receive an e-mail letting you know when this is complete

Carson Starkey Online Certification Programo A requirement of membership is that within two weeks of your accepting your bid that you complete

the Carson Starkey Online Certification Program. o This reviews the risk-management policies of the Fraternity, including Minerva’s Shield. o You must complete this within two weeks and cannot be initiated until it is completed.o You will receive an e-mail after you sign the Scope of Association/claim your sae.net account with

your login credentials and instructions.o It will be available at thetgi.sae.net.

Online Components to Pledgeship & Membershipo To make your experience with Sigma Alpha Epsilon more complete, Sigma Alpha Epsilon has

created The True Gentleman Initiative. This online program was created with the member in mind, and has personal and professional development resources, as well as education modules that correspond to this 8-week pledge program.

o After you receive your credentials and your sae.net account is approved, you will have access to thetgi.sae.net. From that website you will have access to all the resources that a brother would.

The True Gentleman Initiativeo Available at thetgi.sae.net, this website provides a public library of resources, The True Gentleman

Initiative Library, which contains information and documents helpful to chapters and members.o The portion of the website behind the login is used to administer and track the online certification

programs. www.sae.net

o Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s main website and source of information for members.

Facebook

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http://www.sae.net/

http://www.sae.net/

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o Sigma Alpha Epsilono Levere Memorial Temple

Twittero @sae1856o #betrueo #thetgi

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MINERVA’S SHIELD – RISK MANAGEMENT POLICIES

►We Stand Together

We Stand Together is Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s anti-hazing program. There is a module in the online content that provides information on We Stand Together that you should complete as part of the online program.

Hazing in any form is not acceptable. Chapters are to be hazing-free at all times. Ifyou have to ask if an activity is hazing, then it probably is. Hazing is also illegal in almost every state and can result in incarceration and fines. Many universities, cities and states additionally have their own definition of hazing. Please consult the appropriate resources at your local level. For a listing of state anti-hazing laws, visit h tt p : //ww w .st opha z i n g . o rg /l a w s. h t m l .

INSERT LOCAL STATE HAZING LAW HERE INSERT UNIVERSITY HAZING POLICY HERE

You should be aware that people who participate in hazing expose themselves to enormous liability. Hazing has resulted in death, irreparable harm to the human body, loss of loved ones, imprisonment and other tragedies. Additionally, collegiate members who haze – and their parents – have a very high probability of being named in a lawsuit, which can result in large financial judgments being levied against members and their parents.

Hazing is against our Fraternity Laws, as in accordance with Section 47B2. It is defined by the Fraternity Laws of Sigma Alpha Epsilon in Section 47D5C and states:

c. Program Content. The emphasis of all programs shall be on the development of spirit and understanding of the dignity and worth of each and every individual. The purposes and objectives of all programs shall be discussed with all participants in advance. Because they are inconsistent with the Ritual and the objectives of the Fraternity, the following practices specifically and all other similar activities are prohibited at all times in all Chapters Collegiate: paddling in any form, physical exercises or calisthenics, deprivation of normal sleep and rest, any form of corporal or mental punishment, “mind games,” the placing of anyone in actual or simulated peril or jeopardy of health, undignified methods and stunts, wearing humiliating or uncomfortable attire, dangerous or illegal activities, either private or public quests, treasure hunts and road trips, personal servitude, and any ordeal that is in poor taste or in any respect indecent or shocking to the moral or religious scruples or sensibilities of a reasonable person. Participation in or endorsement of such activities is a ground for expulsion or revocation of a charter or both.

If hazing does become a concern at any time for anyone, we strongly urge the affected parties to call our anonymous hazing hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE. Our Regional Directors, who work directly with our chapters, also serve as a resource. You can find a roster of these staff members and their regions at w w w .s ae . ne t / f i e l d s t a f f .

►Activity: Minerva’s Shield – Real Life Examples

Incident Summary Who was sued? Contributin Cost What could have been done

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g Factors differently?

8/14/2009 Patrick Drown

Drown attended an apartment-warming party during summer. He consumed alcohol brought by others, left the party in early morning, fell asleep in the road and had his head crushed by a car. He was identified by fragments of his jaw and teeth from the car’s undercarriage.

The members at the event and the Fraternity were sued.

Failure to follow risk-management procedures;alcohol consumption

More than $150,000.Drown died.

2/25/2011George Desdunes

Active George Desdunes died from alcohol poisoning after pledges allegedly kidnapped him and forced him to drink. He was found on a couch with his hands tied behind him. The university and FSC closed the chapter. Criminal charges are pending against a number of pledges as well as the chapter.

The lawsuit was filed recently, and discovery will be starting soon.

alcohol; hazing

Unknown at this time. Lawsuit has been filed for $25 million.Desdunes died.

12/1/2008Carson Starkey

Pledge Carson Starkey died of alcohol poisoning. The chapter had been conducting its big-brother night and required pledges to drink entire bottles of liquor and eat some sort of food. In addition, they were tasked to consume a bottle of Everclear. Starkey drank from both. When he was found unresponsive, actives started to transport him to a hospital after removing his pledge pin. Starkey coughed on the way, so actives thought he was okay and brought him back to the apartment without going to the hospital. Starkey later died, his body found dumped on a mattress. The chapter was closed, and all members were expelled under Section 80C of our Fraternity Laws.

The individual bad actors were sued, including chapter officers, chapter advisers and the Fraternity.

alcohol consumption;underage alcohol consumption;hazing; poor decision-making processes

Individual bad actors parents’ homeowners insurance paid more than $3 million toward the settlement of the lawsuit.In addition, the Fraternity settled for an undisclosed amount.Starkey died.

►Case Study: Chapter Social Event

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Here is an example of a real risk-management case, violating Minerva’s Shield. We will discuss these points, why they violated our risk-management policy and what could have been done differently. Scenario and discussion questions available on page 29 of the participant guide.

