WARDEN MANUAL
WARDEN MANUAL PI KAPPA PHI 2011 TABLE OF CONTENTS Superior Associate Member Education…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2 The Seven Objectives of Chapter Excellence……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 2 Duties & Responsibilities of the Warden………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2 Gold Book – Law VI, Subdivision 2, Section 9………………………………………………………………………………………………..2 Responsibilities of the Warden……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 2 Executive Council Expectations & Guidelines………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3 Pledging & Initiation…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4 Pi Kappa Phi Pledging Procedures…………………………………………………………………………………………………................ 4 Pre-Initiation Ceremony……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4 De-Pledging from Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5 Re-Pledging………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5 Requirements for Initiation…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5 Election to Membership in Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity………………………………………………………………………………………… 6 “Blackball”………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6 Other Tips on Membership Voting……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7 Examples of Incorrect Use of the “Blackball” ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7 Initiation Week………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8 National Membership Exam………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9 National Membership Exam Key………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………16 National Membership Exam Study Guide……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 23 Oral Boards……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….24 Planning a Superior Associate Member Education Program…………………………………………………………………………..25 Goals of a Successful Associate Member Education Program………………………………………………………………………… 25 Where We Stand on Hazing………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 26 Statements of Position……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 26 White Diamond History & Program Implementation…………………………………………………………………………………….. 26 Associate Member Class Retreat………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 27 Associate Member Class Officers……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 27 Associate Class Meetings………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 27 Creating a Written Associate Member Program…………………………………………………………………………………………… 27 Big Brother/Little Brother Program…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 28 Financial Obligations for Pre-Initiation & Initiation………………………………………………………………………………………. 28 Chapter Members Responsibility With the Associate Member Program……………………………………………………………29 Alumni & Guest Speakers…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..29 Associate Members vs. Pledge…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 29 Risk Management Module for Your Associate Member Program……………………………………………………………………. 30 PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 1 SUPERIOR ASSOCIATE MEMBER EDUCATION Superior Associate Member Education plays a key role in developing the leaders of tomorrow for your chapter. You are the one who must turn Associate Members into Pi Kappa Phi‟s, giving them knowledge they need to represent and uphold the ideals and principles of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. The education process has three major components. The first is to educate the Associate Members on what Pi Kappa Phi means, where it‟s been and where it‟s going. This process should involve positive group activity through subordinate rituals and lesson plans centered around the White Diamond. The second process is to continue the education on into the active chapter. The fraternity world changes every second and Pi Kappa Phi is usually one step ahead. To ensure that all of our Active Members are caught up with the information it is imperative that the Warden relays the material on to the chapter at the weekly meetings. This can also serve as a refresher course on fraternity operations as well for our actives on Pi Kappa Phi as a whole. The third process is to keep the alumni informed and educated on the activities of not only the chapter but the national fraternity as well. You have the opportunity to instill in your associate members CLASS – Character, Leadership, Academics, Sportsmanship and Service. THE SEVEN OBJECTIVES OF CHAPTER EXCELLENCE The Seven Objectives of Chapter Excellence have been developed as a resource to assist the development of your chapter. The items identified are considered „best practices‟ that leading chapters across the country have present within their chapter. Superior Associate Member Education is a vital component of the Seven Objectives. To excel in this area, the following items are necessary: Retain 90% of your Associate Members each academic year. Have a written associate member education program. Use at least four (4) sub-rituals in your associate member education program. Include a risk management module in your associate member education program. Include a social issues module in your associate member education program. Have a written Big Brother program. Utilize the member education program outlined in the White Diamond. Have a minimum GPA required to initiate. Throughout this manual, each of the above items are addressed, except for the statement on using sub-rituals in your associate member education program. Consult the separate Living the Ritual manual for numerous sub-rituals to use in your associate member education program. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE WARDEN Gold Book – Law VI, Subdivision 2, Section 9 The Warden shall be responsible for serving all official notices, and shall have charge of keeping order during sessions of the chapter. He shall attend the door of the chapter room during all meetings. The Warden shall have the responsibility for education of the associate members/pledges. Responsibilities of the Warden The Warden is in charge of the chapter‟s new member education program for Associate Members from the time of formal pledging to the initiation ceremony, including the following activities: Overseeing all pre-initiation activities. Organizing the chapter‟s Superior Associate Member Education program and implementing this program with the Associate Members. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 2 Making sure that all requirements for initiation are met by each Associate Member as outlined in Supreme Law and your chapter‟s constitution and by-laws. Work with the Chaplain to organize a successful Initiation Week and Ritual of Initiation. Serves on the Executive Council Enforcer of law and order within the chapter‟s meetings Educator to all Pi Kapps whether Active, Associates or Alumni Maintains contact with the BOAA counterpart for Member Education (Member Education Advisor) Maintains an Officer Resource manual or file (refer to the appendix for an example Officer Resource manual/file) Trains his successor Executive Council Expectations & Guidelines So, you got elected as a chapter officer, now what? You are not the only officer; you are now part of the elected leadership. A collective team of officers, a group, not several individuals, and as such, you should work as one. The Executive Council (EC) should be seven opinions with one voice. When at EC meetings, each person should voice opinions about topics with the chapter‟s interest as the driving force, but when a vote is taken at EC, regardless of the outcome, the members of EC need to follow through at Chapter and vote the same as the EC outcome. Why is this? Well, as the leaders of the chapter, your simple action of working as a group and then individually following the group decisions will show your chapter that the EC is moving them in a direction and they will follow. If you allow for too much divisiveness your chapter will pick up on it also and become split along the same lines that the EC is split. That will make moving anything through the chapter very difficult. Other ways to help your EC start off as the leaders of the chapter is to hold EC meetings separate from chapter meetings. If you have chapter on Sunday or Monday night than hold an EC meeting in the middle of the week. This will allow you to prepare for the next chapter meeting. At your meetings, invite those committee chairmen that you want to hear reports from. Not your everyday reports, save those for chapter meetings. But have reports on “hot” topics. Basically, there should be no business in chapter meetings in which the EC has not or cannot discuss first. If new business comes up in chapter meetings that the EC has not had a chance to discuss, table the issue or send it to committee. The only issues in new business that need to be voted on are those that MUST be dealt with because of time constraints. By referring items to committee and asking for specific reports from committee chairs, the EC will be helping the chapter committee system stay engaged. The better your committee system is the more brothers involved and the better events and activities become. Lastly, EC meetings should be closed off from the rest of the chapter. These meetings are not secretive, but not something that we want anyone to show-up at and become a disruptive force. Remember, what goes on in EC meetings, stays in EC meetings. If your EC cannot agree to respect each other with non-attribution and non-retribution of comments, then your EC is in for a long and frustrating year. