The True Gentleman New Member Program
Facilitator Guide
Pledge Educator Guide revised: 09-01-2012
USING THE FACILITATOR GUIDE
►The True Gentleman
The creed of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, “The True Gentleman”, is the basis for each of the 8-week lessons. Each lesson
has objectives and is supplemented with readings from The Phoenix as well as the online component of The True
Gentleman Initiative.
►Objectives
Every session will start with objectives that outline the goals for the session. They will appear as bullets at the
beginning of each chapter meeting. Refer to these bullets throughout each session as a reminder of what should be
accomplished during the chapter meeting.
► Talking Points
Throughout the text there will appear the topic of the sub-section of the meeting – talking points (example: Welcome
– talking points). This will include the relevant information that you need to cover in that section in terms of talking to
the undergraduate brothers. Please review in advance and be prepared to talk about each of these points in your
meeting. All headers appear in bold but do not have to be read out loud to the chapter. These headers are to help
you follow the facilitator guide.
►Italicized Text
All italicized text represents notes for you throughout the chapter meetings. This will include tips, helpful hints and
other things you may need to know about chapter meetings, but is not relevant for the brothers, so you do not have to
read it out loud.
OTHER IMPORTANT POINTS IN THE FACILITATOR GUIDE
►Following the Facilitator Guide
The facilitator guide was created with purpose of supporting pledge educators in their pledge programming. It allows
for freedom of discussion and balanced participation for group members. It also allows brothers to engage in different
learning styles (group conversations, one-on-one conversations, private reflection time, etc).
►Preparation Sheet
Before each meeting in the facilitator guide, there is a preparation sheet. Please be sure to do everything on each of
these sheets BEFORE the meeting begins. This does NOT mean to do it as the brothers are walking in for the
meetings. The timing for each meeting is limited, and there is not time for you to create these things as you go or at
the beginning of chapter. Remember to start on time and end on time.
Revised: 09/12
2
►Red Highlighted Text
Red highlighted text requires the local chapter’s information to be added. This is both in this guide as well as the new
member guide. Both require you to make local changes to reflect laws, rules, and requirements.
The True Gentleman New Member Program Learning Outcomes
By completing the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Pledge Program, new members will be able to:
1. Describe and guide the operations of a successful chapter
2. Have an understanding of the aims, ideals, and values of the organization as demonstrated by the values of
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
our Ritual
Understand the structure of Sigma Alpha Epsilon on a local, regional, and national structure
Understand the relevance of Fraternities to the college environment
Appreciate the significance and relevance of our history on a local and national level
Demonstrate knowledge of leadership methods, goal-setting, and time management
Have an understanding of the Risk Management policies of Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Using proper study techniques to be successful academically in college.
Understand the proper way to recruit new members to the organization.
Revised: 09/12
3
Timeline of The True Gentleman New Member Program
Prior to issuing Bids/Semester Begins:




Pledge Educator meets with Eminent Herald to schedule Formal Pledge-Ceremony.
Big Brother candidates submit applications for consideration.
Pre-order Phoenix and Pledge Pins from the Fraternity Service Center
Finalize calendar of events for all new member events (meetings, service projects, chapter events, etc)
o Note that all non-academic activities of the fraternity must cease for new members at minimum of 7
days before the first day of scheduled final exams and may only start after the last scheduled final
exam during any term. Keep this in mind as you begin to finalize your schedule of events.
Day after Bids issued:






Meet with all new members, complete membership contract.
Send invitations to Formal Pledge-in to parents. Include letter of acknowledgement and greeting letter from
chapter
Eminent Archon/Treasurer enters all new member information into www.sae.net chapter management
section.
Eminent Treasurer submits payment for pledge fees ($85member)
All new members complete the Scope of Association online at www.sae.net.
Make copies and assemble new member binders
Formal Pledge-Ceremony


To be completed as per the Ritual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Invitations to faculty, parents, sororities, etc are to be sent inviting them to the ceremony.
Week 1 - Guide for New Members
Week 2 - Our Heritage and Symbolism
Week 3 - Our Organizational Structure
Week 4 – Organizational/Local History/Recruitment
Week 5 - Service Learning and Academic Preparedness
Week 6 - Fraternal Relevance
Week 7 - Greek Debate
Week 8 – Honor is Sacred and Virtue Safe
Revised: 09/12
4
MEETING #1: Guide for New Members
The True Gentleman is the man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an
acute sense of propriety, and whose self-control is equal to all emergencies…
2 hours
OUTCOMES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Have an understanding of the responsibilities of being a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Become familiar with new members, pledge educators, big brother candidates
Become familiar with the Phoenix
Learn about the Risk Management policies of Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Be able to successfully complete the New Member Online Certification Process
Learn about committee structures of the chapter
CORE CONCEPTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Citizenship
Critical Thinking
Self-Awareness
Membership & Leadership
Communication
PREPARATION
►Meeting Space
Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks if
possible.
►Location
On-Campus
►Tasks to Complete Prior to Meeting




Contact all new members - have them bring the pledge fee ($85)
Contact Eminent Archon, Qualified Big Brother Candidates, and Chapter Adviser(s) to attend
Have copies of The Phoenix for each new member
Have all new member guides copied and ready
Revised: 09/12
5


Laptop & projector or television with internet access to watch RM video
Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks
if possible.
►Attendees




All New Members
Pledge Educator(s)
Qualified Big Brother Candidates
Adviser(s)
►Chapters to be covered in The Phoenix





Chapter 1 – Why Fraternity
Chapter 2 – Pledging
Chapter 3 – The Collegiate Chapter
Chapter 4 – The National Fraternity Structure
Chapter 5 – Alumni Life After College
Revised: 09/12
6
MEETING #1 AGENDA
►Welcome from Pledge Educator






Welcome to the _____________ Chapter
This meeting will introduce the basic elements of being a brother and member in Sigma Alpha Epsilon
This will be the longest of the meetings that we have as there is much paperwork to complete and lessons
to cover, and that all other meetings will last one hour
Today we will also review expectations of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and discuss what expectations you may
have of us.
Please promptly complete all homework assignments that are given as part of this pledge program
Most of all, have fun and keep your priorities straight. Family and school are first, then fraternity. Don’t get
them mixed up. You are here to graduate from school and leave with a degree

Feel free to have additional comments and welcome, but keep it clean, keep it classy. Remember that all
activities will be in line with Minerva’s Shield and The True Gentleman.