Five brothers, who rent a house together, held a homecoming after-party event (It was a wet event and was registered with the university).

Brothers collected money to purchase cases of beer but then decided to purchase a keg. Another brother set up a bar for hard-alcohol distribution. No one managed the door, so uninvited guests entered the party. The EA and EDA decided not to remove the keg or stop the party since they considered it a private

residence. A fight broke out between two drunk underage members, and it is possible attendees drove home

drunk. The chapter was fined more than $24,000. In addition, seven members were expelled from the

chapter, and eight others were suspended.

►Discussion Questions

1. What were the points that were wrong or in violation of Minerva’s Shield in this case?

2. What could have been done differently by the brothers in this chapter?

3. What could have been done differently by the EA or the EDA?

4. What are some common factors in these cases?

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THE BIG BROTHER PROGRAMSee appendix D for information on the Big Brother Program

PLEDGE CLASS COMMITTEES In order to improve your leadership skills and to prepare you for life in the chapter, we will establish pledge

class committees. Each of these committees will be tasked with specific goals to achieve. The specific committees are:

o Philanthropy/Service – tasked with planning and executing a service or philanthropy event for the entire chapter to participate. The committee may work with current philanthropy chair for the chapter for assistance. The event should follow all the event-planning guidelines as specified in Minerva’s Shield. This event is to be planned for the 8th week of the pledge program.

o Social – tasked with planning a dry social/mixer. This should be a fun brotherhood event, and can include guests from other groups (such as sororities). The event should follow all the event-planning guidelines as specified in Minerva’s Shield.

o Recruitment – Recruitment is a 365-day-per-year activity. This committee is tasked with working with the recruitment chair and providing names of men on campus or graduating next year from high school that would be great members of the chapter. Everyone can name at least one person who should be a SAE – so go and recruit him!

Consider which committee you wish to join – sign-ups will be in Meeting #2

MEETING #1 HOMEWORKComplete the following before our next meeting. Remember, next week’s meeting will be much shorter

Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net – this will supplement your education.o Goal-Settingo Time-Management

Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 1 Re-Read Chapters 1-5 Read Minerva’s Shield (available under the Risk Management area of the True Gentleman Initiative Library

at thetgi.sae.net) Complete the Carson Starkey Online Certification Program

o You should receive an e-mail within 24-48 hours of claiming your sae.net account with instructions for how to complete this

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Read Chapters 6-9, 11, 12o Use The Phoenix which is available online for the most up-to-date versiono You are looking to use the 12th Edition

Learn the True Gentleman through the word emergencies Complete the goal-setting form in Appendix E of your book. This will help you as you go forward with the

semester both in college and in the fraternity. Write a letter to your parent(s)/guardian, thanking them for what they have done in your life and letting them

know what they should expect from you as a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Send them this letter along with the Parent’s Form, available in Appendix F.

Homework Activity #1

The True Gentleman is the man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an acute sense of propriety, and whose self-control is equal to all emergencies.

Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your conduct proceeding from:

Good Will An Acute Sense of Propriety Self-control being equal to all emergencies

1. 1. 1.

2. 2. 2.

3. 3. 3.

4. 4. 4.

5. 5. 5.

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MEETING #2: Our Heritage and Symbolism Who does not make the poor man conscience of his poverty, the obscure man of his obscurity, or any man of his inferiority or deformity…

1 hour

OUTCOMES1. Learn the duties of officers within the Chapter2. Be able to effectively utilize parliamentary procedure3. Connect values of organization to activities of individual

MEETING OUTLINE►Welcome►Icebreaker►Meeting #1 Review►Review of Homework Assignments►Songs of SAE►Pledge Class Elections►Pledge Class Committees►Values Discussion

Organizational symbols and values Story of the Phoenix Evolution/History of the Ritual

►Activity: Values Shield►Scholarship►Activity: Discuss the True Gentleman►Big Brother Selection Forms►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order

PLEDGE CLASS ELECTIONS President

o Is responsible for the general progress of the pledge class. He should motivate and inspire the pledge class to succeed. A good president will lead by example and be able to communicate the expectations of the brothers to the class. Will appoint committee chairman in consultation with the Pledge Educator

Vice-President

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o Assists the President in his duties Treasurer

o Works with the Eminent Treasurer to assist in collections of dues and monies owed from the pledge class

Secretaryo Takes minutes at all pledge meetingso Take roll at the start of all meetingso Oversee communication with the pledge class, which may include txt messages, emails, etc

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PLEDGE CLASS COMMITTEES Each member must join at least once committee. Chairman of the committees will be selected by the Pledge Class President and Pledge Educator

o Philanthropy/Service – tasked with planning and executing a service or philanthropy event for the entire chapter to participate. The committee may work with current philanthropy chair for the chapter for assistance. The event should follow all the event-planning guidelines as specified in Minerva’s Shield.

o Social – tasked with planning a dry social/mixer. This should be a fun brotherhood event, and can include guests from other groups (such as sororities). The event should follow all the event-planning guidelines as specified in Minerva’s Shield.

o Recruitment – Recruitment is a 365-day-per-year activity. This committee is tasked with working with the recruitment chair and providing names of men on campus or graduating next year from high school that would be great members of the chapter. Everyone can name at least one person who should be a SAE – so go and recruit him!

All committees should make plans to meet later this week to begin planning each of their charged tasks.

ORGANIZATIONAL SYMBOLS AND VALUES Who is the patron goddess of the fraternity?

What is special about Minerva?

Why do you think she is our goddess? How does what she symbolize relate to Sigma Alpha Epsilon?

Who can describe the flag of the fraternity?

What are the different types of badges of the fraternity?

When is it appropriate to wear your badge?

How should your badge be worn (specifically)?

