The Plan for Prominence in

Fraternity and Sorority

Affairs

The office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs

January 2006

The Plan for Prominence in

Fraternity and Sorority Affairs

Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ……………………. 3

I. THE STATEMENT OF VISION AND VALUES

A. The Vision ……………………. 9

B. The Values ……………………. 9

II. RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE STEERING COMMITTEE

Strategic Goal One …………………… 11

Understanding and Acceptance of Perceptions and Expectations

of the Fraternity and Sorority Community

Strategic Goal Two …………………… 12

Strong Alumni/ae Involvement

Strategic Goal Three …………………… 13

Sound Chapter Management

Strategic Goal Four …………………… 14

Effective Leadership Development

Strategic Goal Five …………………… 15

Responsible Use of Alcohol on and Off-Campus

Strategic Goal Six …………………… 16

Social Responsibility

Strategic Goal Seven …………………… 18

Conducive Living Facilities

Strategic Goal Eight …………………… 19

Collaborative Relationships with Faculty and Other Stakeholders

Strategic Goal Nine …………………… 20

Self-Governance and Assessment

Strategic Goal Ten …………………… 21

Promotion of Scholarship and Intellectual Development

Strategic Goal Eleven …………………… 23

University Support

III. APPENDICES …………………… 25

Appendix I: Background …………………… 26

Appendix II History of the Fraternity and Sorority System …… 29

at Bucknell University

Appendix III: National Trends in the Fraternity Movement …… 32

Appendix IV: The Central Billing Program …………………… 34

IV. THE CHAPTER ACCREDITATION PROGRAM …………… 35

Bucknell University

The Greek Life Strategic Planning Steering Committee

www.bucknell.edu/greek-planning/

The Plan For Prominence In

Fraternity and Sorority Affairs

Executive Summary

Background

This plan was developed by the Greek Life Strategic Planning Steering Committee, which was formed in the fall of 1999 in response to a call from the Board of Trustees. The objective was to define the responsibilities, guidelines, policies and expectations of fraternities and sororities at Bucknell in contemporary society.

To determine the current condition of the fraternity and sorority community, the broadly representative Steering Committee reviewed existing data; conducted focus groups with students, faculty and staff; and secured additional input from national fraternity and sorority organizations and Bucknell alumni. Two major planning forums with representatives of each fraternity and sorority chapter were held, creating a shared vision of the Bucknell fraternity and sorority community and identifying goals that need to be achieved to move from the current reality to the envisioned future. This plan is built on that vision and those goals.

The Steering Committee obtained feedback on a proposed plan in a series of meetings and forums with all of the fraternity and sorority community’s principal stakeholder groups during the fall 2000 semester and modified the plan accordingly. The plan was approved by the Board of Trustees in April 2001. The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs will begin the implementation phase during the fall 2001 semester so that the plan can take effect in January 2002, the beginning of a new accreditation cycle for Bucknell’s fraternity and sorority chapters, and the start of new chapter officers’ terms.

The Plan For Prominence In Fraternity and Sorority Affairs

Fraternities and sororities at Bucknell have been and continue to be an important part of the undergraduate experience for many students. The potential benefits of participation are substantial, notwithstanding recent lapses in behavior. To ensure its continued viability, however, the Bucknell fraternity and sorority community must embrace a vision that stresses support for the University’s academic mission, attention to the founding principles of national organizations, and members’ development intellectually, socially and ethically.

The planning process uncovered 11 critical goals for the fraternity and sorority community – things to achieve that will make the greatest difference in realizing the envisioned future. These goals are supported by 44 action items or initiatives that provide direction to individual chapters, the Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Association, and the University for taking steps to help achieve the strategic goals. The strategic goals and initiatives are:

STRATEGIC GOAL ONE: Understanding and Acceptance of the Perceptions and Expectations of the Fraternity and Sorority Community.

Initiatives: #1: The Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Association will formally adopt the Statement of Vision and Values that emerged from this planning process.

#2: All fraternity and sorority recruitment publications and other descriptive programs will provide information about membership expectations, and furnish accurate details concerning membership expenses, academic requirements, retention rates, and chapter achievements.

#3: Chapters will focus on continuing education and the development of current members, replacing the current practice that new-member education is the only membership education opportunity.

STRATEGIC GOAL TWO: Strong Alumni/ae Involvement

Initiatives:

#4: All chapters will have an Alumni/ae Adviser who will maintain regular contact with the chapter and serve in an advisory capacity.

#5: All chapters will have a functioning Advisory Board that will serve in an advisory role to officers, individual members, and the executive board of the chapter. Membership on the board includes the President of the Alumni/ae Corporation, the Alumni/ae Adviser, and the University Adviser.

#6: The University will regularly provide training programs for University Advisers and members of the Advisory Boards.

#7: Chapters will work to improve their relationship with alumni/ae and such efforts will be linked to the annual accreditation program (See Plan for details).

#8: The University will develop a “best practices” manual and training program that outlines the strategies that have been successfully implemented to develop and maintain strong working relationships with alumni/ae corporations.

STRATEGIC GOAL THREE: Sound Chapter Management

Initiatives:

#9: Chapters will have an active University (faculty/staff) Adviser, and the University will lend its support in the recruitment of University Advisers.

#10: The current Central Billing Program will be expanded to permit fraternities and sororities to collect room fees, meal plan charges, and chapter dues and fees.

#11: The Vice President for Finance and Administration will continue to grant Agency Fund status to fraternities and sororities. Chapter representatives will continue to have access to University accounting and purchasing systems.

#12: The University will continue to provide training in budget planning and management in the interest of assuring the financial health of fraternities and sororities.

#13: The Office of the Registrar will continue to provide the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs with specific semester and cumulative grade point average information for the purposes of membership recruitment and assessment.

#14: The Office of the Dean of Students, with consultation from the Council on Greek Life, will review the merits in relation to the cost of the Peer Adviser program and will recommend either continuing or ending the program. The Dean’s Office also will consider the appropriate staffing in Hunt Hall, including of Peer Advisers, once only sororities are housed in that facility.

STRATEGIC GOAL FOUR: Effective Leadership Development

Initiatives:

#15: The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs will continue to offer leadership development programs for chapter members and officers.

#16: New-member programs will focus on the transition needs of newly affiliated members and the value of involvement among upperclass members.

STRATEGIC GOAL FIVE: Responsible Use of Alcohol On and Off Campus

Initiatives:

#17: Chapters will host substance-free social events on a regular basis for their membership and the campus community, and their doing so will be linked to the annual accreditation program.

#18: The fraternity and sorority community will develop, implement, and enforce policies and procedures that govern legal, low-risk use of alcohol, and zero-tolerance for underage drinking in accordance with the President’s Ten-Point Program To Reduce Alcohol Abuse.

#19: The risk management policies for hosting registered social events with alcohol will include requirements for a 21-year old segregated serving and consumption area, and pre-determined invitation lists (See Plan for details).

STRATEGIC GOAL SIX: Social Responsibility

Initiatives:

#20: Chapters will demonstrate their commitment to diversity by developing goals and action plans that recruit and retain members of under-represented racial and ethnic groups, and that include hosting and/or attending diversity programs sponsored by the University.

#21: Chapters and chapter members will strictly adhere to their inter/national policies, Bucknell University policies, and the Pennsylvania Code regarding hazing.

#22: The University will continue to educate all Bucknell faculty, staff, and students about how to identify hazing practices and how to report such violations to the appropriate administrative offices.

#23: Chapters will establish philanthropic and community service goals and plan and implement events and projects that will assist the chapter in meeting those goals.

#24: Chapters will place high priority on community service/service-learning initiatives within the Lewisburg community (See Strategic Goal Area Eight).

#25: Chapters will continue to host and attend a variety of educational programming opportunities for their members that include topics in scholarship, critical thinking, diversity, gender issues, sexual awareness, alcohol education, hazing, health education, and faculty interaction, and the efforts will be linked to the annual accreditation program.

STRATEGIC GOAL SEVEN: Conducive Living Facilities

Initiatives:

#26: The University will continue its attempts to acquire all fraternity chapter houses.

#27: The University will develop reasonable “Bucknell standard” criteria that are comparable to those for other residential facilities and will distribute that information to all Alumni Corporations of non-University-owned fraternity chapter houses. Alumni Corporations will then be given two years to bring their houses up to this standard. If the standard is not met, the University will not permit students to reside in the facility.

#28: The chapter accreditation program will evaluate the chapter’s progress in meeting all health and safety codes pertaining to chapter house facilities. The process also will evaluate the program developed by the chapter to bring the chapter house to and maintain the chapter house at Bucknell standards.

#29: The University will make every effort to renovate Hunt Hall as soon as possible, but not later than the summer and fall of 2003.

STRATETIC GOAL EIGHT: Collaborative Relationships With Faculty and Other Stakeholders

Initiatives:

#30: Fraternities and sororities will make building relationships with various University-related stakeholders a major priority (See Plan for details).

#31: Chapters will develop mechanisms to maintain better communication with their national headquarters (See Plan for details).

#32: Chapters will develop standards regarding behavior and accountability for members who reside in off-campus apartments and houses to address concerns of off-campus residents and residents of Lewisburg.

STRATEGIC GOAL NINE: Self-Governance and Assessment

Initiatives:

#33: Chapters will develop and implement a chapter standards board that holds members accountable to the Statement of Vision and Values, the membership expectations of each organization, and the accreditation program.

#34: Chapters will attain the minimum performance standards outlined in the accreditation program as a requirement for receiving official student organization status.

#35: A chapter accreditation program will be implemented as a system of periodic self-analysis and external review. The accreditation program will assess chapter operations and chapter compliance with stated performance standards, inclusive of chapter, inter/national, University, and Lewisburg community goals and objectives (see Plan for details).

STRATEGIC GOAL TEN: Promotion of Scholarship and Intellectual Development

Initiatives:

#36: The University will adopt a policy requiring a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.25 for men and women to affiliate with or remain a member of a fraternity or sorority.

#37: As part of the accreditation program, chapters will develop scholarship programs that challenge members to achieve academically, provide scholastic support, and recognize both improvement and excellence in performance.

#38: Chapter members will share responsibility for the academic performance of initiates and new members and re-examine activities that detract from scholastic success. Chapters will be held accountable for the unacceptable academic performance of new and initiated members as described in the chapter accreditation program.

#39: Chapters will meet or exceed the all-University men’s and women’s cumulative grade point averages and the University will recognize them for such achievements through the accreditation program.

#40: Chapters will sponsor educational programs that enhance critical thinking and enrich the personal growth of their members.

#41: All new member education programs will conclude by the end of the semester in which the invitation to join is extended. Chapters will be rewarded through the accreditation program for completing the new member education process within eight (8) or ten (10) weeks.

STRATEGIC GOAL ELEVEN: Other University Support

Initiatives:

#42: The Council on Greek Life will continue to be a governance and policy-making sub-committee of the Committee on Complementary Activities. The Council will be given the authority, by the Committee, to make and establish policies that affect the Greek community, act upon special requests from individual fraternities and sororities, and serve as an appeals body during the Chapter Accreditation Program evaluation process without additional review by the Committee on Complementary Activities (See Plan for details).

#43: The Vice President for Academic Affairs will expand the definition of service in University promotion and tenure decisions to include service as a University adviser to a fraternity or sorority.