Introduce the Eminent Archon and Chapter Adviser(s) for their welcomes
►Welcome from Eminent Archon & Chapter Adviser

Offer brief remarks welcoming them to the chapter and denoting your availability to assist them in their
endeavors
►Icebreaker

Have an icebreaker that is appropriate for the size of the group.
o See Appendix A for a list of Icebreakers and instructions for facilitating one.
►General Overview of the Pledge Program





Complete New Member Contract if not done so already
Review New Member Binder
Review Calendar – APPENDIX A
Review The Phoenix
Introduce concept of Pledge Class Officers
o Each pledge class elects its own officers. This is your first opportunity at leadership in the chapter.
The duties of each are as follows. We will elect officers at next week’s meeting, so start thinking
about if you want to run.
 President
Revised: 09/12
7




Is responsible for the general progress of the pledge class. He should motivate
and inspire the pledge class to succeed. A good president will lead by example
and be able to communicate the expectations of the brothers to the class.
Vice-President
 Assists the President in his duties
Treasurer
 Works with the Eminent Treasurer to assist in collections of dues and monies
owed from the pledge class
Secretary
 Takes minutes at all pledge meetings
 Take roll at the start of all meetings
 Oversee communication with the pledge class, which may include txt messages,
emails, etc
►Expectations of the Chapter for New Members



The chapter has four basic areas of expectations. These are: Scholarship, Behavior, Financial, and
Fraternal.
Ask them what they think the expectations are for each of these before sharing with them what our
expectations are. Ask them to close their new member guide and respond to the question for each. Listen
to their responses and comment on why that is or is not an expectation – use your best professional
judgement and ask yourself if it is in line with
After you discuss the expectations, have them sign and turn in a copy and keep a copy for themselves
o Scholarship
 Go to class, study hard, and make your grades for your classes. You are here for a
degree first and above all else.
 If you are having trouble with your classes, ask for help. Talk to your teachers, take
advantage of university tutoring services, ask your brothers for assistance. No one here
can read minds or know you need help unless you ask.
 Achieve the minimum grade point average required by chapter by-laws, however do the
best that you can. If you are capable of a 4.0, then work towards a 4.0. The minimum
GPA is a XXXXX.
o Behavior
 All activities that we will host will be in accordance with Minerva’s Shield, Fraternity Laws,
and the Ritual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Your activity and conduct should follow these as
well, and be in-line with The True Gentleman.
 Do not act in a way that is unbecoming of a True Gentleman. We will discuss with you if
your conduct does and we can discuss how best to improve your actions.
 Be respectful to women at all times.
 Be courteous and respectful to alumni and brothers – but remember that respect is a twoway street. You should respect your brothers and the brothers should respect you. Their
conduct should also meet all the points above. If at any point they do not, contact myself
(Pledge Educator), Eminent Archon, or Chapter Adviser
o Financial
Revised: 09/12
8
You must pay all bills that you incur, including your pledge fee, initiation fee, as well as
any fees or dues that the chapter requires
 These fees are $85 pledge fee, $225 initiation fee, _________________ in chapter dues
Fraternal
 You will be asked to learn to recite The True Gentleman as a requirement of your
membership. Focus on reciting the words and understanding their meaning, rather than
learning to say them as quickly as possible.
 You are required to attend all meetings of the Pledge Class and other meetings as
required of the chapter.
 You are to participate in activities of the Fraternity so as to build a spirit of brotherhood
among members.
 You must sign the Scope of Association (by claiming your sae.net account) as well as
complete the Carson Starkey Online Certification Program.
 You should bring your copy of The Phoenix, as well as this pledge handbook, with you to
all meetings.
 We ask that you do not say, “Phi Alpha”, unless as part of singing one of the SAE soungs.
This is our guiding motto, and we ask that you do not say something that you do not
understand the full meaning of. You will learn it’s meaning in due course through your
initiation.
 Be aware that as you joined, you are a candidate for membership in the Fraternity. This
means that you are in the process of becoming a brother of our order.
 Respect is a two way street (yes, this is worth repeating a second time). Respect the
brothers and they will respect you. If they do not, contact your pledge educator (me),
Eminent Archon, or Chapter Adviser
 Be prepared that while you are a brother, there will be different levels of friendship with
the brothers. Do not expect to be as close with one brother as you are with another.
 Ask before doing – for example – do not go into a brother’s apartment and proceed to
make a sandwich with his food. Some may be okay with that, but others are not.
 All activities of the fraternity will be in line with Minerva’s Shield, Fraternity Laws, the
Ritual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and The True Gentleman.
 If you are hazed or believe you are being hazed, do not hesitate to contact the National
Hazing Hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE
 By joining Sigma Alpha Epsilon, you agree that you will not be hazed nor will you allow
yourself to be hazed.
 Remember that we are a part of Sigma Alpha Epsilon – it’s a national organization, and
exists in more places than just this college/university. Learn about our national
organization and if you ever have the chance – travel and experience all that the
Fraternity has to offer.

o
►Expectations from New Members

These questions are in your book on page 16. Please write down your responses.
Revised: 09/12
9




What are your expectations of membership? Be specific – more than just brotherhood and a group of
friends. Really think about how Sigma Alpha Epsilon can make you a better person.
What are you looking to get out of Sigma Alpha Epsilon?
How do you expect to be treated?
Use this time to ask questions of the new members and have them respond. Use this time to get to know
the new members better and also to see what they are looking for from the brotherhood. Try to identify
signs of those who may have troubles adjusting academically or socially in order to work with them. If
someone is in for the wrong reasons – now is the time to discuss it with them.
►Review of Pledge Oath