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 3 PLEDGING & INITIATION Pi Kappa Phi Pledging Procedures The Warden is responsible for conducting the pre-initiation ceremony. The timing and procedure involved with the pledging ceremony should be a vital concern to the Warden. After all, first impressions can last a lifetime…and the first impression of Pi Kappa Phi associate membership is the pre-initiation ceremony. Formal pledging should take place as early in the associate member education process as possible. This is the formal beginning to their time as an associate member in Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. The culmination of recruitment is not the bidding … it is the pledging. Until your associate member is actually pledged to Pi Kappa Phi in our formal pre-initiation ceremony, he is not a Pi Kappa Phi associate member. Supreme Law I, Section 3 An invitation or bid to associate membership/pledgeship shall be extended only by a vote of the members of a student chapter in accordance with the bylaws of the chapter and with the approval of the Board of Alumni Advisors. No person may become or continue as an Associate Member/Pledge who is a member of any other general college fraternity. All other memberships in honor, recognition, service, professional or similar societies are permitted. Supreme Law I, Section 5 No invitation or bid to associate membership/pledgeship may be extended to students pursuing less than a full-time course of study, without the unanimous approval of the National Council. Supreme Law XIII, Section 3, Paragraph c All associate members shall be provided with a current version of The White Diamond as part of their associate membership program. Pre-Initiation Ceremony Staging Instructions for Pledging Service Following as soon as possible after the acceptance of bids by the new Associate Members/Pledges, they shall attend this presentation before the chapter, on a specified date and time. A special meeting of the chapter shall be called by the Archon for the same date and time. The meeting should not be held in the Chapter Room, but in another room which may be secured against access by non-members while the ceremony is in progress. The chapter members should be dressed in coat and tie. Associate Members/Pledges already affiliated may attend this pre-initiation ceremony since they have already gone through this ceremony. The room should have a table in it with a white cloth and two decorative candlesticks with lit candles flanking the Archon‟s place. Associate Members/Pledge pins may be placed on the table to be given out at the end of the ceremony. The occasion should be planned to be dignified and impressive. The Vice-Archon shall take charge of the Associate Members/Pledges in another room. There they shall have completed their Pre-Initiation Commitment Cards (Pre-Initiation Cards) and paid their fees ($65.00 per new member) to any commencement of the ceremony. The chapter members shall be assembled with the Archon seated at the central table. The Archon should then read or recite the following dialogue: Pre-Initiation Ceremony It is my duty and privilege to pledge you as prospective neophytes about to enter into the privileges and secrecies of Pi Kappa Phi. In consideration of the trust we have shown in you, my friends, and that you may fully appreciate the obligation you have assumed to Pi Kappa Phi, I will ask you to repeat after me now the words of the Pledge you have already signed: “I, (calling your name), / believing in the principles and ideals / of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity / hereby voluntarily pledge myself thereto / and in so doing / agree to obey and uphold the laws and customs of the Fraternity / as they now exist / or may hereafter be enacted / provided they do not conflict with my obligations / to my family / my country / or my religion. / I believe in God / the highest ideals of Christian manhood / and the principles of good citizenship. / I am a bona fide student of (call the name of your institution). / I am not a member of any general college fraternity / and I PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 4 hereby pledge myself not to join any other. / This is not to be construed to mean / professional or honorary fraternities. / I pledge that I will commit myself / to the personal / physical / and academic growth and development / of the brothers of Pi Kappa Phi / as I do for myself; / and I understand that the brothers / will be committed to my growth and development.” The pledge pin of our beloved Fraternity is the white diamond with the scroll of gold across the field. Gold and white are the colors of our national organization, to which your loyalty while henceforth be given. These colors were chosen by our Founders as emblematic of purity, truth and justice. In recognition of your pledge to Pi Kappa Phi, it gives me pleasure to present you with this pin, which you will wear among us as evidence of your sincerity as a pledge and probationer. My friends, our Fraternity, we believe, is a band of tried and true followers of the theories and principles of the early Grecian schools. Were it not that we are in search of higher education we should not be here. We realize that none of us is destined to rise to those lofty intellectual heights which were scaled by Aristotle, but during the course of your progress in this institution of learning we hope that you will follow such lines that, with Aristotle, you may espy, see, behold, remark, and observe. Finally, in the words of the Apostle Paul to the Romans, let us “Be kindly affectionate, one to another, with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another.” De-Pledging from Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity When an Associate Member decides that he wants to disassociate, you should do all you can to make it a positive transition. The last thing that you want is a man out on campus saying how poorly treated he was at Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. If he lives in your fraternity house, try to find him another living situation. If this cannot be done (because it is the end of the year or semester), try to come to some sort of temporary compromise. While it is not good to have him living in the chapter house, you should not throw a man on the streets either. You should also do what you can to “buy back” all of his fraternity sportswear at fair prices. Usually there will be brothers and other associate members who will buy used sweatshirts, and so forth. You might offer to buy back the White Diamond for use by a future associate member. The man should understand however that he is not entitled to a refund on dues or the national pre-initiation fee. If he has prepaid an initiation fee, that should be returned to him. Following the Associate Member‟s disassociation to Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, please contact that National Headquarters to have him removed from your chapter roster. You can either call the National Headquarters at 1-800-929-1904 or e-mail [email protected]. Re-Pledging You may run into a situation where a former Associate Member who was asked to leave the chapter or de-pledged wants to return to the chapter. The active chapter will need to properly bid this prospective member back into the chapter. After a successful bid process takes place, your chapter must contact the National Headquarters to return this man to your chapter roster. If he has already signed pre-initiation cards and paid the pre-initiation fee ($70.00) he will not have to do this again. Same is true if an Associate Member transfers from one college or university to another. Please contact the National Headquarters to let the office know that this has taken place and to get this man on your chapter roster. Requirements for Initiation An associate member/pledge shall be initiated into Pi Kappa Phi only after: He has satisfactorily completed your Superior Associate Member Education program. He is currently enrolled as a full time student at your college or university (Supreme Law I, Section 5). He has passed an examination relating to the principles and history of the Fraternity (Supreme Law I, Section 6). He has received an affirmative vote of 75% of the active members present during a secret ballot vote (Supreme Law I, Section 7). He has met all financial obligations to the chapter and to the National Fraternity and the local chapter. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 5 Election to Membership in Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity Supreme Law I, Section 7 Election to membership by a student chapter shall be held by a secret ballot. A vote not less than 75% of those members present and voting is required. The student chapter may increase this percentage through its bylaws. If an associate member/pledge is not initiated during the school quarter or semester in which he was elected to membership, then such associate member/pledge must be again elected to membership by the chapter…. “Blackball” You and your committee organize a great associate member education program, successfully integrate the actives and associates, and orient the men as well as you can to the local history of your chapter and with the greater organization. Then, when the mandatory “final membership vote” session rolls around, an associate gets nailed for “just not being Pi Kapp material.” The “blackball” is not a last-minute escape hatch for brothers who are unable to build positive relationships with associate members. As Warden, it is your responsibility to protect your chapter‟s investment in each associate (and in the class as a whole) by making sure membership voting maintains its proper role in fraternity procedure. Where Does the “Blackball” Come From? The practice began in the earliest days of fraternity when chapters had only a handful of members. It was believed then that if any one member of the active chapter had a strong objection to the initiation of an associate member, the man should not be initiated. As the average chapter size grew in Pi Kappa Phi, this “unanimous consent” law became a center of controversy; after all, in a chapter of 60 men, for example, not everyone can be best friends. Some chapters started forming their own interpretations of “unanimous consent” law to mean more than a single negative vote is needed to remove an associate member from the chapter. Out of respect to tradition, some older chapters have maintained the single ball rule while making it very clear to members that it must be respected and only used in extreme circumstances. The issue of keeping the single negative vote law is constantly up for debate at Supreme Chapters. When Is It Okay to Use a “Blackball”? It is only to be used in situations where something drastic and irreparable has happened. If an associate were to do something intolerable which brings lasting dishonor to the fraternity, a negative vote might be warranted. If an associate member makes a commitment to another fraternity, a “blackball” would be justified. If an associate member goes into a violent drunken rage causing physical harm to others and to fraternity property, a case might be made. In most situations try to utilize your standards board to guide an associate member. Use the “blackball” only in extreme circumstances. When Is It NOT Okay to Use a “Blackball”? Personal differences are never cause for a negative membership vote. An active brother should never feel he has the right to “blackball” an associate because of an inappropriate comment or attitude, or because he does not feel the Associate Member “fits in.” If an active brother has a personal problem with an associate, he has the responsibility to act like a man and deal with it in an appropriate way. Once you have extended a bid to a man, you (the brothers of the chapter) have the responsibility to “make it work” by doing everything in your power to solve any personal conflicts. It is a chapter‟s responsibility to handle membership ballot ceremonies with the greatest respect and maturity. Many have made provisions to guard against brothers who would use it incorrectly. If this is a problem at your chapter, spend time with your Chapter Advisor, Fraternity/Sorority Life Advisor or your Leadership Consultant brainstorming ways in which the chapter can address the problem. Then, amend your bylaws as necessary. Do not allow your chapter to continue to lose good men because a few members of your chapter feel their initiation gives them an absolute right to act irresponsibly with a “blackball” vote. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 6 What Do You Do When a “Blackball” Occurs? If indeed a blackball is thrown as a reaction to some heinous offense by an associate, then you will need to be prepared to handle the emotions that will arise among the other associates and between many brothers. In most cases, they will be (at least) sad and disappointed, and often extremely angry. After the negative vote is thrown against an associate member, hold a one-on-one meeting with the associate who had the vote thrown against him. This meeting should include the associate member‟s big brother, the Warden, the Archon and the associate member. Inform the associate member that a negative membership vote was made against him and provide a general explanation as to why this happened. Finally explain to him that he is no longer an associate member of the chapter. If he lives in the house work out a plan for him to eventually move out. Be prepared for the now former associate member to display a range of emotions from sad, to mad, to disappointed and full of excuses. The best thing to do in this situation is to listen to him, be a friend and be supportive. A special meeting should be called which includes the initiated brothers of the chapter. Discuss what happened and why the negative membership vote was made. Give the brothers information on when the associate member will be notified of this negative membership vote so that rumors do not begin to fly. Hold a special meeting with the associate members. Again, discuss what happened and why the negative membership vote was made. You should by no means keep information from the associates. To do so would bring about unwanted suspicion and fear. Never Use the Fear of “Blackball” as a Weapon. One of the most unethical things you – as Warden – or other members could do would be to use the threat of a blackball as a psychological weapon against an associate. This is a form of hazing. Associates should know that blackball is not something to fear unless one commits a terrible offense against the chapter. Other Tips on Membership Voting The two best weapons against inappropriate “blackballing” are good communication about associates during their pledgeship to the initiated brothers and an attitude in the chapter which makes it clear to brothers that blackball votes are not acceptable except under extraordinary circumstances. If your chapter has the attitude that it can drop anyone for any reason, you have a big problem. You also need to know two provisions of Supreme Law regarding membership voting ceremonies. First, once an associate member has passed a membership vote, he is in. The only way to deny membership to an associate who has passed a “blackball” vote is by two-thirds vote of the active chapter. This means that in most cases, when you do the membership voting earlier in the semester, you run less of a risk of losing members to last-minute inappropriate “blackballs.” Second, any chapter may petition the National Council for acceptance of its own membership voting procedure. If you feel adamantly that the single negative vote system is unreasonable, make a case to the National Council by appearing at its next meeting. Examples of Incorrect Use of the “Blackball” “He Just Isn’t Pi Kapp Material.” You should have thought of that before you bid him. There is no such thing as “Pi Kapp Material,” only your personal perception of what you like and don‟t like. “He Made a Move on My Girlfriend.” That‟s a personal problem between you, your girlfriend and the associate member. It is not the chapter‟s problem. “He’s Been Telling Other People About Chapter Business.” Get specifics, then let‟s address it with him directly. He might not have realized that he was making a mistake and we need to respect the fact that he is new to all of this. Possible standards board case. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 7 “He Doesn’t Try to Make Friends With Anyone.” Friendship is a two-way street. Perhaps he does not have much in common with some brothers. That is not a sin, and there is no rule which says every associate must become best friends with every member. “He is Too Cocky.” Maybe it‟s because his confidence is higher than he ever thought possible. Maybe he can tone down the expressions of that confidence which are intimidating. Initiation Week At the 1936 Supreme Chapter, “Hell Weeks” became illegal in Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. The practice of wearing down the spirits and mental fitness of then-pledges was recognized as a practice which went against the ideals of the fraternity. In addition, it was seen as potentially harmful to new men. By using the Initiation Week model provided in the Chaplain Manual, you can create a journey of lessons for brothers and associate members that emphasizes not only the values of our Fraternity, but prepares associate members for the Ritual of Initiation. . For some chapters, the excitement building up to the Ritual of Initiation can cause poorly guided brothers to get carried away. Rather than trying too hard to leave an “impact” on the associate members, be sure the brothers of your chapter understand that all activities are to be coordinated by YOU and the Chaplain to ensure we are creating a positive impact on our associate members. Any brother who jeopardizes the positive approach to Initiation Week should be referred to your Executive Council and Standards Board. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 8 NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP EXAM This is an example of a National Membership Exam. Wardens may elect to include other/additional questions and materials from The White Diamond and local chapter history. Have your leadership consultant review your updated exam to ensure its accuracy. The American Fraternity 1. Describe the “Flat Hat Club”: Where (college or meeting place) was it formed? What is its significance? 2. What was the first “modern-day fraternity” – the first group to use Greek letters in its name, have a secret meaning, grip, and Ritual of Initiation? When was this group formed? Who was this group‟s founder? And, what was the group‟s secret meaning? 3. Which of the following is NOT a member of the “Miami Triad”? A. Beta Theta Pi B. Sigma Alpha Epsilon C. Phi Delta Theta D. Sigma Chi 4. Which of the following was the first recognized women‟s Greek-letter fraternity, formed in 1870 at DePauw University? A. Phi Mu B. Gamma Phi Beta C. Alpha Delta Pi D. Kappa Alpha Theta 5. In 1854, which of the following fraternities built the first “fraternity house” at the University of Michigan? A. Chi Psi B. Alpha Tau Omega C. Theta Xi D. Pi Kappa Alpha 6. Please write the Greek alphabet, in order, by first writing the Greek letter and then the English translation (i.e. Phi). - PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 9 The Founding 7. What was the Greek-letter name of the group that later evolved into Pi Kappa Phi? What did the letters stand for? For what purpose did this group form? 8. Where and when was Pi Kappa Phi founded? List the seven men at the first meeting. 9. Who is the “Honorary 4th Founder (name, chapter and school) of Pi Kappa Phi? 10. What is the motto of Pi Kappa Phi? Write in both Greek and English. BONUS: What was the original motto in Latin and what was its translation? 11. Please write the Student Creed. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 10 12. Please draw and describe the coloring for the following Pi Kappa Phi symbols: Flag Coat of Arms (Crest) Star Shield The Fraternity Today 13. Where is the National Office of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity? (City and state) 14. There are four separate entities of Pi Kappa Phi. The Fraternity is one of them, what are the other three? 15. Who is the CEO of Pi Kappa Phi? Include chapter and school. 16. Please list the seven elected members of the National Council by writing their name, chapter, school, and position. Give one example of what the National Council‟s role is in the Fraternity. BONUS: Name the student representative, his chapter and school. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 11 17. What is the Mr. Pi Kappa Phi Award? Who was the first man to be named Mr. Pi Kapp Phi in 1965? Include chapter and school. 18. What is the Supreme Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi? Include a brief description, the event‟s purpose, and when it is held. 19. What is Pi Kapp College? Include a brief description, the event‟s purpose, and when it is held. BONUS: What unique program is only offered at Pi Kapp College? 20. What is a Mid Year Leadership Conference? Include a brief description, the event‟s purpose, and when it is held. 21. Pi Kappa Phi has a Volunteer Structure that includes Regional Governors, Chapter Advisors, and Board of Alumni Advisors. List the individuals that fill each of these volunteer positions for your chapter? 22. Pi Kappa Phi belongs to a group of national fraternities that purchase their insurance through a provider known as FRMT Limited. FRMT Limited is governed by a Risk Management Policy (commonly referred to as FIPG) that we must follow in order to maintain this coverage. Put an “X” next to the five area‟s that this Risk Management Policy covers. _____ Hazing _____ Education _____ Fire, Health and Safety _____ Chapter House Construction _____ Election of Officers _____ Sexual Abuse and Harassment _____ Alcohol and Drugs _____ T-shirt Design PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 12 23. If you were organizing a social event there are several guidelines within the Risk Management Policy that you would have to follow in order to be in compliance with FIPG, Inc. Name five. 24. What is the riskiest behavior that threatens your chapter? How does this relate to the Ladder of Risk? As a brother how can you mitigate this risk? Push America 25. What is the name of the artist and architect that provided Pi Kappa Phi with the framework to develop Push America in 1977? Include chapter and school. 26. What are the three areas of service that characterize a balanced Push America program? 27. What are the four pillars (or Core Values) of Push America? 28. Name and briefly describe the two cycling events and one national building project of Push America. 29. What are Push Camp and Give-a-Push Weekends? PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 13 Your Chapter 30. List each position of the Executive Council and who currently serves in this role for your chapter. 31. Describe a situation where you have used Ultimate Respect with your brothers. 32. List the region name, schools, and chapter designations of all the chapters in your region. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 14 33. Why do you want to become initiated into Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity? 34. What is your vision for your chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity? And, more importantly, what are you going to do as an undergraduate and alumni brother to make this vision a reality? PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 15 NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP EXAM KEY Grading Notes Every bullet point (like the one in front of this statement) is worth one (1) point. Multiple choice questions are worth one (1) point. If the word or name of the essential element is misspelled, the examinee can only receive a half (1/2) point for the bullet point. On questions that ask for a description, the description must be accurate to receive full credit. If the examinee gives additional information that is INCORRECT, then deduct a half (1/2) point from that section. The American Fraternity 1. Describe the “Flat Hat Club”: Where (college or meeting place) was it formed? What is its significance? College of William and Mary, or; Raleigh Tavern Precursor to the modern fraternity 2. What was the first “modern-day fraternity” – the first group to use Greek letters in its name, have a secret meaning, grip, and Ritual of Initiation? When was this group formed? Who was this group‟s founder? And, what was the group‟s secret meaning? Phi Beta Kappa 1776 John Heath “Philosophy, the Guide of Life” 3. Which of the following is NOT a member of the “Miami Triad”? A. Beta Theta Pi B. Sigma Alpha Epsilon C. Phi Delta Theta D. Sigma Chi 4. Which of the following was the first recognized women‟s Greek-letter fraternity, formed in 1870 at DePauw University? A. Phi Mu B. Gamma Phi Beta C. Alpha Delta Pi D. Kappa Alpha Theta 5. In 1854, which of the following fraternities built the first “fraternity house” at the University of Michigan? A. Chi Psi C. Theta Xi B. Alpha Tau Omega D. Pi Kappa Alpha 6. Please write the Greek alphabet, in order, by first writing the Greek letter and then the English translation (i.e. Phi). – Alpha – Beta – Gamma – Delta – Epsilon – Zeta – Eta – Theta – Iota – Kappa – Lambda – Mu – Nu – Xi – Omicron – Pi – Rho – Sigma - – Tau – Upsilon – Phi – Chi – Psi – Omega PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 16 The Founding 7. What was the Greek-letter name of the group that later evolved into Pi Kappa Phi? What did the letters stand for? For what purpose did this group form? Nu Phi “Non-Fraternity” To generate an opposing slate of officers for the Chrestomathics literary society elections 8. Where and when was Pi Kappa Phi founded? List the seven men at the first meeting. December 10, 1904 90 Broad Street, or; Simon Fogarty‟s house Andrew Alexander Kroeg, Jr. Simon Fogarty, Jr. L. Harry Mixson A. Pelzer Wagener Thomas F. Mosimann Theodore Barnwell Kelly James Fogarty 9. Who is the “Honorary 4th Founder (name, chapter and school) of Pi Kappa Phi? Durward W. Owen Xi (Roanoke) 10. What is the motto of Pi Kappa Phi? Write in both Greek and English. BONUS: What was the original motto in Latin and what was its translation? Nothing Shall Ever Tear Us Asunder BONUS (2 pts): Nil Sebar Abit – “Nothing Shall Separate Us” 11. Please write the Student Creed. I believe the ideal chapter is made up of men Who are bound together in a common loyalty which transcends any personal selfishness Who realize membership means bearing their share of the financial burden of the chapter and the national organization Who bring credit to the fraternity by striving to attain the highest possible standards of scholarship Who safeguard the reputation of their chapter by keeping careful watch over their personal conduct Who uphold faithfully the traditions and activities of their college Who prepare themselves diligently