#44: The University will consider providing additional staff of some kind (e.g., part-time casual or graduate assistant) and additional budgetary support to the Office of Greek Life.

The Chapter Accreditation Program

Finally, the strategic goals for Bucknell’s fraternity and sorority community form the basis for a new accreditation program for fraternity and sorority chapters (see Summary Chart that follows). Clear standards are established in the key areas of academic achievement, financial management, alumni/ae relations, and others, in part to promote chapter self-evaluation and self-determination. Chapters will operate in good standing by meeting all the baseline standards in the program; conditional recognition will result from failure to meet all standards for one semester, and suspension will result from a longer period of non-compliance. Chapters also will be recognized and rewarded for substantially exceeding baseline expectations.

Summary

Executive officers of national and international fraternities and sororities have suggested that Bucknell can establish a benchmark for excellence in fraternity and sorority programming. Through renewed commitment institutionally and within the fraternity and sorority community to core values and new operational standards, the University can extend its national leadership in fraternity and sorority affairs, potentially affecting the lives of undergraduates everywhere. It is with the support of fraternity and sorority leadership at Bucknell University and the belief that Bucknell can become the national model for fraternity and sorority excellence that the Committee has developed this Plan for Prominence in Fraternity and Sorority Affairs.

www.bucknell.edu/greek-planning/

The Plan For Prominence In

Fraternity and Sorority Affairs

I. THE STATEMENT OF VISION AND VALUES

A. THE VISION

The fraternity and sorority system at Bucknell University will be a community that (1) supports and complements the academic mission of the University, (2) believes in and abides by the founding principles of our national organizations and the responsibilities associated with fraternity or sorority membership, and (3) promotes the development of its members intellectually, socially, and ethically. Therefore, the community will promote each member’s commitment to the following set of values:

B. THE VALUES

Independence and Self-Governance

I believe in self-governance of the chapter (recruitment, ritual, and committees) and of the fraternity and sorority system;

I will participate fully in chapter and alumni/ae events;

I will uphold faithfully the traditions and activities of the University by participating in fraternity and sorority, campus, and community events.

Respect for the System and for Others

I will be mutually supportive of other chapters and individual members.

Academic Relevance

I believe in learning and scholarship;

I will strive to attain the highest possible standard of scholarship and will strive to perform at or above the all-men’s or all-women’s grade point average;

I will assist in the development of scholarship initiatives that promote the highest standards of academic proficiency;

I will promote academic integrity and discourage academic dishonesty.

Responsibility and Safety

I will take personal responsibility for and will be accountable for my actions;

I will serve as a role model by living the ritual every day;

I will expect others to live the ritual and will hold them accountable;

I will safeguard the reputation of the chapter and the fraternity and sorority community by keeping careful watch over my personal conduct;

I will bear an appropriate share of the financial burden of my chapter and the fraternity and sorority system;

I will follow all national, Panhellenic Association, and/or Interfraternity Council risk management policies and procedures;

I will encourage the safe and responsible use of alcohol;

I will maintain my chapter’s property in a safe and sanitary condition to provide the most positive environment that supports the development of community;

I will encourage and support chapters who have implemented the substance-free housing initiative in their chapters.

Unity and Relationships

I believe in cooperation and teamwork;

I will be a lifelong member who remains active throughout my university career and participates in alumni activities and events;

I will join other student organizations and will work to become a campus leader;

I will be united in a common goal of contributing to the quality of life on campus.

Diversity

I will promote a fraternity and sorority community that is diverse and representative of the general student body of Bucknell University;

Service To Others

I will serve as a lifelong volunteer in both community and University service;

I will learn and strive to understand the value of participating in community service activities as a member of the fraternity and sorority community.

Fun

I believe in the development of a fraternity and sorority experience for all students that enhances and does not compete with the general social environment of the University;

I will participate in creating and organizing events that provide social opportunities for all members of the Bucknell community.

II. STRATEGIC GOALS AND INITIATIVES

INTRODUCTION

The following initiatives are organized under strategic goal areas that were identified by the Committee using the input of the various stakeholders. The initiatives reflect the shared values of scholarship, leadership, character, service, and friendship. The continued formal relationship between Bucknell University and the fraternity and sorority community is the foundation upon which the following initiatives are constructed.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA ONE

UNDERSTANDING AND ACCEPTANCE OF THE PERCEPTIONS

AND EXPECTATIONS OF THE FRATERNITY AND SORORITY COMMUNITY

INITIATIVE #1: The Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Association will formally adopt the Statement of Vision and Values that emerged from this planning process.

The espoused values of fraternities and sororities complement the educational mission of the University and provide the opportunity for co-curricular learning experiences that the University can support. Although each fraternity and sorority maintains its unique history and heritage, most groups share common values of scholarship, leadership, character, service, and friendship. It is necessary to the articulation and success of such programs that undergraduate members of the organizations participate in the development and implementation of such efforts. (See Statement of Vision and Values on pages 1-2)

INITIATIVE #2: All fraternity and sorority recruitment publications and other descriptive programs will provide information about membership expectations, and furnish accurate details concerning membership expenses, academic requirements, retention rates, and chapter achievements. Chapter publications and recruitment programs will include similar facts.

Many of the publications produced by affiliated students highlight the "fun" aspects of membership and neglect membership expectations and other information that more clearly describe the benefits and responsibilities of fraternity and sorority life. Devoting publication space to the Statement of Vision and Values, the detailed rights and responsibilities for a responsible and meaningful membership, and financial obligations of membership will demonstrate the importance of these obligations and allow students to make informed choices. If a student cannot adhere to these values and expectations, he or she will not be well suited to fraternity and sorority life.

INITIATIVE #3: Chapters will focus on continuing education and the development of current members, replacing the current practice that new-member education is the only membership education opportunity.

The Committee believes that the core values of fraternal membership require continuing education and membership development. Education begins during the recruitment (rush) process when prospective members learn of the values that will guide their participation and identify expectations and responsibilities of their membership. New members are then oriented to the history of the chapter, the chapter’s values and principles, and begin to establish fraternal bonds of friendship with the entire membership. The educational goals of the chapter should include strengthening the bonds of friendship, promoting knowledge about the organization, respecting core values and principles, and providing personal and professional learning opportunities.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA TWO

STRONG ALUMNI/AE INVOLVEMENT

INITIATIVE #4: All chapters will have an Alumni/ae Adviser who will maintain regular contact with the chapter and serve in an advisory capacity.

Chapters benefit from the involvement and supervision of advisers who are not undergraduates. The Committee believes it is important for each chapter at Bucknell to have an Alumni/ae Adviser who interacts with the chapter on a regular basis.

INITIATIVE #5: All chapters will have a functioning Advisory Board that will serve in an advisory role to officers, individual members, and the executive board of the chapter. Membership on the board will include the President of the Alumni/ae Corporation, the Alumni/ae Adviser, and the University Adviser.

Advisory boards will serve some of the same functions as an effective chapter or University Adviser but will provide a broader prospective. Regular meetings with chapter leaders will enable the diverse perspectives that are essential to critical thinking and problem solving. Chapters struggling to meet accreditation standards can call upon their advisory boards for advice and counsel. Through the development of advisory boards, more people will have an opportunity to work with fraternity and sorority members and new relationships within and outside of the University structure will be made possible.

INITIATIVE #6: The University will regularly provide training programs for University Advisers and members of the Advisory Boards.

The University should not assume that members of the faculty and staff who volunteer to serve as advisers have an understanding of the obligations associated with advising a fraternity and sorority organization. Successful chapters usually have advisers who understand their roles and are actively involved in the organization. The University should offer regular training and support for University Advisers and Advisory Boards in order for them to contribute to the management of the chapter.

INITIATIVE #7: Chapters will work to improve their relationship with alumni/ae and such efforts will be linked to the annual accreditation program.

1) Developing and publishing an alumni/ae newsletter on a regular basis;

2) Maintaining communication with the alumni/ae using technology;

3) Respecting the alumni/ae by preparing for their visits to campus during Homecoming and Reunion Weekend;

4) Maintaining the traditions of the organization;

5) Maintaining a chapter web site that is linked to the University’s web site so that alumni/ae can monitor the activities of the chapter throughout the year.

The Committee believes that alumni/ae engagement is vitally important to a chapter’s success; therefore, the chapter must develop and maintain a strong relationship with its alumni/ae.

INITIATIVE #8: The University will develop a “best practices” manual and training program that outlines the strategies that have been successfully implemented to develop and maintain strong working relationships with alumni/ae corporations.

The University can facilitate and support chapters in their efforts to build and maintain strong relationships with alumni/ae by providing programs and manuals that train chapter leaders on how to develop and maintain relationships with their alumni/ae. Training should be provided in the following areas: planning and implementation of alumni/ae functions, the use of technology to improve communication, the development of alumni/ae web pages, newsletter design, and knowledge of programs that have been successful at other chapters.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA THREE

SOUND CHAPTER MANAGEMENT

INITIATIVE #9: Chapters will have an active University (faculty/staff) Adviser, and the University will lend its support in the recruitment of University Advisers.

INITIATIVE #4: Chapters will have an active Alumni/ae Adviser (see Strategic Goal Area Two).

Throughout the data collection process conducted by the Committee, the importance of devoted and disciplined advisers was a recurring theme. Almost without exception, there was a strong link between exemplary chapters and the dedication of their advisers. Chapters without effective advisers all echoed the desire for University assistance in identifying candidates for these positions. Chapter officers spoke with great frustration about the absence of a strong, clear, voice of support and counsel. The University can assist chapters in identifying available candidates for chapter advisers. Bucknell’s data resources and knowledge of alumni can help chapters focus on the best "fit" for their particular needs. This assistance will establish better relationships within the University population and eventually carry over into the greater Lewisburg community. The effects of good advising will be evident through better academic achievement and community service.

INITIATVE #10: The current Central Billing Program will be expanded to permit fraternities and sororities to collect room fees, meal plan charges, and chapter dues and fees.

The current Fraternity Central Billing Program permits, but does not require, fraternity chapters to collect only room and meal plan fees. The service charge for this program is 3%. This program will be expanded to include sororities and be renamed the Greek Central Billing Program. Chapters will use the program to collect room fees, meal plan charges, and dues or chapter fees. This would bring greater financial stability to fraternity and sorority organizations and would bring professional oversight to the fee collection process. (Appendix IV)

INITIATIVE #11: The Vice President for Finance and Administration will continue to grant Agency Fund status to fraternities and sororities. Chapter representatives will continue to have access to University accounting and purchasing systems.

Chapters can purchase goods and services through the University more economically using their accommodations account; therefore, the Committee believes the University should make additional opportunities available to the fraternity and sorority system where various goods and services could be purchased at University costs.

INITIATIVE #12: The University will continue to provide training in budget planning and management in the interest of assuring the financial health of fraternities and sororities.

The University currently provides training programs for chapter Treasurers, Kitchen Managers, and Social Chair in the areas of budget development and management. The Committee believes these programs are valuable to sound chapter management and recommends that these programs be continued and possibly expanded.

INITIATIVE #13: The Office of the Registrar will continue to provide the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs with specific semester and cumulative grade point average information for the purposes of membership recruitment and assessment.

