Formal Petition Florida Atlantic University Sigma Chi Phi
Sigma Chi Phi Colony of The Sigma Chi International Fraternity Formal Petition Florida Atlantic University Sigma&Chi&Phi! ! Formal'Pe**on! Table of Contents Content Page Introduction: Consul 3-4 Wesley Hebel Updated Fraternity Statistics Active Colony Members 5-12 Active Colony Members Signatures 13 Colony Pledge Members 14-17 Colony Pledge Member Signatures 18 Colony Alumni 19 Official Colony Roster 20 Letters of Acknowledgement Senior Vice President of Student Affairs 21 Dr. Corey A. King Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life 22 Spring Eve Rosado Letters of Support Grand Praetor 23 Julio A. Varela Assistant Grand Praetor 24 Brett Miller Sigma Chi Alumni Chapter Boca Raton Alumni Association 25 Ft. Lauderdale Alumni Association 26 Miami Alumni Association 27 Chapter Advisor Russell Bucklew 28 Sigma&Chi&Phi! ! Formal'Pe**on! Table of Contents Letters of Support (Continued) Eta Iota – Embry Riddle Aeronautical University 29 Lambda Zeta – Florida Gulf Coast University 30 Lambda Iota – Florida International University 31 Eta Sigma – Florida Southern College 32 Eta Pi – University of Central Florida 33 Gamma Phi – University of Miami 34 Kappa Beta – University of North Florida 35 Theta Beta – University of South Florida 36 Kappa Omega – University of Tampa 37 Colony Update 38-49 Finances 50 Housing 51 Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Active Colony Brothers Leo Alexionok Ethan Aparicio Dustin Boutin Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Active Colony Brothers Robert Burnett Dominic Cassisa Russell Chisholm Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Active Colony Brothers Matthew Cosenzo Rico Desantis Fred Donnell Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Active Colony Brothers Alex Duke Edward Ewing Braxton Hannah Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Active Colony Brothers Wesley Hebel Danny Mendez Taylor Miller Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Active Colony Brothers Christopher Remus Christopher Renza Dominic Rucco Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Active Colony Brothers Howard Rudnick John Stahl Chris Sullivan Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Active Colony Brothers Jordan Tenbrook Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Colony Pledge Members Nicholas Alvarez Michael Cepeda Dylan Henderson Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Colony Pledge Members Jordan Horowitz Andrew Martell Sean McCabe Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Colony Pledge Members Robert Powers Marco Tomassetti Jason Twigger Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Colony Pledge Members Mikey Vergouwen Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Sigma Chi Phi Colony Alumni Ryan Celestina Daniel Tasman Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life Division of Student Affairs 777 Glades Road – UN 218 Boca Raton, FL 33431 tel: 561.297.1245 www.fau.edu/fslife November 30th, 2012 Matt Pagan, Director of Expansion Sigma Chi Fraternity International Headquarters 1714 Hinman Avenue PO Box 469 Evanston, IL 60204 Dear Matt, On behalf of the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life at Florida Atlantic University it is with great pleasure that I write to you on behalf of the Sigma Chi - Phi Colony. The colony has made and continues to make great efforts towards expanding their membership, engaging in our general campus and fraternity/sorority community as well as building strong relationship with their major stakeholders on and off campus. As the Fall 2012 concludes, I am pleased to report that the Sigma Chi - Phi Colony is in good standing with Florida Atlantic University, our office, and the Interfraternity Council (IFC). At this point in time I absolutely do not foresee the colony having any issues achieving full chapter status/membership within the IFC Council. The colony actively pursues academic improvements, community engagement, and the colony’s own group identity and membership development. Moreover, as their on campus advisor I am excited about the potential of the Sigma Chi – Phi Colony being installed this upcoming semester. Though I am transitioning to a new position and a new university, this group of fraternity men makes it particularly difficult to leave; working with the developing group and men has been a hallmark of my own professional experience at Florida Atlantic University. As a staff and department, we are eager for them to become fully a part of our community and be granted chapter status as they are truly striving to be outstanding leaders and men on our campus. I do not doubt that the colony will continue to flourish here at Florida Atlantic University. Again, I am pleased to be able to share this information with you as I believe the colony is comprised of men who are committed to the ideals of Sigma Chi and bettering FAU's fraternity and sorority community. I look forward to seeing and supporting their contributions to our community