to shoulder their full responsibility as citizens I believe that my chapter can become an ideal chapter and I shall do my share to make it so PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 17 12. Please draw and describe the coloring for the following Pi Kappa Phi symbols: Flag Coat of Arms (Crest) Star Shield The Fraternity Today 13. Where is the National Office of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity? (City and state) Charlotte, NC 14. There are four separate entities of Pi Kappa Phi. The Fraternity is one of them, what are the other three? PKP Properties The Foundation Push America 15. Who is the CEO of Pi Kappa Phi? Include chapter and school. Mark E. Timmes Alpha Epsilon (Florida) 16. Please list the seven elected members of the National Council by writing their name, chapter, school, and position. Give one example of what the National Council‟s role is in the Fraternity. BONUS: Name the student representative, his chapter and school. National President National Vice President National Treasurer National Secretary National Historian National Chaplain BONUS: Student Representative Mark F. Jacobs, Delta Psi (Texas-Arlington) Dudley F. Woody, Xi (Roanoke) Tracy D. Maddux, Zeta Theta (Texas-Austin) Thomas B. Sullivan, Delta Omega (Texas A&M) Timothy S. Hebson, Alpha Eta (Samford) Jeremy D. Galvin, Alpha Omicron (Iowa State) Matthew A. Costa, Zeta Nu (West Chester) Govern Fraternity between Supreme Chapters, Board of Directors Appoints certain standing committees, Regional Governors, Chapter Advisors, and CEO Initiate legislation in between Supreme Chapter Control the financial affairs of the fraternity Approve the expansion activities and policy supervision of the National Headquarters Installation of new student and alumni chapters Individual and chapter disciplinary procedures and appeals PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 18 17. What is the Mr. Pi Kappa Phi Award? Who was the first man to be named Mr. Pi Kapp Phi in 1965? Include chapter and school. Recognizes superior lifetime achievement of a Pi Kappa Phi/ Honest honor bestowed Leo Pou, Omicron (Alabama) 18. What is the Supreme Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi? Include a brief description, the event‟s purpose, and when it is held. Legislative Meeting Every two years, or; every even year 19. What is Pi Kapp College? Include a brief description, the event‟s purpose, and when it is held. BONUS: What unique program is only offered at Pi Kapp College? Educational Leadership Training Conference Every Summer BONUS: Certified Ritualist Program 20. What is a Mid Year Leadership Conference? Include a brief description, the event‟s purpose, and when it is held. Officer Training Conference Every January, or; every year 21. Pi Kappa Phi has a Volunteer Structure that includes Regional Governors, Chapter Advisors, and Board of Alumni Advisors. List the individuals that fill each of these volunteer positions for your chapter? Regional Governor Chapter Advisor Board of Alumni Advisors (BOAA) 22. Pi Kappa Phi belongs to a group of national fraternities that purchase their insurance through a provider known as FRMT Limited. FRMT Limited is governed by a Risk Management Policy (commonly referred to as FIPG) that we must follow in order to maintain this coverage. Put an “X” next to the five area‟s that this Risk Management Policy covers. __X__ Hazing __X__ Education __X__ Fire, Health and Safety _____ Chapter House Construction _____ Election of Officers __X__ Sexual Abuse and Harassment __X__ Alcohol and Drugs _____ T-shirt Design PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 19 23. If you were organizing a social event there are several guidelines within the Risk Management Policy that you would have to follow in order to be in compliance with FIPG, Inc. Name five. Follow all laws No purchase of alcohol with chapter funds No bulk quantity or common sources, or; No kegs Guest list, or; no OPEN PARTIES No purchase for, service to, or sale of alcoholic beverages to minors No ILLEGAL DRUGS or CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES 24. What is the riskiest behavior that threatens your chapter? How does this relate to the Ladder of Risk? As a brother how can you mitigate this risk? Full credit if an intelligent attempt is made to answer each question Push America 25. What is the name of the artist and architect that provided Pi Kappa Phi with the framework to develop Push America in 1977? Include chapter and school. Thomas Sayre, Kappa (University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill) 26. What are the three areas of service that characterize a balanced Push America program? Fundraising Volunteerism Awareness 27. What are the four pillars (or Core Values) of Push America? Abilities Teamwork Empathy Integrity 28. Name and briefly describe the two cycling events and one national building project of Push America. Journey of Hope Over 100 Pi Kapps from across the country ride from San Francisco, CA to Washington, D.C. Gear Up Florida 35 Pi Kapps ride across the state of Florida Build America 30 Pi Kapps travel to summer camps for eight weeks 29. What are Push Camp and Give-a-Push Weekends? National Service Projects that involve the actual construction of accessible structures for people with disabilities PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 20 Your Chapter 30. List each position of the Executive Council and who currently serves in this role for your chapter. Examinee can earn one (1) point for currently listing the position and one (1) point for correctly listing the brother who holds the position (Ex: John Smith, Archon = 2 points). 31. Describe a situation where you have used Ultimate Respect with your brothers. Full credit if answer describes a situation that properly represents what Ultimate Respect is. 32. List the region name, schools, and chapter designations of all the chapters in your region. Examinee can earn one (1) point for currently listing the chapter designation of each chapter in your region and one (1) point for correctly listing the college/university where that chapter is located [Ex: Alpha (College of Charleston) = 2 points]. Examinee can earn one (1) point for currently listing the region name (Ex: Lowcountry Region = 1 point). PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 21 33. Why do you want to become initiated into Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity? Full credit if an intelligent attempt is made at an answer 34. What is your vision for your chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity? And, more importantly, what are you going to do as an undergraduate and alumni brother to make this vision a reality? Full credit if an intelligent attempt is made at an answer PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 22 NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP EXAM STUDY GUIDE Greek Alphabet (the Greek symbol and English translation) Know the who, what, where and when of the “Flat Hat Club” Know the details of the first “modern-day fraternity” Miami Triad Union Triad Sorority history Early fraternity history Details of Nu Phi Story of the founding (seven founders, location of first meeting, etc.) Know the motto and be able to write it in BOTH Greek and English Student Creed Be able to draw the Star Shield, Coat of Arms (a.k.a. Crest), and Flag Explain what Men of CLASS means Location of National Office Four entities of Pi Kappa Phi Know the name, chapter and school of the CEO Know the name, title, chapter and school of the seven National Council members Know what “Mr. Pi Kappa Phi” is and who the first one was Define and explain purpose of the Supreme Chapter Define and explain purpose of Pi Kapp College Define and explain purpose of Mid Year Leadership Conference Know the names of the positions and purpose of the roles in the Volunteer Structure and who your chapters volunteers are (i.e. Regional Governors, Chapter Advisor, and Board of Alumni Advisors) FIPG Risk Management rules and regulations Ladder of Risk Program Story of the founding of Push America Three areas of service in Push America Four Core Values of Push America Be able to describe the cycling and building events hosted by Push America Know what a Push Camp and a GAP Weekend is Executive Council positions and responsibilities Original Chartering date Ultimate Respect Chapter and schools in your Region Rush vs. Recruitment PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 23 ORAL BOARDS Some chapters choose to use "oral examinations" on the afternoon or evening prior to initiation. THESE ARE NOT MEANT TO BE GLORIFIED LINEUPS! These oral examinations should be done in a non-threatening, dignified manner, ideally by an alumnus or a fraternity official (such as a Regional Governor, Chapter Advisor, Leadership Consultant, etc.). The oral exam tests more "subjective" issues such as ethics and leadership challenges. There are few right and wrong answers. The aim is to make the associates think about the tough issues. Oral boards should be set up in a ritualistic setting. They should be conducted in a formal room of the chapter house or a classroom on campus. Brothers and Associate Members should be