Review the pledge oath with the class. It’s on page 17 in their book.
Discuss line by line what it means/what they think it means.
After reviewing it line by line, ask “How does the pledge oath fit with your expectations as well as the
expectations of the chapter?”
I, ______________, conscious of the honor of having been deemed worthy of becoming a candidate for
Sigma Alpha Epsilon, solemnly swear that I will never reveal by any means whatsoever, any of the ritual,
or other secrets of the Fraternity which have been disclosed to me, or which may be discovered, or
communicated to me at any time.
Prompted only by the highest motives, I solemnly place myself on probation to Sigma Alpha Epsilon; and
I will do my utmost to attain and prove myself worthy of the brotherhood in Sigma Alpha Epsilon.
I will not join any organization forbidden by the Fraternity Laws of Sigma Alpha Epsilon or by the laws of
the collegiate institution of which I am a student.
I will wear my pledge badge at all appropriate times, and I will protect it and the name it symbolizes, from
every quarter whatsoever.
I will be loyal and true to Sigma Alpha Epsilon. I will observe its teachings. I will be guided by its ideals.
I will be governed by its rules of conduct as long as they do not conflict with my allegiance to my home, to
my best self and to my God.
►Code of Conduct



Turn to page 19.
These are expectations and requirements of your conduct while you are a member of the Fraternity.
Review this with them so they understand.
Revised: 09/12
10

Please sign both copies and give one to us.
►Scope of Association/sae.net account/Online Certification/Online Component

The Fraternity has several online components for education, membership, and that works in conjunction
with this pledge program.

Claim sae.net account/Scope of Association
o Every member must claim their sae.net member account
o In doing so, you also sign the Scope of Association, which defines your relationship with the
Fraternity and several other aspects from a legal point of view. You should read this document in
its entirety, and you must sign and accept the Terms and Conditions if you wish to be a member.
This is no different from when you sign the Terms and Conditions of use when joining a gym or
healthclub.
o Everyone please take out your phones or laptop,
 Go to www.sae.net.
 In the upper right-hand corner, click login
 Click “Create a SAE.net account/Sign Scope of Association” under the LOGIN button
 Read the entire document and complete the registration and click “Submit”
 Your account will be processed in two-three business days.
 You will receive an e-mail letting you know when this is complete

Carson Starkey Online Certification Program
o A requirement of membership is that within two weeks of your accepting your bid that you complete
the Carson Starkey Online Certification Program.
o This reviews the risk-management policies of the Fraternity, including Minerva’s Shield.
o You must complete this within two weeks and cannot be initiated until it is completed.
o You will receive an e-mail after you sign the Scope of Association/claim your sae.net account with
your login credentials and instructions.
o It will be available at thetgi.sae.net.

Online Components to Pledgeship & Membership
o To make your experience with Sigma Alpha Epsilon more complete, Sigma Alpha Epsilon has
created The True Gentleman Initiative. This online program was created with the member in mind,
and has personal and professional development resources, as well as education modules that
correspond to this 8-week pledge program.
o After you receive your credentials and your sae.net account is approved, you will have access to
thetgi.sae.net. From that website you will have access to all the resources that a brother would.

The True Gentleman Initiative
o Available at thetgi.sae.net, this website provides a public library of resources, The True Gentleman
Initiative Library, which contains information and documents helpful to chapters and members.
o The portion of the website behind the login is used to administer and track the online certification
programs.
Revised: 09/12
11
►Activity: The Phoenix




The fraternity’s pledge manual is The Phoenix. This is your guide for membership, and has resources that
you may use or reference even as an alumni.
The Phoenix is available in PDF and e-book format, at thetgi.sae.net under Pledge Education in the True
Gentleman Initiative Library.
At this time, divide the group into five smaller groups. Have each group read a chapter (each person taking
a turn reading aloud to the group), discuss the questions at the end of each chapter, and then after each
chapter is done, and then report back to the group on the topics of the chapter.
Chapters to be read:
o Chapter 1 – Why Fraternity
o Chapter 2 – Pledging
o Chapter 3 – The Collegiate Chapter
o Chapter 4 – The National Fraternity Structure
o Chapter 5 – Alumni Life After College
►Organizational Structure of the Fraternity



Using The Phoenix review organizational structure of the chapter as well as the national fraternity (chapters
3 & 4)
Review and reference chapter by-laws and budget (in appendix G & H)
Sigma Alpha Epsilon is a national fraternity, and it’s structure is worthy of review and discussion once again
o Turn to page 23 and we will review these once again
►Activity: Minerva’s Shield – Risk-Management Policies




We will now watch a brief video on the Risk-Management policies of the Fraternity.
Play “Minerva’s Shield – Risk Management Policies” available under the risk-management core area in the
True Gentleman Initiative Library.
Please remember that pledgeship is a dry process – meaning that all new member activities are to be dry.
You should also understand that the consumption of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21 is illegal. One
of the online components for you to complete is on Alcohol Skills Training Program.
►We Stand Together

We Stand Together is Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s anti-hazing program. It provides resources for parents, active
members and new members to take a stand against hazing. There is a module in the online content that
provides information on We Stand Together that you should complete as part of the online program.

Hazing in any form is not acceptable, and you will not be hazed by being part of this chapter. If
Revised: 09/12
12
you have to ask if an activity is hazing, then it probably is. Hazing is also illegal in almost every state
and can result in incarceration and fines. Many universities, cities and states additionally have their
own definition of hazing. Please consult the appropriate resources at your local level. For a listing of
state anti-hazing laws, visit http://www.stophazing.org/laws.html.

The state law outlawing hazing for the state of _____________ is: INSERT LOCAL STATE HAZING LAW
HERE

Insert University Hazing policies/rules here

You should be aware that people who participate in hazing expose themselves to enormous liability.
Hazing has resulted in death, irreparable harm to the human body, loss of loved ones, imprisonment and
other tragedies. Additionally, collegiate members who haze – and their parents – have a very high
probability of being named in a lawsuit, which can result in large financial judgments being levied against
members and their parents.

