THE SCHOLAR'S PROVINCE ELEVENTH EDITION HANDBOOK OF PHI SIGMA PI NATIONAL HONOR FRATERNITY Copyright 2002 by Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity, Inc. All rights reserved. First edition 1941. Eleventh edition 2002. Printed in the United States of America by JPL Productions. Table of Contents Welcome 1 Introduction 2 The Fraternity Concept ............................................................................................ 2 The Purpose of Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity .......................................... 2 Balancing Scholarship, Leadership, and Fellowship ................................................ 3 The Development of Fraternities .............................................................................. 4 The History and Evolution of Phi Sigma Pi 6 Phi Sigma Pi Landmarks ............................................................................................ 6 The Founding ........................................................................................................... 7 The Birth of a National Fraternity (1921–42) ............................................................ 8 WWII and the Passing of the Old Guard (1942–54) ............................................... 13 Transition and Adaptation (1955–75) ..................................................................... 14 The Coeducational Issue (1975–84) ....................................................................... 16 Rebirth and Revitalization (1985–89) ...................................................................... 16 In Search of Excellence (1990–Present) .................................................................. 18 The National Vision for Phi Sigma Pi ...................................................................... 19 Local History .......................................................................................................... 20 The Founders 21 The Greek Alphabet 23 Pronunciation Guide ............................................................................................... 23 Insignia and Heraldry 24 The Coat of Arms ................................................................................................... 24 Phi Sigma Pi Jewelry ............................................................................................... 25 The Grand Seal ....................................................................................................... 26 The Shingle ............................................................................................................ 26 Fraternity Colors .................................................................................................... 26 The Ritual .............................................................................................................. 26 Brothers Are We ..................................................................................................... 27 The Initiation Program 28 Purpose of the Initiation Program ........................................................................... 28 Rights and Responsibilities of the Initiate ............................................................. 29 National Expectations ............................................................................................. 30 Developing a Constructive Outlook ....................................................................... 30 i Managing Your Time .............................................................................................. 31 Choosing the Right Path ........................................................................................ 32 Phi Sigma Pi's Anti-Hazing Policy .......................................................................... 33 The Active Undergraduate Member 34 Rights and Responsibilities .................................................................................... 34 The Ideal Chapter Member ..................................................................................... 35 Financial Obligations .............................................................................................. 37 The Active Collegiate Chapter 38 Chapter Structure ................................................................................................... 38 Chapter Officers ..................................................................................................... 39 Chapter Committees ............................................................................................... 39 Rules of Parliamentary Procedure ........................................................................... 39 Characteristics of a Stable Chapter ......................................................................... 41 The Role of Alumni 42 Joining an Alumni Chapter ..................................................................................... 44 Activating an Alumni Chapter ............................................................................... 44 The National Organization 45 Structure of the Organization ................................................................................. 45 Duties of the National Staff .................................................................................... 46 Professional Fraternity Association Membership Benefits .................................... 48 National Services and Supplies .............................................................................. 48 The Annual National Convention and Grand Chapter Conference ........................ 50 Glossary 51 ii Dear Initiating Member: We welcome you as you pursue active membership in Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity. The handbook of Phi Sigma Pi first appeared in 1941. Since its inception, numerous revisions and additions have occurred. The information in this book represents the common heritage and institutions which bind all Phi Sigma Pi chapters together. This publication should be used as a tool for you, the initiate, to learn the history, structure, services, and goals of the National Fraternity. It should also serve as a guide for you throughout your career as an active undergraduate member of Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity. It is intended that this information be studied in conjunction with chapter history, traditions, and programs. Membership in this fraternity recognizes you as an individual of high scholarship. But your responsibilities to yourself, this fraternity, and your fellow man are not limited to academic achievement alone. Because Phi Sigma Pi is an honor fraternity that stresses the principles of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship, you must constantly strive to embody these three principles in your life. It is a balance which can only be achieved through hard work, dedication to the local chapter and national organization, and a strong belief in the principles for which this fraternity stands. As you travel down the road that lies ahead of you, you will do well to keep these three principles in sight. Through scholarship, we can attain knowledge and expand our minds to more clearly see the possibilities surrounding us. Through leadership, we are given the opportunity to positively influence others. Through fellowship, we can reach out to others and share, thus strengthening the bonds which unite us as brothers. We wish you the best throughout your journey with Phi Sigma Pi! Fraternally, The National Council 1 Introduction The Fraternity Concept Fraternities have arisen in response to the universal human need to form special relationships with others who share similar ideals, goals, and interests. Therefore, all fraternities, whether social, service, professional, or honor, must have a purpose and plan of action to unite their members. Fraternities, whether male, female, or coeducational, are built on the concept of brotherhood—a condition where the closeness of the relationship existing between members promotes spiritual homogeneity and resembles the atmosphere of the family unit. Phi Sigma Pi is a brotherhood. Brotherhood requires meeting each other at least halfway. It means going out of your way at times to help others, and treating others as you would want them to treat you. Brotherhood exists when individuals can feel free to face their challenges knowing that others are concerned for their well-being. It is more intimate than just friendship—it has its roots in the responsibilities and obligations an individual assumes upon entering the National Fraternity. Brotherhood is a concept that exists regardless of gender. Nationally, members are referred to as brothers. However, whether conforming to a university policy or simply out of a personal preference, chapters may choose to use another term to refer to male and female members. Phi Sigma Pi has the distinction of being an honor fraternity as opposed to an honor society. The essential difference between an honor fraternity and an honor society is that an honor society is an association rather than an organization, and it functions mainly to recognize the past academic achievements of its potential members. The honor fraternity seeks to organize the service, fund-raising, social, and recreational potential of its membership while promoting its dedication to and respect for education and academic excellence. The Purpose of Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity In carrying out the purpose of the National Fraternity, Phi Sigma Pi shall strive to personify and encourage three ideals: 1. The acquisition and dissemination of information and knowledge through scholarship, 2. The application of professional skills and the fostering of leadership qualities by promoting and advancing the welfare of humanity, and 3. The fostering of non-discriminatory, fraternal fellowship within Phi Sigma Pi's ranks. 2 Phi Sigma Pi shall constantly strive to make these ideals dynamic in the lives of its members. Balancing Scholarship, Leadership, and Fellowship The question has often been asked, "What is Phi Sigma Pi?" Perhaps the most concrete answer is that Phi Sigma Pi is one-third honor society, one-third service organization, and one-third social fraternity. Phi Sigma Pi seeks to incorporate the best and most beneficial aspects of all of these types of organizations into its own program. The honor society aspect sets Phi Sigma Pi apart and commands respect. The social fraternity aspect builds fellowship and commitment, which in turn serves as a stimulus to undertake service projects, the greatest expression of leadership. Because Phi Sigma Pi is an honor fraternity that stresses the principles of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship, chapter activities must reflect these three principles. Chapters have many options for activities which promote pure scholarship, such as scheduling speakers, conferences, seminars, and workshops. They can also take part in writing scholarly papers, tutoring, or developing local scholarships and awards. Phi Sigma Pi believes that by undertaking service projects, students can learn about the problems facing today's society and can better shape their views and leadership skills. Phi Sigma Pi encourages its members to offer themselves as resources for charitable organizations. Determining the type of service projects, whether they serve the university, community, state, or a local or national charity, is a decision that rests entirely with the chapter. Scholarship and leadership are useless unless one has learned to work productively with others. Phi Sigma Pi promotes the concept of the well-rounded individual. The knowledge gained through working closely with others toward common goals builds fellowship, the third principle of Phi Sigma Pi. 3 Any activity that promotes fellowship teaches people about the intimacies and qualities of others. The knowledge gained through these social events serves to enhance working relationships and eventually stimulates the activity of the entire chapter, encouraging better scholastic and service projects. Fellowshipbuilding events can include such things as banquets, social and sporting events, or trips. Without these social and recreational activities, a chapter would grow weak and eventually become inactive due to lack of commitment. Fellowship establishes commitment—and that's what brotherhood is all about! However, at the same time, chapters must be image-conscious, realizing that they do not exist merely for having good times. Phi Sigma Pi is a balance of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship. Each leg of the tripod must be equally stressed, or the chapter may too closely resemble an honor society, service organization, or social fraternity. Each chapter must actively seek its own balance of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship. Phi Sigma Pi's goals are to cultivate and encourage high scholastic achievement, build leadership skills through service to others, and strengthen social skills all of which allow the individual to mature and develop into a thinking, concerned person who will be an asset to our society. Chapters that need assistance in developing a well-balanced program should consult the various national publications (listed on page 50 of this handbook) or contact the National Headquarters. The Development of Fraternities Fraternal orders played a very significant role in the societies of the ancient world. As early as 1427 B.C., the Eleusinian Mysteries of Ancient Greece were well-established, having developed from similar secret orders in Egypt and the Near East over a thousand years earlier. Initiation periods consisting of lectures, pageants, and religious dramas were used to train prospective members before entrance into the Eleusinian Mysteries. Several of these orders had initiation or probationary periods lasting as long as eight years. All of the orders had secret ceremonies, grips, passwords, and symbols to distinguish them from other groups. In 1776, both the United States and Phi Beta Kappa, the first American society to have a Greek letter name, were born. The conditions of the Revolutionary War and the decades of struggle to form a nation which followed were not conducive to the concept of the fraternity. Due to these factors, Phi Beta Kappa Fraternity quickly became and has since remained a purely honorary society which uses high scholastic achievement as its prerequisite for membership. From its humble beginnings at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, Phi Beta Kappa has evolved into one of the most respected honor societies