Obtaining accurate information about the academic performance of prospective, newly affiliated, and current members is essential. Common practice among fraternal organizations includes obtaining a written release of cumulative grade point information from each prospective member. Currently, the University Registrar provides academic information to fraternity and sorority chapters through the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs. The Committee believes that this process should continue. This information will permit chapters to be more responsible for monitoring a standard of excellence during the recruitment process and in the development and maintenance of the chapter’s scholarship program.

INITIATIVE #14: The Office of the Dean of Students, with consultation from the Council on Greek Life, will review the merits in relation to the cost of the Peer Adviser program and will recommend either continuing or ending the program. The Dean’s Office also will consider the appropriate staffing in Hunt Hall, including of Peer Advisers, once only sororities are housed in that facility.

Bucknell implemented an undergraduate Peer Adviser program in all fraternity houses in 1993. The positions have provided some assistance to chapters in the areas of facility management and educational programming. However, there has been some debate about the true effectiveness of the Peer Adviser program. The program was created to provide a student, supervised by the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs, who would be responsible for facility management and educational programming. The program has never been fully effective for a number of reasons, including the fact that individual chapters never fully understood how to utilize the Peer Adviser position. In addition, chapters failed to use the Peer Adviser as was intended by continuing to elect house managers instead of requiring the PA to serve as the chapter’s official house manager.

It has been suggested that a Peer Advisor should have some type of disciplinary role within the fraternity; however, it is unlikely that members of a fraternity or sorority would ever accept a role within their organization that would require that they hold individual members accountable in quite the same way as Resident Assistants in a residence hall.

The PA program was never extended to the sorority chapters since they are currently housed in Hunt Hall, a University residence hall that also is occupied by non-sorority women. Hunt has been staffed by the Office of Housing and Residential Life with four Head Resident positions that are similar to Resident Assistants but without the programming requirement or expectation. Sororities have successfully met their educational programming requirements without the assistance of Peer Advisers. In addition, each sorority also has an elected suite manager position whose responsibility is to manage the suite in Hunt Hall in a fashion similar to that of a Peer Adviser in a fraternity chapter house.

The Office of the Dean of Students should determine if the Peer Adviser position should be continued in the fraternity system, as well as consider the type of staffing that will be appropriate for Hunt Hall once the renovation has been completed and the facility houses only sorority women.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA FOUR

EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

INITIATIVE #15: The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs will continue to offer leadership development programs for chapter members and officers.

Fraternities have historically recruited new members with claims that fraternal affiliation alone would develop leadership skills. Kuh, Pascarella, & Wechsler (April 1996) point out that the opportunities to develop leadership skills claimed by fraternities may be overstated nationwide. The majority of chapter members are not in positions of leadership, and they do not become competent in the practical and interpersonal skills necessary for civic leadership and responsibility. Programs that are currently sponsored by the University -- i.e., the fraternity and sorority leadership conferences, Financial Workshops, the Risk Management and Social Chair Workshops, the Philanthropy and Community Service Chair Workshops, and the TIPS training programs -- should continue as a component of membership education. These programs give strength and stability to the community and offer important learning opportunities that support the shared values espoused by the fraternity and sorority organizations.

INITIATIVE #16: New-member programs will focus on the transition needs of newly affiliated members and the value of involvement among upper-class members.

New-member programs have recently averted their focus from core values and principles and rich historical foundations. Instead of serving as opportunities for initiates to become acquainted with their newest members, frivolous exercises that claim to build unity among new members have replaced the central educational goals. As a result, the time demands placed on new members have frequently resulted in unacceptable academic performance. The attempt to meet most or all of the educational goals of the chapter at the outset of membership must be refocused toward a lifelong educational process that begins with the university years. Establishing this philosophy at the chapter level will lessen the tension for the new member during an already stressful time of life. Components of the program should include inter/national and specific chapter history, membership expectations, teaching the shared values of the organization and the larger fraternity and sorority community, team building, and other appropriate chapter-specific topics. Lengthy recitation of meaningless information is not an appropriate measure of worthiness.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA FIVE

RESPONSIBLE USE OF ALCOHOL ON AND OFF CAMPUS

INITIATIVE #17: Chapters will host substance-free social events on a regular basis for their membership and the campus community, and their doing so will be linked to the annual accreditation program.

Approximately two-thirds of chapter members are under the legal age to consume or purchase alcohol. If students of any age are present at an activity where alcohol is openly or covertly served to underage students, they are fully liable for inter/national fraternity and University policies as well as the Pennsylvania Code. In some states, recent court cases have named undergraduate fraternity and sorority leaders as responsible parties in legal claims filed against the fraternal organizations these leaders represented. Since chapter officers are legally responsible for the behavior of chapter members, this type of high-risk and illegal activities can lead to serious consequences for them and their families. Women’s organizations have historically mandated substance-free living and most have moved to eliminate or dramatically reduce the number of chapter events where alcohol is present. While they should be applauded for these initiatives, implementation is not always successful. Members of women’s groups often refrain from alcohol consumption during official chapter social events. In many cases, however, women arrive at these functions intoxicated, having participated in "pre-parties." A "pre-party" is an unofficial social activity held for the purpose of consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period of time—to "front load" before the official event. This and other obvious gaps between principle and practice should be discussed with each new and initiated chapter member and eliminated as chapter practice.

INITIATIVE #18: The fraternity and sorority community will develop, implement, and enforce policies and procedures that govern legal, low-risk use of alcohol, and zero-tolerance for underage drinking in accordance with the President’s Ten-Point Program To Reduce Alcohol Abuse.

In the early 1990s, Bucknell University charged fraternity and sorority leadership with developing a self-governing alcohol policy. This charge occurred at a time when fraternity and sorority organizations were facing severe liability issues and coalitions were forming to ensure that insurance coverage of fraternities and sororities was available. Although the national fraternity and sorority organizations each developed their own policies, common components existed, and chapters were encouraged to create local self-monitored alcohol policies. As a result of the University charge, the fraternity and sorority Risk Management Enforcement Policy was established in 1997. The irresponsible use of alcohol, however, is still present in the fraternity and sorority community. Violations of local and inter/national fraternity policies, failure to adhere to city and State law, and lack of supervision and accountability both by the chapters and the community-at-large still exist. The University, the Interfraternity Council and the Panhellenic Association provide education and training programs yet minimal change has been experienced. The Committee believes that the abuse of alcohol has reached dangerous levels and that it is only a matter of time before tragedy strikes the Bucknell community.

INITIATIVE #19: The risk management policies for hosting registered social events with alcohol will include requirements for a 21-year old segregated serving and consumption area, and pre-determined invitation lists.

The risks arising from the irresponsible use of alcohol demand that immediate steps be taken in implementing regulations to govern the legal and low-risk use of alcohol. Therefore, the Committee recommends that the following policies and procedures be implemented:

1. All registered social events with alcohol sponsored by fraternities and sororities be registered with the University through the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs;

2. All registered social events with alcohol abide by all national risk management guidelines, policies and procedures, and Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Association risk management policies and procedures that include, but are not limited to, the following: strict use of pre-determined invitation lists at the front door, use of a 21 year-old segregated serving and consumption area for alcohol, use of wristbands to identify guests who are 21 years of age, and the use of two private security officers;

3. All chapter members be certified using a the program, Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS), or a similar program;

4. The use of kegs, common sources, and/or alcohol purchased by or on behalf of the chapter is strictly prohibited;

5. For registered social events with alcohol, chapters must submit to the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs their pre-determined invitation lists by 12:00 noon on the day of the event or by Friday at 4:00 p.m. if the event is scheduled for Saturday.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA SIX

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

INITIATIVE #20: Chapters will demonstrate their commitment to diversity by developing goals and action plans that recruit and retain members of under-represented racial and ethnic groups, and that include hosting and/or attending diversity programs sponsored by the University.

The fraternity and sorority community must work diligently to open its doors to all members of the University community regardless of race, sex, national origin, or sexual orientation. The GAME Program (Greeks for the Advancement of Multicultural Education) has not been effective because chapters have not demonstrated that they consider diversity a priority in their chapters. All members of the Bucknell community must feel that the fraternity and sorority system would welcome them should they want to be a part of it. Discrimination must not be a part of the fraternity and sorority system.

Chapters should embrace diversity and appreciate the richness that diversity brings to their fraternity and sorority experience. The Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Association also should host and support diversity programming, as well as encourage the colonization and existence of National Pan-Hellenic Council (traditionally African-American) fraternities and sororities at Bucknell.

INITIATIVE #21: Chapters and chapter members will strictly adhere to their inter/national policies, Bucknell University policies, and the Pennsylvania Code regarding hazing.

Eliminating hazing in the University and Lewisburg communities will require the commitment to report all violations of policy and state law and the swift and consistent enforcement of the prescribed consequences. There should be a zero tolerance policy for any activity that is considered hazing by inter/national fraternal organizations as defined by Bucknell University policies and the Pennsylvania Code. Tradition does not excuse or justify hazing. Earning membership through meaningless and dangerous "rites of passage" is an act of hazing and is illegal. Hazing undermines the mission of the organization and the University and puts at high risk all those who participate in or have knowledge of such activities. Any chapter failing to comply should be held fully accountable.

INITIATIVE #22: The University will continue to educate all Bucknell faculty, staff, and students about how to identify hazing practices and how to report such violations to the appropriate administrative offices.

Since hazing still occurs with regularity outside fraternities and sororities, the Committee calls for the adoption of a University-sanctioned campaign against hazing by any campus group or organization. The University community should be educated to recognize all forms of hazing in and beyond the fraternity and sorority community, and be vigilant in identifying and reporting all incidents. The practice of a zero tolerance attitude toward hazing depends on a common understanding that anyone who participates in, or has knowledge of, acts of hazing and does not report it, is equally guilty under Pennsylvania state law and policies of the University. When a faculty or staff person witnesses hazing or its resultant behavior in or around the Lewisburg or University communities, he/she is required to report the offense, as is any other person who witnesses such acts.

INITIATIVE #23: Chapters will establish philanthropic and community service goals and plan and implement events and projects that will assist the chapter in meeting those goals.

Service is among the core values of fraternities and sororities. Service to the community should occur throughout membership and beyond the years at Bucknell. Many chapters sponsor community service and philanthropic events that target the participation of new members alone. These practices impose unreasonable time demands on new members and result in minimal understanding and commitment to the philosophy of lifetime volunteer service. Philanthropies and services to the community should seek the participation of all members throughout their undergraduate experience.

INITIATIVE #24: Chapters will place high priority on community service/service-learning initiatives within the Lewisburg community (See Strategic Goal Area Eight).

Service to local agencies enable strong partnerships and helps students develop a greater sense of belonging to the community-at-large. It has been common practice for chapters to devote most of their energies to events for the benefit of national philanthropic agencies—often more socially motivated than service-oriented. While these philanthropic events can be beneficial to the chapter experience, hands-on service for local citizens, with opportunities for learning and reflection, have greater potential for meaningful interaction. These initiatives will be coordinated through the Office of the Deans of Students.

INITIATIVE #25: Chapters will continue to host and attend a variety of educational programming opportunities for their members that include topics in scholarship, critical thinking, diversity, gender issues, sexual awareness, alcohol education, hazing, health education, and faculty interaction, and the efforts will be linked to the annual accreditation program.