Who designed the Coat-of-Arms?

Is there anything special or significant that you believe relates to the Fraternity from the Coat-of-Arms?

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Why for a time was the badge black as opposed to Nazarene blue?

What is the flower of the fraternity?

What are the official colors of the fraternity?

Do these colors have any specific meanings? How do they relate to the fraternity?

STORY OF THE PHOENIX What is the story of the Phoenix?

Why do you believe the Phoenix is an important symbol for the Fraternity? For our personal lives?

What lessons can we take from the Phoenix?

EVOLUTION/HISTORY OF THE RITUAL Who wrote our Ritual?

What are some of the ceremonies of the Ritual?

Who wrote the current version of the Ritual?

Why is the Formal Pledging Ceremony a public ceremony?

What can you tell us about the virtues and values of the Ritual based on the chapter that you read?

ACTIVITY: VALUES SHIELD

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VALUES SHIELD

33

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Appendix K has the scholarship program for the chapter. Have each member submit their class schedule on the form in Appendix L Scholarship is critical to your success – you must study and pass your classes in order to graduate. The required GPA to initiate and be in good standing with the chapter is XXXXXXX. If you are having trouble in a class, do not hesitate to let one of us know so that we can try and assist you,

though remember, your success in class is up to you, though your achievements or failures will reflect on all of us.

ACTIVITY: DISCUSS THE TRUE GENTLEMAN

BIG BROTHER SELECTION FORMS Please turn in your big brother forms at this time.

MEETING #2 HOMEWORK Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net – this will supplement your education.

o Secret Thoughts of a Ritual Read the following chapters:

i. Chapter 15 – The Policiesii. Chapter 16 – The Financesiii. Chapter 17 – The Governance of Our Fraternityiv. Chapter 18 – The Sigma Alpha Epsilon Foundationv. Chapter 19 – SAE Financial & Housing Corporationvi. Appendix L – Parliamentary Procedure

Learn TG up to deformity Committees begin to meet and work on projects and plans

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Who does not make the poor man conscious of his poverty, the obscure man of his obscurity, or any many of his inferiority or deformity.

Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your not making a man conscious of his:

Poverty Obscurity Inferiority/Deformity1. 1. 1.

2. 2. 2.

3. 3. 3.

4. 4. 4.

5. 5. 5.

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MEETING #3: Our Organizational StructureWho is himself humbled if necessity compels him to humble another….

1 hour

OUTCOMES1. Understand the structure of the Fraternity on a National Level2. Be able to name the Officers of the Supreme Council and Province3. Understand Parliamentary Procedure and be able to run a meeting using it.

MEETING OUTLINE

►Welcome►Icebreaker►Meeting #2 Review►Review of Homework Assignments►Songs of SAE►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►Activity: Parliamentary Procedure Game►Video: Purpose and Opportunities within the Fraternity►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order

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The Basics of Parliamentary Procedure

Order of Business Call to Order – A quorum (the number of brothers who must be present in good standing to conduct

business) must be previously met. A single rap of the gavel is used to call the meeting to order. The gavel is only used at the beginning of the meeting, at the end of the meeting, to call the chapter back into order, or for ceremonial purposes. It is not used for any other purposes.

Opening Fraternity Ritual – Initiated members in good standing. Minutes – from the previous meeting must be presented and accepted. Financial Report – presented and discussed. Officer Reports– presented and discussed—this should include reports from officers and committees. Unfinished Business – presented from previous meeting. (Note: it is not referred to as “Old Business.”) New Business – presented and discussed. Program – This may be placed anywhere on the agenda. Adjournment - May be done by a formal motion or by the E.A. if no further business is pending. Comments for the Good of the Order Closing Fraternity Ritual – Initiated members in good standing.

Kinds of Motions Privileged Motions – These motions are most urgent and not debatable. They are about special or

important matters not relating to pending business. Examples are: to fix the time at which to adjourn; to recess, etc.

Subsidiary Motions – These motions are to change or affect how the main motion is handled and are voted on before the main motion. They are always applied to another pending motion, to aid in treating or disposing of it. Examples are: to lay on the table; to amend; to postpone indefinitely, etc.

Main Motion – These motions introduce a subject to the assembly for its consideration. They cannot be made when another motion is before the chapter. They yield to privileged, subsidiary and incidental motions.

Incidental Motions – These are questions concerning procedure or conduct that arise out of other motions. They must be considered before the other motion.

Unclassified Motions – These are motions that do not fall into one of the above named categories.

The Basics of Making a Motion

Addressing the chair All meetings should be conducted from the chair (usually the president). In Fraternity meetings, members addressing the chair should refer to the presiding officer as “Brother E.A.” or “Brother Chairman.”

Obtaining the floor Before a member may make a motion or speak in debate, he must obtain the floor. To claim the floor, a member raises his hand and waits to be recognized by the chair. The chair will recognize the member by announcing his name or title. This member then has the floor and may stand and speak until he yields the floor. A member

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automatically yields the floor by returning to his seat. During debate, the privilege of the floor is usually granted on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis. However, there are three important cases where the floor should be assigned to a person who may not have been the first to rise and address the chair. These cases are: 1.If the member who made the motion claims the floor and has not already spoken on the question, he is entitled to

be recognized in preference to other members. 2.No one is entitled to the floor a second time as long as any other member who has not yet spoken to the pending

motion requests the floor. 3.The chair should attempt to alternate opposite opinions on a question if he is aware of members requesting the

floor which have opposing views.

Making a motion 1.First, a member makes a motion. Though he makes a motion, he uses the word “move” to make the motion (for

example: “I move to allocate...”). 2.Another member seconds the motion by saying, “I second it” or simply, “Second.” 3.The chair then states the “question” on the motion. Neither the making or the seconding of a motion places it before

the assembly; only the chair can place a motion before the assembly by this step (stating the question). When the chair has stated the question, the motion is pending and is then open to debate (providing that it is a

debatable motion). If the chapter decides to do what a motion proposes, it adopts a motion or it is carried. If it decides against the motion, it is rejected or lost.