in the country. As conditions within the United States stabilized and a demand for new facilities for higher education became evident, the fraternity concept received renewed support. By the fall of 1825, Kappa Alpha was formed at Union College in Schenectady, New York. Externally, Kappa Alpha bore a close resemblance 4 to Phi Beta Kappa, which had placed its fifth chapter at Union in 1817. It had a Greek name, it was secret and it had a badge. Kappa Alpha was so popular with students, that in 1827 they imitated it by founding two new fraternities on the campus—Sigma Phi and Delta Phi. These three fraternities, known as the Union Triad, set the pattern for the American fraternity system. As these three fraternities expanded and placed chapters at other institutions, new national fraternities were born. By the Civil War, the fraternity system had become so widespread that the majority of the chapters were able to reorganize and resume their activities after the war. Before the Civil War, fraternities existed exclusively for men. However, there were scattered reports of women being granted membership into these organizations. It was not until 1870 that Kappa Alpha Theta and Kappa Kappa Gamma were founded as the first Greek letter fraternities for women. By World War I, the fraternity system was well-established. However, national fraternal organizations would only charter chapters at four-year colleges and universities. Approximately 200 four-year normal or teachers colleges were off-limits. National fraternities, whether social, scholastic, professional, or leadership oriented, were reluctant to establish chapters at these institutions. Most of the teachers colleges around the country evolved into what are now state colleges and universities. One fraternity, namely Phi Sigma Pi, recognized the need to provide the benefits that a national fraternity could offer to young men in teachers colleges preparing for a career in education. World War I, the Great Depression, and World War II were difficult eras for all fraternities. These times caused fraternity expansion to come to a halt and even caused mergers and extinctions for some fraternities. However, fraternities boomed during the 1920s, 1950s, and 1980s as economic conditions were favorable and traditional attitudes were emphasized. The American College Greek Letter Fraternity is one of the oldest student organized activities on college campuses. It has continually attracted the interest and active participation of the finest and ablest students in the student body. It has become an integral part of the total educational program of the college, and its contribution to the education and training of the student has been distinctly wholesome and varied. — Interfraternity Research and Advisory Council 5 The History and Evolution of Phi Sigma Pi Phi Sigma Pi Landmarks: The historical overview 1916 1921 1925 1930 1931 1933 1940 1941 1949 1957 1959 1966 1970 1977 1987 1990 1991 1992 1993 1996 1997 1999 2000 February 14, founding of Phi Sigma Pi at State Teachers College, Warrensburg, known today as Central Missouri State University Phi Sigma Pi became national with the induction of the Gamma Chapter, Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois First National Council Coat of Arms was redesigned; Grand Seal was created; First publication, Phi Sigma Pi News Letter First magazine - The Lampadion Copyright of Brothers Are We Redefined the Coat of Arms, The Purple & Gold newsletter was created First Handbook of Phi Sigma Pi was published Incorporated nationally in Illinois Outstanding Chapter Award was established First Outstanding Chapter Award presented to: Iota Chapter, Bloomsburg University Incorporated in Pennsylvania as an honor fraternity Outstanding Chapter Award was renamed to Joseph Torchia Outstanding Chapter Award National Constitution was amended to admit eligible females First Guidebook (officer training manual) published First full-time hired position: Letti (Large) Becker Richard Cecil Todd and Clauda Pennock Todd Tripod Scholarship was established First Charles W. Chance Alumni Award presented to: Pi Chapter, Dickinson State University; Tau Chapter, East Carolina University First C. H. McClure Single Service Award presented to: Omicron Chapter, Shippensburg University; Tau Chapter, East Carolina University; Alpha Kappa Chapter, UNC - Chapel Hill First Sanders P. McComsey Most Improved Old Chapter Award presented to: Theta Chapter, Mansfield University First Clarence O. Williams Most Improved New Chapter Award presented to: Alpha Theta Chapter, Rutgers University First Steven A. DiGuiseppe Administrative Award presented to:Sigma Chapter, Millersville University; Alpha Epsilon Chapter, West Chester University Purchased first National Headquarters building First Todd Tripod Scholarship presented to: David L. Batts, Tau Chapter Built National Headquarters at 2119 Ambassador Circle, Lancaster, PA Jeffrey L. Johnson National Chapter Fellowship Award established and presented to: Beta Delta Chapter, North Carolina State University; Alpha Rho Chapter,Virginia Tech First Dr. Eldo L. Hendricks Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Programming presented to Alpha Eta Chapter, University of Delaware Youth of America named National Philanthropy 6 The Founding World War I raged in Europe from 1914 to 1918. Meanwhile, another struggle was occurring in the American Midwest. Unlike the war, this American struggle was not one of nationalism, expansionism, or alliances, but rather a fight for identity, recognition, and increased potential for professional advancement. The theater for this encounter was the State Teachers College at Warrensburg, Missouri, one of almost 200 institutions nationwide dedicated to the task of preparing educators for the ever-growing country. The Missouri Beta Chapter of Phi Lambda Epsilon—a national fraternity founded in 1892, with chapters located on normal and high school campuses— was organized in 1894 as the first fraternity on the Warrensburg campus. This State Teachers College, Warrensburg, today known as Central Missouri State University chapter was a thriving organization until the spring of 1914. At this time, the faculty of the institution thoroughly investigated the fraternity and found that it only emphasized the social side of college life. The fraternity was disbanded. During the 1914–15 school year, a group of students with strong academic values, who also had been members of Phi Lambda Epsilon, and a group of other male students attending the college, who from an educational standpoint had in mind high ideals regarding the teaching profession and the social needs of the students, brought together their concerns and presented them to the faculty. The faculty at first disapproved of a new fraternity but through the encouragement and support of President Eldo L. Hendricks, Dean Claude A. Phillips, and Professor C. H. McClure, the faculty approved the establishment of a new fraternity on campus. All three men had been members of Phi Delta Kappa, a national education fraternity which operated in larger universities and colleges with graduate departments of education. The three men concurred that due to the quality of these students, they should be affiliated with and receive the membership benefits of a national fraternal organization. 7 Upon reviewing the academic records of each of the students, Hendricks, Phillips, and McClure felt that the group should affiliate with a nationally recognized fraternal organization stressing scholarship. They therefore contacted the most prestigious honorary scholastic fraternity existing in the United States, Phi Beta Kappa, requesting permission to establish a chapter on their campus. They were advised immediately by Phi Beta Kappa that chapters could only be established on campuses of qualified liberal arts colleges and universities, not on campuses of teachers colleges, teacher training schools, or normal schools. The professors were distressed to receive this information, but undaunted, they decided that since many of the club’s members were campus leaders they should be affiliated with a national fraternal organization stressing leadership. To this end, the professors contacted the most prestigious honorary leadership fraternity existing in the United States, Omicron Delta Kappa. Again, they were advised immediately by Omicron Delta Kappa that chapters could only be established on campuses of qualified liberal arts colleges and universities, not on the campuses of teachers colleges, teacher training schools, or normal schools. The professors were greatly disturbed by this information, but believing that outstanding young men preparing for the teaching profession should not be denied membership in a national fraternal organization primarily because they were matriculating at teachers colleges, they decided to contact nationally recognized social fraternities stressing fellowship. Since the local club was social in nature, this seemed like a reasonable alternative. Once again, the professors received the same answer to their request. The three professors decided that if no national fraternal organization would recognize these fine men simply because they were enrolled in a teachers college, then they would create a fraternal organization unique unto itself. They would not create one that would stress only scholarship, or leadership, or fellowship, but one that would be built on a tripod which equally stressed all three qualities of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship. So on February 14, 1916, Phi Sigma Pi was founded and originally named Phi Sigma Pi Honorary Professional Fraternity. Dr. Hendricks, the leading force behind the creation of Phi Sigma Pi, was the first person to sign a Phi Sigma Pi rollbook and is therefore known as Alpha 1. He was followed by Dean Phillips and Professor McClure. Together, Hendricks, Phillips, and McClure are known as the founding fathers of the fraternity. In addition to the three faculty members, the first chapter also consisted of ten undergraduate and honorary members. They were Fred Thayer, J. A. Leach, R. W. Grinstead, Ray F. Pankins, Wade C. Fowler, Roy G. Bigelow, Arthur Kresse, John A. Doak, Harold Patterson, and Harry Hill. Within one year, the chapter had elected another twelve members into its ranks. The Birth of a National Fraternity 1921–42 From the very moment that Phi Sigma Pi was born, chapter members at 8 Warrensburg intended to make the organization a national fraternity. As their careers allowed for new doors of opportunity to be opened to the fraternity, many of the early Alpha Chapter members founded new Phi Sigma Pi chapters. The first four years were extremely difficult due to World War I. Despite this challenge, the chapter managed to perfect a local constitution, establish a National Constitution that detailed how to start new chapters and defined the roles of National Officers, prepare a ritual, and actively promote the fraternity to other institutions. Finally, on May 2, 1921, the fraternity became national when Gamma Chapter was installed at Bradley PolytechRolla F. Wood nic Institute in Peoria, Illinois. Gamma Chapter was founded due to the dedication of Alpha alumnus Joseph V. Hanna, who began the chapter shortly after he accepted a teaching position at Bradley in 1920. With the addition of a second chapter, it was time to define the national structure. National Officers were elected to advance, advise, and direct the growth of the fraternity. The first National President of Phi Sigma Pi was Joseph G. Bryan, Alpha 28. However, due to a lack of aggressive leadership, it took another four years to add Delta Chapter on May 2, 1925. While other national fraternities were booming and taking advantage of the economic paradise of the 1920s, Phi Sigma Pi floundered nationally. Finally, Rolla F. Wood, Alpha 39, emerged as the National President. He is credited with galvanizing the National Officers into a cohesive unit and capitalizing on this unity for expansion and increased services for member chapters. During his tenure, the national organization was made more visible to attract interested institutions. One way this was accomplished was through Wood’s efforts to make Phi Sigma Pi one of the twenty-one professional fraternities representing the fields of architecture, chemistry, commerce, dentistry, education, engineering, law, medicine, and pharmacy who banded together on March 2, 1928, to form the Professional Interfraternity Conference. Wood's strong leadership led to the founding of Epsilon Chapter at George Peabody College (now Vanderbilt University) on August 16, 1928, mainly through connections he made while pursuing graduate work there. Zeta Chapter at Eastern State College (now Dakota State College) had been founded rather informally about one month earlier in July of 1928, and consisted of four faculty members, one of whom was Lawrence N. Pease. Pease was also one of the last members of Phi Lambda Epsilon at Warrensburg in 1914, and he undoubtedly helped conceptualize the idea of Phi Sigma Pi. While efforts were being made to establish what became known as the 9 Walter P. Percival Gamma Chapter, McClure accepted a faculty position at the State Teachers College in Kirksville, Missouri, and was attempting to organize a chapter at this college campus. Because it was believed that this would be the second Phi Sigma Pi chapter, Beta, the second letter in the Greek alphabet, was reserved for this chapter. Although approval came after the second Phi Sigma Pi chapter was activated, this new chapter was installed at the State Teachers College in Kirksville, Missouri, on April 30, 1929, and was named Beta Chapter. On the same day, Eta Chapter was installed at the State Teachers College, Indiana, Pennsylvania, after receiving a petition from Walter P. Percival, professor of education. So enthusiastic was Percival, Eta 1, that he was elected National President in 1930. During his brief tenure, the fraternity more than doubled in size from seven to fifteen chapters. Of these eight new chapters, six were at Pennsylvania state teachers colleges. This phenomenal interest was due to Clarence O. Williams, Alpha 26, who served as National Secretary from 1930 to 1936 and used his position as an associate professor of education at Pennsylvania State College, State College, Pennsylvania, to make valuable contacts at a majority of the fourteen Pennsylvania state teachers colleges. The years 1929 to 1931 built upon the national solidarity concept initiated under President Wood. In 1930, the Grand Seal of the fraternity was cast. Standardized