Educational programming has been an expectation of chapters in the Bucknell University fraternity and sorority system since 1992. Chapters should be required and rewarded for hosting and/or attending educational programming. Topics should include hazing, alcohol education, improving faculty relations, diversity and multiculturalism, tolerance, gender issues, sexual assault, and various health education programs.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA SEVEN

CONDUCIVE LIVING FACILITIES

INITIATIVE #26: The University will continue its attempts to acquire all fraternity chapter houses.

INITIATIVE #27: The University will develop reasonable “Bucknell standard” criteria that are comparable to those for other residential facilities and will distribute that information to all Alumni Corporations of non-University-owned fraternity chapter houses. Alumni Corporations will then be given two years to bring their houses up to this standard. If the standard is not met, the University will not permit students to reside in the facility.

The Greek Review Committee’s 1989 Final report recommended that by 1999, the University should be “independent from alumni house corporation boards to house Bucknell students. A dependency encumbers change now and will continue to do so.” The University believes that all fraternity chapter houses should be maintained at “Bucknell standards” the goal of which is to improve the physical condition of the houses. Some alumni corporations do not have the funding to not only bring the chapter houses up to “Bucknell standards,” but also to maintain the properties on an annual basis. In addition, there are minimal fire and safety issues that must be taken into consideration. The University contracts the services of the local safety code inspector to provide bi-annual safety and code inspections of non-University-owned fraternity houses. The Committee supports the University’s efforts to purchase all non-University-owned fraternity houses so that they can be renovated to “Bucknell’s standard.” The rationale for this support is:

1) chapters would be on an equal level in regard to housing. All houses would be clean, repaired, and furnished at “Bucknell’s standards” and maintained on a daily basis;

2) students would be living in facilities that are safe, clean, and maintained;

3) prospective members would not make membership decisions based on chapter house conditions;

4) students would be paying the same rental rates to live in fraternity chapter houses;

5) alumni corporations would be released from having to deal with the day-to-day operational issues related to maintaining a chapter house facility and could focus more on programmatic issues to be of more assistance to their chapters;

6) the level of service to chapters would increase as the University would be required to provide services that are currently not available to non-University-owned facilities, i.e., custodial service, maintenance service, emergency repair services, lawn maintenance, and landscaping service.

INITIATIVE #28: The chapter accreditation program will evaluate the chapter’s progress in meeting all health and safety codes pertaining to chapter house facilities. The process also will evaluate the program developed by the chapter to bring the chapter house to and maintain the chapter house at Bucknell standards.

Generally, fraternities have made dramatic improvements in the general maintenance of their chapter houses; however, more improvement is needed. The University should continue to provide direction by outlining clear expectations of all fraternity chapters regarding the daily maintenance of fraternity chapter houses. This issue should be a significant part of the annual accreditation process. All chapter physical plants must meet local, state, and federal codes for health and safety.

INITIATIVE #29: The University will make every effort to renovate Hunt Hall as soon as possible, but not later than the summer and fall of 2003.

Currently, all Bucknell sorority chapters maintain suites in Hunt Hall, a building in need of major renovation that has been postponed several times since 1999. Besides addressing deferred maintenance issues and achieving “Bucknell standards” for the building, the planned renovation will eliminate non-Fraternity and sorority housing in Hunt; install an elevator; and triple the size of the currently very small chapter rooms in each suite.

The project will be expensive ($3.5 million) and cannot realistically be planned for completion during only one summer. It also will require dispersing residents among other residence halls (in restored “dingles” and “quads”) during a fall term. Moreover, Bucknell and the local building industry will be challenged to complete such other work as Coleman Hall, Langone Center renovations, the O’Leary Center, and the new athletics and recreation center in the next several years. Nonetheless, every effort must be made to renovate Hunt at the earliest possible moment.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA EIGHT

COLLABORATIVE RELATIONSHIPS WITH FACULTY

AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS

INITIATIVE #30: Fraternities and sororities will make building relationships with various University-related stakeholders a major priority. Chapters will consider the following relationship-building ideas:

1) Hosting significant faculty interaction programs that discuss scholarly topics and issues instead of topics related specifically to the fraternity and sorority system;

2) Requiring members to attend University-sponsored events hosted by the Office of Campus Activities and Programs;

3) Requiring members to attend intercollegiate athletic events;

4) Planning and implementing programs specifically designed for the Department of Public Safety in order to open lines of communication;

5) Refraining from hosting social events on class nights;

6) Developing policies that hold members accountable for missing classes or failing to perform academically;

7) Host programs for Department of Physical Plant staff in order to discuss problems of mutual concern;

8) Implement policies and procedures that address the maintenance of chapter grounds;

9) Survey various stakeholder groups periodically throughout the academic year to determine if perceptions are changing and/or how the chapter can better improve relationships.

During the data collection process, various stakeholder groups indicated that their relationship with the fraternity and sorority community was not as positive as it should be. Student members of fraternities and sororities expressed their desire to have more positive relationships with these groups so that they would not feel the need to constantly defend themselves. The Committee believes that chapters should make a concerted effort to build cooperative and collaborative relationships with various stakeholder groups as these relationships would prove to be beneficial during times of crisis or criticism.

INITIATIVE #31: Chapters will develop mechanisms to maintain better communication with their national headquarters by:

1) Being responsive to requests for information and data, and payment of fees and dues;

2) Planning for visits by national consultants by (a) arranging for housing accommodations using University guest facilities, (b) assuring that officers are prepared to meet with the consultant to report on their status, (c) preparing the chapter property for the visit, and (d) scheduling an appointment for the consultant with the Associate Dean of Students;

3) Sending chapter representatives to all national conferences, conclaves, and leadership training programs;

4) Hosting regional conferences on campus;

5) Submitting information regarding that chapter’s progress, programs, and events to the national organization’s alumni magazine so that the chapter and the University are represented in the publication.

Fraternities and sororities at Bucknell have always maintained a positive and productive relationship with their national headquarters; however, the Committee believes that improvement is warranted. Chapters must do more than simply preparing for a national consultant visit. Chapters must build relationships with their respective national headquarters and strive to be the best chapter in the country.

INITIATIVE #24: Chapters will place high priority on community service/service-learning initiatives within the Lewisburg community (See Strategic Goal Area Six).

INITIATIVE #32: Chapters will develop standards regarding behavior and accountability for members who reside in off-campus apartments and houses to address concerns of off-campus residents and residents of Lewisburg.

The impact of fraternity and sorority life goes beyond the parameters of the University’s grounds. Many students live off campus and engage in activities throughout the greater Lewisburg community. Fraternity and sorority programming such as Adopt-A-School, the Giving Tree, the One Million Penny Project, and Adopt-A-Street provide service to the local community and benefit many citizens. To establish a better living and learning environment for all residents, activities and interactions between the chapters and the Lewisburg community should be increased. Members who live off-campus should work together to develop and support a "good neighbor" policy to foster communication between and among the various constituencies, implement action plans to improve the aesthetic appearance of the downtown community, develop service-learning projects and other initiatives, and promote the values and contributions of the fraternity and sorority community. Chapters also must provide leadership in controlling the frequency and implementation of social functions with alcohol at their unofficial “satellite fraternity houses” off campus where their members live. It is vital that chapters be held responsible and accountable for the actions and behaviors of their members both on and off campus.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA NINE

SELF-GOVERNANCE AND ASSESSMENT

INITIATIVE #33: Chapters will develop and implement a chapter standards board that holds members accountable to the Statement of Vision and Values, the membership expectations of each organization, and the accreditation process.

Standards boards within chapters empower members to hold one another accountable for their actions consistent with the values of the organization and of the fraternity and sorority community. By implementing such boards, chapters may maintain greater control while clearly articulating what is acceptable and appropriate behavior to members. The leadership of each chapter will work with the University to develop criteria for standards boards that truly reflect the values of the organization and meet the requirements of the proposed accreditation process.

INITIATIVE #34: Chapters will attain the minimum performance standards outlined in the accreditation program as a requirement for receiving official student organization status.

Fraternities and sororities at Bucknell lack uniform institutional performance standards. Although some of the inter/national headquarters have implemented such programs, processes differ dramatically, and their impact on the local campus culture is minimal. Accreditation programs enable students to engage in critical self-reflection on their fraternal purposes and practices, while allowing the University and the chapters to jointly develop action plans to strengthen these organizations and their contributions to the greater campus community. Developing a comprehensive set of standards will require chapters to address the issues Bucknell deems necessary for creating and maintaining a quality fraternity and sorority system. These standards will be based on the historic shared values of Bucknell fraternities and sororities, University expectations outlined in this report, existing policies, and common themes found in their inter/national accreditation programs. This program will also aid chapters in maintaining continuity with changing membership and leadership.

INITIATIVE #35: A chapter accreditation program will be implemented as a system of periodic self-analysis and external review. The accreditation program, described in Appendix V, will assess chapter operations and chapter compliance with stated performance standards, inclusive of chapter, inter/national, University, and Lewisburg community goals and objectives.

The proposed program will set forth standards upon which fraternities and sororities will be evaluated for adherence to commonly shared and accepted values and principles. The process will provide overview of fraternities and sororities to assess their compliance with the standards set forth in the accreditation review. It will also assist chapters who do not meet specific criteria of accreditation by identifying University resources to help them accomplish their goals. The program will provide rewards and recognition to those organizations that surpass the minimum standards for accreditation. A primary responsibility of the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs will be to help chapters meet the accreditation standards. An underlying theme of the accreditation program is to identify excellence and to aid chapters in attaining this level of performance while fulfilling the historic mission of their organizations. Chapters that demonstrate proficiency in attaining these standards will be recognized and rewarded by the University. Chapters that do not demonstrate proficiency will receive added support to ensure satisfactory performance. Chapters that continually demonstrate non-compliance with these performance standards represent a liability to Bucknell and the fraternity and sorority community and should not be granted recognition by the University, nor receive any/all benefits associated with such recognition. (See Appendix V)

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA TEN

PROMOTION OF SCHOLARSHIP AND INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT

INITIATIVE #13: The Office of the Registrar will continue to provide the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs with specific semester and cumulative grade point average information for the purposes of membership recruitment and assessment (See Strategic Goal Area Three).

INITIATIVE #36: The University will adopt a policy requiring a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.25 for men and women to affiliate with or remain a member of a fraternity or sorority.

Bucknell currently requires at least a 2.0 cumulative average to be eligible for membership in a fraternity or sorority, although the mean grade point average for first-year students for the last fall semester was 3.13. Raising the minimum for fraternity and sorority affiliation would signal a greater system-wide commitment to academic accomplishment, and it would screen particularly vulnerable students from the possible distraction from their academic focus presented by recruitment and by being new members. The Committee is concerned that a raised standard may disproportionately constrain eligibility for membership among particular segments of the student body. However, it is hoped that the higher grade point average requirement will stimulate students to work harder to qualify for affiliation, either in advance of the normal recruitment period or afterward (during the “open bid” period that now occurs during the second semester of the sophomore year.

INITIATIVE #37: As part of the accreditation program, chapters will develop scholarship programs that challenge members to achieve academically, provide scholastic support, and recognize both improvement and excellence in performance.

Most chapters do not have comprehensive programs in place that support the essential values of scholarship, leadership, character, service, and friendship. The Committee recommends that each chapter be required to develop a comprehensive scholarship program such as the National Interfraternity Council’s Select 2000 recommendation for a written scholarship program, which engages chapter members with faculty on a monthly basis. This model provides for individual performance recognition at the end of each term and counseling for members not in good standing.