and in the future. Please feel free to contact David Bynes, our Associate Director of Student Involvement & Leadership if you have any questions or concerns regarding the colony; you can reach David at [email protected] or by phone at (561) 297-1245. Spring-Eve Rosado Coordinator for Fraternity & Sorority Life Office of Student Involvement & Leadership Florida Atlantic University Sigma Chi Fraternity Julio A. Varela, Grand Praetor of the South Florida Province 9600 Tetley Court, Orlando, FL 32817 CELL: (407) 678-5854; RES: (407) 678-8784 EMAIL: [email protected] October 16, 2012 New Chapter Development Committee Sigma Chi Fraternity 1714 Hinman Avenue Evanston, IL 60204 Brothers: It gives me great pleasure to recommend the men of Sigma Chi Phi Colony at Florida Atlantic University for installation as a chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. I have had the distinct privilege of interacting with them on numerous occasions: from Province Conference to BLTW and during visits to their meetings and activities on the FAU campus in Boca Raton, FL. I have always found them to have a unique and refreshing blend of members and personalities coupled with a generous spirit and exuberance for life. They are certainly one of the most diverse groups I have ever encountered during my fraternal experience. At first I wonder if they could possibly mesh as a brotherhood yet today I marvel at how well they do so. They have a strong and enduring bond of brotherhood that rivals that of any of our chapters. During their time as a colony, Sigma Chi Phi has developed a strong vibrant presence on the FAU campus. They are regarded by faculty and peers alike as the leaders of the flourishing Greek system. They have been recognized with numerous awards and citations that speak to their dedication to fraternity, community service, campus involvement, and generosity of spirit. They have also developed a tremendous partnership with the Fort Lauderdale Alumni Chapter and the new Boca Raton Alumni Association and regularly participate in those Chapters’ activities. In fact, various members of both the Fort Lauderdale & Boca Raton Alumni Chapter serve one the Sigma Chi Phi Advisory Board. In conclusion, Sigma Chi Phi has gone above and beyond the minimum requirements we demand of our colonies. I strongly urge and look forward to a favorable recommendation from the NCDC and an affirmative vote from the Executive Committee and the chapters so that this group of outstanding young men can take their place in the ranks of our Brotherhood. I will be extremely proud to list them among the active chapters in the South Florida Province upon their chartering and installation. In Hoc, Julio A. Varela, Grand Praetor South Florida Province of Sigma Chi Sigma Chi Fraternity Brett Miller, Assistant Grand Praetor of the South Florida Province 6956 SW 148th Ln, Davie, FL 33331 CELL: (386) 566-7351 EMAIL [email protected] November 28th, 2012 New Chapter Development Committee and Executive Committee Sigma Chi International 1714 Hinman Ave. Evanston, IL 60201 My Brothers, I write to submit a personal endorsement for the men at Florida Atlantic University who have requested a charter from Sigma Chi International. I have had the opportunity to observe this group for over two years. They have tirelessly worked to bring a new fraternity to the FAU campus. Since the beginning they have strived to pursue the highest standards of academic achievement and dedicated themselves to the betterment of their community. They want to be an example of what is best in a fraternal organization, and in my opinion their petition for a charter from Sigma Chi demonstrates their commitment to join a quality organization. I am confident that a charter for the Florida Atlantic University chapter will initiate a long period of mutual benefit. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me at any time at 386-566-7351. Guard Well, Brett Miller ‘04 Asst. Grand Praetor, South Florida Province Chairman - Alumni Advisory Board, Lambda Iota Chapter Boca Raton Sigma Chi Alumni Club Wally Bucklew, President 16489 Del Palacio Ct Delray Beach, FLA 33484 (561) 865-4487 EMAIL: [email protected] Sigma Chi Fraternity Fort Lauderdale Alumni Association October 8, 2012 New Chapter Development Committee Executive Committee Sigma Chi Fraternity 1714 Hinman Avenue Evanston, IL 60201 Dear Brothers: On behalf of the Fort Lauderdale Florida Alumni Association, it is my honor to support the men of Sigma Chi Phi Colony at Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida (FAU), in their Formal Petition to become a chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity. This initial group of men possesses the character and standards of our founding fathers. In my interaction with them, they seem to have great ambition and enthusiasm in their quest to wear the White Cross of Sigma Chi. These men are the right type of future brothers who will become proud brothers of this great fraternity. They possess the leadership values, initiative, and foresight that you would expect to find in a group who is willing to take the risk in starting a new colony and succeed. It is my sincere recommendation that their Formal Petition to become a chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity be approved. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call. In Hoc, Charles Bell, Esq. President Fort Lauderdale Sigma Chi Alumni Theta Beta 1989 Greater&Miami&Sigma&Chi&Alumni&Chapter& 6100&San&Amaro&Drive,&Coral&Gables,&FL&33146& [email protected]& & & & & & & November&29,&2012& & & Sigma&Chi&Fraternity& New&Chapter&Development&Committee& 1714&Hinman&Avenue& Evanston,&IL&60204& & & & Brothers,& & It&is&with&great&honor&that&I&offer&my&support&for&the&Sigma&Chi&Phi&Colony& in&their&quest&for&a&chapter&charter.&Their&involvement&in&their&campus& community&has&been&exceptional&and&I&believe&they&will&be&a&credit&to&our& brotherhood.& & & & IH,& & & Mark&Adelman& President& Sigma&Chi&of&Greater&Miami Sigma Chi Fraternity Russ Bucklew, Chapter Advisor Sigma Chi Phi Colony @ Florida Atlantic University 4721 NW 3rd Ave, Boca Raton, FL 33431-4758 CELL: (561-350-8236 EMAIL [email protected] Sigma Chi Fraternity Eta Iota Chapter of Sigma Chi 520 S Ridgewood Avenue Daytona Beach, FL 3211 [email protected] Sigma&Chi&Fraternity& New&Chapter&Development&Committee& 1714&Hinman&Avenue& Evanston,&IL&60204& November 28, 2012 On behalf of the Eta Iota Chapter of Sigma Chi at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, I would like to offer our endorsement of the Sigma Chi Phi Colony at Florida Atlantic University in its application for a Sigma Chi charter at that institution. Our chapter firmly believes that the men of this Colony will make fine Sigma Chi brothers and ensure that their chapter will ever be a credit to our Fraternity. In the time since they were founded in March of 2011, the colony has shown extraordinary development. Through their participation with Mission 365, BLTW, and Quad Province workshop, some of the members of this colony have had experiences that are on par with some of the most senior brothers of Eta Iota. Their campus presence is exemplary, with brothers actively involved with IFC and Student Government. Their commitment to community service and philanthropic efforts will ensure that their campus and community will be better off with their presence. Based on their recruitment efforts and their retention rate of 75%, I am confident that the life of the chapter would be a long and prosperous one. I look forward to being able to call these men our brothers. In Hoc, Jim Baldyga _____________________________________________ James M. Baldyga Consul – Eta Iota Chapter Sigma Chi Fraternity 520 South Ridgewood Avenue Daytona Beach, Florida 32114 Cell: (303)-335-5775 [email protected] [email protected] SigmaChi Fraternity Lambda Zeta Chapter of Sigma Chi Florida Gulf Coast University 10501 FGCU Blvd S, Fort Myers, FL 33965 ! Sigma!Chi!Fraternity! New!Chapter!Development!Committee! 1714!Hinman!Avenue! Evanston,!IL!60204! November 29, 2012 I am writing on behalf of the Lambda Zeta Chapter at Florida Gulf Coast University in support of the Sigma Chi Phi Colony at Florida Atlantic University. I have had the privilege of watching these gentlemen grow from the very start of their colony until today and can honestly say that they have worked hard to get where they are today and have set a solid foundation for a Sigma Chi Chapter at FAU. Being a Founding Father of the Lambda Zeta Chapter at FGCU, I understand what it takes to start a new chapter and believe that these gentlemen have been putting in the time and effort that it takes to ensure the longevity of an installed chapter. This colony truly exemplifies the well roundedness that Sigma Chi prides itself on, whether it is grades, campus involvement, community service, philanthropic activities, or even the social/brotherhood aspect as well. But these men aren’t complacent with where they stand right now, they are also continuing to raise the bar for themselves, whether it’s looking for other areas to get involved in or just focusing on raising their GPA they truly represent the high ambitions that Sigma Chi’s live up to. Therefore I believe this colony has just as much right as any other chapter to be installed and I look forward to calling them my brothers one day. Brent Ely Consul Sigma Chi Fraternity Lambda Zeta Chapter Sigma Chi Fraternity Lambda Iota Chapter Florida International University, GC 2240 11200 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33199 [email protected] Sigma Chi Fraternity New Chapter Development Committee 1714 Hinman Avenue Evanston, IL 60204 ! ! ! It!is!truly!an!honor!to!write!this!letter!of!recommendation!for!the!Sigma!Chi!Phi!colony! at!Florida!Atlantic!University.!I!have!visited!their!colony!a!few!times!at!their!recruitment! events,!as!well!as!interacted!with!them!at!Balfour.!These!men!have!impressed!me! tremendously!throughout!the!past!year.!It!is!inspiring!how!quickly!they!have!grown!to!become! men!that!stand!for!the!values!that!we!all!share.!! Being!a!founder!of!a!colony!at!Florida!International!University,!I!know!what!it!takes!to! start!a!strong!new!chapter!at!a!university.!Weeks!and!months!of!hard!work!and!relentless! recruitment!to!make!sure!that!the!future!Sigma!Chi!chapter!at!FAU!will!be!the!preeminent! leadership!development!organization!when!compared!to!all!the!rest.!! ! ! This!colony!truly!exemplifies!the!well!roundedness!that!Sigma!Chi!prides!itself!on;! whether!it!is!grades,!campus!involvement,!community!service,!philanthropic!activities,!or!even! the!social/brotherhood!aspect!as!well.!I!have!my!wholehearted!confidence!in!these!men!to! hold!strong!our!ideals!and!to!ensure!to!the!Fraternity!at!large!that!they!are!ready!to!become!a! Chapter!of!Sigma!Chi.!I!definitely!look!forward!to!calling!these!gentlemen!my!brothers!when! the!time!comes.!! ! ! Brian!Gonzalez! Consul! Sigma!Chi!Fraternity! Lambda!Iota!Chapter Shawn O’Keefe Consul - Epsilon Sigma 5 Anthony Rd. South Hamilton MA, 01982 Sigma&Chi&Fraternity& New&Chapter&Development&Committee& 1714&Hinman&Avenue& Evanston,&IL&60204& I am writing today on behalf of the Sigma Chi Phi colony at Florida Atlantic University. In the year and a half since the colony was founded, the men at FAU have taken great steps towards becoming an active chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. They have brothers serving on both the Inter-fraternity Council and Student Government association, as well as many other student organizations across campus. In addition to this the colony is in strong social standing with the sorority members of the Panhellenic Council at FAU. In each of the three recruitments since their founding, the colony has brought in 10 to 12 men with a retention rate over 75%, a very impressive achievement for a brand new organization competing on campus. They owe much of this to the training received at Mission 365, as well as at the Balfour Leadership Training Workshop and the Quad Province workshop hosted here at Florida Southern last spring. From their strength and reputation on campus, philanthropy, and commitment to our values the Sigma Chi Phi colony at FAU promises to be a strong and healthy chapter in the future. I speak for all my brothers here at the Epsilon Sigma chapter when I say we look forward to the installation of the FAU colony into a Sigma Chi chapter. Sincerely, Shawn O’Keefe SigmaChi Fraternity Eta Pi Chapter of Sigma Chi 4418 Greek Ct, Orlando, FL 32816 email: [email protected] Sigma&Chi&Fraternity& New&Chapter&Development&Committee& 1714&Hinman&Avenue& Evanston,&IL&60204& On behalf of the Eta Pi Chapter of Sigma Chi at UCF, this is to certify our chapter's wholehearted endorsement of the Sigma Chi Phi Colony at Florida Atlantic University in its application for a Sigma Chi charter at that institution. The Colony has demonstrated its qualifications through the accomplishment of a rigorous series of benchmarks. The chapter has a retention rate over 75%, and has participated in Mission 365, BLTW, as well as Quad Province conference. They have brothers taking leadership roles on campus in IFC, Student Government, and other organizations on campus. They are recruiting well and bringing in a solid pledge class every semester. I feel that they would be a great addition to the brotherhood and contribute greatly. In Hoc, David Barley Jr. President of the Eta Pi Chapter of Sigma Chi November 28, 2012 Sigma Chi Fraternity New Chapter Development Committee 1714 Hinman Avenue Evanston, IL 60204 Worthy Brothers of the Committee: I am writing this letter in full support of the installation of the Colony at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). The Gamma Phi brothers have seen the progress of the colony through their activeness in the South Florida community, as well as their presence at Province and the Balfour Leadership Training Workshop. At such conferences not only did they actively seek advice from several chapters but they also gave a lot of interesting feedback to questions and issues that many chapters faced. There is no doubt in my mind that this colony will be successful at FAU. The FAU Colony has shown commitment to Sigma Chi and its’ ideals of brotherhood. Through the pledge process these young men have proven their dedication to entering the order that our Seven Founders began in 1855. Our chapter itself looks forward to seeing the colony initiated into our order. We are confident that these young men are future leaders of Sigma Chi and will improve our Fraternity. Welcoming them into our brotherhood will strengthen our Province to the utmost degree. The Gamma Phi brothers believe the young men of the FAU colony can honorably wear the badge of our Great Fraternity. IH, Andrew Bowker Consul Gamma Phi Chapter Univ. of Miami (FL) On behalf of the Gamma Phi Chapter of Sigma Chi Fraternity Sigma Chi Fraternity University of North Florida Kappa Beta Chapter 1 UNF Drive Jacksonville, FL 32224 Thursday, November 29, 2012 Sigma Chi Fraternity New Chapter Development Committee 1714 Hinman Avenue Evanston, IL 60201 To whom it may concern, I am writing