charters and membership certificates were also designed. The official badge, service key, and other jewelry pieces were created in consultation with the L. G. Balfour Company. The Coat of Arms was redesigned in 1930 in hopes that a more professional emblem would better depict the ideals of the fraternity. The first national publication for all undergraduate members and alumni was introduced in 1930 as the Phi Sigma Pi News Letter. Several months before the end of his term in 1931, President Percival was forced to resign when he accepted an educational Clarence O. Williams position in the province of Quebec. How10 ever, his resignation was preceded by three major changes in the National Constitution of Phi Sigma Pi at the February 22, 1931, Grand Chapter Convention in Detroit, Michigan. Originally, the National Officers had been the Grand President, First Vice President, Second Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Counselor. This meeting eliminated the Second Vice President, added the office of Historian, and changed the official titles of the officers from Grand to National Officers. Second, the position of Regional Director, designed to cultivate new chapters in designated geographic regions throughout the country, was established as an appointed position. Finally, the fraternity was changed from an honorary professional fraternity to a professional education fraternity to better reflect its purpose. The Phi Sigma Pi News Letter format was changed in the Fall of 1931 to magazine form. The Lampadion, which means the little torch, became the James K. Stoner Beecher Flanagan official magazine of the fraternity and was mailed three times a year to all members. James K. Stoner, Eta 38, began his two decades of association with the national organization by serving as the editor of the magazine. Despite the hardships of the Great Depression, 1929–31 were some of the most productive years the fraternity experienced to date. The Depression took its toll on six chapters by 1941. Zeta was the first chapter to go inactive in 1931 when the state of South Dakota changed Eastern State College from a four-year to a two-year school. Financial hardships and decreased enrollments also forced Beta, Delta, Epsilon, Nu, and Xi Chapters to go inactive. Fortunately, the fraternity added six new chapters during the 1931–41 decade. Unlike the other new chapters, which began as Phi Sigma Pi, Tau Chapter, chartered on May 28, 1936, began as a local fraternity known as Tau Sigma Sigma. Beecher Flanagan, Epsilon 2 and Tau 12, was a professor at East Carolina Teachers College at the time. He persuaded the existing group to 11 seek affiliation with Phi Sigma Pi. While the decade was not profitable in terms of chapter growth, several important events occurred within the national organization. In 1933, Edward Ingraham, Theta 21, and Charles Darrin, Theta 42, worked with the Music Department at Mansfield State Teachers College to put the ideals and spirit of the fraternity to music. The fraternity song that they composed is titled Brothers Are We. This original version is still the official one that is sung today. In 1935, Kappa Phi Kappa, a professional education fraternity founded at Dartmouth College on April 26, 1922, which had forty-two active chapters at four-year institutions, contacted Phi Sigma Pi to consider a merger. Since eleven chapters had been chartered in the past five years, the fraternity felt that it possessed ample growth potential and that a merger with Kappa Phi Kappa would only serve to destroy the identity of Phi Sigma Pi. The discussion to merge was tabled by Phi Sigma Pi in 1936, but Kappa Phi Kappa continued for the next four years to encourage a merger. By 1940, Phi Sigma Pi had lost six of its chapters, and inquiries for new chapters were basically non-existent. With World War II now looming in the future, the fraternity was more open to the idea of a merger as insurance of the survival of its ideals. After much debate, a plan to merge the two fraternities was prepared by two officers from each of the fraternities. During the first two weeks of 1940, the fourteen active chapters of Phi Sigma Pi voted on the proposed merger conditions, which would have resulted in the loss of Phi Sigma Pi as a national entity. The active members voted 172 to 106 against the merger. While the merger debate raged, several internal developments occurred. The first was the realization of the need to develop alumni support. In the summer of 1937, twenty-seven members of Phi Sigma Pi were doing graduate work at Pennsylvania State College and organized the first, though unofficial, alumni chapter of the fraternity. In response to this demand, a constitutional amendment adopted at the 1941 Atlantic City Convention allowed for the official creation of alumni chapters. Additionally, life memberships were established to keep alumni in better contact with the fraternity through mailings of newsletters, magazines, and announcements. The first life member was Charles W. Chance, Gamma 18. The second development dealt with enhancing the national image and increasing communication with the active student members. In 1940, the Coat of Arms was simplified to allow for better reproduction. In March of that same year, the Purple & Gold newsletter was established as an outgrowth of a need for closer contact between the National Office and the active local chapter members. Unlike The Lampadion magazine, this publication was not tailored to include articles which would also interest alumni. Up until 1941 there was no national medium through which new members could learn the national history and goals of the organization. National President Clair B. Wilson, Kappa 10, recognized the need to encourage the learning of the material and transformed his ideas into the Handbook of Phi Sigma Pi. Had it not been for the Depression, the 1931–41 decade probably would have been even more profitable in terms of 12 new chapters. However, it was a boost of confidence for the fraternity when Phi Chapter at State Teachers College, Minot, North Dakota, was chartered on May 8, 1941. WWII and the Passing of the Old Guard 1942–54 Due to the war, all of the fifteen active chapters went inactive in late 1942. Many of the schools had such low enrollments during this time that the state legislatures considered closing them permanently. The war prevented the 1943 Grand Chapter Convention, where the election of new National Officers would have taken place. It was agreed that the Clair B. Wilson current officers would guide the fraternity and its ultimate reorganization until the next Grand Chapter meeting could be held after the war. By the Fall of 1946, all of the fifteen chapters active prior to the war were reactivated with the exception of Mu Chapter at State Teachers College, Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. The war caused chaos while updating alumni addresses. A great number of alumni lost their lives during the war or relocated at its end. The national organization did not have the finances or resources to locate these men since its main priority was to reactivate and develop the chapters. Because students at teachers colleges historically were of limited financial ability, the national treasury reflected this situation and did not have the finances to develop programs like other fraternities chartering chapters at colleges and universities. The loss of alumni, not only as a financial resource but as a leadership pool, proved to be a traumatic blow with effects that would be felt for years. Since the fraternity had gone national in 1921, the leaders at the national level had been the faculty advisors of the chapters and active alumni. By 1950, not only was contact with alumni critically severed, but the faculty advisors who guided the fraternity through most of the past two decades were ready to retire. By 1954, all of the men who had led Phi Sigma Pi so well were gone. Gone were the wisdom and guidance of Clair B. Wilson; James M. McCallister, Alpha 33; James K. Stoner; James M. McCallister 13 Sanders P. McComsey Simon S. Shearer and long-time Regional Director Simon S. Shearer, Omicron 20. Death claimed Beecher Flanagan in 1950 and Sanders P. McComsey, Sigma 17, in 1955, while both men were in office. The Regional Director system was shelved in order to utilize the available leaders in National Officer positions. The positions of Secretary and Treasurer were combined to form the Secretary/Treasurer position in 1951. The Lampadion was no longer published and communication between the chapters and the National Office was poor. Despite these obstacles, the fraternity was incorporated nationally in Illinois on April 25, 1949. Transition and Adaptation 1955–75 The fraternity was in need of new leadership as the Old Guard retired—and it got it. Two of the fraternity’s most dedicated National Officers emerged from this era— namely, Joseph Torchia, Sigma 296, and Richard C. Todd, Sigma 58 and Tau 878. Their leadership and love of the fraternity allowed the organization to survive its greatest challenge to date. This challenge manifested itself as a loss of identity. Most state teachers colleges were changed to state colleges between the 1950s and the early 1970s. Phi Sigma Pi could no longer exist as just a professional education fraternity for teachers in state teachers colleges. If it did, it would have no growth potential. The 1950s were booming times for other fraternities, and Phi Sigma Pi was once again missing its opportunity for growth. Proof of this was the fact that from 1955 to 1965, only two new chapters were added. Omega Nu Epsilon, a local fraternity at State Teachers College, Gorham, Maine, joined the ranks of Phi Sigma Pi on May 21, 1955, under the condition that the next two Greek letters— Chi and Psi—be skipped so it could be called Omega Chapter and retain part of its original name. Similarly, November 21, 1961, saw the Big Guy Fraternity at State Teachers College, Farmington, Maine, admitted as the Beta Gamma Chapter of Phi Sigma Pi. 14 With the assistance of Henry W. Olsen, Rho 98; Leroy G. Pulver, Pi 27; Perry McCandless, Alpha 384; and Abram Foster, Sigma 340, Todd and Torchia led the fraternity to the realization that it must either adapt or perish. At the October 1, 1966, Grand Chapter Convention, held in Washington, D. C., President Abram Foster said, “We have remained stagnant and this is not good. We are losing this opportunity to spread the purposes of Phi Sigma Pi. We must act.” He stated that honor fraternities were necessary on all campuses at a time when schools were openly discouraging social fraternities. Seeing Joseph Torchia that Phi Sigma Pi had always placed exceptional emphasis on scholarship—the premise being that good teachers were also good scholars—it was suggested that an honor fraternity which stressed scholarship, leadership, and fellowship would preserve the tripod, yet allow for expansion. To this end, it was moved and accepted to create Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity, with the word honor being interpreted as a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or better on a 4.00 scale. In 1966, the decision was made to hold the National Convention every year instead of every two years to keep enthusiasm alive among the active chapters. Foster, Torchia, and Todd also undertook a massive expansion program after the fraternity was incorporated as an honor fraternity in Pennsylvania on December 2, 1966. Over 300 four-year institutions nationwide were contacted by letter to spark their interest in this new honor fraternity. Assumably, the social climate of the late 1960s contributed to the fact that no new chapters resulted from these efforts. Many colleges were being torn apart internally due to student unrest with the Vietnam War. Of the schools returning a no response, most indicated that an all-male honor fraternity was not desirable during this era of increased civil rights awareness. Meanwhile, the transition to an honor fraternity placed unbearable stress on some chapters, and several folded. By 1974, only eight active chapters remained. Were it not for the encouragement Richard C. Todd and devotion of Todd and Torchia, Phi Sigma Pi may have folded, closing the door on future opportunities. In recognition of Torchia's achievements, the Outstanding Chapter Award, established in 1957, was renamed the Joseph Torchia Outstanding Chapter Award in 1970. 