dressed in a coat and tie. The environment of the room should be similar to what it is like during a sub-ritual (pictures of founders, candles, black robes, etc.). Sample oral questions are provided in this section. Remember, there are not usually right or wrong answers. The idea is that associates think through an intelligent answer based upon what they have learned during associate membership. Do you know what the drinking age is in this state? Do you understand that underage drinking is against fraternity policy? What do you expect you will do when you see a fraternity brother who is underage drinking? Why do we have a ritual? What do you expect ritual to be? Why is it important that the seriousness and secrecy of the ritual be maintained? Why do you think Pi Kappa Phi chooses to initiate men one at a time rather than several at a time? What are some of the benefits of a positive public image? What things can we do to improve our image to our parents, our school administration, other Greeks, the faculty, etc.? What should the chapter do when a brother is getting poor grades? Does it matter if the brother is making an effort or is simply letting things fall apart? How strictly should we maintain our standards of scholarship? What does it mean to be a gentleman? Why would fraternity men want to be seen as gentlemen? What are some things we can all do to be more gentleman-like in the future? Why do you think Push America has emerged as such an important part of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity? What needs are satisfied by Push America? How can we make the most out of Push America here? What are some of the benefits of being in a "national" fraternity as opposed to a "local?" What sort of treatment would you expect if you visited another chapter at another university? Would you expect all chapters to be the same? Why is it important for us to know our fraternity's history? What lessons can we learn from the successes and failures of the past? Can you think of one historical event in our fraternity which has proven to be especially significant? Do you know what an eating disorder is? What would you do if you found out that a brother in the chapter was suffering from an eating disorder? Would this sample written and oral exams change if you did not feel particularly close to that brother? Then what would you do? How can recruitment make or break a chapter? Why is it important that our fraternity attracts men of all TYPES and interests? What does it mean to be "truly diverse?" What are some of the things that all fraternities have in common? How is it possible for fraternities to work together when they are so seemingly different? What can Pi Kappa Phi do to make the greatest contribution to the Greek community at this school? What is your top priority in life? Do you believe that an important skill in a man's life is learning how to manage several top priorities at one time? Give me an example of a time when you had to make something other than (what he mentioned before) your top priority. Do you know what Pi Kappa Phi's stance on sexual abuse is? What is date rape? What would you do if you heard a brother talking about how he had been involved in a sexual act with a woman who was drunk and passed out? Many of Pi Kappa Phi's rituals and traditions are Christian-based, yet many of our members nationwide subscribe to religions other than Christianity. How can this work? What can we do to make our fraternity accessible to men of all religions while keeping our Christian roots respectfully intact? What does it mean to be a big brother? Can you tell me what your big brother was like in high school? Can you tell me your big brother's greatest fear? Why is it important that we learn all we can about our big and little brothers? What is the role of a caring alumnus? What does lifetime commitment to Pi Kappa Phi mean to you? PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 24 PLANNING A SUPERIOR ASSOCIATE MEMBER EDUCATION PROGRAM What makes an associate member education program superior? Is it just having the correct retention rate? Well, while retention rate is a factor in determining the success of a superior associate member program, it is but one component. A superior associate member program should be such that it incorporates as many of the membership into the development of the associates, fosters a sense of belonging prior to initiation, provides for a safe learning environment, nurtures and aides in academic development, and develops better men. If you develop an associate member education program that looks at these aspects, your retention rate will be near perfect. Your program should consider all of the constraints and conditions placed upon your associate members. Now that they have joined your ranks, they have commitments to the Fraternity, the institution, their academic endeavors, and themselves. We, Pi Kappa Phi, are not the only aspect of their life. If you develop your program considering the many things pulling on the associates, you can develop methods of dealing with the issues. For example, using the schools calendar of events to develop your associate member calendar. In so doing, you can also include school events as part of your associate program. The more robust your program is the more the associates will get out of your program. Remember we are building better men, not tearing them down. If you think you current system works, it might, but will it withstand the changes in the college environment? Remember this, “Doing the same thing over and over, and expecting different results is insane.” Your planning will help keep your program from becoming outdated and momentous. Last seldom does anyone develop the perfect program, so when planning your program remember the words of Vince Lombardi, “Perfection is impossible, but if you aim for perfection, you will hit excellence.” Goals of a Successful Associate Member Education Program So, you have taken all the aspects of your program and meshed them into an associate member education plan. How do you know if it works? Well, at this stage you will not know. However, you can speculate that covering all “bases” will ensure proper material delivery. But to truly know if you are successful, you need to develop and publish the goals of the program. Where to start? Here are a few sample goals for an associate member program: 90% retention rate. One guest or alumni speaker every two weeks. All Executive Council and Committee Chairs present the information regarding their area of expertise. All associates make grades. Associates develop positive and productive study habits. Associates successfully plan and implement a Push America Fundraiser. Associates demonstrate awareness and understanding of risk management. The institution and community acknowledge the associates as being outstanding students, student leaders and Pi Kappa Phi demonstrated by their actions, words, and deeds. Everyone; associates, initiated brothers, and yourself; enjoy the associate member program. These of course are just examples, it is important that you develop at least 7 to 10 goals for your program. At the end of your program, you will be able to self-evaluate and determine your success as Warden and the success of the chapter. If you do not meet or make all of your goals, it is not the end of the world. In fact, it may be helpful in fixing any areas in your program. Consider the following: “Falling forward may hurt at the time, but it is still gaining ground.” If you do not meet your goal at least ensure that you and your program are falling forward! PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 25 Where We Stand on Hazing The National Council and Supreme Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity unequivocally oppose all acts of hazing and negative pre-initiation activities in any form and under any circumstance. Any member of the Fraternity found guilty of committing acts of hazing will be immediately expelled. Pi Kappa Phi, most universities and most state laws define hazing as any action taken or situation intentionally created, on or off-campus, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment or ridicule. Such activities and situations might include, but are not limited to, acts such as; paddling; creation of excessive fatigue; scavenger hunts or road trips of a mandatory nature; public wearing of anything degrading or humiliating games and activities; late work sessions which interfere with the academic mission of the university; and “mind games.” This includes acts which are committed by non-members or alumni with the knowledge of any member. As a rule, if you would not tell an associate‟s parents that he is doing something, chances are it is hazing. All pre-initiation activities for associate members must conform to Supreme Law, rules of the college and all applicable state, local and federal laws. Members found hazing shall be prosecuted to the full letter of the law. If you ever feel you have been hazed, please contact the Fraternity's National Headquarters at 1-800-929-1904 and ask for the Assistant Executive Director. Statements of Position So, you know where we stand on Hazing, but what other stances does Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity have? Are they important? And do our associates need to know about them? The statements of position and the page to find them in The White Diamond are the following: Risk Management (The White Diamond, p. 109) Sexual Abuse (The White Diamond, p. 110) Racial, Religious and Ethnic Diversity (The White Diamond, p. 111) Hazing (The White Diamond, p. 112) AIDS (The White Diamond, p. 113) Substance Abuse (The White Diamond, p. 114) Alcohol Abuse (The White Diamond, p. 115) Are these statements important? They most certainly are! Theses statements make outwardly statements of Pi Kappa Phi. These statements tell the world what Pi Kappa Phi is about, the kind of men we have, and demonstrate our commitment and use of Ultimate Respect. Should your associates know about these? Most definitely! If you expect your associates to act with a certain level of decorum, these statements should be the basis for which you build you standards on. These statements coupled with the Student Creed should provide all members, associate or initiated, the guide to proper comportment. White Diamond History & Program Incorporation What items must be incorporated from The White Diamond and what can be left out? The White Diamond is a guide for all members of Pi Kappa Phi. The best way to use The White Diamond is to supplement the information contained within it with information localized to you chapter. By using the standardized history of Fraternities and of Pi Kappa Phi and the other components of The White Diamond, you are ensuring the majority of Pi Kappa Phi‟s associate members are getting the same information. Commonality and uniformity of a message is the precise reason a national associate member manual was developed so many years ago. It was student members who voted for this at Supreme Chapter the need for a standardized associate member education program. By using The White Diamond and this manual you are following in the footsteps of undergraduates before you who knew how important it was to send the same message to all associate members. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 26 Associate Member Class Retreat One of the most exciting times of an associate member program is the pledge retreat. This event is a great time to get away from all of the issues at school and focus on the issues of the Fraternity. Your associates will have time to develop a relationship with you prior to the retreat, but afterward; there is often a heightened sense of brotherhood. They have the chance to air concerns and study Fraternity material. In short it provides an escape from the world to a fraternal haven. However, this dream like retreat is often not so. Too often we fail to plan the retreat, we make it open to any brothers who wish to come and we allow external factors control the retreat. When we allow things to take away from the retreat experience, we are cheapening the experience for all of the associates. Probably the biggest item to remember about the retreat, it is an associate function and as such you cannot have alcohol present. If you cannot stick to this rule, do not have a retreat. It is in violation of the FIPG rules that we are required to follow by Supreme Law and for insurance purposes. Some hints for a successful retreat: Plan the entire event before hand. Limit the number of distractions (which often includes brothers) Engage the associates in the development of the retreat. Build a retreat into the Chapter budget. Associate Member Class Officers As you attempt to develop the associates into members of the chapter, it may be extremely helpful to have class officers. These associates will assist you in the running of associate class. The number of class officers you have would be determined, to some extent, by the number of associates in the class. If you only have 7 associates, it would not make much sense to have 6 officers. Generally speaking 3 officers is more than enough. A President, Vice President, and a Secretary/Treasurer would usually suffice. Of course you can create or remove offices as necessary. The area to keep watch on regarding class officers is that the officers are not so wrapped up in being an associate officer that he neglects his other obligations such as school or other Fraternity commitments. Associate Class Meetings This is the “business” portion of your program. At associate class meetings, you should deliver the information they are supposed to learn in an organized fashion (see the Warden Lesson Plans). Pass on important information from the last chapter meeting. Allow the associates to work on associate projects or discussion issues. Recommended length of an associate class meeting is from 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Remember, “The mind can only absorb what the butt can withstand.” Have the associate class officers come prepared for their portion of the meeting, have your presenters and guest speakers there early, and make sure you are prepared. Make sure before you finish your meetings that a review of the events coming up is conducted. If associates are expected to be somewhere then they need to be told. Providing a calendar for each associate would be helpful, but never forget to remind them of the week‟s activities. Set a standard for how the meetings are to be run. Decide what you expect from the associates (like dress, items they should bring, supplies they will need). Letting them know upfront they are expected to have a pen and paper for every meeting will help cut down on time wasted trying to round up enough pens for everyone. Their preparedness is just as important a value to learn as the history of fraternities or the Greek alphabet. However, if possible, have weekly test printed out for them. Printing the test makes them easy for you to grade and maintain than random pieces of paper usually of various sizes. Creating a Written Associate Member Program Your master plan should include dates of meetings, topics and guest speakers, dates of chapter events, dates of associate member events, sub-rituals and dates for them, the amount of information you want the associates to know, and responsibilities of all concerned (Associates, Brothers, Big Brothers, and Warden). Basically, everything you plan on showing the associates and the items you do not plan on showing, like the specifics of sub-rituals. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 27 After having developed you associate plan well in advance, you can develop your associate manual. This is the documentation for the associate containing local history, appropriate songs, calendars, study guides, associate member responsibilities, big brother responsibilities, Warden responsibilities, contact information and general info. Also, since you have this done in a timely manner, the associate manual can and should be used as part of the chapter recruitment plan and should be on display at all times. Remember, there is nothing esoteric in the associate manual, so why be afraid to display it and refer to it. Warning! If you are putting info in the associate manual that is not suitable for public viewing and you wouldn‟t want your mom or the school‟s administration to see it, it has no place in the associate manual and probably no place in the associate member program. Big Brother/Little Brother Program Potentially one of the strongest relationships ever built in the Fraternity is that of the Big Brother and Little Brother. The function of this relationship is to provide a mentor and guide for associate members as they navigate through the associate member program. The Big Brother can become the primary support structure for associate issues. Too many chapters take this relationship as a simple step toward the initiation process. However, it is, and should be, much more! If those who do not know are going to do what they see done by those who should know, who‟s ways are the associate brothers going to imitate? The Big Brother‟s probably. Knowing that special care and consideration should be given to those to carry the mantle of Big Brother. Here are a few suggestions when considering which Brothers will be eligible for Big Brother: Look for a Brother who is current on dues and shows the financial responsibility that we expect all of the associates to have. Look for a Brother who is better than average academically. Being a Big Brother will take not only time but also an understanding of the academic environment to help guide the associate brother. Look for a Brother who is involved in the in the chapter, the school, and the community. Look for a Brother who if you were an associate you would want as your Big Brother because he can over you everything that the pure social side of the Fraternity cannot offer. Basically, you are looking for the Pi Kapp studs and rock stars of your chapter. Why settle for less? Is your chapter ready for less out of the associate brothers? Probably not! Financial Obligations for Pre-Initiation & Initiation Probably the biggest mistake many chapters make with new associates and rushees is not being up-front about the cost of membership. Let them know when they rush and reiterate when they are