Amending a motion The motion to amend is a motion to modify the wording (within certain limits) of a pending motion before it is acted upon. An amendment must be germane; that is, it must be closely related to or have some bearing on the subject of the motion to be amended. A motion to amend is handled the same way as a main motion and requires a second to be considered. An amendment is adopted by a majority vote even in cases where the motion to be amended requires a 2/3 vote for adoption.

Approval of the minutes At the beginning of regularly scheduled meetings, copies of minutes of the previous meeting will be distributed for study by chapter members. The presiding officer then asks, “Are there any corrections to the minutes?” and pauses. Then the presiding officer says, “If there are no corrections” (or “no further corrections”) the minutes stand approved (or “approved as corrected”).

Point of order When a member thinks that the rules of the meeting are being violated, he may make a “point of order”, thereby calling upon the chair to make a ruling and enforce the regular rules. A point of order: •can be applied to any breech of the meeting’s rules •is in order when another has the floor •does not require a second •is not debatable unless the chair, being in doubt, submits the point to a vote of the meeting; in which case, the rules

governing its debate are the same as for an appeal Previous question The previous question is a motion used to bring the meeting to an immediate vote on one or more pending questions. The motion for the previous question:

•takes precedence over all debatable or amendable motions to which it is applied •can be applied to any immediately pending debatable or

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amendable motion •is out of order when another has the floor •must be seconded •is not debatable •is not amendable •requires a 2/3 vote

Postpone indefinitely A motion to postpone indefinitely is a motion that the assembly declines to take a position on the main question. Its adoption kills the main motion (at least for the duration of the session) and avoids a direct vote on the question. It is useful in disposing of a badly chosen main motion that cannot be either adopted or expressly rejected without possibly undesirable consequences. The motion to postpone indefinitely:

•is out of order when another has the floor •must be seconded •is debatable •is not amended •requires a majority vote

Adjourn To adjourn means to end the meeting. The motion to adjourn:

•is not applied to any motion and no motion can be applied to it •is out of order when another has the floor •does not need to be seconded

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o Parliamentary Procedureo Purpose and Opportunity within the Fraternityo Supreme Council, Province Archons, Regional Directors, and Staff

Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 3 Learn TG up to achievements Write a letter and place in a sealed envelope to be given to your big brother when he is revealed next week. Read the following chapters:

o Chapter 25 – The Greek-Letter Fraternity in Americao Chapter 26 – The History of Sigma Alpha Epsilon


Who is himself humbled if necessity compels him to humble another.

Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your humility:

In general When necessity compelled you to humble another

1. 1.

2. 2.

3. 3.

4. 4.

5. 5.

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MEETING #4: Our HistoryWho does not flatter wealth, cringe before power, or boast of his own possessions or achievements…

1 hour

OUTCOMES1. Reveal Big Brother2. Understand the proper way to Recruit 3. Understand the origin and purpose of Greek Letter Societies4. Learn History of Local Chapter5. Learn History of National Organization

MEETING OUTLINE►Welcome►Icebreaker►Review of Meeting #3►Review of Homework Assignments►Songs of SAE►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►Big Brother Reveal►Origin of Greek-letter organizations►Historical Videos►Purpose of Membership►Local History►Recruitment►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order


o History Videoso The Right Way to Recruit

Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 4 Learn the remaining parts of The True Gentleman Have your professors complete and sign the academic progress report in Appendix N in your book. Bring to

the next meeting.

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Who does not flatter wealth, cringe before power, or boast of his own possessions or achievements.

Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify you not

Flattering wealth Cringing before power Boasting of possessions or achievements

1. 1. 1.

2. 2. 2.

3. 3. 3.

4. 4. 4.

5. 5. 5.

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MEETING #5: Service Learning and Academic PreparednessWho speaks with frankness but always with sincerity and sympathy….

1 hour

OUTCOMES1. Understand the basics of planning an Event2. Be able to discuss the entire TG and what it means as a member of the Fraternity3. Be aware of academic standing as a result of Grade Review4. Be familiar with SAE’s National Charity and Children’s Miracle Network

MEETING OUTLINE

►Welcome►Icebreaker►Review of Meeting #4►Review of Homework Assignments►Songs of SAE►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►Children’s Miracle Network ►Service Project►Individual Grade Review ►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order


o Children’s Miracle Networko Scholarship and Study Tips

Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 5 Learn the remaining parts of The True Gentleman Finalize the service events and social event.

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Who speaks with frankness but always with sincerity and sympathy.

Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your:

Frankness Sincerity Sympathy1. 1. 1.

2. 2. 2.

3. 3. 3.

4. 4. 4.

5. 5. 5.

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MEETING #6: Fraternal Relevance Whose deed follows his word…

1 hour

OUTCOMES1. Define what we mean when we say “fraternal relevance”2. Challenge participants to redefine the idea of what it means to be the “best”3. Challenge participants to think about what happens when we fall from greatness4. Allow participants the opportunity to critically think and reflect on the ideas of fraternal relevance and

fraternal greatness

MEETING OUTLINE►Welcome►Icebreaker►Review of Meeting #5►Review of Homework Assignments►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►The Story of Fraternal Greatness►Fraternal Relevance►Homework►Comments for the Good of the Order

ACTIVITY: THE STORY OF FRATERNAL GREATNESS

The Best Fraternity on Campus! For Now. By John Shertzer

I just finished reading a great book by Jim Collins (of Good to Great fame) called “How the Mighty Fall.” In this book, Mr. Collins describes how businesses that were once the top of their industry lose their footing and fall quickly to rock bottom. From his research, he frames five stages that seem to be consistent among these businesses:

Stage One: Hubris Born of SuccessOrganizations that reach a high level of success can fall victim to the arrogant notion that they will always be there. For these organizations, success becomes an entitlement, forgetting the hard work, tough decisions, chance, and lucky breaks that were needed to get there.