15 The Coeducational Issue 1975–84 Late in 1975, Tau Chapter was informed by its university that it was in violation of Final Title IX Regulation Implementing Education Amendments of 1972 Prohibiting Sex Discrimination in Education (hereafter referred to as Title IX). After consultation with the United States Department of Health, Education and Welfare, it was concluded that the national organization must allow Tau Chapter to admit eligible women or the chapter would cease to exist by July 1, 1976. Title IX argued that since Phi Sigma Pi was an honor fraternity, it must Clauda Pennock Todd become coeducational since remaining an allmale organization would have a discriminatory effect upon the future career opportunities of eligible women. (Social fraternal organizations are exempt from Title IX.) President Vaughn Rhodes, Pi 359; Secretary/Treasurer Gerald Burkhardt, Sigma 669; and Todd argued that this was not a matter of wanting to go coeducational, but rather a matter of having to comply with federal regulations. To remain an honor fraternity, Phi Sigma Pi would have to become coeducational. Three of the existing eight chapters threatened to withdraw from Phi Sigma Pi if women were admitted, and two were told by their respective universities to close their doors if they did not. At the October 7, 1977, National Convention in Washington, D. C., under the leadership of President Richard J. Donald, Iota 800, the National Constitution was amended to admit eligible females, thus ensuring that Phi Sigma Pi would remain an honor fraternity. Women were admitted into Phi Sigma Pi beginning in the fall semester of 1977. Alpha Chapter was reactivated coeducational and Tau Chapter was the first existing chapter to induct a female honorary member, Clauda Pennock Todd, Tau 879, wife of Richard C. Todd. The other chapters gradually went coeducational, with Sigma Chapter being the last all-male chapter to admit women. Some chapters were not able to adjust to the change, and by 1984 only six active chapters remained. Rebirth and Revitalization 1985-1989 The years 1985-1986 were a time of self-evaluation for Phi Sigma Pi. After seventy years of evolution, there was much to learn from the successes and failures of the past. A course of action to revitalize the fraternity was constructed and continues 16 to develop today. Under the continuing leadership of Steven A. DiGuiseppe, Sigma 734; Jeffrey L. Johnson, Sigma 794 and Alpha Gamma 1; Jack W. Thornton, Tau 862; and numerous others, the foundation for the future was condensed into four wide-reaching premises. First, fundamental changes had to be made in the executive and legislative structure of the fraternity. Second, the National Office needed to offer more services to the existing chapters. Third, the financial stability of the National Office had to be secured if growth and development were to occur. Finally, a plan of action to add new chapters to the ranks of Phi Jack W. Thornton Sigma Pi had to be developed. If anything was learned from the past seven decades, it was that this fraternity would reach its potential only with a strong national organization in place to serve as a resource for its chapters. A new marketing approach was taken, and it proved to be phenomenally successful. A brochure was developed to attract eligible students. Professional posters and advertisements were created, and personalized stationery and envelopes were produced. The Purple & Gold newsletter began to be printed professionally. Its informative announcements, essays, reports, and photographs added the finishing touch in the effort to let the world know that Phi Sigma Pi was a unique group which would be an asset to any campus. This was a very refreshing alternative for many institutions. So refreshing, in fact, that by May 1989, twelve new or reactivated chapters were added to the rolls of active chapters, bringing the total to eighteen. Since the founding of Phi Sigma Pi, the National Office was traditionally located in the home of the National Secretary. Each time a new Secretary was elected, the office moved to a different part of the country. Since 1951, the office of Secretary/Treasurer was held by a Sigma brother. For this reason, it became an unofficial understanding that the National Office was located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. However, as more chapters were added, the workload on the volunteer National Officers intensified, and Steven A. DiGuiseppe the supplies and equipment required to run 17 the fraternity were quickly overwhelming the capacity of the Secretary/Treasurer's home. To remedy this situation, the National Office was officially separated from the Secretary/ Treasurer in 1988. The fraternity began renting 1,000 square feet of space in Millersville, Pennsylvania, as its official office, and a part-time administrative assistant was hired to manage many of the day-to-day functions. In Search of Excellence 1990–Present Jeffrey L. Johnson With twenty active chapters and many more targeted for development, the National Council made one of the boldest moves in the fraternity’s history by hiring a full-time executive director in July 1990. Since that time, the fraternity's full-time staff has grown to include a director of expansion, director of member services, region consultants, office manager, and an administrative assistant. With the addition of more chapters and staff, the National Office quickly outgrew its Millersville location. In January 1992, the fraternity purchased a three-story townhouse in downtown Lancaster. As the final step in a long journey for the National Office, a permanent headquarters was constructed in the Lancaster area in the spring of 1996. These developments could not have occurred had it not been for the ever-increasing financial security of the national treasury. For years, the leanness of the national treasury prevented the development of the fraternity. Phi Sigma Pi National Headquarters Since 1986, readjustments in dues and fees, along with increased memberships and sales items, generated revenues that have caused the national budget to increase significantly. However, the task of achieving financial security is far from accomplished. To this end, a database of over 20,000 alumni has been established, and current addresses are being added daily. A program is also being developed to bring these alumni back into Phi Sigma Pi as sources of leadership, professional expertise, and financial assistance. Chapters prosper with guidance and support. This concept is critical to the long-term stability of the fraternity. Initially, if a chapter is to operate efficiently, resources must be made available for the education of new members and the 18 training of existing members. To this end, the National Office published its first Guidebook in 1987, with revisions in 1988 and 1990. This publication was geared toward chapter committees and provided examples of service projects, fundraisers, recreational events, speakers, and leadership and management skills. By 1991, the Guidebook evolved into individual committee and officer manuals. In addition, The Scholar's Province handbook, originally written in 1941, continues to be revised and improved periodically. The National Office also sponsors several seminars at the annual national convention and attempts to have a national representative visit each chapter at least once a year to help further develop the chapter’s potential. When guidance fails and the chapter borders on inactivity, national support is essential if the chapter is to stay maintained. Since 1986, when chapters could not help themselves, national support has manifested itself through financial assistance, consultation, emergency trips, and organizing and operating membership drives. The ability to do this has saved several chapters in times of crisis. These chapters would have gone inactive without the changes that have served to strengthen the National Office. The leaps and bounds made since 1986 have been remarkable. Once again, this is a growing, promising national organization. The National Office exists for the chapter and because of the chapter. The two are so closely linked that one cannot survive without the other. Working together as a national unit has brought this fraternity to its brightest spot in its history; the potential for growth and development is limitless. The only thing that can hold us back now are our own prejudice and ignorance. The National Vision for Phi Sigma Pi Over the years, it has become increasingly apparent that Phi Sigma Pi needs to have a vision—a formalized statement of legitimacy for the many changes that are occurring. A national vision is not new to Phi Sigma Pi. Hendricks, McClure, and Phillips envisioned the day when our fraternity would have a chapter at over 200 teaching colleges throughout the United States. That was their vision, their ultimate goal, their finish line. It requires a tremendous amount of effort, planning, leadership, time, money, and commitment to achieve a vision—to make the hundreds of changes and improvements necessary to turn aspirations into reality. With that in mind, Phi Sigma Pi aspires to be the leader in the fraternity world, as evidenced by: — — — — international chapter representation; nationwide name recognition; world class member education and services; quality lifelong contacts and continued opportunities for member participation; — a nationwide network of employers and associations; 19 — pioneering efforts in fraternity marketing, advertising, recruiting, communication, and mass media; — a persistence in fostering the integrity of Phi Sigma Pi; and — a continued commitment to the ideals of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship through training and participating in supporting events. Local History Every chapter has its own beginning, which makes it difficult to go into full detail. You will be learning as well as creating the history of your local chapter. As new local landmarks happen, be sure to note them. Chapter name: _______________________________________________ Date founded: ________________________________________________ Chapter consultant: ____________________________________________ Chapter faculty advisor: _________________________________________ Local awards: ________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ Interesting facts about my chapter: _________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 20 The Founders Phi Sigma Pi was the brainchild of President Eldo L. Hendricks, Dean Claude A. Phillips, and Professor C. H. McClure of what is now Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, Missouri. Approximately 20,000 students in academic institutions with Phi Sigma Pi chapters have enjoyed a rich professional experience because of the vision and zeal of these three founders, of whom President Hendricks was the leader. Early members of Alpha Chapter will always remember the fellowship, hospitality, and professional inspiration stimulated by the fraternity meetings frequently conducted in the home of Dr. Hendricks. Eldo L. Hendricks Claude A. Phillips Dr. Hendricks served as president of the Warrensburg institution from 1915 until his retirement in 1937. He began his service as head of the History Department in 1910. He was one of the foremost members of the American Association of Teachers Colleges and was an active champion of progressive policies for the professional education of teachers. He served the national organization of Phi Sigma Pi diligently and assumed the newly created position of Central Regional Director from 1931 until 1935. He was also instrumental in founding the Alpha Chapter of Sigma Tau Gamma, a national social fraternity chartered at Warrensburg in 1920. Hendricks died on November 22, 1938, at his home after suffering a heart attack following an illness that had lasted since June. With the passing of Dr. Hendricks, Phi Sigma Pi had its first significant break in the ranks of its founders, and the country lost one of its most well-known figures from the field of teacher education. Dr. Claude A. Phillips served for many years as the dean of faculty at the 21 Warrensburg institution. He spent a total of eighteen years at Warrensburg. In 1924, Dr. Phillips became a professor of education and director of the University Elementary School at the University of Missouri. His lectures and writings on various phases of elementary education made him well-known throughout the country. While he was never very active on the national level, Dr. Phillips returned to Alpha Chapter to lecture and inspire well into the 1950s. Of the three founders, no man put more of his time and heart into the national development of Phi Sigma Pi than Dr. C. H. McClure, professor of history. He served at Warrensburg for eighteen years, thirteen of C. H. McClure which were as head of the History Department. In 1928, McClure accepted a teaching position at the State Teachers College, Kirksville, Missouri, where he immediately formed a chapter of Phi Sigma Pi. His efforts led to the chartering of Beta Chapter in 1929. He served as both National Counselor and Vice President from 1930 to 1937. In recognition of all that he had given to the fraternity since its nationalization in 1921, he was awarded the first service key ever issued by Phi Sigma Pi in 1931. Our appraisal of the work of those who have gone before is a measure of our ability to assume responsibility as guardians of civilization. Phi Sigma Pi has had at least three great pioneers in its history: Dr. E. L. Hendricks, whose gracious smile was an inspiration to every student that entered the doors of Central Missouri State Teachers College— large, handsome with a Grecian face, he will ever be remembered by those who knew him; Dr. C. A. Phillips, whose enthusiasm, breadth of vision caused him to be a favorite of those who were in his classes; Dr. C. H. McClure, who was able to take the common things in life and make them appear beautiful and important, and who had the ability to inspire all of his students with confidence in themselves, will ever be remembered by all who knew him. May we always cherish the character and the memory of these three great pioneers. May we always have the enthusiasm and vision that these men had. —R. F. Wood, Past National Officer and Faculty Advisor of Alpha Chapter 22 The Greek Alphabet Pronunciation Guide There are twenty-four letters in the Greek alphabet. Each has both an English and Greek pronunciation. However, because the final effect often sounds best when the two pronunciations are combined, fraternities are not consistent in using either exclusively. Fraternities generally use the English "a" sound as in "ask," the Greek "e" sound as in "hay," and the English "i" sound as in "eye." Α Β Γ âˆ† Ε Ζ Η Θ Ι Κ Λ Μ Ν Ξ Ο Π Ρ Σ Τ Υ Φ Χ Ψ â„¦ Alpha Beta Gamma Delta Epsilon Zeta Eta Theta Iota Kappa Lambda Mu Nu Xi Omicron Pi Rho Sigma Tau Upsilon Phi Chi Psi Omega 23 Greek English Alpha Bayta Gahmma Delta Epsilon Zayta Ayta Thayta Iota Kahppa Lahmda Mew New Zee Omicron Pee Rho Sigma Tow (owl) Oopsilon Phee Chee Psee Omayga Alpha Beeta Gamma Delta Epsilon Zeeta Eeta Theeta Iota Kappa Lambda Mew New Zi (eye) Omicron Pi (eye) Rho Sigma Tawe Upsilon Phi (eye) Chi (eye) Psi (eye) Omeega Insignia and Heraldry The Coat of Arms The Coat of Arms has been modified twice since its inception in 1916. The original Coat of Arms consisted of a shield bearing the Lamp of Knowledge, three stars, and clasped hands. The shield was bordered by two representations of Hermes, messenger of the Greek gods, who held a large Greek letter Phi over the shield. A ribbon bearing the Greek words Paideia, Philia, and Sophia adorned the bottom of the shield. As the National Fraternity expanded, the Coat of Arms was redesigned in 1930 to present a more professional image. The new Coat of Arms consisted of a shield bearing an open book and staff, three stars, and four clasped links. The shield was surmounted by the Lamp of Knowledge and adorned at the bottom with a ribbon upon which were embroidered the Greek words Phi Sigma Pi. The most recent change to the Coat of Arms came in 1940, resulting in a more highly defined version of the 1930 Coat of Arms, and one which could be more easily reproduced. This version is still used by the National Fraternity. 