Hazing is against our Fraternity Laws, as in accordance with Section 47B2. It is defined by the Fraternity
Laws of Sigma Alpha Epsilon in Section 47D5C and states:

c. Program Content. The emphasis of all programs shall be on the development of spirit and understanding
of the dignity and worth of each and every individual. The purposes and objectives of all programs shall be
discussed with all participants in advance. Because they are inconsistent with the Ritual and the objectives
of the Fraternity, the following practices specifically and all other similar activities are prohibited at all times
in all Chapters Collegiate: paddling in any form, physical exercises or calisthenics, deprivation of normal
sleep and rest, any form of corporal or mental punishment, “mind games,” the placing of anyone in actual
or simulated peril or jeopardy of health, undignified methods and stunts, wearing humiliating or
uncomfortable attire, dangerous or illegal activities, either private or public quests, treasure hunts and road
trips, personal servitude, and any ordeal that is in poor taste or in any respect indecent or shocking to the
moral or religious scruples or sensibilities of a reasonable person. Participation in or endorsement of such
activities is a ground for expulsion or revocation of a charter or both.

If hazing does become a concern at any time for anyone, we strongly urge the affected parties to call our
anonymous hazing hotline at 1-888-NOT-HAZE. Our Regional Directors, who work directly with our
chapters, also serve as a resource. You can find a roster of these staff members and their regions at
www.sae.net/fieldstaff.
►Activity: Minerva’s Shield – Real Life Examples

The risk-management guide for the fraternity is Minerva’s Shield. This is available at thetgi.sae.net under
the Risk-management section, as well as will be reviewed in details as part of the Carson Starkey Online
Pledge Certification Program.
Revised: 09/12
13


As part of your homework, you are to read and review Minerva’s Shield (download a copy from
thetgi.sae.net), as well as to complete the relevant modules in the Carson Starkey Online Pledge
Certification Program.
Right now, we will review some real cases and scenarios. These actually happened. Turn to page 24 in
your book. We will talk about three cases and a recent chapter incident and discuss what could have or
should have been done differently.
Incident
Summary
Who was sued?
Contributing
Factors
Cost
8/14/2009
Patrick
Drown
Drown attended an SAE
apartment-warming party
during summer. He
consumed alcohol brought
by others, left the party in
early morning, fell asleep
in the road and had his
head crushed by a car. He
was identified by
fragments of his jaw and
teeth from the car’s
undercarriage.
The members at the
event and the
Fraternity were sued.
Failure to
follow riskmanagement
procedures;
alcohol
consumption
More than $150,000.
Drown died.
2/25/2011
George
Desdunes
Active George Desdunes
died from alcohol
poisoning after pledges
allegedly kidnapped him
and forced him to drink. He
was found on a couch with
his hands tied behind him.
The university and FSC
closed the chapter.
Criminal charges are
pending against a number
of pledges as well as the
chapter.
The lawsuit was filed
recently, and discovery
will be starting soon.
alcohol;
hazing
Unknown at this
time. Lawsuit has
been filed for $25
million.
Desdunes died.
12/1/2008
Carson
Starkey
Pledge Carson Starkey
died of alcohol poisoning.
The chapter had been
conducting its big-brother
night and required pledges
to drink entire bottles of
liquor and eat some sort of
food. In addition, they were
tasked to consume a bottle
of Everclear. Starkey drank
from both. When he was
found unresponsive,
actives started to transport
him to a hospital after
removing his pledge pin.
Starkey coughed on the
way, so actives thought he
was okay and brought him
back to the apartment
without going to the
hospital. Starkey later died,
The individual bad
actors were sued,
including chapter
officers, chapter
advisers and the
Fraternity.
alcohol
consumption;
underage
alcohol
consumption;
hazing; poor
decisionmaking
processes
Individual bad actors
parents’
homeowners
insurance paid more
than $3 million
toward the
settlement of the
lawsuit.
In addition, the
Fraternity settled for
an undisclosed
amount.
Starkey died.
Revised: 09/12
What could have been done
differently?
14
his body found dumped on
a mattress. The chapter
was closed, and all
members were expelled
under Section 80C of our
Fraternity Laws.
►Case Study: Chapter Social Event
Here is an example of a real risk-management case, violating Minerva’s Shield. We will discuss these
points, why they violated our risk-management policy and what could have been done differently. Scenario
and discussion questions available on page 29 of the participant guide.







Five brothers, who rent a house together, held a homecoming after-party event (It was a wet event
and was registered with the university).
Brothers collected money to purchase cases of beer but then decided to purchase a keg.
Another brother set up a bar for hard-alcohol distribution.
No one managed the door, so uninvited guests entered the party.
The EA and EDA decided not to remove the keg or stop the party since they considered it a private
residence.
A fight broke out between two drunk underage members, and it is possible attendees drove home
drunk.
The chapter was fined more than $24,000. In addition, seven members were expelled from the
chapter, and eight others were suspended.
►Discussion Questions
1.
2.
3.
4.
What were the points that were wrong or in violation of Minerva’s Shield in this case?
What could have been done differently by the brothers in this chapter?
What could have been done differently by the EA or the EDA?
What are some common factors in these cases?
►Big Brother Program


The purpose of the Big Brother Program is to provide new members to the organization with support for the
transition to college life as a Fraternity man.
This will be accomplished by:
o Support of the new member in his academic endeavors
 Tutoring services, checking up to ensure they are making grades, letting them know they
can reach out for help and it’s okay to ask for it.
o Encourage proper time management and working to ensure enough time is spent on studies
Revised: 09/12
15
Review schedule for the week and have the new member determine if they are best using
their time
o Mentor proper and gentlemanly social, public actions
 Teach and demonstrate how to be a TG in public
o Ensure that the new member is familiar with Minerva’s Shield
 Use this as a guide for how new members should behave
o Be a resource and a friend to the new member
 Be a friend to the new member as the new member’s needs define it. In other words,
hang out with them as they want, do not make them do what you want.
A big brother is a friend who will help you adjust to college and fraternity life. He is not a drinking buddy.
Each of you will complete a big brother matching form, available in Appendix D
You will be matched to one of the brothers who are eligible to be a big brother, and most of them are in the
room right now.
These forms are due by next meeting, and your big brother will give you several gifts throughout the next
few weeks, and his identity will be revealed during Phi Alpha Week.
A complete description of the Big Brother program is available in Appendix D