this letter to inform you that the Kappa Beta Chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity located at the University of North Florida is in support for the Sigma Chi Phi Colony located at Florida Atlantic University to receive installation as a chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. The members of the Phi Colony have continued to impress since their founding in March of 2011. The men have held high retention rates and have participated in Mission 365, Balfour Leadership Training Workshop and the Florida Quad Province in the spring of 2012. Members of the Phi Colony have made an impact on the campus at Florida Atlantic University, taking positions within the Inter-Fraternity Council and Student Government. The Phi Colony has continued to show that their contributions to their campus, the community and the fraternity at large are worthy of installation as a chapter of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me using the information below. Fraternally, Matthew Gregory Consul, Sigma Chi Fraternity Kappa Beta Chapter [email protected] (561) 401-6200 Sigma Chi Fraternity Theta Beta Chapter of Sigma Chi 4202 E Fowler Ave, CTR 2497 Tampa, FL 33620 SigmaChi Fraternity Kappa Omega Chapter of Sigma Chi 401 W Kennedy Blvd Box P, Tampa, FL 33606 email: [email protected] Sigma&Chi&Fraternity& New&Chapter&Development&Committee& 1714&Hinman&Avenue& Evanston,&IL&60204& November 29, 2012 The Kappa Omega Chapter supports the Sigma Chi Phi Colony at Florida Atlantic University. From what I have heard, they have been men of good character and deserve to be a chapter. They have been leaders on campus and have shown that they are true Sigma Chis. They are interested in the programs that Headquarters offers and are campus leaders. The Kappa Omega chapter of Sigma Chi would love for Florida Atlantic to have their own official chapter. In Hoc, Joshua Leibowitz Sigma Chi Fraternity Kappa Omega - Consul The University of Tampa Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Colony Update Recruitment Each semester we have continuously strived towards improving our recruitment methods and goals. A staple of our recruitment is our Alumni Spaghetti Night, where have alumni who live in the area come and interact with all of the potential new members. The highlight of our night though is our guest speaker, the Grand Tribune of The Sigma Chi Fraternity, Brother Skip Flynn. His speech is what seals the deal for many potential new members when they are contemplating accepting their bid into The Sigma Chi Fraternity. After we established recruitment teams last semester (Spring 2012) and put them into our bylaws, we noticed that we needed to go back to the drawing board and make them more functional to our colony. Our recruitment chair, Matt Cosenzo, noticed that when we all are together hanging out, people, especially potential new members, notice this and will occasionally inquire what we’re all doing. This gave him the idea to just do a once a week pre- recruitment/brotherhood event where all the brothers get together and play sports in different locations on campus, to increase our presence and visibility as well as partaking in Mission 365. Furthermore, this has helped us build a master list of all of the potentials we can invite to formal recruitment the next semester, something we have not done in the past. As our list continues to grow, we only hope that the men we meet are an embodiment of the Jordan Standard and a good fit into our colony and future chapter. Our recruitment events are always highlighted by our Hooters night, especially in the fall semester because we have made it tradition that it is a big NFL Kickoff party. We have such a great rapport with the management and the waitressing staff that we’re always asked back. We Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition strategically place Norman Shields around the party room in Hooters as well as copies of The Magazine of Sigma Chi. By doing so, a lot of potentials of their own volition will pick them up, read through them and will then enter into conversations with colony brothers about something they just read. The men who inquire more about Sigma Chi, we have noticed are the ones who do well during their pledge period and go on to become great active brothers. One area that we have continued to improve upon to help our recruitment is our social media presence, including Facebook and Twitter. We have seen that by targeting potential new members through social media, we are building an audience and becoming more intriguing to men who may want to join our fraternity. New Member Education Purpose The purpose of the New Member Education Program at Florida Atlantic University is to educate potential new members on the works of Sigma Chi on both the international level as well as the campus level. This program is designed to bring together the pledge class and start the bond of brotherhood. Additionally, this program will also help the potential new members to assimilate properly into the colony as a whole