24 Phi Sigma Pi Jewelry The Membership Pin consists of the three Greek letters comprising the name of the National Fraternity, linked diagonally. All new brothers in good standing receive this pin the semester/quarter following induction into Phi Sigma Pi. A similar version of the pin, inlaid with thirteen pearls, may also be purchased. The National Crest is the most distinctive piece of National Fraternity jewelry. It is inlaid with eighteen pearls and is ideal for formal occasions. The Lavaliere is a piece of jewelry that can be worn on a necklace, bracelet, or keychain. It consists of the three Greek letters comprising the name of the National Fraternity. The Distinguished Service Key is awarded only by the unanimous consent of the National Council to individuals who have given outstanding service to the National Fraternity. It is also available as a keypin. The Chapter Service Key is awarded by the consent of the chapter to individuals who have given outstanding service to Phi Sigma Pi. It is also available as a keypin. The Initiate Pin is furnished by the chapter to all initiates and is meant to be worn throughout the initiation program. It is returned to the chapter following induction. 25 National policy states that only members of Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity may wear National Fraternity jewelry, and that only members or the professional staff may wear clothing bearing the three Greek letters or symbols representing Phi Sigma Pi. The selection on the previous page represents only a few of the jewelry pieces available. Contact the National Headquarters for further information. The Grand Seal The Grand Seal is circular in form, and the words Phi Sigma Pi Fraternity— Founded 1916 are inscribed around the outer edge. The central portion of the seal bears the three Greek letters. The Shingle The Shingle is the membership certificate of Phi Sigma Pi. Each new member receives a certificate indicating the individual's name, chapter, institution, and date of induction. The certificate bears the Grand Seal and has the signatures of the National President and National Secretary. Fraternity Colors Phi Sigma Pi's colors are purple and gold. White is used as an auxiliary color when needed. The Ritual Like most other fraternal organizations, Phi Sigma Pi has a ritual which is secret and known only to those within its circle of brotherhood. Although The Ritual is the only means by which an individual becomes a member of Phi Sigma Pi, it is much more than simply a ceremony for the creation of new brothers. The Ritual is the principal link uniting all members of Phi Sigma Pi. It should serve as a constant inspiration, a reminder of the commitment made to Phi Sigma Pi, and a guide to a better way of life. It must not be so well guarded that members forget its concepts, commitments, and expectations. The effectiveness of my message is in direct proportion to your knowledge and belief in my values. —Edward M. King, The Secret Thoughts of a Ritual 26 Brothers Are We Music by Charles Darrin, Words by Edward Ingraham Copyright 1933 by Theta Chapter of Phi Sigma Pi 27 The Initiation Program Purpose of the Initiation Program The initiation program is a time of learning. It is also a time when both you and the active chapter have the opportunity to assess whether or not Phi Sigma Pi is the organization for you. If you are to reach your full potential as a brother and leave your mark on the National Fraternity's history, you need to have a complete and balanced understanding of the National Fraternity very early in your association with Phi Sigma Pi. You need to know the nature of the group, understand its goals, and learn how it functions by experiencing it for yourself. The main purpose of the initiation program is to prepare you for active membership in Phi Sigma Pi. Every new member of Phi Sigma Pi must be completely prepared for the duties and responsibilities that membership demands. Our leaders of tomorrow must be able to understand chapter operations today to ensure the fraternity's continued success. To this end, the National Council has established the following guidelines. These guidelines should become both your goals and the chapter’s goals for the initiation program. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Become acquainted with the chapter's active alumni and honorary members and advisor(s). Learn all you can about each brother and fellow initiate. Learn the National Constitution and Chapter Bylaws. Become familiar with the names and faces of the National Officers and National Staff. Know the locations of other Phi Sigma Pi chapters. Learn about your college or university as well as the surrounding community. Develop pride in and dedication to Phi Sigma Pi. Introduce yourself to situations requiring leadership. Place yourself in positions of responsibility. Learn how the organization works as well as the purpose and ideals of Phi Sigma Pi. Involve yourself in fellowship-building activities. Help develop national and chapter unity. Learn national and chapter history. The initiation program is meant to be a process of learning, inspiration, cohesiveness, and achievement—not degradation, humiliation, or hazing. While each individual must earn and deserve the privilege of membership in Phi Sigma Pi, this must be accomplished in a positive, character-building, dignified, and 28 constructive manner. Although each chapter differs as to how its initiation program strives to achieve the aforementioned goals, its requirements and policy must be in agreement with the National Constitution. Additionally, since the chapter exists within the framework of the collegiate institution, it is not unreasonable for the chapter to require that all initiates have a working knowledge of the school’s history and traditions. The initiation program is a time of doing, participating, working, thinking, and achieving. If you cannot master the minimal yet essential obligations required by the initiation program, then the chapter is justified in assuming that your sincerity and desire are superficial and that you are not yet ready for the greater obligations and responsibilities of active membership. Rights and Responsibilities of the Initiate An initiate is a novice, and therefore justly limited in his or her ability to influence Phi Sigma Pi policies, practices, decision-making, and activities. This is because the knowledge of the initiates is incomplete, their talents are untested, and their experience is not yet acquired. Although the initiates' influence is limited at this time, they still have the basic rights granted to all members of the National Fraternity. Phi Sigma Pi believes that initiates who are treated with respect during their initiation program tend to make brothers who respond more maturely to the duties and responsibilities of membership. Initiates never surrender any of their social or legal rights. The only thing that changes when individuals enter the initiation program is that they have assumed new responsibilities. All initiates have the right to expect mature, responsible behavior from the active members. Likewise, the initiates must conduct themselves in a similar manner. Membership in Phi Sigma Pi does not require the initiates to submit to undignified, humiliating, or degrading stunts. Phi Sigma Pi is a brotherhood. Although some members may have the authority to make decisions, no member 29 or initiate is obligated to take any type of abuse from any other. There is no place in Phi Sigma Pi for physical hazing, mental or sexual harassment, or any other activities which some fraternities have unfortunately used in the past in the name of fun and games. The National Constitution defines hazing and the ramifications for any chapter partaking in this type of destructive activity. Phi Sigma Pi means too much to too many people to have its future destroyed by irresponsible acts devised with no substance or foresight. However, the initiates are expected to fulfill certain obligations and participate in projects with the chapter. These tasks may benefit the chapter as a whole or be geared toward cultivating the intellectual, service, or social potential of the individual. By fulfilling these assignments, the initiates demonstrate their eagerness to take on responsibility and work for the betterment of Phi Sigma Pi. While each initiate deserves the same consideration and respect as any active member, this in no way implies that the initiate is immune from constructive criticism. Chapters must enforce rules and policies intended for the benefit of everyone. If an individual does not observe these regulations, this person should expect to be corrected if the situation warrants. This can be as simple as a verbal warning from a chapter officer or as final as termination in the initiation program or termination of membership. National Expectations The national expectations have been set forth to provide a guideline for both the chapter as well as the initiate. It is believed that meeting the expectations will aid in preparing the initiate for active membership into the fraternity. The events listed below should be planned and/or completed by the initiates with the assistance of the perspective committees and the chapter during their initiation program. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Coordinate a fund-raising activity Coordinate a service project Coordinate a social event Learn Phi Sigma Pi history as well as fraternity songs and grip. Allow time for study hours Meet with each committee Attend chapter meetings Pass the national membership exam Fulfill financial obligations Developing a Constructive Outlook The initiates' attitudes toward the initiation program and the National Fraternity is an important factor in determining their progress toward the goal of active membership in Phi Sigma Pi. Because the initiation program is a time of 30 orientation and acclimation, the best outlook one can have throughout the program is one of inquiry, open-mindedness, and cooperation. Questions should be asked during this period. As an initiate, you must want to learn and must have the respect and willingness to be instructed. You should try to remain open to situations until you fully understand them. Projects that you undertake during the initiation program should be educational. All activities should have legitimate purposes behind them. If you have questions or doubts regarding projects, by all means, approach a brother with your thoughts and feelings. No individuals should be subjected to situations that they feel are against their values or beliefs. Initiates earn brotherhood through hard work, dedication, and character development, not by performing ludicrous stunts or actions. The initiation program is a time of reflection and personal growth. It is a process of becoming a good member by learning about Phi Sigma Pi history and ideals and developing leadership skills. The National Headquarters is very proud of the fact that our chapters conduct responsible and inspiring initiation programs. Phi Sigma Pi is meant to be a positive experience designed to be contributory and beneficial throughout a person's life. Managing Your Time While in college, your first priority is undoubtedly academic work. Upon joining Phi Sigma Pi, the fraternity should become one of your top priorities. Phi Sigma Pi will constantly strive to complement your academic pursuits and to never interfere with your academics. However, you should strive to ensure that no other campus commitments cause you to neglect, undercut, or devalue your fraternity obligations. Similarly, your involvement in the National Fraternity should not cause you to drop out of other campus organizations to which you belong. Phi Sigma Pi wants you to get involved, make the most of your college years, and become a well-rounded individual. Because Phi Sigma Pi is not a social Greek fraternity, there is no conflict of interest if a member of a social fraternity or sorority joins Phi Sigma Pi, or vice versa. Additionally, since Phi Sigma Pi is an honor fraternity, membership in an honor society does not pose a conflict of interest. However, Phi Sigma Pi emphasizes the need for all members to be committed to the requirements and obligations of membership. Membership in other campus organizations is discouraged only if you cannot uphold your responsibilities to Phi Sigma Pi. Phi Sigma Pi should not have to suffer because an individual cannot manage his or her time as a result of too many extracurricular commitments. The advancement of Phi Sigma Pi should be a top priority of each member. The way you manage your time is the key to getting the most out of the activities you have joined. Study should never serve as an easy excuse to avoid participating in chapter functions. Good time management skills will benefit you not only in college, but for the rest of your life as well. The high caliber student 31 attracted to Phi Sigma Pi tends to be a very busy person. A sign of your maturity is how well you are able to organize your time and balance your priorities so that all of your responsibilities are properly fulfilled while you still enjoy leisure time. Phi Sigma Pi should serve as a source of encouragement, growth, and inspiration. It should also provide academic, service, and recreational opportunity for all members. Be sure that you can balance your activities and do justice to them all. Choosing the Right Path Almost everyone questions the value or benefit of a project, occupation, or situation at some time in life. This is especially true when the circumstances are rigorous and demanding. With this in mind, it is also probably true that nearly every initiate will reach a point when the responsibilities, pressures, and demands of membership in Phi Sigma Pi seem greater than any of the possible benefits. The initiation program is a time of trial. Demands seem to come from every direction, and meeting them is sure to test anyone’s patience, perseverance, time management skills, and understanding. Unfortunately, the initiate is placed in a position of having to complete these demands without being able to truly assess the future positive value that fulfilling these demands will have on his or her fraternity experience, college performance, and employment potential. All fraternities have imperfections. Disagreements between student members may arise. There will be many crossroads throughout the initiation program. Because of this, it is crucial to look at all factors in perspective and avoid making any rash decisions. Consider all things carefully. It is easy to quit. It takes much more strength to persevere through uncertain times. All members and initiates have at least one thing in common: they are all unique individuals with their own personalities, desires, and backgrounds. One cannot expect the many individuals who make up a chapter to have perfectly matched viewpoints, ideals, morals, and temperaments. It may be easy to associate only with people who share your values and goals, but it has very little benefit in preparing you for post-graduate experiences