►Pledge Class Committees



In order to improve your leadership skills and to prepare you for life in the chapter, we will establish pledge
class committees. Each of these committees will be tasked with specific goals to achieve. The specific
committees are:
o Philanthropy/Service – tasked with planning and executing a service or philanthropy event for the
entire chapter to participate. The committee may work with current philanthropy chair for the
chapter for assistance. The event should follow all the event-planning guidelines as specified in
Minerva’s Shield. This event is to be planned for the 8th week of the pledge program.
o Social – tasked with planning a dry social/mixer. This should be a fun brotherhood event, and can
include guests from other groups (such as sororities). The event should follow all the eventplanning guidelines as specified in Minerva’s Shield.
o Recruitment – Recruitment is a 365-day-per-year activity. This committee is tasked with working
with the recruitment chair and providing names of men on campus or graduating next year from
high school that would be great members of the chapter. Everyone can name at least one person
who should be a SAE – so go and recruit him!
Committee sign-ups will be next week, and the chairs will be appointed by the Pledge Class President next
week.
The Philanthropy Chair, Social Chair, and Recruitment chair will meet with the pledge class committees to
provide support and assistance.
Revised: 09/12
16
►Homework










Complete the following before our next meeting. Remember, next week’s meeting will be much shorter
Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net – this will supplement your education.
o Goal-Setting
o Time-Management
Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 1
Re-Read Chapters 1-5
Read Minerva’s Shield
Complete the Carson Starkey Online Certification Program
Read Chapters 6-9, 11, 12
o Use The Phoenix which is available online for the most up-to-date version
o You are looking to use the 12th Edition
Learn the True Gentleman through the word emergencies
Complete the goal-setting activity in Appendix E of your book. This will help you as you go forward with the
semester both in college and in the fraternity.
Write a letter to your parent(s)/guardian, thanking them for what they have done in your life and letting them
know what they should expect from you as a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Send them this letter along
with the Parent’s Form, available in Appendix F.
►Comments for the Good of the Order


Have all stand in a circle and pass around a gavel (if available) or a copy of the Phoenix. Have an active
brother who is familiar with a ‘gavel pass’ start so that the new members can understand/see an example.
The ‘gavel pass’ is an opportunity for brothers to express their thoughts/feelings/feedback on what has or
has not happened and is a great way to close out a meeting.
Revised: 09/12
17
Homework Activity #1
The True Gentleman is the man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an acute sense of
propriety, and whose self-control is equal to all emergencies.
Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your conduct proceeding from:
Good Will
An Acute Sense of Propriety
1.
1.
Self-control being equal to all
emergencies
1.
2.
2.
2.
3.
3.
3.
4.
4.
4.
5.
5.
5.
Revised: 09/12
18
MEETING #2: Our Heritage and Symbolism
Who does not make the poor man conscience of his poverty, the obscure man
of his obscurity, or any man of his inferiority or deformity…
1 hour
OUTCOMES
1. Learn the duties of officers within the Chapter
2. Be able to effectively utilize parliamentary procedure
3. Connect values of organization to activities of individual
CORE CONCEPTS



Diversity
Self Awareness
Citizenship
PREPARATION
►Meeting Space
Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks if
possible.
►Location
On-Campus
►Tasks to Complete

Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks
if possible.

►Attendees


All New Members
Pledge Educator(s)
Revised: 09/12
19
►Chapters to be covered in The Phoenix






Chapter 6 – The Insignia of SAE
Chapter 7 – Our Guiding Star: The Ritual of SAE
Chapter 8 – The Story of the Phoenix
Chapter 9 – Songs of SAE
Chapter 11 - The True Gentleman: An Interpretation
Chapter 12 – Minerva’s Shield
Revised: 09/12
20
MEETING #2 AGENDA
►Welcome


Welcome everyone, take roll
Advise them that the secretary will be responsible for taking roll after today’s meeting.
►Icebreaker

Have an icebreaker that is appropriate for the size of the group.
o See Appendix A for a list of Icebreakers and instructions for facilitating one.
►Meeting #1 Review








Everyone brought New member binder? What are some important parts of the binder?
What are some basic expectations of the chapter of you?
What is the Scope of Association?
What is the Carson Starkey Online Certification Program?
What is the True Gentleman Initiative?
What is the difference between a chapter, a province, and a region?
What is the name of the Risk-management guide/program of the Fraternity?
What is We Stand Together?
►Review of Homework Assignments






Ask how many read Mineva’s Shield
Ask how many completed the Carson Starkey Online Certification Program
Ask for a volunteer to recite the True Gentleman through the word emergencies
Ask about Parent’s form and letter to parents
Have one or two share how they completed Homework Activity #1
Ask for someone to share their goals
►Songs of SAE



Have the new members open their handbooks to page XX. There are songs available in the book, as well
as in chapter 9 of The Phoenix.
Teach how to sing the full version of Friends as well as Come Sing.
Teach the SAE Yell
►Pledge Class Elections
Revised: 09/12
21


The pledge class will elect its own officers, and there are four (though more can be elected if so desired). I
will read the duties of the office, and we will hold nominations for a position, the candidates will then speak,
answer any questions, then leave the room for discussion and voting by the class.
As pledge educator, run the election and count all votes.
o President
 Is responsible for the general progress of the pledge class. He should motivate and
inspire the pledge class to succeed. A good president will lead by example and be able to
communicate the expectations of the brothers to the class.
o Vice-President
 Assists the President in his duties
o Treasurer
 Works with the Eminent Treasurer to assist in collections of dues and monies owed from
the pledge class
o Secretary
 Takes minutes at all pledge meetings
 Take roll at the start of all meetings
 Oversee communication with the pledge class, which may include txt messages, emails,
etc
►Pledge Class Committees