through activities with the other brothers. This program will help provide pledges tools to develop their leadership skills, enhance their interpersonal skills, and augment the collegiate experience. Moreover, this program will prepare the prospective members for the needed commitment to uphold the ideals of The Sigma Chi Fraternity and their membership in the Sigma Chi Phi Colony at Florida Atlantic University will instill the ideals of lifelong development of character, accountability for ones actions, continuing contributions, to Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition themselves, their brothers, the campus and the community. There will never be any hazing during the new member education program as committing cruel acts against a prospective brother or a human in general counters what Sigma Chi stands for. Commitment The new member education program will be a time consuming and intensive program. The program here at Florida Atlantic University is eight weeks. Pledges will be expected to learn all of the required material by the date of the test. Pledges must attend all events unless he has class or an excuse that must be approved by the Magister or consul (i.e. employment obligations, family conflicts, illness). If a pledge should miss a meeting, it is his sole responsibility to contact another pledge and/or the Magister to gather all information presented. The new member education program will be held only during the week. Additionally, no new member will be forced to miss class or will be deprived of sleep during this program. In addition to the education and activity portions of new member education, each new member is required to spend at least six hours in the library each week to ensure all of his work is completed. There will be a dress code for all new members during the new member education program. Each new member should wear his pin whenever he is in attire that contains a collar. Pin attire consists of a polo shirt and a pair of shorts or slacks. New members may wear a suit and tie or sweater if they prefer. Pin attire is only required when they are at an event and is asked of them by the Magister or Consul, and at new member education. Lastly, the test will be administered the Sunday following their last new member education. This is done so that they can come to their first chapter that night as colony brothers. New members are allotted one (1) hour and thirty (30) minutes to take their final exam and they need a score of 145 out of 181 in order to pass and become a colony brother of the Sigma Chi Phi colony. Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Pinning Ceremony The Sigma Chi Phi Colony at Florida Atlantic University will follow the guidelines set by the Sigma Chi International Fraternity with regard to the Formal Pledging Ceremony. There will be no hazing during this ceremony nor during any Sigma Chi events or pledging programs. Miscellaneous Each new member education portion involving education or any formal meetings will close with the candle pass. All new members will be presented with Norman Shields following the Formal Pledging Ceremony to use as a reference and an education guide throughout training. All new members will also complete the 400 series Pledge Forms. The Magister will also have to ensure that each new member meets Florida Atlantic University’s and General Fraternity’s requirements for new member education (i.e. grades). All new member education events will be held without the presence of alcohol. Financial Requirements The total financial obligation for the first semester of each new member will be determined by the Quaestor, which is now at $440.00. This is broken down into the $90.00 new member education fee requirements and $330 for all other operating costs. We have payment plans set up for the new members in case they cannot pay in full, which include the 50/25/25 plan or a monthly payment (depending on the semester). Formal Meetings Ever new member is required to attend every formal educational meeting. Attendance will be taken by the Magister. All new members are allowed and encouraged to ask questions of Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition the Magister at any time in regards to the new member education program, Sigma Chi, or the Sigma Chi Phi colony at Florida Atlantic University. Educational Portion Founding Fathers We understand the importance of recognizing the roots of an organization, especially when we work to uphold their ideals and follow their character paths;; therefore, we will educate every new member on the history, significance and contributions of the Founding Fathers of Sigma Chi. For the first three weeks of the new member education, the founders are split up over the course of the three weeks, which allows for the pledges to really learn about the founders in a greater depth. International Structure of the Fraternity As Sigma Chi is an International Fraternity and much of what FAU upholds and fosters is part of a larger structure the educational portion of new member education will