and relating to others who do not always see eye-to-eye with you. Fraternities are not perfect because they, like all other organizations, are made up of human beings. We all have faults and weaknesses as well as strengths and attributes. The goal of this fraternity is to recognize our limitations, to continue to develop the positive aspects we all possess, and to pull together as brothers for the advancement and benefit of the entire group. No matter how long the initiation program lasts, it offers very little time for an in-depth sampling of the fraternity experience. The initiation program is a time of change, adjustment, and realization of one’s potential. It passes much too quickly for some purposes, and it seems far too long for others. Today’s initiate is not the same person as tomorrow’s member. They are different people due to the impact of the initiation experiences. If you make the most of these 32 experiences and help others around you do the same, membership in Phi Sigma Pi will be all you want it to be. When making a decision to continue or terminate your participation in the initiation program, the initiate is encouraged to talk to the chapter members about his or her concerns. Through communication, many would-be challenges have been transformed into terrific opportunities. Phi Sigma Pi's Anti-Hazing Policy Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity does not condone physical or mental (emotional) hazing of any kind, by any definition. The Grand Chapter strictly prohibits the hazing of individuals involved in any fraternity activities, including initiation. As stated in the National Constitution, "Hazing shall be defined as, but not limited to, any action taken or situation created, intentionally, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment and ridicule. The actions and situations include, but are not limited to: paddling in any form, creation of excessive fatigue, physical and psychological shock, scavenger hunts which involve illegal activities, one-way road trips which leave an individual to find return transportation, wearing apparel at any time or location which is not appropriate, required engagement in public stunts or buffoonery, morally degrading games or humiliating activities, compulsory consumption of any alcoholic beverages or controlled substances or non-controlled substances, and any other activities which are not consistent with the regulations and policies of the sheltering institution, or behavior considered as unbecoming of a Member of Phi Sigma Pi." If for any reason you believe that you have been in a situation where hazing has occurred or you believe there is a threat of hazing, please call 800-366-1916. I am done with the great things and big things; great institutions and big successes. I am for those tiny, invisible, molecular moral forces that work from individual to individual; creeping in through the crannies of the world like so many soft rootlets or like the capillary oozing of water, but which, give them time, will rend the hardest monument of man's pride. —Author Unknown (quoted in the January 1932 Lampadion) 33 The Active Undergraduate Member Rights and Responsibilities At the conclusion of the initiation program, each initiate assumes the status of an active member along with all rights and responsibilities. All active members are expected to maintain at least the minimum academic average required by the chapter throughout their undergraduate careers. Some chapters have probationary periods for those who fall below the minimum. This essentially entails a temporary loss of voting privileges. Often, other chapter members can help those who may be struggling to improve their study habits and time management skills. At the time of the induction ceremony, membership in Phi Sigma Pi becomes permanent. Membership can only be terminated through death or expulsion. Members expelled from a chapter automatically forfeit their national membership status as well. Suspension or expulsion of an individual member can occur for, but is not limited to, — willful violation or disregard for the National Constitution, Chapter Bylaws, Fraternal Governance Document, or disobeying lawful Phi Sigma Pi authority; — conduct unbecoming of a member of Phi Sigma Pi, such as actions which would discredit the individual or chapter; — disrespect for academic excellence or integrity; — blatant neglect of membership commitments, such as excessive absenteeism or inactivity; — failure to meet national or chapter financial obligations. Because each chapter is a democracy, every active member not only has the right, but also the obligation, to vote on all decisions that affect the operation and future of the National Fraternity. Additionally, each active member has the right to vote on all candidates for membership to help determine the caliber of brothers who will inherit the task of keeping the chapter strong and productive. With this selection comes the responsibility of making decisions that are free of personal biases and pettiness—decisions which have the best 34 interests of Phi Sigma Pi in mind. All active members have the right to run for chapter office, provided they meet the requirements of the National Constitution and Chapter Bylaws. All active members have the right to vote, present proposals, and express their opinions on issues influencing the chapter. While all members have the right to object to a particular issue or vote, they also have the responsibility to respect the wishes and decisions of the majority of the group and to look out for the overall welfare of the National Fraternity. Only through open-mindedness and discussing viewpoints face-to-face can each member grow both intellectually and socially. Each member has the responsibility to respect authority, whether it be toward chairpersons, Chapter or National Officers, or National Staff. Only through cooperation can these elected or appointed officials do their jobs efficiently and productively to benefit the entire organization. Everyone has the responsibility to respect the opinions of others. Therefore, members of Phi Sigma Pi should be well-informed about the issues or topics they are advocating or opposing, especially when the issues will have an impact on chapter operations. Finally, each active member has the responsibility to know and abide by the National Constitution, Chapter Bylaws, and Fraternal Governance Document. This includes, but is not limited to, — — — — payment of dues and fees; meeting all deadlines; serving on at least one committee per year; regular attendance at all business meetings, with excused absences only for circumstances beyond one’s control; — active participation in chapter projects and events; — academic integrity. While each member has the right to request local inactivity from their chapter for a semester or quarter under extreme circumstances, it is that member's responsibility not to abuse this privilege or use it as a means to deny responsibilities. It is also the individual's responsibility to inform the chapter in writing of his or her intent to become inactive for a period of time. Phi Sigma Pi is strongly opposed to members becoming locally inactive. Unless the situation is extremely unusual, two consecutive semesters or quarters of local inactivity may be considered grounds for expulsion. Examples of valid reasons for local inactivity include, but are not limited to, family death or illness, personal illness, or other circumstances beyond the individual's control. Being too busy or not wanting to be active are not valid reasons for claiming inactivity. The Ideal Chapter Member The goal of each member must be chapter maximization, not just chapter 35 survival. To achieve this, and the tremendous personal benefits which it confers, takes leadership skills and open-mindedness on everyone's part. Each member exerts influence on the rest of the chapter. Whether this is a positive or negative influence depends upon your understanding of and attitude toward the Fraternity. For the benefit of the chapter, each member and initiate should strive for the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. Knowledge of Phi Sigma Pi. Each member should possess a commanding knowledge and understanding of the National Fraternity, its purpose, goals, regulations, and policies. Desire to serve. Every member will be an asset to the group if there is a deep sense of commitment to the welfare of the organization. Devotion of time and energy. Each member must be willing to sacrifice and make time for the advancement of the organization. Accept responsibility. By accepting the responsibilities of membership, each member can make positive contributions to the group. Work with others in team spirit. Cooperation is the key to success for any group. Remember that this is a democracy; even though you may not agree with a decision of the majority, you are committed to supporting it. Stubbornness only creates problems. Cooperative efforts build wider friendships. Diligence and motivation. When duties are assigned, members must see that their part is accomplished thoroughly, and in a timely manner. Forgetting or procrastinating weakens a chapter. Reach deep inside yourself and find self-motivation. Learn to take criticism. No person in a position of authority is immune from criticism. You must learn to sort out the constructive (from which you can learn) from the malicious (which you must ignore). Ability to face adversity. Things will not always go well. Failures will happen. A good leader learns to take things in stride and learn from these experiences. Delegate authority when necessary. Each member who holds authority must be able to give power to others to gain trust and foster motivation and productivity. Make decisions. Leadership involves making decisions—sometimes tough decisions—on a regular basis. You must be prepared to take a stand for the good of the chapter. Freedom from prejudices. Narrow-mindedness can present serious roadblocks to success. Praise, share credit, and give credit where credit is due. Sharing the credit and praising others will increase members' enthusiasm and pride. Concentrate under difficult conditions. A leader must remain calm and keep the chapter's goals in mind when all others seem to forget. Assume responsibility for your mistakes. Humility is a strength, not a 36 15. 16. 17. weakness. Others respect this quality in a leader. Grow and learn. Leadership cannot be cultivated where there is stagnation. Pass on what you have learned. Chapters should not have to reinvent the wheel each year. Give new members the opportunity to learn from the experiences of older members so that the chapter is never at a disadvantage. Maintain a positive attitude. Problems and tasks seem much easier to deal with and accomplish when you have the proper attitude. Others prefer being near those who are optimistic and enthusiastic. Financial Obligations Phi Sigma Pi prides itself on being one of the least expensive national fraternities in existence. However, to maintain the level of service provided to our chapters, significant finances are required. The National Fraternity exists for you, and, like an investment, the monies you pay for the privilege of membership come back to you in the form of many tangible and intangible dividends and benefits. The tangible dividends are the goods and services provided by the National Headquarters; the intangible benefits include lifelong friendships, opportunities for personal and professional advancement, self-satisfaction and fulfillment, pride, and much more. All new members of Phi Sigma Pi are responsible for a one-time National Induction Fee, established by the National Council. For this fee, each new member receives a membership certificate, handbook, and permanent record implementation. All active and inactive members in residence are required to pay National Dues, as established by the National Council, by October 15 and March 1 of each academic year (for those institutions on a quarter system, dues are to be paid by October 30, January 30, and April 30 of each academic year). These dues must also be paid by all newly inducted members. For these monies, members receive the Purple & Gold newsletter as well as eligibility benefits for the many services provided by the National Fraternity to active chapters and members, such as chapter visitations by National Staff, consultations, conventions, regional conferences, training manuals, e-mail, and handbooks for each semester or quarter. There is a destiny that makes us brothers. None goes his way alone. All that we send into the lives of others comes back into our own. —Edwin Markham (frequently quoted by Dr. Richard C. Todd) 37 The Active Collegiate Chapter Chapter Structure The undergraduate chapter is the most dynamic unit of Phi Sigma Pi. Chapters experience a large degree of autonomy in finding their own balance of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship through their selection of academic, service and activities. While chapters essentially chart their own course, there are rules and regulations of the National Fraternity that serve to protect the ideals, image, prosperity, and financial stability of the national entity. Chapters are granted the powers, authority, privileges, and honors of membership in Phi Sigma Pi as long as they abide by the National Constitution and Fraternal Governance Document, and provided their actions do not jeopardize the welfare of the national organization. Above all, each chapter is expected to contribute positively to the growth of the National Fraternity as a whole. Each chapter is governed by its own Chapter Bylaws, which cannot conflict with the National Constitution. The bylaws are the basis for chapter operation and organization. The chapter is organized into officers and committees. Each chapter member, in recognition of his or her obligations to Phi Sigma Pi, is expected to accept responsibility and demonstrate leadership skills throughout his or her undergraduate years in the chapter. It is vital to a chapter's survival to select officers and chairpersons who have great enthusiasm and love for Phi Sigma Pi. Chapters can reach their full potential only if they can rely on the hard work and leadership skills of a large percentage of their members. Everyone must give 100 percent. A good leader is one who knows where he is going and can guide others into better situations in life. He makes people want to do, to grow and to attain desirable ends. . . Any person who is entitled to bear the emblem of this fraternity is quite above the average possibility in the direction of leadership ability. He should choose unhesitatingly to develop this potentiality to its utmost . . . A good leader must be a good follower. He must improve all the while. He must be satisfied to accept people as he finds them or meets them. He must not complain or nag. . . He must be tolerant and unpretending. —Simon S. Shearer 38 Chapter Officers Officers are elected annually by a vote of the eligible chapter members. Chapter officers should have completed at least one full semester or quarter of active membership, not including the semester of initiation. Chapter presidents should have completed at least two full semesters or two full quarters. Elected positions within the chapter typically make up the Executive Board. The board consists of, but is not limited to, a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, initiate advisor, parliamentarian and historian. These chapter members will democratically organize the chapter and oversee the daily chapter operations. As a committee, they have the power to act on behalf of the chapter on matters of immediate importance. Therefore, officers should have excellent leadership, communication, and time management skills. Please refer to the National Constitution for more specific duties. Chapter Committees Ideas become reality through the action and interaction of committees. Chapters have both permanent and temporary committees. Permanent committees exist for an indefinite period of time due to an ongoing need. Temporary committees are formed on a short-term basis, and as needs arise. Chapters require members to actively participate on at least one permanent committee per year. The typical permanent committees include the following: 1. Service. Plans projects to provide financial assistance and manpower to national, local, and university charities. 