We will now sign-up for the pledge class committees. Each member must join at least once committee.
Read the description for each committee, then have the secretary record the names.
After you have gotten everyone on a committee, have the pledge class president select the chair
The specific committees are:
o Philanthropy/Service – tasked with planning and executing a service or philanthropy event for the
entire chapter to participate. The committee may work with current philanthropy chair for the
chapter for assistance. The event should follow all the event-planning guidelines as specified in
Minerva’s Shield.
o Social – tasked with planning a dry social/mixer. This should be a fun brotherhood event, and can
include guests from other groups (such as sororities). The event should follow all the eventplanning guidelines as specified in Minerva’s Shield.
o Recruitment – Recruitment is a 365-day-per-year activity. This committee is tasked with working
with the recruitment chair and providing names of men on campus or graduating next year from
high school that would be great members of the chapter. Everyone can name at least one person
who should be a SAE – so go and recruit him!
All committees should make plans to meet later this week to begin planning each of their charged tasks.
►Values Discussion

Organizational symbols and values
Revised: 09/12
22
o
We will now discuss the symbols of SAE.
 Who is the patron goddess of the fraternity?
 What is special about Minerva?
 Why do you think she is our goddess? How does what she symbolize relate to Sigma
Alpha Epsilon?
 Who can describe the flag of the fraternity?
 What are the different types of badges of the fraternity?
 When is it appropriate to wear your badge?
 How should your badge be worn (specifically)?
 Who designed the Coat-of-Arms?
 Is there anything special or significant that you believe relates to the Fraternity from the
Coat-of-Arms?
 Why for a time was the badge black as opposed to Nazarene blue?
 What is the flower of the fraternity?
 What are the official colors of the fraternity?
 Do these colors have any specific meanings? How do they relate to the fraternity?

Story of the Phoenix
o What is the story of the Phoenix?
o Why do you believe the Phoenix is an important symbol for the Fraternity? For our personal lives?
o What lessons can we take from the Phoenix?

Evolution/History of the Ritual
o Who wrote our Ritual?
o What are some of the ceremonies of the Ritual?
o Who wrote the current version of the Ritual?
o Why is the Formal Pledging Ceremony a public ceremony?
o What can you tell us about the virtues and values of the Ritual based on the chapter that you read?
►Activity: Values Shield
Forming Groups
Have the participant’s number off and divide into groups. Being conscious of the time you have for the activity,
understand the bigger the groups the better; this will allow more members to witness the sharing of others.
The Procedure
1. Setup the activity as follows: “I thought it might be interesting for all of us to get to know each other in a better
way. I have an activity called “Value Shields” that I think will make this possible. It involves nothing more than
sharing a little about yourself – things you like and value – with other people in your group. If you choose to
share nothing at all, that is up to you.”
2. Have each person turn to page XX in their book.
Revised: 09/12
23
3. Ask the questions from each quadrant of the value shield and have each person answer on their own sheet of
paper. Give the group an appropriate amount of time to think of a thoughtful and sincere answer. Inform the
group that they do not need to write a novel. They will be sharing their answers later with the group; therefore,
one word answers or 1-2 sentences will suffice, as long as it reminds them of the answer to their question.
*Note: The facilitator should share his own answers with the group. This will reduce reluctance on the part of the
participant’s to answer the questions.
Sharing the Shield
1. Have each person individually share their responses to each question to their group. Remember to emphasize
that they do not have to respond to a question if they choose not to.
2. Every person should share each answer with the group before moving on to the next person.
Feedback
Following the sharing period the individual who shared remains totally quiet while the other members of his
group gives feedback. It is important to emphasize that feedback should only be positive. It should concentrate on
new things that you find about the person sharing. Examples of feedback: “I was impressed by…” “I was happy to
hear…” “I never knew before, but am happy to have heard that…”
Discussion
After all have shared and feedback is given, debrief the session, emphasizing these points:





How do you feel right now?
What can be gained by feeling like you do right now?
What did you like best about this exercise?
Did you learn anything new about yourself? About communication with others?
What can be gained by utilizing positive feedback in your accomplishments?
Possible things to be gained by this exercise:






Awareness of difficulty everyone has in accepting compliments.
Identification of personal strengths unknown to the individual.
Awareness of the many different kinds of strengths available to the group.
A method for recognizing the resources of the group and possible areas for involving individual members.
The ability to see how much better things can be in a positive environment.
The development of trust and good-will in the group.
Revised: 09/12
24
1. What is your favorite
childhood memory? Why?
2. Who is the first person you
fell in love with? Why?
3. Who is someone, whether
living or dead, fictitious or real,
met or unmet, that you really
admire and respect? Why?
4. Who is the person in your life
that brings you the most joy or
happiness – someone who
makes you smile every time
you see them? Why?
VALUES SHIELD
5. Who are three women outside of
your immediate family that you love
(use your own definition of love).
What is their relationship to you?
9. During what year did you
experience the greatest amount
of personal growth, i.e. what year
was most significant in terms of
your development?
6. Who are three men outside of your
immediate family that you love (use
your own definition of love). What
is their relationship to you?
10. What is a date on which you
made a very important decision?
Why?
7. What is your most predominant
value? Why?
11. What is your definition of love?
Why?
8. What was the year you came
closest to death? (spiritual,
emotional, physical) Why?
12. What scares you? Why?
Revised: 09/12
25
►Scholarship







Review the scholarship program for the chapter – IT’S IN SECTION K
Have each member submit their class schedule on the form in Appendix L
Scholarship is critical to your success – you must study and pass your classes in order to graduate.
In Appendix L there is a class schedule form. Please complete it and turn it in to me.
There is also a copy of our scholarship program as well as a list of university resources to support your
academic endeavors
The required GPA to initiate and be in good standing with the chapter is XXXXXXX.
If you are having trouble in a class, do not hesitate to let one of us know so that we can try and assist you,
though remember, your success in class is up to you, though your achievements or failures will reflect on all
of us.
►Activity: Discuss the True Gentleman