INITIATIVE #38: Chapter members will share responsibility for the academic performance of initiates and new members and re-examine activities that detract from scholastic success. Chapters will be held accountable for the unacceptable academic performance of new and initiated members as described in the proposed chapter accreditation program.

Chapter members often behave as if academic performance is an individual responsibility. The high academic performance of initiates and new members will be among the shared goals and responsibilities of all chapter members. Chapters should regularly re-examine any activity that detracts from the academic success of individual members and the chapter’s scholastic goals. Excessive chapter requirements have prevented new members from reaching their academic potential. Some of the new member programs now in place in men’s organizations have had disastrous effects on academic performance. A new procedure should be implemented to hold chapters accountable for unsatisfactory academic performance that occurs during new-member programs.

INITIATIVE #39: Chapters will meet or exceed the all-University men’s and women’s cumulative grade point averages and the University will recognize them for such achievements through the accreditation program.

Excellence is a fundamental value of each fraternity and sorority. While many fraternities and sororities at Bucknell maintain strong academic reputations, it should be the goal of every group to exceed the respective all-men’s/women’s averages. Academic success by this measurement will enable fraternities and sororities to demonstrate their commitment to a higher standard and visibly represent their contribution to the intellectual climate of the campus. In support of these efforts, Bucknell University will develop a recognition program in the accreditation program for chapters that meet this level of performance.

INITIATIVE #40: Chapters will sponsor educational programs that enhance critical thinking and enrich the personal growth of their members.

As stated in its Mission Statement, Bucknell University “expects its students to be concerned with two closely related types of development; that of the productive citizen and that of the person working toward intellectual maturity and self-awareness…. Students are encouraged to cultivate respect for other individuals and cultures, enhancing in the course of this pursuit their own moral sensitivity, personal creativity, and emotional stability.” Opportunities for co-curricular learning within the chapter setting enhance the overall purposes and objectives of fraternities and sororities and re-establish the educational role missing from today’s fraternal experience. Kuh, Pascarella, & Wechsler (April 1996) have noted that fraternity men, and to a lesser extent women, are well behind their non-member counterparts in cognitive development after the first year of college. The biggest deficit is in the area of critical thinking. As part of the proposed accreditation program, chapters will be expected to sponsor a number of educational programs during the year for all chapter members. Chapters should involve faculty and staff in chapter presentations that foster critical thinking on a wide range of issues and disciplines. These programs could include but not be limited to topics such as: personal health and safety, multiculturalism and diversity, values and ethics, gender communication, career development, financial planning, and low risk use of alcohol and other substances.

INITIATIVE #41: All new member education programs will conclude by the end of the semester in which the invitation to join is extended. Chapters will be rewarded through the accreditation program for completing the new member education process within eight (8) or ten (10) weeks.

Many inter/national organizations, colleges, and universities have thoroughly studied new-member programs and have modified their philosophies and practices. Most women’s groups have nationally mandated that new-member programs last no longer than six weeks. Some fraternities have made the same shift, while some have eliminated these programs. It has been well documented that becoming a new member in most fraternities at Bucknell leads to diminished academic performance. Limiting the length of new-member education programs provides students with opportunities to be responsible to their academic requirements. A shorter period may also have the effect of limiting the opportunities for hazing. New member education should focus on meaningful, not lengthy education. Transforming the culture of new-member education with fixed time limits and a philosophy of continuing education will enable all initiated and new members to enjoy a more positive experience.

STRATEGIC GOAL AREA ELEVEN

OTHER UNIVERSITY SUPPORT

INITIATIVE #42: The Council on Greek Life will continue to be a governance and policy-making sub-committee of the Committee on Complementary Activities. The Council will be given the authority, by the Committee, to make and establish policies that affect the fraternity and sorority community, act upon special requests from individual chapters, and serve as an appeals body during the Chapter Accreditation Program evaluation process without additional review by the Committee on Complementary Activities.

The Council will have authority to act, without CCA approval, on the following specific polices and procedures that have a direct impact on fraternity and sorority life, by making recommendations directly to the Dean of Students:

a. Recruitment guidelines,

b. Houseparty implementation policies and procedures,

c. Risk management policies and implementation procedures,

d. Chapter Accreditation Program evaluation appeals,

e. Sanctions (except loss of recognition) imposed on social fraternities and sororities resulting from unsatisfactory evaluations, being held responsible for violations of the University code of conduct, etc.

f. Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Association constitution revisions,

g. Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Association Peer Review Board policies,

h. The Council may refer any decision to CCA for review at their discretion.

The Council will make recommendations for consideration to the Committee on Complementary Activities on the following:

a. Action on specific policies, procedures, guidelines, and programs that have a direct impact on the fraternity and sorority community, but that also impact the University community as a whole,

b. Modifications or revisions to the Chapter Accreditation Program,

c. Recognition of new social fraternities and sororities,

d. Withdrawal of formal recognition of a fraternity or sorority,

e. Recruitment guidelines, constitutional revisions, etc. that are deemed contrary to University policy,

f. Any revision of the separation of authority between COGL and CCA identified in this document must be approved by CCA.

The Committee on Complementary Activities (CCA), as the policy-making body for all co-curricular aspects of the University, cannot focus its attention on fraternity and sorority issues in a timely and consistent way. And the Council on Greek Life (COGL), under its existing reporting relationship to CCA, cannot deal effectively with problems and inappropriate behaviors as they occur. The Committee believes that COGL’s ongoing analysis of data, receipt of input from student groups, and debating of pertinent issues will be put to best use if COGL can be given some autonomy in their governance of the fraternity and sorority system.

Because the success of the fraternity and sorority community is contingent on shared responsibility throughout the University, COGL will comprise two each of the following: faculty, administrators, alumni/ae, IFC representatives, Panhellenic representatives, and non-affiliated students. It will govern the fraternity and sorority system by considering policy and procedure proposals from the Interfraternity Council and/or Panhellenic Association, will monitor performance of all chapters in preparation for the accreditation process, will regularly assess the climate in the fraternity and sorority community, and will recommend community-wide changes and enhancements.

INITIATIVE #43: The Vice President for Academic Affairs will expand the definition of service in University promotion and tenure decisions to include service as a University adviser to a fraternity or sorority.

Both research and anecdotal experience indicate that a variety of educational outcomes from attending college result from involvement in activities outside of the classroom. Many outside-of-class experiences, however, are not exploited for their relevance to understanding and applying principles, theories, and insights gained in the classroom. To enhance learning in fraternities and sororities, faculty should be encouraged and rewarded for involvement. The University should include fraternity and sorority advising in its examples of the service component of promotion and tenure review. Given the importance of an effective University adviser, and the high rate of student affiliation with fraternities and sororities, the faculty and staff time devoted to advising chapter members is worthy of consideration.

INITIATIVE #44: The University will consider providing additional staff of some kind (e.g., part-time casual or graduate assistant) and additional budgetary support to the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs.

Nationwide, institutional support systems, services and programs available to fraternity and sorority chapters have decreased since 1992. More services are offered at institutions with more staff, and staff size is positively correlated with institution size. Support services necessary to ensure the future prosperity of the fraternity and sorority community requires sufficient staff, space, and budget. The Committee believes that as the University requires more accountability from the fraternity and sorority community, staffing and budgetary needs for programming and quality services should be reviewed. The Committee recommends that the University investigate the possibility of providing some type of additional staff support to the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs as well as increasing the operating budget to provide additional financial resources to support the programs and services provided by the office.

III. APPENDICES

I. Background

II. The History of Fraternity and Sororities at Bucknell University

III. Trends in the Fraternity Movement

IV. The Central Billing Program

Appendix I

BACKGROUND

The Charge from the Board of Trustees

In September 1999, Bucknell University Board of Trustees Chair James W. Schubauer called for the development of a strategic plan on the role of sororities and fraternities in the living experience of Bucknell students, for the long term. Norman E. Garrity ’63, Chair of the Trustees’ Greek Affairs Committee, convened a Greek Life Strategic Planning Steering Committee with the following membership:

Mr. Garrity ’63, ’64 (Sigma Chi) who served as chair; Trustee Virginia Hyde Moriarty; Trustee Geoffrey P. Mynott ’54 (Phi Gamma Delta); Trustee Edward F. Staiano ’58, ’60 (Theta Chi); President of the Alumni Greek Council Robert D. Lynd, ’67 (Kappa Delta Rho); Vice President of the Alumni Greek Council Dr. William F. Lenker ’56 (Kappa Sigma); Chair of the Council on Greek Life Professor Sue Ellen Henry; Former Chair of the Council on Greek Life Professor Thomas C. Kinnaman; Assistant Director of Physical Plant and member of the Council on Greek Life Michael J. Patterson; President of the Panhellenic Council Meredith T. Alan ’01 (Delta Gamma); President of the Interfraternity Council Keith B. Hofmann ’01 (Kappa Delta Rho); and independent student Marsha L. Lewis ’02. The committee was supported from the outset by Vice President for Student Affairs Charles R. Pollock ’70 (Delta Upsilon), and the Associate Dean of Students Dr. Roy W. Baker (Pi Kappa Phi). Additional support was provided later by Dr. Richard J. Ferraro, Dean of Students (Phi Kappa Psi).

The charge to this broadly representative group (hereafter, the Committee) was to review the history of fraternities and sororities at Bucknell, study the local fraternity and sorority community, examine existing national practices, and propose ways to assure that Bucknell will have one of the preeminent fraternity and sorority systems in the nation. The University believes that its reputation as a national leader in undergraduate education demands the same level of excellence from its fraternity and sorority community, as a model and teacher of the common pillars of scholarship, leadership, character, service and friendship. The objective of the Committee’s work was to define the responsibilities, guidelines, policies and expectations of the sororities and fraternities at Bucknell in contemporary society.

Response to the Charge

The Greek Life Strategic Planning Steering Committee met for the first time on January 17, 2000 and designed the following planning process:

1. Timetable:

a. Formal Committee meetings in January, March, April, July, September, and November;

b. The contracting of Jeffrey Cufaude of Like Minded People as a planning facilitator;

c. Identification of the various “stakeholders” who have a vested interest in the Greek community;

d. The development of a process for collecting data that would be needed to evaluate the current state of the University’s fraternity and sorority community, and for determining the direction the system should take in the future;

e. An initial goal of November, 2000 for presenting recommendations to the Board of Trustees. This was subsequently put off to April 2001 to allow full discussion of tentative recommendations with all stakeholder groups in the Fall of 2000.

2. Status Reports

Status reports were presented to the Alumni Greek Council in January 2000, November 2000, and January 2001; to the Faculty in February 2000, November 2000 and February 2001; and to other stakeholder groups through the spring and fall of 2000. Regular updates on the work of the Committee were reported to the Interfraternity Council (IFC) and the Panhellenic Association. Members of these groups were invited and encouraged to participate in the study.