2. Fund-raising. Raises funds for chapter use or for the benefit of charity. 3. Program and Public Relations. Promotes scholarship by scheduling speakers, seminars, and workshops. This committee also assists in advertising fraternity events in the media. 4. Alumni. Keeps alumni informed of events and chapter progress. 5. Awards and Scholarship. Provides for the recognition of outstanding fraternity members and distinguished citizens. 6. Social and Recreational. Plans functions which allow for interaction and the fostering of fraternal fellowship. 7. Initiation. Assists the Initiate Advisor and provides for dedicated leadership for the future through the recruitment and training of new members. Rules of Parliamentary Procedure Rules of parliamentary procedure were developed to guarantee the rights of persons or subgroups within an organization's total membership and to help ensure that meetings run more smoothly. While parliamentary procedure should 39 place reasonable time limits on discussion and set an order for topics to be debated, it should never be used as a means to silence members or stifle ideas. Each chapter should possess a copy of the most current edition of Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised. The following outline includes some of the basics: I. Order of Business A. Call to order B. Reading and correction or approval of minutes from last meeting C. Officer reports D. Permanent or standing committees' reports E. Temporary or special committees' reports F. Unfinished business G. New business H. Adjournment II. How to Bring a Motion Before the Chapter A. A member or committee makes a motion in the form, "I/we move that (state the motion in the form of an action)." 1. Motion made by a member requires a second 2. Motion from a committee does not require a second 3. Second merely means that another person agrees that the motion should come up for discussion B. President repeats the motion and asks for discussion C. Members may have a set amount of time to speak pro or con to the motion III. How to Vote on a Motion A. Voice (most common method) B. Rising C. Show of hands D. Secret ballot (for election of officers, voting on new members, and voting on events where an individual's choice is best kept private) IV. How to Amend a Motion A. Add or insert certain words or paragraphs B. Strike out certain words or paragraphs (if that motion fails to pass, another amendment is possible) C. Strike out certain words or paragraphs and insert others (this motion cannot be divided, but if it fails to pass, another one can be offered to strike out the same words and insert different words) D. Substitute another resolution or paragraph on the same subject for the one that is pending E. Divide the question into two or more motions, as specified by the mover, to get a separate vote on some point(s) 40 Characteristics of a Stable Chapter Strong Leadership and Foresight. Encourage a team effort by delegating responsibility and involving others in the planning and work. Select committee chairpersons carefully. Give credit to those who have done the job well; be on top of those who are lacking in their responsibilities. Good Meetings. Keep meetings prompt and relevant. Allow for full discussion of all views. Good meetings are informative, productive, and free of ambiguities. The use of parliamentary procedure and well-constructed agendas provide for good meetings. Good Projects. Successful projects are the direct result of sound advanced planning. A good project has a thorough design, sufficient members for completion, successful advertising, and a well thought-out plan for dealing with any potential problems. Good Organization. This stems from strong leadership, sound planning, and conscientious follow-through. Effective officers and committee chairs are essential to conduct meetings, special events, activities, or projects. Ample Dedicated Members. Initiation programs must strive for dedicated, knowledgeable, trustworthy, caring brothers. Chapters cannot survive on ideas alone; they must have bodies. Quantity, without forsaking quality, is always insurance that the chapter will survive the effects of graduation, attrition, occasional poor recruitment practices, and lean semesters. As a good planning procedure, chapters are required by the National Constitution to hold an initiation program twice a year. Healthy active chapters are also marked by the following: — — — — — — — — — — involvement, both on an individual and chapter basis; member dedication and enthusiasm; strong recruitment and initiation programs; chapter structure as dictated by the National Constitution; regard for the knowledge and advice of alumni, National Officers, and National Staff; a positive campus reputation; conflict management/resolution before problems escalate; communication among the membership about events and meetings; regular communication with the National Headquarters; financial stability. 41 The Role of Alumni Many fraternity members do not realize how much their chapters have done for them or meant to them until after graduation. Imagine how different your life would be if no one had introduced you to Phi Sigma Pi. As an alumnus/a, you have the opportunity to pay back a small part of the debt you may feel and at the same time provide insurance that, in the future, others can share in the same beneficial experiences that you had with Phi Sigma Pi. Because membership in Phi Sigma Pi is a lifetime commitment, your duties, obligations, and benefits extend well beyond your undergraduate years. There is an important role for all Phi Sigma Pi members long after they have left their undergraduate chapters. Upon graduation or transfer, each active member assumes alumni status. While the opportunity to participate in the daily activities of the chapter is now impossible, alumni members remain Phi Sigma Pi brothers and can still render valuable support and service to the collegiate chapter and the National Fraternity. Whether it is by joining the chapter at a homecoming football game, attending a founders day banquet, donating money to a national or chapter scholarship, or participating in an alumni chapter, each alumni member has the potential to help provide chapters and the National Fraternity with long-term strength and stability. Alumni who continue to stay involved do so for many of the same reasons that undergraduate members do. Making lifelong friendships is still possible, 42 and so are the opportunities to help others. Staying involved allows alumni to renew and uphold the ideals that bind all members of Phi Sigma Pi together. Alumni participation is as limitless as you wish to make it. Alumni members can continue to take part in National Fraternity activities on a variety of levels. Helping to organize an alumni chapter or playing an active role as a member of an alumni chapter is just one way to remain involved. Often, new collegiate chapters are added to Phi Sigma Pi through the direct assistance of alumni graduate students. These alumni can be valuable resources of experience and knowledge to a new and inexperienced group. In addition, the alumnus/a who initiates the formation of a new undergraduate chapter will receive the title and distinction of being the founder of that chapter. If you consider doing graduate work at a school where there is no Phi Sigma Pi chapter, contact the National Headquarters to see what opportunities are available. In addition, an alumnus/a may participate in and contribute to Phi Sigma Pi in the following ways: — serving as a National Officer; — serving as an alumni advisor or assisting local undergraduate chapters in their initiation programs, projects, job placement programs, alumni programs, or financial plans; — encouraging college-bound students who show excellent potential to get involved with Phi Sigma Pi at their school; — attending the annual National Convention or summer Grand Chapter Conference; — joining one of the several National Council Standing Committees created to help form ideas and programs which will continually improve the fraternity; — utilizing the Purple & Gold newsletter to stay current on Phi Sigma Pi happenings, as well as share news about yourself with the brotherhood; — notifying the National Headquarters of all address changes; — providing financial assistance for national programs such as the Annual Campaign for Excellence, scholarships, leadership seminars, chapter development, and national conventions and conferences. If each of the more than 20,000 alumni members made monetary contributions to Phi Sigma Pi, not only would the financial condition of the national treasury be bolstered, but the National Fraternity's ability to provide assistance to the undergraduate chapters and expand its programs and services for all members would increase immensely. Ultimately, this financial security would allow Phi Sigma Pi membership to be offered to many more college students nationwide. 43 Take full advantage of the many opportunities available to you to stay involved as an alumnus/a. Maintain your ties with the National Fraternity and continue to reap the benefits of membership while helping to strengthen and improve Phi Sigma Pi at the same time. Joining an Alumni Chapter Although Phi Sigma Pi offers alumni a wide range of opportunities to continue to participate in the fraternity, many alumni are looking for a means of actively participating in Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity. If you are interested in continuing to uphold the ideals of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship with other Phi Sigma Pi members, you should consider joining an alumni chapter. By becoming involved in an alumni chapter, you may be an invaluable resource to collegiate chapters by providing career networks and offering sound advice. An alumni chapter acts as a service, fund-raising, and social outlet for Phi Sigma Pi alumni.There is also a National Alumni Association which encompasses all alumni. Activating an Alumni Chapter If an alumni chapter does not exist in your area, you can activate one by using some or all of the following ways to get started: Personal Contact: Contact Phi Sigma Pi alumni in your area to determine if they are interested in starting and actively participating in an alumni chapter. Publicize: Announce your interest in starting an alumni chapter by sending the National Headquarters an article to be published in the Purple & Gold. Over 600 alumni receive the national newsletter. Perhaps you will spark the interest of someone in your area! Collegiate Chapter: Contact the alumni committee chairperson at the collegiate chapter(s) in your area. They can include your plans in any of the mailings they send to alumni. Listing: Contact the National Headquarters for a listing of alumni in your area. Invitation: Send out a letter explaining your interest in an alumni chapter and invite these alumni to meet with you if they share your interest. Petition: You must have at least ten alumni who are interested in starting an alumni chapter before you can petition the National Council. Association: The National Council must review and approve your petition. Upon approval, the interest group will obtain association status. The association is responsible for completing set objectives. Recognition: One year from the date of association approval, the National Council will review the accomplishments of the association. If the association meets all requirements, it will be recognized as a chartered alumni chapter. 