teach prospective members about the structure of the fraternity as a whole;; the grand consul and its current members and responsibilities;; the trustees;; the philanthropy work;; the legal entities;; its offered leadership programs;; the four legal entities of Sigma Chi;; and local chapters. Founding (Seal & Motto) The new member education program will also include a thorough explanation of the founding of Sigma Chi and its relevant history. It will include the incidents and separation from Delta Kappa Epsilon, the recreation of the ritual, the first chapter house, Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition and significant members over history, major developments within the Fraternity, and other relevant historical information. The prospective members will be asked to provide their own thoughts on the founding of Sigma Chi. Our new member education program will include lecture but will make efforts to be an interactive learning with gaining insight and thoughts from every prospective member because it is key that each new member understands Sigma Chi and equally as important understands each other. Spirit The Spirit of Sigma Chi encompasses the belief that diversity within the fraternity is a way for a member to grow and gain a better perspective. It expresses that there is not one ‘ideal’ Sigma Chi, rather which different cultures, backgrounds, experiences and beliefs within the fraternity will benefit each member much more than just a homogenous group. As a fraternity, Sigma Chi strives to bring in the best, yet most diverse that the University has to offer. Jordan Standard At Florida Atlantic University, Sigma Chi is set on upholding the Jordan Standard. The character of a man is one of the most defining and revealing aspects. This is recognized by the first line of the Jordan Standard. Not only must the New Members have the standard memorized, they must understand the ramifications and applications of the Standard as well. FAU’s History The new member education will also include a detailed description of Sigma Chi at FAU starting from the first contact with Sigma Chi. This portion will change with each new Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition member class as new developments will occur between the classes. Within this history the first executive board will be examined, big moments and events at FAU (i.e. first pledge class date, installation as a colony). Moreover we will also address the direction of Sigma Chi at FAU by discussing short and long term goals. Furthermore, there will be a brief overview of Greek Life at Florida Atlantic University as it is imperative to understand complimenting Greek organizations on Campus. Lastly, this portion will include basic historical facts about the University itself to ensure all Sigs understand and appreciate the development of the institution that allows them to learn and develop. Current Members In addition to knowing the leadership of the Sigma Chi Fraternity it is also imperative to know who leads FAU’s chapter, their positions, and their responsibilities. Each member serving in a position at FAU will prepare a brief presentation on what position he holds and what he does. FAU’s chapter believes it’s essential to understand every brother’s responsibilities to maintain a cohesive and collaborative environment. Creed As potential members in the brotherhood of the Sigma Chi fraternity, it is pivotal for all new members to commit the Sigma Chi Creed to memory. This signifies a way in which all members of the Sigma Chi Fraternity should conduct themselves. It is a commitment to uphold and bolster the reputation of the Fraternity. Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Badge and Constantine Chapter New Members must understand what the Constantine Chapter is and how it is significant. The badge, its history and how it is worn. New Members should understand that there are other opportunities to remain connected with Sigma Chi after graduation. Brotherhood During New Member Education, it is a top priority to express and display the bond of brotherhood that Sigma Chi encompasses within the fraternity. Many events will be centered on building relationships between brothers. Risk Management During one of the meetings of the new member education program, the RMF chair from our chapter will make a presentation about RMF and necessary actions by the new members and brothers. If we can arrange for it, we will invite a lady from the health department to talk about the effects of alcohol. Greek Alphabet It is important to know all the letters of the Greek alphabet in order to recognize other Fraternities or Sororities. It is viewed as a sign of respect. We taught all new members the Greek Alphabet in only one education session. Simple repetition, vocal and writing, was quite effective. New Member Education Class Service Project The Sigma Chi Phi colony of Florida Atlantic University firmly believes in giving back to the community, as community service and public contribution should be a cornerstone of our Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition organization. Hence, each new member class will carry out a community service project of their choice. Their project must be approved by the Magister before commencing. This project must be run entirely by the prospective members without assistance from the brothers. By trusting them with the responsibility to serve the community under our chapter name we promote respect and give them an opportunity to gain the knowledge of preparation, community service and to understand their potential. Their project is to be completed by the end of the semester. Philanthropy As members of the Florida Atlantic University Fraternity & Sorority Life community, as well as the FAU community and the surrounding Boca Raton community, we feel it is imperative that we put on philanthropic events to raise money and awareness for the causes that we feel passionate about, and causes that Sigma Chi partners with. This past semester (Fall 2012) our Philanthropy Chair, Howard Rudnick, went outside of the box when looking to put on a philanthropy that would be successful and that was different from any other philanthropy seen on the FAU campus. It was also our first real philanthropic event due to setbacks in previous semesters. Our philanthropy this semester was “Coolers for a Cure” which benefitted the Huntsman Cancer Institute. We felt that because HCI was created and established by Significant Sig Jon Huntsman, Sr. and his wife, along with the fact that HCI matches donations it received, that this would be the best cause to support. The premise of the philanthropy was to have our community come together and bid on donated and decorated coolers made by both our fraternity friends and sorority friends. Here at Florida Atlantic University, we are a big tailgating school for all sports and we’ve noticed that people take pride in their coolers, so we wanted to challenge them to see who could come up with the best cooler. Our event was very successful as we had four coolers donated and we raised a total of $339 just from the sale of the coolers. We hope to Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition continue this event as a tradition every fall and see it grow into something bigger and better in the future. It is also been in our interest to be actively involved in our Fraternity & Sorority community when it comes to philanthropic events. We made conscious efforts to send members to every event held each semester, because by showing up and supporting their cause and their event, we hope that the support will be reciprocated when it’s time for our events. Campus Involvement One of the biggest improvements since our establishment on campus in March of 2011 is our on campus presence. Our chapter advisor Russell Bucklew told us about how his chapter, Eta Iota, would wear tropical shirts on Fridays around campus to be different and creative, and thus the birth of “Tropical Tuesday” was born. Every Tuesday our brothers dress up in tropical attire and make sure they are seen by our peers. Even other fraternities are thinking about ways to copy our idea for a different day, but we have now set up the tradition that Sigma Chi at FAU dresses up one day a week and have fun. At the end of this past semester, we decided to do “Spot-A-Sig” and tie that into Tropical Tuesday. We used our social media pages (Facebook & Twitter) to advertise our event and to run our contest. The premise was that we had a Sigma Chi tank up for grabs and the sorority woman who spotted the most Sigs on campus in tropical attire that day would win. They had to post the photos to our Facebook page or tweet to our Twitter account and use the hashtag #SpotASig to get credit for their entries. We had a really great rate of participation and plan on turning Spot-A-Sig into a competition between the sororities every semester. We really believe in establishing traditions on campus that will be around and improved every semester. Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Our brothers are also getting their feet wet in positions and organizations on campus. We have brothers in Delta Sigma Pi, the professional business fraternity;; Orientation Team;; Student Government;; the Interfraternity Council;; Rotaract and countless other organizations on campus. We also this past semester co-sponsored an event with CalvaryFAU, a branch of the Calvary Church in Ft. Lauderdale during Human Trafficking Awareness Month. It was a very successful event and we were very appreciative that they had asked us to co-sponsor. Sigma Chi Phi Formal Petition Housing Due to the University’s limited housing opportunities on and off campus, we currently do not have any viable options or conditions to provide housing for our Colony. While there has been talks of Fraternity and Sorority housing in the future, they are only still in talks, as the University administrators need to further understand the viability of housing for Fraternity and Sorority members in the future.
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