3. Input and Feedback

a. Chapter Representatives: On February 27, 2000, staff from Like Minded People conducted an Envisioned Future workshop for approximately 100 leaders of all fraternity and sorority chapters at the University. A follow-up workshop called New Beginnings was conducted on April 2, 2000 with the same chapter representatives.

b. Other Campus Stakeholder Groups: To gain a broad perspective on the state of the fraternity and sorority community, Like Minded People held focus group sessions for various stakeholder groups to collect data using a qualitative data collection process. Meetings and data collection sessions were scheduled on March 6 and 7, 2000 with the following stakeholder groups: members of fraternities and sororities and non-members (18 students), Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Association Executive Board members (15), student organization presidents (14), the faculty (8), the Alumni Greek Council (25), athletic coaches (7), and staffs from the admissions office (6), university relations (6), student affairs (8), and public safety (2).

c. National Greek Organization Headquarters: On April 16, 2000, all national fraternity and sorority headquarters were provided with data that had been collected. National representatives were asked to provide general feedback pertaining to the strategic planning initiative and their perceptions about the quality of Bucknell’s fraternity and sorority community. Four (4) responses were received.

d. Website: A dedicated website for the planning process made descriptive information available widely and elicited additional input from stakeholders.

e. Committee on Complementary Activities (CCA): The University governance committee spent considerable time reviewing and proposing changes to this plan, per the formal request of the faculty. Significant modifications were made in accordance with the work of CCA.

General Context

Clearly fraternities and sororities at Bucknell have been and continue to be an important part of the undergraduate experience for many students. Faculty and staff have acknowledged the philanthropic and community service activities undertaken by members. Alumni recall their lifelong friendships and leadership development opportunities. Some prospective students have reported that they consider Bucknell a "Greek school" and that the opportunity for involvement in fraternities and sororities is important to them, although other students eliminate Bucknell as a college choice owing to its “Greekness.” For the many personal and educational benefits available to students through membership in fraternities and sororities, the Committee endorses the Board of Trustees’ commitment to fraternities and sororities and to strengthening their role in the community.

In the past, membership in fraternities and sororities have afforded many benefits to its affiliated members and to the community-at-large. It is, however, the belief of the Committee that more recently these particular student organizations have demonstrated wavering loyalty, in principle and in practice, to their founding ideals. Divergence from the founding principles is not unique to Bucknell’s fraternity and sorority community. It reflects the current national norm. We know that many colleges and universities are struggling with the issues related to the change in direction taken by these organizations. Significant concern has been expressed by fraternal executive offices and host universities. Inter/national executive officers cite the founding principles of scholarship, leadership, character, service, and friendship and report that these ideals are no longer universally embraced by undergraduates.

The Bucknell University fraternity and sorority community reflects these national concerns. The Committee therefore affirms a return to the inherent values and principles of scholarship, leadership, character, and service that will serve as the cornerstones for the rebuilding of these organizations. The common values shared by all Bucknell fraternities and sororities should serve as guideposts for programming and practice, pointing the way toward the development of a national model for fraternity and sorority life at the University.

A National Model for Prominence in Fraternity and Sorority Affairs

Executive officers of inter/national organizations suggest that because of its historical roots in fraternity and sorority life, Bucknell University is poised to establish a benchmark for prominence in programming. Through an institutional commitment to new standards of program and practice, the University will reaffirm its national leadership in fraternity and sorority affairs, potentially affecting the lives of undergraduate members everywhere.

It is with the support of fraternity and sorority leadership at Bucknell University and the belief that Bucknell can become the national model for fraternity and sorority excellence that the Committee has developed this Plan.

Appendix II

The History of Fraternity and Sorority Life at Bucknell University

The existence of fraternity and sororities at Bucknell University dates back to 1887 when Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity was founded at the University. The first sorority was colonized at Bucknell in 1887. From their inception, these student associations have played a significant role in shaping the campus environment and have contributed to the development of thousands of Bucknell students.

Bucknell students have affiliated with fraternities and sororities in larger numbers than at other institutions of comparable size. Today, approximately 60% of eligible undergraduate students (sophomores, junior, seniors) at Bucknell affiliate with fraternities and sororities. An average fraternity chapter membership is 60 members and an average sorority chapter numbers 85 with an established chapter total of no more than 110 members.

Over the years, the values inherent in fraternities and sororities have enhanced the academic mission of the University, encouraged leadership and character development, promoted community service, and helped to form lifelong friendships. These values, along with customs and activities, have contributed to many campus traditions and have had an impact on the Bucknell and Lewisburg communities. The University takes pride in the many national awards received by student leaders for excellence in programming, and has demonstrated its institutional commitment through its continued support of the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs.

Fraternity and Sorority Timeline At Bucknell University

1855 First national social fraternity was founded at the University (Phi Kappa Psi)

1887 First local social sorority was founded at the University (Beta Delta Phi)

1895 First National social sorority was founded at the University (Pi Beta Phi)

February, 1982 Faculty approves the Report of the Ad Hoc Committee on the Kresl Motion (September, 1981) which prohibited social activities with alcohol Sunday evenings through Friday afternoons.

May 15, 1984 Faculty calls for committee to “explore ways of significantly improving the fraternity/ sorority system at Bucknell, (and) failing that, to explore ways of abolishing the system.” President O’Brien approved, appointing the “Sweeney Committee” that summer.

September, 1985 After faculty approves Sweeney Committee’s May report. President Sojka calls for implementation of most recommendations. The following are created:

1) A Statement of Relationship Between Bucknell University and Fraternities and Sororities;

2) Greek advisor administrative position;

3) Council on Greek Life;

4) Dry Rush;

5) Rush was moved to second semester. First-year students were prohibited from attending fraternity social events until 7^th week of the semester;

6) Pledge education programs were required to address sexism, alcohol abuse, racism, hazing, and academic integrity.

September, 1988 The Interfraternity Council (IFC) votes to implement a closed party system in response to liability concerns and mandates from chapter’s national and international headquarters.

Fall, 1988 Greek Review Committee established to review progress since Sweeney Committee Report.

Summer, 1989 New University alcohol policy separates of-age from underage persons when alcohol is served at a social event.

May, 1989 Alumni Greek Council created; will advise and provide alumni oversight of undergraduate chapters.

Fall, 1989 Greek Review Committee Report. Recommends (1) decreased dependence on fraternities for social life, (2) more University support for social activities, (3) expanded social space, (4) risk management, (5) equal opportunity for leadership/ management (sorority houses), (6) independence from alumni corporations (University purchase all fraternity houses), (7) creation of a Residential Life Committee to govern residential life, (8) increased accountability, (9) creation of Peer Advisor program, (10) mixed-class housing, (10) shorter period for rush and recruitment, (11) creation of an internal judicial system (12) review statement of relationship, and (12) improve faculty involvement.

November, 1989 Faculty votes 94-46 to recommend the abolition of fraternities and sororities on campus.

May, 1990 President Sojka, having reviewed social/residential system under auspices of Board of Trustees, presents to the Board’s Greek Affairs Subcommittee his “Recommendations to Improve Bucknell’s Social-Residential System.” This includes many of the recommendations of the Greek Review Committee, and substantially informs Trustee Implementation Plan (below).

August, 1990 Trustee Implementation Plan (TIP) initiated. Task forces formed to address sub-topics (Fraternity and sorority system, residential campus, social change, first-year experience, etc.) and plan for 1991-92 implementation.

Fall, 1999 Board makes its Greek Affairs Subcommittee a committee.

November, 1990 Renovated Bison opens with expanded social programming (Wednesday coffeehouse, Thursday TV or movies, Friday and Saturday comedians, bands, etc.

Fall, 1992 Sophomore Rush implemented

Fall, 1992 T.I.P. Review Committee evaluating progress on implementation.

April, 1994 Board approves Policy Statement on Acquisition of Fraternity Properties, revises Statement of Relationship.

February, 1996 For the third time in four years, Bucknell’s Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Association receive Northeast Interfraternity-Panhellenic Conference’s most outstanding IFC award and Panhellenic over-all excellence awards.

April, 1996 Greek Affairs Committee unanimously accepts COGL’s final report on completion of TIP directives, three of which have been vacated. Ten remaining directives have been fully implemented, two implemented to extent possible, and two partially implemented.

November, 1996 Chapters are asked to follow national policies (BYOB, dry rush, kegs, risk management, recruitment).

March, 1997 Interfraternity Council adopts new risk management program and enforcement policy.

April, 1997 Board amends Statement of Relationship changing chapter evaluation procedures.

October, 1997 Interfraternity Council adopts new Constitution and new Peer Review Judicial Program.

April, 1999 Board amends Statement of Relationship changing programming requirements.

February, 1999 Interfraternity Council prohibits kegs at all fraternity houses and implements a $500.00 per keg fine for violation of the policy.

September, 1999 Board Chair James Schubauer calls for strategic planning on the role of Greek organizations in the Bucknell student experience. Board support for a responsible Greek community and the Board’s concerns about the erosion of responsibility prompt the planning process.

February 2000 Fraternity and sorority system receives national award (Gamma Phi Beta) for promoting the fraternity and sorority community on campus and in local community.

April, 2001 University’s Board of Trustees approves proposed “Plan For Prominence In Fraternity and Sorority Affairs” for January, 2001 implementation.

Appendix III

National Trends in the Fraternity Movement

1. Public Perception of Fraternities and Sororities: It can be argued that the public perception of fraternities and sororities is at an all-time low. The perceived image is now negative in the minds of both incoming students and their parents.

2. Membership Stability: Nationally, fraternity membership is declining, including average chapter size.

3. Declining New Student Interest In Fraternities and Sororities: An important sign of future growth is new student interest in fraternity and sorority membership. In particular, perceived interest in fraternities seems to be decreasing more than in sororities.

4. Institutional Control: Colleges and universities are enacting strict rules governing fraternities and sororities that are distinct and more rigorous than rules for any other student organization. This includes the development of accreditation requirements that must be met in order to remain on campus. Three major issues in this regard are the deferment of freshman rush to the second semester; minimum grade point average requirements; and the reduction of the length of (or altogether elimination) of pledging.

5. National Organization Self-Evaluation: Each national fraternity and sorority is re-evaluating its “product” and re-tooling itself to be more compatible to the educational mission of the institution, including the promotion of a four-year membership education program instead of simply pledge education.

6. Values Appreciation: Students are unable to articulate the value of the fraternity experience aside from “women and booze.”

7. Member Involvement: There is a movement toward “a la carte” fraternity where a member will only participate in one or two activities of the chapter. There is not a broad-based level of participation. Many members “window shop” and either de-pledge or go “inactive” after only one or two years in the chapter.

8. Chapter Housing: Fraternity housing is no longer considered a desirable living alternative.

9. Deferred Maintenance: There has been a lack of maintenance of the physical plant owned by the fraternities. There is also no money accumulated to pay for renovations. Fire codes are being strictly enforced at significant cost.

10. Meal Programs: Fraternity meal programs are becoming cost prohibitive and many chapters are catering their meals into the fraternity house. The cost to operate a kitchen, including staff, insurance, etc. is becoming increasingly prohibitive. Also, many students find traditional fraternity “cuisine” unattractive. Night classes and work obligations affect meal participation.

11. Senior Check-Out: Student leadership is increasingly younger. In many places there is a total turnover of the Executive Officers instead of moving up to higher offices. They find it difficult to hold other members responsible and have a misplaced sense of brotherhood/sisterhood.

12. Alcohol Abuse: Fraternities recruit a significant percentage of binge drinkers. Alcohol misuse and abuse, including chapter supply, and underage drinking and binge drinking, remain a problem.

13. Alcohol-Free Chapter Houses: There has been a movement toward alcohol-free chapter houses by some national fraternities as an attempt to change the alcohol culture.

14. Risk Management: Injuries to third parties or members of the chapter caused by the fraternity are no longer ignored, and they now lead to litigation.