Stage Two: Undisciplined Pursuit of MoreThe hubris of stage one leads these organizations to feel that they can take undisciplined leaps into areas where they cannot be great. Instead of disciplined initiative, strategic planning, and thoughtful creativity, they overreach.

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Stage Three: Denial of Risk and PerilWhereas some external signs may still signal success, there are growing internal warnings that disaster is near. However, these warnings are ignored. The blame game also begins – with organizational leaders making excuses for mounting problems.

Stage Four: Grasping for SalvationNow that decline is evident, leaders begin searching for a miracle cure. According to Mr. Collins, such cures include: “a charismatic visionary leader, a bold but untested strategy, a radical transformation, a dramatic cultural revolution, a hoped-for blockbuster product, a ‘game-changing’ acquisition, or any number of other silver-bullet solutions (p. 22).”

Stage Five: Capitulation to Irrelevance or DeathIf the direction cannot be reversed in any of the preceding stages, it’s over.

I found many of the lessons and stories in the book to be relevant for Greek-letter organizations. After all, we spend a lot of time focusing on who is the best. We also all know fraternities or sororities that gloat or are cocky about their success. Success in fraternity and sorority is often like a roller coaster. The successful chapters on any given campus were not the same ones 10 years ago.

I encourage you to read the book and draw your own conclusions, but here are the primary lessons I found:

Arrogance and Entitlement Are you the best fraternity or sorority on campus? Are you the best national organization? Why? What justifies you declaring that? How do you prove that to potential members? Being the “best” in anything is tough to measure (except for perhaps athletic competitions or awards). Oftentimes, it is left to the eyes of the beholder. I actually love it when Greek organizations tell me that they are the “best,” because now that they’ve declared it, they need to back it up. There is nothing wrong with having confidence and striving to be your definition of the “best.” Just beware of hubris. Beware of the level of arrogance that makes others root for your demise. Those who gloat the loudest on the way up often shriek the loudest on the way down.

There are certainly times in the course of a fraternity or sorority’s life when things are going very well. Those are times to celebrate. Cautiously. Almost every Greek-letter organization that has a precipitous fall from grace once felt indestructible; once thought the good times would last forever; once felt that they were the best.

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At the same time, you shouldn’t lead with panic or fear that the end is near. Nobody wants to follow a doomsayer or join a negative organization.

The key is to avoid the arrogance that leads to an entitlement mindset. Your success was earned – most likely by the hard work of leaders before you. Luck and chance probably played a role too. Stay humble about your success, and keep searching for more.

Arrogance can lead to complacency as well. Once we start believing that we are entitled to our success, we stop working for it. We stop expecting it in our new recruits. Consider these two statements and the type of individual that would be attracted to them:

Join us – we’re the best! Join us – we want to be the best!

Both messages would likely get quality men and women. However, the second message would get quality men and women who want to work; who want to leave their mark; who want to build the ship, not just ride on it.

Reaching Too FarMost of the companies profiled by Mr. Collins drifted away from their core purposes and missions. They felt so entitled to their success, that they felt anything they touched would turn to gold. By shifting attention away from their core, they let their most important aspects atrophy.

In fact, almost all of the organizations that reversed the downward spiral did so by reclaiming their core purpose. For example, Xerox experimented with all sorts of new services (such as financial services), but soon found themselves falling. When they returned to their core business – printing and copying – they started to see success again. They experienced the danger of overreaching.

In the fraternity/sorority world, we see overreach in different ways. For example, groups that taste the success of being the biggest organization on campus may suddenly feel the need to focus only on numbers. They begin bidding members that they would have denied in their growth stage.

Some national organizations fall victim to the “keeping up with the Jones’s” mentality. The growth of membership development programs are an example of this. Sigma Phi Epsilon’s success with The Balanced Man program was met with a flurry of “we’ve got to have one too!” statements in board rooms across the country. Many of these efforts have failed. What if these organizations spent time focusing on what they do best, rather than spend their energy on what others do best?

Don’t Get RadicalThe case studies and examples Mr. Collins uses in the book signal something very important: when an organization is in a vulnerable place, radical change is NOT a good idea. Those companies that pulled themselves out of their decline did so by incremental change, tough decisions, and by honoring the past. Like these organizations, fraternities that face a decline should avoid redefining themselves, and rather, rediscover themselves.

There is a great principle from Appreciative Inquiry: in every human situation, something works. The key for leaders is to keep the best from the past, and change the rest. Something is working. Don’t flip everything upside down. A radical, transforming kind of change will most likely speed up the decline.

Be a SurvivorThis passage from the book caught my eye:

“The point of the struggle is not just to survive, but to build an enterprise that makes such a distinctive impact on the world it touches, and does so with such superior performance, that it would leave a gaping hole – a hole that could not be easily filled by any other institution – if it ceased to exist (p. 112)."

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Does this describe your fraternity or sorority? Would there be a gaping hole in the universe if your organization was gone? The work of a leader is to build a culture of continuous excellence in your chapter – so that it can survive downward turns. I need to think this through some more, but here is an initial list of what I believe is needed for an organization to be a survivor:

Constant care for the Ritual and how it is taught and practiced daily.

Relentless focus on financial solvency.

A culture of continuous, year-round recruitment.

The elimination of hazing practices, dangerous drinking, and other risky behaviors.

Working hard to change the belief that a house for the chapter is essential (after all, if it burns down, could you carry on without hesitation)?

Anything you would add?