Divide into groups and turn to page 69 in The Phoenix.
As pledge educator, divide the chapter by the number of groups
Each group is to take their assigned section, read through the lines associated with The True Gentleman in
that section, and discuss their own thoughts on its meaning
After 15 minutes, we will regroup and each group will share their thoughts and feedback.
When the group comes together to compare, be sure to compare and contrast points and after each group’s
report, ask for additional thoughts or feedback from the group
Be sure to relate all the comments (or at least most of them) to the expectations of a member of the
Fraternity
►Big Brother Selection Forms

Please turn in your big brother forms at this time.
►Homework



Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net – this will supplement your education.
o Secret Thoughts of a Ritual
Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 2
Read the following chapters:
i. Chapter 15 – The Policies
ii. Chapter 16 – The Finances
iii. Chapter 17 – The Governance of Our Fraternity
iv. Chapter 18 – The Sigma Alpha Epsilon Foundation
v. Chapter 19 – SAE Financial & Housing Corporation
Revised: 09/12
26

vi. Appendix L – Parliamentary Procedure
Learn TG up to deformity
►Comments for the Good of the Order


Have all stand in a circle and pass around a gavel (if available) or a copy of the Phoenix. Have an active
brother who is familiar with a ‘gavel pass’ start so that the new members can understand/see an example.
The ‘gavel pass’ is an opportunity for brothers to express their thoughts/feelings/feedback on what has or
has not happened and is a great way to close out a meeting.
Homework Activity #2
Who does not make the poor man conscious of his poverty, the obscure man of his obscurity, or
any many of his inferiority or deformity.
Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your not making a man conscious of his:
Poverty
1.
Obscurity
1.
Inferiority/Deformity
1.
2.
2.
2.
3.
3.
3.
4.
4.
4.
5.
5.
5.
Revised: 09/12
27
MEETING #3: Our Organizational Structure
Who is himself humbled if necessity compels him to humble another….
1 hour
OUTCOMES
1. Understand the structure of the Fraternity on a National Level
2. Be able to name the Officers of the Supreme Council and Province
3. Understand Parliamentary Procedure and be able to run a meeting using it.
CORE CONCEPTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
Relationship
Critical thinking
Communication
Membership & leadership
PREPARATION
►Meeting Space



Laptop & projector or television with internet access to watch video
Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks
if possible.
Follow Preparation and setup as defined in the Parliamentary Procedure Activity
►Location
On-Campus
►Tasks to Complete
Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks if
possible.
Study parliamentary procedure or have a brother that is familiar enough with the process to chair a pseudo-meeting.
►Attendees
Revised: 09/12
28


All New Members
Pledge Educator(s)
►Chapters to be covered in The Phoenix






Chapter 15 – The Policies
Chapter 16 – The Finances
Chapter 17 – The Governance of Our Fraternity
Chapter 18 – The Sigma Alpha Epsilon Foundation
Chapter 19 – SAE Financial & Housing Corporation
Appendix L – Parliamentary Procedure
Revised: 09/12
29
MEETING #3 AGENDA
►Welcome



Welcome everyone
Have the secretary take roll
Have the treasurer collect any dues or monies to turn over to the Eminent Treasurer
►Icebreaker

Have an icebreaker that is appropriate for the size of the group.
o See Appendix A for a list of Icebreakers and instructions for facilitating one.
►Meeting #2 Review







What are some of the values of Sigma Alpha Epsilon?
Who would please tell the story of the Phoenix?
Why is the phoenix important as a symbol for the fraternity?
Why is the Ritual important for the fraternity?
Who can discuss the ‘secret thoughts of the ritual’?
Why is the True Gentleman relevant today as it was when it was written?
Sing Friends, Come Sing, and perform the SAE Yell
►Review of Homework Assignments

Ask for a volunteer to recite the True Gentleman through the word deformity
►Songs of SAE



Have the new members open their handbooks to page XX. There are songs available in the book, as well
as in chapter 9 of The Phoenix.
Teach how to sing Hail to the Purple, Violets.
Teach SAE Grace.
►Officer Reports & Committee Reports

Have each officer and committee chair report on their activities from the past week.
►Activity: Parliamentary Procedure Game
Revised: 09/12
30




In the new member handbook under Meeting #3 is the information below for parliamentary procedure.
Ensure that either you are familiar enough with parliamentary procedure or that you have a brother that can
come in and teach it.
Review the information below, and then run a pseudo-meeting.
Have the brothers enter fake ‘motions’. Examples include:
o Order a pizza
 Amend the toppings on the pizza
o Have the pledge educator do the hokey-pokey
o These tasks can be silly, however should not be degrading. The idea is to have the members
become familiar and operate parliamentary procedure in an easy and fun way.
Order of Business











Call to Order – A quorum (the number of brothers who must be present in good standing to conduct
business) must be previously met. A single rap of the gavel is used to call the meeting to order. The gavel
is only used at the beginning of the meeting, at the end of the meeting, to call the chapter back into order, or
for ceremonial purposes. It is not used for any other purposes.
Opening Fraternity Ritual – Initiated members in good standing.
Minutes – from the previous meeting must be presented and accepted.
Financial Report – presented and discussed.
Officer Reports– presented and discussed—this should include reports from officers and committees.
Unfinished Business – presented from previous meeting. (Note: it is not referred to as “Old Business.”)
New Business – presented and discussed.
Program – This may be placed anywhere on the agenda.
Adjournment - May be done by a formal motion or by the E.A. if no further business is pending.
Comments for the Good of the Order
Closing Fraternity Ritual – Initiated members in good standing.
Kinds of Motions