15. Zero Tolerance: There is a “zero tolerance” of improper conduct by fraternities leading to strict sanctions or outright closure by the institution.

16. Greek Advisers In Decline: The authority and longevity of Greek Advisers has been substantially reduced, as well as the number of staff working with the Greeks. It is considered a stigma if you stay in Greek advising too long.

17. Quality Advising: Good advisers are becoming more difficult to recruit and retain due to time constraints and other demands.

University Central Billing Program

Introduction

As of January 2002, fraternities and sororities will be given the opportunity to participate in the University Central Billing Program. The program is designed to assist fraternities and sororities in collecting the following fees from their members:

a. Room rental fees (non-University owned fraternities only)

b. Meal plan fees (organizations that offer meal plans only)

c. Chapters dues (all organizations)

d. Social dues (all organizations)

The Program

Ø Bucknell will buy the entire receivable from each fraternity and sorority at the beginning of each semester. The discount rate will be 3% initially, subject to review on an annual basis.

Ø Checks for the total initial chapter billing, minus the discount, will be available no later than the first account’s payable day (Tuesday or Friday) immediately following the end of the drop/add period. This may seem late, but waiting until the end of the drop/add period helps eliminate many of the adjustments. The Finance Office will withhold from each check, any past due amounts that exist on the chapter’s University Accommodation Account.

Ø Any adjustments after the initial check has been issued will be handled on a transaction-by-transaction basis, and will be facilitated through adjustments to the chapter’s Accommodation Account. Should these adjustments result in a credit balance on the Accommodation Account, a refund will be issued upon the chapter’s written request. Should the adjustments result in a balance due, it is to be paid in accordance with the terms of the billing statement.

Ø Refunds for withdrawal once the semester has begun will be issued within the guidelines of the following refund policy. These refund transactions will be issued automatically by the Finance Office upon receipt of a completed withdrawal Route Sheet, and will be calculated based on the date of withdrawal.

Ø Greek Central Billing Refund Policy: All refunds from University-owned facilities, for room, meals, chapter dues, and social fees will be based on a 16-week semester. Students withdrawing, for any reason, during the semester will be eligible for a meal plan credit equal to the number of unused weeks. A prorated room refund, however, will only be issued in the case of an approved medical withdrawal. Refunds from non-University-owned facilities will be subject to refund policies established by individual chapters and must be authorized in writing by the chapter’s Treasurer.

Ø Room rental fees (non-University-owned fraternities), Meal Plan fees, Chapter Dues, and Social Fees may be billed through this system.

Ø Once the receivable has been purchased, Bucknell assumes all risk. Should the individual fail to pay, Bucknell will take the loss.

Ø This program does not cover room and board charges from semesters prior to its implementation. Bucknell continues attempting to collect these old charges through our normal process. Should these old charges become uncollectible, however, the chapter will take the loss.

The Chapter Accreditation

Program

The Plan for Prominence in Fraternity and

Sorority Affairs

January 2006

Appendix V

The Chapter Accreditation Program

I. Statement of Purpose

The purpose of the Chapter Accreditation Program is (1) to improve the management and quality of fraternities and sororities at Bucknell University by outlining a clear, but comprehensive, set of minimum chapter standards that each chapter must attain to be recognized at the University, (2) to provide an annual accreditation mechanism whereby fraternities and sororities can participate in a self-evaluation process and receive recognition for surpassing the minimum chapter standards, and (3) to empower chapters to be part of the decision making process in determining how they wish to function within the University’s fraternity and sorority system. The intent of the accreditation process is to provide a framework by which chapters can quantify and document their activities and successes, while creating a tool by which fraternities and sororities can be evaluated. There is an expectation that all chapters will strive to attain a Gold Star rating and that the fraternity and sorority system at the Bucknell University will be a model to systems nationwide.

II. Statement of Vision and Values

A. The Vision

The fraternity and sorority system at Bucknell University is a community that (1) supports and complements the academic mission of the University, (2) believes in and abides by the founding principles of our national organizations and the responsibilities associated with fraternity and sorority membership, and (3) promotes the development of its members intellectually, socially, and ethically. Therefore, the community will promote each member’s commitment to the following set of values:

B. The Values

Independence and Self-Governance

I believe in self-governance of the chapter (recruitment, ritual, and committees) and of the fraternity and sorority system;

I will participate fully in chapter and alumni/ae events;

I will uphold faithfully the traditions and activities of the University by participating in campus and community events.

Respect for the System and for Others

I will be mutually supportive of other chapters and individual members.

Academic Relevance

I believe in learning and scholarship;

I will strive to attain the highest possible standard of scholarship and will strive to perform at or above the all-men’s or all-women’s grade point average;

I will assist in the development of scholarship initiatives that promote the highest standards of academic proficiency;

I will promote academic integrity and discourage academic dishonesty.

Responsibility and Safety

I will take personal responsibility for and will be accountable for my actions;

I will serve as a role model by living the ritual every day;

I will expect others to live the ritual and will hold them accountable;

I will safeguard the reputation of the chapter and fraternity and sorority community by keeping careful watch over my personal conduct;

I will bear an appropriate share of the financial burden of my chapter and the fraternity and sorority system;

I will follow all national, Panhellenic Association, and/or Interfraternity Council risk management policies and procedures;

I will encourage the safe and responsible use of alcohol;

I will maintain my chapter’s property in a safe and sanitary condition that provides the most positive environment that supports the development of community;

I will encourage and support chapters who have implemented the substance-free housing initiative in their chapters.

Unity and Relationships

I believe in cooperation and teamwork;

I will be a lifelong member who remains active throughout my university career and who participates in alumni activities and events;

I will join other student organizations and will work to become a campus leader;

I will be united in a common goal of contributing to the quality of life on campus.

Diversity

I will promote a fraternity and sorority community that is diverse and representative of the general student body of Bucknell University.

Service to Others

I will serve as a lifelong volunteer in both community and University service;

I will learn and strive to understand the value of participating in community service activities as a member of the fraternity and sorority community.

Fun

I believe in the development of a fraternity and sorority experience for all students that enhances and does not compete with the general social environment of the University;

I will participate in creating and organizing events that provide social opportunities for all members of the Bucknell community.

III. Supervision and Modification of the Accreditation Program

The Committee believes that the Chapter Accreditation Program should be evaluated regularly, and that the first review should occur within two years of implementation. The Council on Greek Life should review the program’s effectiveness and be prepared to report to the Board of Trustees’ Greek Affairs Committee by April 2004. The Committee also recommends that annual reviews of the program should be made by COGL, and changes to the program should be made where appropriate. The authority to evaluate, monitor, supervise, and recommend modification to the Program will be given to the Council on Greek Life, which will make recommendations to the University’s Committee on Complementary Activities. The Council will be authorized to recommend, with a three-fourths (3/4) majority vote, modifications to any part of the program, including the requirements chapters must meet to earn good standing, silver star status and gold star status.

IV. The Accreditation Review

1. The Accreditation Categories and Values: The review will cover eight specific categories, and each category will be assigned a value as indicated below. The values and process described below will apply only to the Chapter in Good Standing designation.

Category Value

Academic Achievement 20 points (10 points per semester)

Alumni/ae Relations 10 points

Community Service and Philanthropy 10 points

Educational Programming 10 points

Campus Involvement 10 points

New Member Education 10 points

Chapter Management 15 points

Social Responsibility 15 points

100 points

2. Minimum Score for Chapter In Good Standing Status: In order to receive the Chapter In Good Standing designation, a chapter must received a minimum score of 90 points.

3. Minimum Score for Silver and Gold Star Chapter Status: Chapters attempting to attain the Silver or Gold Star designation must achieve a 100 point score for the respective status criteria to achieve the ranking.

4. The Accreditation Reviewer: The accreditation reviewer will be the Assistant Dean of Students, in conjunction with the chapter’s President and Executive Board. The Assistant Dean will determine the chapter’s accreditation score based on the documentation provided by the chapter throughout the year. The Assistant Dean will then recommend to the Council on Greek Life that the scores be approved. The purpose of the Assistant Dean making the initial evaluation of all fraternities and sororities for accreditation will be:

a) To provide consistency in the accreditation process;

b) To simplify the process;

c) To provide an independent viewpoint from the Council on Greek Life.

In addition, the Assistant Dean is involved in the day-to-day activities of all chapters at the University and can provide valuable documentation and information during the accreditation process.

V. The Evaluation Period

The evaluation will cover a calendar year to coincide with the chapter President’s term of office. The accreditation process will evaluate a chapter’s progress in a series of specific categories and criteria. A chapter may earn one of three designations during the accreditation program:

a) Chapter In Good Standing or one that meets minimum chapter standards.

b) Silver Star Chapter or one that meets and exceeds minimum chapter standards. Silver Star chapters must meet all requirements specified for this designation.

c) Gold Star Chapter or one that meets and dramatically exceeds minimum chapter standards. Gold Star chapters must meet all requirements specified for this designation.

The chapter’s accreditation rating will be published and made available to alumni/ae and national administrative offices.

VI. Failing To Meet Minimum Chapter Standards

Chapters who fail to earn Chapter in Good Standing status during the annual accreditation review, which takes place at the end of the fall semester, will be placed on immediate “conditional recognition” status for the subsequent spring semester.

1. Conditional Recognition Status: During the spring semester, the chapter will be placed on “conditional recognition status.” While on this status, the chapter will be required to request and receive permission from the Council on Greek Life to:

a. host social activities involving alcohol,

b. participate in recruitment (continuous open bidding),

c. participate in intramural competition, and

d. participate in Greek Week activities and events.

At the end of the spring semester, the chapter must re-apply for accreditation. The chapter will be charged an accreditation review fee of $500.00. If the chapter fails to meet minimum chapter standards at this time, the chapter will be placed on “stayed-suspension status” during the subsequent fall semester.

2. Stayed-Suspension Status: During the fall semester, the chapter will be placed on “stayed-suspension status.” While on this status, the chapter will be required to request and receive permission from the Council on Greek Life to:

a. participate in recruitment (fall recruitment).

The chapter may not, under any condition, do the following while on “stayed-suspension status”:

a. host social activities involving alcohol,

b. participate in intramural competition,

c. have voting privileges at meetings of the Interfraternity or Panhellenic Association.

At the end of the fall semester, the chapter must re-apply for accreditation. The chapter will be charged an accreditation review fee of $1,000.00. If the chapter fails to meet minimum chapter standards at this time, the chapter will close for a period not to exceed three years as determined by the Council on Greek Life and approved by the Committee on Complementary Activities.

VII. Appeals:

Chapters may appeal their accreditation review rating directly to the Council on Greek Life. Appeals must be submitted within thirty (30) days of the date of the accreditation review. During the appeal period, the accreditation rating received during the review will stand and that chapter will be under sanctions of that rating until the Council on Greek Life reviews the appeal. After review, the Council may modify accreditation ratings if there is evidence that there is new information or documentation that was not available at the time of the accreditation review, or if the Council believes that a significant error was made in the review process.

VIII. Rewards For Various Levels Of Achievement

Chapters will receive various awards, benefits, and services from the University based on the rating they receive during the annual accreditation process.

a) Chapters In Good Standing (Meeting Minimal Standards)

· Permission to use University facilities for chapter social, cultural, and educational programs at no charge.