I recommend reading the book, or reading other summaries at least. We try so hard to learn from those that excel in our world, and sometimes the best lessons come from those who fall. You may be the best on campus. But, when will it be your turn to ride the downward slope? What will you do when that rocky bottom is approaching fast?

Source: How the Mighty Fall (2008), by Jim CollinsProcessing Questions for Participants

►QUESTIONS

1. To who or what is the most important for your chapter to be relevant?

2. What can you do personally to ensure that your chapter is relevant in the next year? In the next five years?

3. How do you define what it means to be the “best fraternity?”

4. With regard to the five stages, where does your chapter currently stand? How did you get there?

FRATERNAL RELEVANCE

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o What is fraternal relevance?

o What do you think that means?

o To who or what are we relevant to?

o Why is it important that we are relevant to these groups?

o What happens if we are not relevant?


o Case Study 1o Case Study 2o Leadership Moduleo Leadership Self-Study

Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 6 Review The True Gentleman Review and write ways that you and the chapter can remain relevant to the groups that we discussed today.

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Whose deed follows his word

Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your deed following your word.

Deed follows your word1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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MEETING #7: Greek DebateWho thinks of the rights and feelings of others, rather than his own…

1 hour

OUTCOMES

1. To be able to discuss and debate the merits of values-based organizations2. To be able to identify and develop solutions to issues within the Greek community on your campus

MEETING OUTLINE

►Welcome►Officer Reports & Committee Reports►Review of Meeting #6►Greek Community►Greek Debate►Values Review/Discussion►Homework

QUESTIONS

What or who are the constituents of the Greek community here on campus?

What are some of the current issues facing the Greek community?

What are some of the values of Sigma Alpha Epsilon?

Why is it important that we live our values – both in the chapter and in our lives?

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Need to add this to the book

51


o Case Study 3o Case Study 4

Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 7 Finalize all plans for Phi Alpha Week Service Activity


Who thinks of the rights and feelings of others, rather than his own.

Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your thinking of the rights and feelings of someone other than yourself.

Thinking of the rights and feelings of someone other than yourself1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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MEETING #8And who appears well in any company, a man with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe.

1 hour

OUTCOMES1. Be able to apply prior knowledge gained through pledge program via discussion over case studies2. Participate in Chapter Etiquette Dinner3. Host a successful service project4. Initiate into the brotherhood of Sigma Alpha Epsilon

MEETING OUTLINE

►Welcome►Day 1 - Final Test (Pledges, Big Bros, Pledge Eds, EC) ►Day 2 – Etiquette Dinner►Day 3 – Service Project►Day 4 – Initiation

►Day 1 - Final Test (Pledges, Big Bros, Pledge Eds, EC)

Length: 1.5 hours- Final Exam- Coat-of-arms discussion- Topoi Writing

►Day 2 – Etiquette Dinner

Is for entire chapter Planned by chapter member educator

►Day 3 – Service Project

Is for entire chapter Planned and executed by service committee of pledge class

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►Day 4 – Initiation

Is for entire chapter

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And who appears well in any company, and man with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe.

Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify:

You appearing well in any company Honor being sacred with you Virtue being safe with you1. 1. 1.

2. 2. 2.

3. 3. 3.

4. 4. 4.

5. 5. 5.

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APPENDIX A – CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Within this appendix is the calendar of events for your pledge semester. Include on this calendar all pledge events, include a description/content of the activity, location of the activity, as well as beginning and ending times.

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APPENDIX B – OFFICERS, PROVINCE OFFICERS, CONTACT INFORMATIONChapter Officers for the XXXXXXX Chapter

Eminent Archon: Eminent Deputy Archon: Eminent Recorder: Eminent Treasurer: Risk Manager: Recruitment Chair: Eminent Herald: Eminent Warden: Eminent Correspondent: Eminent Chaplain: Eminent Chronicler: Social Chair: Intramurals/Athletics Chair: T-shirt Chair: Brotherhood Chair:

(add additional officers as needed)

Province Officers for Province XXXXXX

Province Archon: Province Deputy Archon: Province Recorder: Province Treasurer:

(add additional officers as needed)

Supreme Council of Sigma Alpha Epsilon

Eminent Supreme Archon: Eminent Supreme Deputy Archon: Eminent Supreme Warden: Eminent Supreme Herald: Eminent Supreme Chronicler:

(please update each year)

Regional Directors:

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Cook Region: Cockrell Region: Dennis Region: DeVotie Region: Foster Region: Kerr Region: Patton Region: Rudolph Region:

University Officers:

President:

Vice-President for Academic Affairs/Provost:

Vice-President for Student Affairs:

Registrar:

Dean of Student Life:

(please update each year all positions above and adjust titles as necessary)

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APPENDIX C – CHAPTERS IN PROVINCE XXXX, ON XXXX CAMPUSThe following are the chapters in Province XXXXXXX, including their university and chapter name:

CHAPTER – UNIVERSITY

(update as needed)

The following are the fraternities and sororities that are on the XXXXXXX University campus.

(update as needed)

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APPENDIX D – THE BIG BROTHER PROGRAMA Big Brother program is one of the most important parts of the pledge program for a number of reasons. It creates a relationship between a first-year student and a man who has been through the trials and tribulations of freshman year of college. The Big Brother can be a mentor and a friend. A strong Big Brother will take the charge cultivating this relationship and will understand the weight of the difference he can make on his Little Brother. Therefore, it is important that each Big Brother and Little Brother pairing is chosen with thought and scrutiny behind it.

►The Purpose of the Big Brother Program

To provide new members to the organization with support for the transition to college life as a Fraternity man.