associates. Make sure they are fully aware of the cost or you will end up losing associates because they cannot afford to remain. Fraternity is not for everyone, but the cost should not be the primary reason for someone not staying with it. If you are up-front about the cost, you can also be up-front about ways of dealing with the cost. There is nothing wrong with the associates holding fundraisers to reduce the expenses of initiation. Besides, doing fundraisers promotes planning and organizing skills, helps alleviate costs, and develops fundraising skills for other chapter fundraising efforts. Another useful technique for dealing with the cost of membership is to break it down. Length of Associate Member Program The chapter just had a great rush, biggest number of rushees on campus, what now? Of course the answer is having them go through the associate member program. But wait, how long should your program be? Should you do a short one so the rushees do not feel as if you are putting them down? Should it be long to make sure the rushees will learn everything they need to know to become an initiated brother of Pi Kappa Phi? There is no magic formula for how long an associate member program should be. It is recommended that it be 8 weeks in duration. This follows the structure of The White Diamond and generally allows every one of the brothers to get to know the associates. Other issues to take into consideration are when will they have grades to meet initiation standards, will the program span over the final exams of the academic classes? What impact will initiation have on the chapter? Do they have enough time to accomplish all of the items laid out for them to accomplish according to your associate member program? PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 28 If you are having trouble deciding how long your program should be, remember it should be long enough to accomplish all tasks and take into consideration the school‟s academic calendar, but also not be so long as to lose members who are ready for initiation. Some times it is a delicate balance, but as your chapter improves upon the associate member program, it will be obvious what the length should be. Chapter Members Responsibility With the Associate Member Program The success of the associate member program is the responsibility of every member of the chapter. Does this mean they should be at every associate class meeting? No! It means that every brother takes an active and vested interest in the well-being and development of the associate class. WARNING: This is where the hazing often rears its ugly head! Brothers who were once hazed or have self-serving motives might need a watchful eye and a “Gentle” reminder. Gentle meaning “If you haze, you are gone!” Brothers should be encouraging, helpful and participate in associate class activities such as fundraisers, community service, serenading, or just having a good time. Interaction between the associates and the initiated brothers is the cornerstone to incorporating the associate class into the chapter after they are initiated. If the chapter brothers wait till they are initiated, your chapter will soon find rifts, cliques and factions. These types of groupings are inevitable, but you can at least help keep them from developing by developing relationships with associates early. Include them as part of the chapter and have all brothers treat them with the respect a future initiate deserves. Brothers should also be willing to shoulder some of the educational responsibilities. Let committee chairmen and officers present their sections of the associate member program. Warden does not mean chapter know-it-all. Do not try to do it all, enlist help and in-turn you will be helping the associates and the chapter as a whole. Alumni & Guest Speakers As Warden, you are expected to know all, so that you may impart to our younger brothers all the knowledge they will need to be better men? Get real! No one on Earth has all the answers. Okay, so now you know you are not omniscient, what next? “It is better to be silent and thought a fool, than to speak and prove it.” You know what your shortcomings are, find those who are experts in those areas and let them deliver the message. Having someone come in rather than performing a poor job will prevent a failing attempt to impart the knowledge. Since you are the Warden does not mean that you must do it all on your own. Seek out those who know more to cover w here you know less. You are still in college, what do you know of being an alumnus? Why should you talk about it? And since you are still in college, it is doubtful that you have a Masters in social work, let a local social worker come talk about alcohol or bring in a police officer to talk about drugs. There are thousands of resources, in the form of alumni and friends of the fraternity, who will be happy to come and help in the development of your chapter and associate/pledge class. The only thing you need to do is ask them and work around their schedules. A great associate member education program provides our younger brothers the opportunity to develop those skills not taught in the academic classroom and to learn about the Fraternity and Greek world. Incorporating guest speakers will go along way to providing the holistic associate member education they deserve. Not to mention, bringing in guest speakers, especially alumni, strengthen your ties to your school, community and older, graduated brothers. Associate Member vs. Pledge What‟s in a word? Is there a major difference between associate and pledge? To some the term pledge refers to the action and the oath a person makes, similar to the pledge of allegiance or a knight pledging his life to his king. To some it refers to the person making such an oath. In the mid to late 80s, the term pledge also brought with it many negative connotations that many in the fraternity world felt was degrading to our pre-initiated members. Enter the term Associate! Associate refers to one who is in a relationship with another of differing stature, such as an associate in a legal practice has a relationship with the partners, but is not fully developed in the practice. Associate tends to be more about the relationship and less about the activity. So, which is right? Well, either actually. The thing to remember is that if used in an appropriate manner, both are acceptable. In some chapters, those in the pre-initiated status are referred to as associates while other chapters refer to the same as pledges. The important part of either name is the relationship. In both cases, associates and pledges, each is attempting to develop relationships with the brothers of Pi Kappa Phi and after an appropriate period of time PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 29 (recommended length 8 weeks) the associate/pledge would be prepared to move into the next phase of brotherhood. The word often forgot when discussing associates and pledges is BROTHER! Yes, Brother! Associate Brother and Pledge Brother is what each pre-initiate is. They are brothers in a developmental stage, and considering they are brothers, should be treated as such, regardless of whether you refer to them as associate or pledge. Ultimate Respect is shown to all in the chapter, not just those who have travel beyond the pre-initiate state. Remember, even if only subconsciously, associate members carry with them the actions, words and deeds of those brothers before them. Shouldn‟t we, initiated brothers, be thankful for our younger and weaker brothers; furthermore, shouldn‟t we be pledging to associate with them. If your chapter takes this attitude be prepared for some of the best Pi Kapps you can find!!! Risk Management Module for Your Associate Member Program In the current world of legal liability and law suits, it is critically important that every associate member is instructed in Risk Management and more specifically the guidelines which govern this area, FIPG policy. These rules are the letter of the law in the areas of Hazing; Alcohol and Drugs; Sexual Abuse and Harassment; Fire, Health, and Safety; and Education. Most people, Brothers, look at Risk Management and the FIPG policy as the killers of a good time or the end of partying. In all actuality, FIPG and risk management are your shields in having a good time. The “axis of evil” is legal liability and poor judgment. When you plan a party or social event using the FIPG policy, you are take the responsible approach to your event. Those who cast the FIPG policy aside, are asking for the next big law suit. Can you afford a $4 million judgment against you? What about the chapter, can it sustain that size judgment? Chapters and members who participate in activities that violate FIPG policies are taking all the risk upon themselves, as a violation of FIPG policy nullifies any insurance coverage. Beginning to see the importance of Risk Management? Is this something we should start showing early in an associate‟s Fraternal life? Yes, definitely! We should begin instilling adherence to risk management and FIPG policies from the very first moment a person enters our care. PI KAPPA PHI WARDEN MANUAL | 30
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