· Ability to participate as a group in athletic, social, and other group activities or programs sponsored by or under the auspices of the University.

· Services to facilitate communication with alumni/ae.

· Such assistance as appears to be reasonable in protecting the organization and its property from disruptions, thefts, damage, or other intrusions by persons who are not members or guests of the chapter.

· Accommodations (rooms for members and a common area) specifically designated for fraternity or sorority use, in University-owned facilities.

· Billing and collection of room, board and fees (dues) from chapter members through the Office of Finance for a 3% service charge.

· Billing services through an Accommodations Account.

· Assistance in ensuring that chapter facilities meet governmental and University regulations for fire, health, and safety. A local code administrator (non-University-owned) or University safety officer (University-owned) will conduct inspections every six months.

· Department of Physical Plant assistance in the following areas:

§ surveillance system

§ fire safety systems

§ sewer lines

§ telephone lines

§ purchase of cleaning supplies at cost

§ garbage and trash pickup

§ recycling services

§ emergency building repair (charges based on need)

§ equipment rental

b) Silver Star Chapter Awards

Chapters earning the Silver Star Accreditation status will receive the same benefits and services as a Chapter In Good Standing and the following:

· $ 2,500.00 grant (may not be used for alcohol-related event, and subject to approval of proposed use)

· Silver-Star Plaque or Trophy

· Eligible for the Dean’s Trophy designating the chapter as the most improved fraternity or sorority, or the President’s Trophy designating the chapter as the most outstanding fraternity or sorority at the University.

c) Gold Star Chapter Awards

Chapters earning the Gold Star Accreditation status will receive the same awards and services as a Silver Star Chapters and the following:

· $5,000.00 grant (may not be used for alcohol-related event, and subject to approval of proposed use)

· Gold-Star Plaque or Trophy

· Exempt from accreditation process for one year (the chapter must meet minimum chapter standards during the exemption year).

· Eligible for the President's Gold Cup Award designating the chapter as the most outstanding fraternity or sorority, or the Dean’s Trophy designating the chapter as the most improved fraternity or sorority at the University.

d) Annual Chapter Awards

In addition, chapter awards may be given to fraternities and sororities within a variety of categories such as:

The Campbell Rutledge Jr. Memorial Scholarship Award: presented to the fraternity chapter who has achieved the highest grade point average.

The Lois Hennehan Scholarship Award: presented to the sorority chapter who has achieved the highest grade point average.

Most Outstanding Fraternity and Sorority Chapter

Most Improved Fraternity and Sorority Chapter

Outstanding Alumni Relations Program Award

Outstanding Alumni Newsletter Award

Outstanding Community Service Program Award

Outstanding Philanthropy Program Award

Outstanding Recruitment and New Member Education Program Award

Outstanding Risk Management Program Award

Outstanding Educational Programming Award

Outstanding Campus Involvement Award

Outstanding Community Relations Program Award

The Chapter Accreditation Program (CAP)

The following areas will be evaluated each year as part of the accreditation program:

1. Academic Achievement 5. Educational Programming

2. New Member Education 6. Campus Involvement

3. Alumni Relations 7. Chapter Management

4. Community Service and Philanthropy 8. Social Responsibility

The intent of the accreditation process is to provide a framework by which chapters can quantify and document their activities and successes, while creating a tool by which fraternities and sororities can be evaluated. There is an expectation that all chapters will strive to attain a Gold Star rating and that the fraternity and sorority system at the Bucknell University will be a model to systems nationwide.

Category I: Academic Achievement

The University believes that the fraternity and sorority system should support the academic mission of the University; therefore, a good chapter places strong emphasis on academic achievement. It is the obligation and expectation of a chapter to provide an environment that is conducive and supportive of the strong academic performance of its members.

Chapter in Good Standing Requirements

(1) Chapter’s Semester Grade Point Average: must be minimally a 3.00 or better.

(2) Academic Chair and Program: the chapter has elected an academic achievement chair and developed a program that includes a statement on academic policies, information on programs and resources, information on how the chapter will prevent members from getting into academic trouble, and a rewards program. This program should be submitted to the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs by February 1^st.

v Silver Star Chapter Requirements

Same requirements as a Chapter in Good Standing, except for:

(1) Chapter’s Semester Grade Point Average: must be minimally a 3.33 or better.

v Gold Star Chapter Requirements

Same requirements as a Chapter in Good Standing except for:

(1) Chapter’s Semester Grade Point Average: must be minimally at 3.50 or better.

Category II: Alumni/ae Relations

The University believes it is vital for chapters to establish and maintain a strong collaborative relationship with alumni/ae.

Chapter In Good Standing Requirements

(1) Alumnae Advisory Board (AAB) or Alumni Corporation (AC) composed of President, Alumni/ae Adviser, and University Adviser;

(2) The chapter must maintain contact once each semester with the President of the Alumni Corporation or the Alumnae Advisory Board (AAB) through telephone calls, general correspondence, electronic correspondence, or one-on-one personal meetings.

(3) Publish an alumni/ae newsletter once per year during the spring or fall semester.

(4) Web Page Development and Maintenance: The chapter develops and maintains an accurate and up-to-date web page that is linked with the University's homepage.

v Silver Star Chapter Requirements

Same requirements as Chapter in Good Standing except for:

(1) The chapter must maintain monthly contact with the President of the Alumni Corporation or the Alumnae Advisory Board through telephone calls, general correspondence, electronic correspondence, and one-on-one personal meetings.

(2) Publish an alumni/ae newsletter two times per year during the spring and fall semester.

v Gold Star Chapter Requirements

Same requirements as Chapter in Good Standing except for:

(1) The chapter must maintain bi-weekly contact with the President of the Alumni Corporation or Alumnae Advisory Board through telephone calls, general correspondence, electronic correspondence, and one-on-one personal meetings.

(2) Publish an alumni/ae newsletter three times each year during the spring and fall and summer.

Category III: Community Service and Philanthropy

It is expected that a chapter will support positive and interactive relationships with the University and local communities. A chapter should maintain a presence as a "Good Citizen" and strive to instill in its membership a thorough understanding of the standards of these varying communities as well as an appreciation of positive relationships. Having individual chapters support and identify with a few organizations assists in the learning process by demonstrating to the chapter how much of an impact they as a chapter can make on those organizations. All community service hours must take place during the academic year and they cannot be part of an academic course or university judicial sanction.

Chapter In Good Standing Requirements

(1) Complete 10 community service hours per member.

(2) Raise $20.00 annually per member.

(3) Complete all appropriate community service and philanthropy project registration forms.

v Silver Star Chapter Requirements

Same as Chapter in Good Standing except for:

(1) Complete 15 community service hours per member.

(2) Raise $30.00 annually per member.

v Gold Star Chapter Requirements

Same as Chapter in Good Standing except for:

(1) Complete 20 community service hours per member.

(2) Raise $40.00 annually per member.

Category IV: Educational Programming

The continuous education of all chapter members should be an important component of fraternity and sorority membership. The University believes there are specific areas that should be addressed in an educational programming program:

1) Alcohol and Drug Education 4) Diversity and Tolerance of Others

2) Gender Issues and Sexual Assault 5) Improving Faculty Relations

3) Hazing Prevention 6) Health and wellness program

7) Other Approved Program

Chapter In Good Standing Requirements

(1) To be in “Good Standing”, chapters must host or attend programs in at least five of the six programming areas mentioned below.

a. one alcohol and drug education program d. one diversity program

b. one gender issues and/or sexual assault program e. one faculty relations program

c. one hazing prevention program f. one health and wellness program

(2) A minimum of 70% of all members (initiated and pledges) will be in attendance during each entire program.

v Silver Star Chapter Requirements

(1) Chapters will host or participate in a minimum of eight educational programs. This has to include at least one program in each category; a through f. Additional chapter programs can be in any of the categories a through g.

1. alcohol and drug education programs d. diversity programs
2. gender issues and/or sexual assault programs e. hazing prevention program
3. faculty relations programs f. health and wellness program

g. other approved program

(2) A minimum of 75% of all members and new members (pledges) will in attendance during each entire program.

v Gold Star Chapter Requirements

(1) Chapters will host or participate in a minimum of ten educational programs. These have to include at least one program in each category; a through f. Additional chapter programs can be in any of the listed categories a through g.

1. alcohol and drug education programs d. diversity programs,
2. gender issues and/or sexual assault programs e. hazing prevention program
3. faculty relations programs f. health and wellness program

g. other approved program

(2) A minimum of at least 80% of all members and new members (pledges) will be in attendance during each entire program.

Category V: Campus Involvement

A chapter's relations with the larger university are influenced greatly by its involvement in campus activities. Co-curricular involvement of members, chapter participation in campus events, and leadership positions held by members are only some of the ways a chapter may enhance its standing in the larger university.

Chapter In Good Standing Requirements

(1) Support of University-sponsored Events: 50% of the chapter participates in each of two (2) University-sponsored events. The chapter may select the events from the listing provided or petition the Council on Greek Life to approve a specific event proposed by the chapter.

v Silver Star Chapter Requirements

(1) Support of University-sponsored Events: 60% of the chapter participates in each of three (3) University-sponsored events. The chapter may select the events from the listing provided or petition the Council on Greek Life to approve a specific event proposed by the chapter.

v Gold Star Chapter Requirements

(1) Support of University-sponsored Events: 70% of the chapter participates in each of four (4) University-sponsored events. The chapter may select the events from the listing provided or petition the Council on Greek Life to approve a specific event proposed by the chapter.

Category VI: New Member Education Program

A comprehensive new member education program is essential to the development of chapter members.

Chapter In Good Standing Requirements

(1) New Member Education Program: A comprehensive written new member education program that (a) promotes scholarship and academic achievement, (b) offers leadership opportunities, (c) encourages campus involvement, (d) clearly expresses values and expectations for conduct, and (e) provides opportunities for personal development. The new member education program should be submitted to the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs by September 1^st of each fall semester.

(2) Full Initiation: Initiation by the end of the semester.

(3) Hazing Prevention Program: The chapter must have a no-tolerance position on hazing and have no violations.

v Silver Star Chapter Requirements

Same as Chapter in Good Standing except for:

(1) Initiation: Initiation within 10 weeks of the date new members are invited to pledge.

v Gold Star Chapter Requirements

Same as Chapter in Good Standing except for:

(1) Initiation: Initiation within 8 weeks of the date new members are invited to pledge.

Category VII: Chapter Management

It is expected that a chapter will comply with all University policies and maintain proper communications and behavior to support positive and interactive relationships with the University.

Chapter In Good Standing Requirements

(1) Liability Insurance Coverage: Maintain in effect at all times, in such amounts as the University deems appropriate, insurance covering damage to the property of the fraternity, sorority and others, and a $3 million comprehensive general liability insurance policy. All policies must be placed with insurance carriers licensed to do business in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, having A.M. Best ratings of at least an A-. The policies of insurance will name both Bucknell University and the University Adviser as additional insured. Each fraternity and sorority will agree that it will defend Bucknell University, its trustees, officers, and employees against any claim, suit, action or proceeding involving any claim covered by the insurance carried without giving effect to any deductible contained in the policies. A valid Certificate of Insurance must be on file in the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs at all times before the chapter may be recognized to conduct business at the University. The certificate of insurance is required to show any limiting endorsements to the standard Comprehensive General Liability form.