The Big Brother will accomplish this by:

1) Support of the new member in his academic endeavorsa. Tutoring services, checking up to ensure they are making grades, letting them know they can reach

out for help and it’s okay to ask for it.2) Encourage proper time management and working to ensure enough time is spent on studies

b. Review schedule for the week and have the new member determine if they are best using their time

3) Mentor proper and gentlemanly social, public actionsc. Teach and demonstrate how to be a True Gentleman in public

4) Ensure that the new member is familiar with Minerva’s Shieldd. Use this as a guide for how new members should behave

5) Be a resource and a friend to the new membere. Be a friend to the new member as the new member’s needs define it. In other words, hang out

with them as they want, do not make them do what you want.

►Considerations for pairing big brother/little brother:

Students of the same majoro Students of the same major can help each other academically. The Big Brother knows what

classes are most worthwhile, what the student needs to do to get his major on track and how to succeed in harder classes. As Big Brothers should have a positive academic influence on his Little Brother, you should consider holding Big Brother candidates to a minimum grade point average.

Big Brothers should be dependable. o They should do what they say they will do and should be willing to make themselves available

to their Little Brother whenever possible. The Big Brother should possess a positive attitude about all things fraternity

o From chapter meetings to intramurals, service events to running for office. There is a very good chance the Big Brother’s attitude will rub off on his Little Brother.

Big Brothers and Little Brothers should have complementary personalitieso Sense of humor, communication styles, interests and hobbies are all tell-tale signs of whether

the experience will be mutually beneficial.

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Members who are from the same hometown or have previously-established relationships should not be matched.

o The Big Brother program is designed to create new friendships.

►Selection Process

Eligible Big Brothers will complete the Big Brother Application Form prior to the start of the semester All Big Brother candidates are to attend the first pledge meeting to participate in the meeting and work

with the new members. Little brothers will complete the Little Brother information form. This will be due during the second

pledge meeting, After both are complete, the pledge educator, with the assistance of the executive council, will match

big/little combinations This should be completed after the second week of pledgeship.

►Program Outline

Big brothers, in order to welcome their little brothers, may provide gifts for the little brother These are to be given and keeping the identity of the brother a secret, and include a letter of

encouragement or note encouraging the member through the first few weeks of school. The Big Brother will be revealed to the little brother during the fourth pledge meeting. This will allow for

increased mentorship and friendship between the pair.o By revealing earlier, this allows for the big brother to address any academic or social issues

that may arise earlier than if the reveal occurs later in the year.o The reveal is to be performed in a manner entirely consistent with the principles of The True

Gentleman, The Ritual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and our values.

►Big Brother Responsibilities

1. Be in good standing with the chapter (have a zero account balance)2. Be at or above the all men’s average3. Serve as a positive role model for his Little Brother4. Monitor academic performance5. Assist in the Little Brother’s social adjustment6. Act as a sounding board when needed7. Serve as a confidant to your little brother8. Introduce and explain chapter customs to the Little Brother9. Spend time with his Little Brother at least once a week (this is the absolute minimum)10. Help and hold his Little Brother accountable for completing the requirements of the pledge program11. Big brothers are expected to uphold fraternity policies associated with a dry pledgeship

►Little Brother Responsibilities

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1. Meet with his Big Brother at least once a week2. Not select a best friend, but an ideal person to emulate3. Demand continual involvement from his Big Brother4. Discuss any difficulties and problems with his Big Brother5. Use his Big Brother as a link for fraternal, academic and social issues

A final note: It is always important to reiterate that the success of the pledge program does not lie in the hands of one or two people. The pledge educator and a great Big Brother can only do so much if the entire chapter isn’t behind them. Every member should have an interest in every pledge.

That being said, the Big Brother should be held responsible for the pledge’s growth in the program. If the pledge isn’t doing his job, first look to see if the Big Brother is doing his. And remember, that if what you say and what you do don’t match up, it’s going to be what you do that leaves the biggest and most lasting impression.

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BIG BROTHER APPLICATIONLast Name: GPA Above All men’s Average Yes/No

First Name:

Hours Per week you can devote to pledge activities and your little brother:

Semesters you have been a active brother:

Academic Major:

Favorite Activities:

Have you met all of your financial obligations? Yes/No

Will you be able to be present for the required chapter meetings that big brothers/big brother candidates must attend? These include Weeks 1, 4, 6, 7 Yes/No

In 250 words or less, explain why you want to be a big brother.

In 250 words or less, how will you benefit your little brother and chapter by being a big brother?

By signing below, I agree to become a candidate for big brother for the XXXXXX Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon for the XXXXX Term. I understand all requirements outlined in the Pledge Manual and will be an active participant in the

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pledge and recruitment process. I understand that I must attend all pledge events required by the pledge educator and must remain a brother in good standing throughout the semester. I will be a positive role model for my little brother and will check on his academic and fraternal progress weekly. I understand that failure to uphold these requirements will lead to the dismissal of my duties as a big brother. Signing this document dues not guarantee me a little brother and approval/dismissal is subject to the Pledge Educator and Executive Council.

_________________________ _________________________Signature of Member Date

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LITTLE BROTHER APPLICATION

Last Name:

First Name:

Hours Per week you can devote to pledge activities and your little brother:

Academic Major:

Favorite Activities:

Write down the names of FOUR active brothers from the approved list that you would like to be your Big Brother. Names should be written in order of preference, with 1 being the most desired.

1.

2.

3.

4.

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QUALIFIED BIG BROTHER CANDIDATESAPPROVED NOT-APPROVED

(Note – this should be completed prior to the start of the pledge program so this printed form can be included in the pledge handbook)

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APPENDIX E – GOAL-SETTINGAfter completing the online module on goal-setting, set SMART goals for yourself as defined below:

Goal 1:

The Next Six MonthsWhat do you want to achieve?

How will you achieve it?

How will you know when it is achieved?

What do you need to do in order to achieve this? (Be specific)

Whose assistance do you need in working to achieve this?