44 The National Organization Structure of the Organization The national organization of Phi Sigma Pi consists of the Grand Chapter, the National Council and the chapters. The Grand Chapter is the supreme legislative body of the National Fraternity and consists of the National Council and one delegate from each chapter. Each National Officer and each collegiate chapter delegate receives one vote during official business and alumni chapters have a voice during debate. The Grand Chapter meets annually. The supreme executive and administrative body of the National Fraternity is the National Council. The seven volunteer National Officers are elected to the National Council every two years by the Grand Chapter. These officers are the national president, senior vice president, national secretary, vice president of finance, vice president of membership development, vice president of chapter development, and vice president of alumni development. The National Council is charged with enforcing the National Constitution and leading the fraternity through strategic planning. The National Council meets a minimum of three times The National Organization Grand Chapter National Council National Staff National Committees Collegiate and Alumni Chapters 45 each year, and their duties are listed under Article VII of the National Constitution. The National Council employs full-time professionals to assist in the administrative affairs of the fraternity. The National Staff includes an executive director, director of expansion, director of member services, director of public relations, chapter consultants, office manager and an administrative assistant. These individuals allow the National Headquarters to function as a business entity on a daily basis (note-job titles and duties are subject to change). Duties of the National Staff The National Council is the governing body of Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity, subject to the direction of the Grand Chapter. Therefore, the National Council has supreme power, subordinate only to the Grand Chapter. The executive director is hired by the National Council to carry out the affairs of Phi Sigma Pi. The executive director, at the direction of the National Council, hires the director of expansion, director of member services, director of public relations, chapter consultants, office manager, administrative assistant, and any other office support staff . The National Staff are employees of the National Fraternity. Members of the National Staff are subject to review every twelve months. They are bonded and reimbursed for travel expenses as deemed necessary by the National Council. The National Council interprets the wishes and mandates of the Grand Chapter and transforms them into concrete and instructive policies. All decisions concerning policy are made by the National Council. As the chief administrative officer of the National Fraternity, the executive director provides the National Council with the information it needs to make those decisions. Specifically, in direct consultation with the National Council, the executive director is responsible for supervising the National Staff; planning conventions, Grand Chapter conferences, and National Council meetings; and overseeing the financial matters of the fraternity. The director of expansion's primary responsibility is the activation of new collegiate chapters throughout the United States. This individual first conducts extensive research to determine which collegiate institutions are best suited to further the advancement of Phi Sigma Pi's mission and goals as well as the viability of chapters at these particular campuses. This is carried out in consultation with the National Council. After making initial contacts, a working relationship is developed with the administration at prospective schools, introductory meetings are planned, and meeting locations, dates, and times are established. The director of expansion then takes the actions necessary to start each new chapter which has been approved by the National Council for activation, which includes conducting meet nights, organizational meetings, induction ceremonies, and any follow-up meetings necessary for the guidance of the new chapter's executive board and membership. The director of member services is responsible for alumni development, 46 managing the annual campaign for excellence, developing corporate sponsorships and investigating affinity programs to increase member services and nondues revenues. In addition, the director of member services is also the supervisor and trainer of the region consultants. Other duties include all publications, ranging from the Purple & Gold to The Scholar's Province to the website and all other manuals as well as brochures and posters. Phi Sigma Pi's chapter consultants are the main link between the active collegiate chapters and the National Council. Although their duties can best be summed up by saying that they counsel the chapters via extensive phone contact, e-mail, and chapter visitations, there are many facets to this responsibility. Besides the occasional emergency trips made to chapters in immediate need of assistance, the region consultants plan developmental trips to each of their chapters on a regular basis. They meet with chapter officers, committee chairs, advisors, and the entire membership whenever possible, to discuss such matters as advertising, membership development and recruiting practices, image enhancement, and productivity. They help to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the chapters, and aid in developing guidelines and programs designed to benefit all chapters. In addition to monitoring chapter initiation programs and assisting with the activation of new chapters, the region consultants also produce a number of chapter reports during the year to keep the National Council abreast of the progress of all Phi Sigma Pi chapters. The office manager works closely with the support staff; oversees the receipt of chapter forms, fees and dues, and notifies chapters of any delinquencies; supervises the administrative assistant; ensures that a sufficient quantity of office and chapter supplies are always kept in stock; assists with convention and meeting planning; supervises the fraternity's chapter and mass mailing efforts; and attends to the financial needs of the fraternity, such as paying bills and preparing bank deposits. The administrative assistant works hand-in-hand with the entire staff to ensure that the National Headquarters functions smoothly on a daily basis. This individual is responsible for performing the bulk of the fraternity's database management; processing all paperwork and mail which comes into and is sent out of the National Headquarters; assisting with the fraternity's chapter and mass mailing efforts; assisting with preparations for new chapter activation; carrying out other general clerical, office, and administrative duties as necessary; and acting as the office receptionist and switchboard operator. The National Staff works together as a team to accomplish the tasks set before them. Staff duties may overlap or be shared if necessary to get the job done. Chapters are encouraged to keep the lines of communication open between the active membership and the National Headquarters—whether there are potential problems to be solved or there is simply some good news to be shared. 47 Professional Fraternity Association Membership Benefits On September 10, 1993, Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity became a member of the Professional Fraternity Association (hereafter referred to as the PFA). This organization, formed in 1977, exists to advocate and encourage excellence in scholarship, the advancement of professional and interfraternity ethics, and cooperation among member fraternities for the advancement of fraternal ideals. It also desires to encourage the formation of area/campus professional fraternity councils on campuses of recognized colleges, universities, and professional schools, and serves to identify and advise member fraternities of social, political, and economic legislation which could affect their operations. The PFA meets annually in convention at various sites throughout the United States to conduct business, participate in educational seminars, honor outstanding individuals in the professional world, and to share fellowship and ideas. To be eligible for membership in the PFA, a fraternity must be national or international in character and charter its institutional chapters only at appropriately accredited colleges, universities, or professional schools. Membership in the PFA not only serves to enhance Phi Sigma Pi's credibility in the eyes of university faculty, administration, and prospective members, but it also provides the opportunity for the national organization to interact with similar organizations and gain insight into their structure and the member services which they offer. Through Phi Sigma Pi's membership in the PFA, a long-standing goal of the National Council has finally been realized—to achieve recognition by a respected national association whose goals parallel many of our own. The PFA has provided us with perspective on how Phi Sigma Pi fits into the fraternity world. It has opened new doors and given us many new ideas and resources for the development and well-being of our fraternity. And, in the spirit of Phi Sigma Pi, it has also given us the opportunity to provide support, encouragement, and advice to other professional fraternities who may be struggling through the very early stages of development. National Services and Supplies The National Fraternity constantly strives to enhance its operations as well as the services it provides to its members. Recent improvements include the development and implementation of a more sophisticated database system, which will allow chapters to fill out the necessary semester/quarter forms online. In addition, chapter members will have the ability to pay dues, convention, and grand chapter fees online. The fraternity website will be updated with all forms and information so the user can make use of a virtual "one stop" experience. Even The Purple & Gold will be on the website. Finally, The Scholar's Province will be available on CD-Rom. 48 The following is a breakdown of the specific supplies, services, and publications available to all members through the National Headquarters. National Fraternity Supplies Banners Brochures Camera-ready Artwork Certificates of Recognition Decals (displaying the Coat of Arms) Folders Fraternity Song on CD Gavel and Sounding Block Handbooks (The Scholar's Province) on CD Jewelry (via national supplier) Manuals National Fraternity Services Advice and Consultation Advertising Communication Dues and Fees Fund-raising History and Archives Image Enhancement Leadership Training Morale Improvement National Constitution/Chapter Bylaws Financial Assistance Grand Chapter Conference National Convention and Awards National Web Site Property Insurance National Forms Newspaper Ads Notecards Pens and Pencils Posters (for advertising purposes) Recruitment Videotape Rollbooks Shingles (membership certificates) Sportswear (via national supplier) Telephone and Address Listings National Requirements Recruitment and Initiation Risk Management Scholarships and Awards Service Projects Social Events Speakers and Seminars Special Events Unification of a New Group Chapter visits Toll Free Number National Manuals and Publications Anti-Hazing Policy Committee Manuals Alumni Awards & Scholarships Fund-raising Public Relations and Programming Service Social Fraternal Governance Document Ice Breakers Manual Minutes from National Council and Grand Chapter Meetings National Constitution Officer Training Manuals President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Recruitment/Initiation Advisor Parliamentarian Historian Phi Sigma Pi Ceremonies Purple & Gold Newsletter Risk Management Manual 49 The Annual National Convention and Grand Chapter Conference Phi Sigma Pi believes that an annual National Convention is essential to the education, enthusiasm, communication, and continuity of our brotherhood. It is a time-honored event which brings students, alumni, faculty, and honored guests together to enjoy a weekend of activity, fellowship, and personal growth. One of the many benefits of membership is the opportunity to attend this convention usually held in November. Past sites have included Baltimore, Maryland; Washington, D.C.; Charlottesville and Norfolk, Virginia; Cincinnati, Ohio; Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Atlanta, Georgia. The fall convention normally begins on a Friday evening with registration and the traditional chapter bazaar. Brothers who attend convention participate in various educational seminars and fellowship events, and service projects throughout the weekend and can tour the local sites of interest, if time allows. The highlight of convention is the semi-formal awards banquet and dance held on Saturday evening. Convention formally ends on Sunday around noontime. The first annual summer Grand Chapter Conference was held in July of 1993 in Millersville, Pennsylvania. This conference provides an opportunity for interested chapter members to become involved in fraternity business and attend educational sessions as well as meet and discuss issues with other chapters, the National Council and National Staff. Grand Chapter Conference registration is usually held on a Thursday evening. The Grand Chapter Conference is dedicated to discussing fraternity business. If time permits, educational seminars and exercises, committee meetings, and special activities are also conducted during this conference. The Grand Chapter Conference concludes on Sunday around mid-day after all remaining Grand Chapter business has been fully discussed. Phi Sigma Pi believes that the annual National Convention and Grand Chapter Conference are unique opportunities for fellowship and growth which should be experienced by all brothers at least once during their undergraduate years. 50 Glossary Active member ..................... a collegiate member who obtained membership and is in good standing. Alumna ................................ singular term for a female member of a fraternity who has graduated or is no longer in college. Alumnae ............................... plural form for alumna. (Pronounced alumn-nee) Alumni ................................. plural form for alumnus or a combined group of alumnus and alumna. (Pronounced alum-neye) Alumnus .............................. singular term for a male member of a fraternity who has graduated or is no longer in college. Bid ........................................ an invitation to join the initation program. Bylaws ................................. local governing document supplementing the National Constitution. Collegian .............................. signifying a member of a particular chapter on a college campus; She was a collegian at Zeta Zeta Chapter. Collegiate ............................. describing a member or chapter; His collegiate chapter is Zeta Zeta. Grand Chapter ...................... the National Council, the Collegiate Chapters and the Alumni Chapters. Incorporated ........................ a process by which an organization receives a state charter allowing it to operate as a nonprofit corporation. Initiate .................................. a man or woman who is currently involved in a Phi Sigma Pi chapter initiation program. National Constitution .......... the governing document of our fraternity National Headquarters ......... the physical location where the National Staff works. National Office ..................... the National Staff and the National Council. The Ritual ............................ the ceremony in which life long membership is confirmed (also known as Formal Induction). 51