Are there any resources that you need to achieve this?

When will you have this accomplished by?

Notes to self

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Goal 2:

The Next Six MonthsWhat do you want to achieve?







Notes to self

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Goal 3:

The Next YearWhat do you want to achieve?







Notes to self

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Goal 4:

The Next Two YearsWhat do you want to achieve?







Notes to self

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APPENDIX F – LETTER TO PARENTS & PARENTS FORM

As part of this program, please write a letter to your parent/guardian, thanking them for their efforts in getting you to where you are at this stage in life. Handwritten letters would be greatly welcomed by most parents.

Additionally, please include the letter of acknowledgement on the next page. We ask that parents complete and return to us, so that our Pledge Educator can contact them and answer any questions they may have about the pledge education program or the Fraternity.

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Letter of Acknowledgement

I understand my son, _____________________, has decided to become a member of the XXXXXXXX Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. I agree to receive a phone call from the current New Member Educator to discuss any concerns, questions, or details about the fraternity which my son is joining.

Attached are some resources you can refer to as a parent. As brothers of the largest fraternity in America and one of the most well-respected fraternities on campus, we graciously extend our invitation to your son to become one of the truest gentlemen in the Greek system, on campus, and in the world.

Please mail the completed form to

New Member EducatorAddressCity, State Zip

Or email the form to EMAIL ADDRESS

National Website – www.sae.net

Educational Resources – The True Gentleman Initiative Library – thetgi.sae.net Note: there is a parent’s section with resources applicable to you

By signing below I hereby acknowledge and approve my son’s involvement with Sigma Alpha Epsilon.

Contact Number__________________

Best day/time to be called

_____________________ _____________________Signature Date

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APPENDIX G – CHAPTER BYLAWS

Insert here a copy of your current chapter by-laws

APPENDIX XX

Songs of SAE

Class Schedule Form

Scholarship Form – academic progress report

Right Way to Recruit

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APPENDIX H – CHAPTER BUDGET

Insert here a copy of your current budget

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APPENDIX I – SONGS OF SAEVioletsWherever you may goThere are flowers that you know,The fragrant lilacs, red rose,Or gardenia, white as snowEach flower may bring a dream to youAs one flower does to meA dream of friendship firm and strongIn my fraternity.

(Chorus)Violet, VioletYou’re the fairest flower to meViolet, VioletEmblem of fraternityWith your perfume memories comeOf Sigma Alpha EpsilonDearest flower beneath the sunMy Violet.

Hail to the PurpleHail to the PurpleHail to the Gold,Hail to Phi Alpha, motto of oldHail success, fraternity,In years yet to come.Hail Sigma Alpha Epsilon

Phi Alpha BornI’m Phi Alpha bornAnd I’m Phi Alpha bredAnd when I die I’ll be Phi Alpha dead!So rah, rah, Phi Alpha, AlphaRah, rah, Phi Alpha, Alpha,Rah, rah, Phi Alpha! !

Sigma, Sigma AlphaSigma, Sigma Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon!To you we’ll sing our praises,Thru all the years to come;May your gold and purple bannerBe the first beneath the sun!Sigma, Sigma Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon!(Repeat from the beginning)

Come Sing to Sigma Alpha Epsilon (Medley)Come sing to Sigma Alpha EpsilonAnd to Minerva who will lead us onAnd to Phi Alpha with its guiding lightAnd to the lion who will fight, fight, fightAnd when in years to come, we’ll tell our sonsAbout the very best fraternityWe’ll sing of Sigma Alpha EpsilonSwing alongWith .

Hail to the purple, hail to the Gold,Hail to Phi Alpha, motto of old.Minerva’s true, the lion too,We’re loyal sons of.

We’re marching one by oneTo Sigma Alpha EpsilonHonor loyally, her name as we go marching onEver shall we standAs brothers in our mighty bandPhi Alpha, hail to thee,And sing of dear old .PHI ALPHA!

FriendsThe chairs are all empty.The last guest has gone.The candles burn lower and lower,And sputter on and on.But after the last guest departed,Haunting the smoke-laden air,There remaineth a lingering presenceThe ghost of good fellowship rare.

(Chorus)Friends, friends, friendsYou and I will be.Whether in fair or in dark stormy weather,We’ll stand or we’ll fall together,For.We will always be,Our bonds celebratingTill death separatingOld pals from me.Phi Alpha!

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APPENDIX J – GREEK ALPHABET

Alpha

Beta

Gamma

Delta

Epsilon

Zeta

Eta

Theta

Iota

Kappa

Lambda

Mu

Nu

Xi

Omicron

Pi

Rho

Sigma

Tau

Upsilon

Phi

Chi

Psi

Omega

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APPENDIX K – CHAPTER SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Attach a copy of the chapter’s scholarship program here.

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APPENDIX L – CLASS SCHEDULE FORM

NAME:

Class Days Meets

Time/Section Professor # of Credits

Anticipated Grade

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APPENDIX M – FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS

As a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, you are required to meet certain financial obligations. These include:

PLEDGE DUES $85 (ONE TIME)INITIATION FEE $225 (ONE TIME AT TIME OF INITIATION)TERM DUES XXXXXXX

YOUR TERM DUES MAY OR MAY NOT INCLUDERISK-MANAGEMENT FEE AMOUNT VARIES – DUE EACH YEAR IN FALLANNUAL DUES $105/MAN – DUE EACH YEAR IN SPRING

NOTE: This section should be modified to reflect your chapter’s financial obligations.

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APPENDIX N – CLASS SCHEDULE FORM

NAME:

Class Professor Current Grade

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Documents

The Basics of Parliamentary Procedure - thetgi.sae.netthetgi.sae.net/aspnet_client/FreeTextBox/upload/docume… · Web view"The True Gentleman is the man whose conduct proceeds