Privileged Motions – These motions are most urgent and not debatable. They are about special or
important matters not relating to pending business. Examples are: to fix the time at which to adjourn; to
recess, etc.
Subsidiary Motions – These motions are to change or affect how the main motion is handled and are
voted on before the main motion. They are always applied to another pending motion, to aid in treating or
disposing of it. Examples are: to lay on the table; to amend; to postpone indefinitely, etc.
Main Motion – These motions introduce a subject to the assembly for its consideration. They cannot be
made when another motion is before the chapter. They yield to privileged, subsidiary and incidental
motions.
Incidental Motions – These are questions concerning procedure or conduct that arise out of other motions.
They must be considered before the other motion.
Unclassified Motions – These are motions that do not fall into one of the above named categories.
Revised: 09/12
31
The Basics of Making a Motion
Addressing the chair
All meetings should be conducted from the chair (usually the president). In Fraternity meetings, members addressing
the chair should refer to the presiding officer as “Brother E.A.” or “Brother Chairman.”
Obtaining the floor
Before a member may make a motion or speak in debate, he must obtain the floor. To claim the floor, a member
raises his hand and waits to be recognized by the chair. The chair will recognize the member by announcing his
name or title. This member then has the floor and may stand and speak until he yields the floor. A member
automatically yields the floor by returning to his seat. During debate, the privilege of the floor is usually granted on a
‘first come, first serve’ basis. However, there are three important cases where the floor should be assigned to a
person who may not have been the first to rise and address the chair. These cases are:
1.If the member who made the motion claims the floor and has not already spoken on the question, he is entitled to
be recognized in preference to other members.
2.No one is entitled to the floor a second time as long as any other member who has not yet spoken to the pending
motion requests the floor.
3.The chair should attempt to alternate opposite opinions on a question if he is aware of members requesting the
floor which have opposing views.
Making a motion
1.First, a member makes a motion. Though he makes a motion, he uses the word “move” to make the motion (for
example: “I move to allocate...”).
2.Another member seconds the motion by saying, “I second it” or simply, “Second.”
3.The chair then states the “question” on the motion. Neither the making or the seconding of a motion places it before
the assembly; only the chair can place a motion before the assembly by this step (stating the question).
When the chair has stated the question, the motion is pending and is then open to debate (providing that it is a
debatable motion). If the chapter decides to do what a motion proposes, it adopts a motion or it is carried. If it
decides against the motion, it is rejected or lost.
Amending a motion
The motion to amend is a motion to modify the wording (within certain limits) of a pending motion before it is acted
upon. An amendment must be germane; that is, it must be closely related to or have some bearing on the subject of
the motion to be amended. A motion to amend is handled the same way as a main motion and requires a second to
be considered. An amendment is adopted by a majority vote even in cases where the motion to be amended requires
a 2/3 vote for adoption.
Approval of the minutes
At the beginning of regularly scheduled meetings, copies of minutes of the previous meeting will be distributed for
study by chapter members. The presiding officer then asks, “Are there any corrections to the minutes?” and pauses.
Revised: 09/12
32
Then the presiding officer says, “If there are no corrections” (or “no further corrections”) the minutes stand approved
(or “approved as corrected”).
Point of order
When a member thinks that the rules of the meeting are being violated, he may make a “point of order”, thereby
calling upon the chair to make a ruling and enforce the regular rules. A point of order:
•can be applied to any breech of the meeting’s rules
•is in order when another has the floor
•does not require a second
•is not debatable unless the chair, being in doubt, submits the point to a vote of the meeting; in which case, the rules
governing its debate are the same as for an appeal
Previous question
The previous question is a motion used to bring the meeting to an immediate vote on one or more pending questions.
The motion for the previous question:
 •takes precedence over all debatable or amendable
 motions to which it is applied
 •can be applied to any immediately pending debatable or
 amendable motion
 •is out of order when another has the floor
 •must be seconded
 •is not debatable
 •is not amendable
 •requires a 2/3 vote
Postpone indefinitely
A motion to postpone indefinitely is a motion that the assembly declines to take a position on the main question. Its
adoption kills the main motion (at least for the duration of the session) and avoids a direct vote on the question. It is
useful in disposing of a badly chosen main motion that cannot be either adopted or expressly rejected without
possibly undesirable consequences.
The motion to postpone indefinitely:
 •is out of order when another has the floor
 •must be seconded
 •is debatable
 •is not amended
 •requires a majority vote
Adjourn
To adjourn means to end the meeting.
The motion to adjourn:
 •is not applied to any motion and no motion can be
 applied to it
 •is out of order when another has the floor
Revised: 09/12
33

•does not need to be seconded
►Video: Purpose and Opportunities within the Fraternity
o
o
o
o
o
Fraternity Programming (LS, Inner Circle, etc)
 TGI
National Convention
 Outcomes of National Convention
 Supreme Council Discussion
Purpose and opportunities of the Province
 Other Chapters In Province
 Province Officers
Purpose and opportunities of F&H
Purpose and opportunities of Foundation
 Scholarships
 Phi Alpha Club
 Archives Website
 CEF
►Homework






Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net – this will supplement your education.
o Parliamentary Procedure
o Purpose and Opportunity within the Fraternity
o Supreme Council, Province Archons, Regional Directors, and Staff
Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 3
Learn TG up to achievements
Read and complete the Recruitment module that is part of the online pledge program
Write a letter and place in a sealed envelope to be given to your big brother when he is revealed next week.
Read the following chapters:
o Chapter 25 – The Greek-Letter Fraternity in America
o Chapter 26 – The History of Sigma Alpha Epsilon
►Comments for the Good of the Order


Have all stand in a circle and pass around a gavel (if available) or a copy of the Phoenix. Have an active
brother who is familiar with a ‘gavel pass’ start so that the new members can understand/see an example.
The ‘gavel pass’ is an opportunity for brothers to express their thoughts/feelings/feedback on what has or
has not happened and is a great way to close out a meeting.
Revised: 09/12
34
Homework Activity #3
Who is himself humbled if necessity compels him to humble another.
Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your humility:
In general
1.
When necessity compelled you to
humble another
1.
2.
2.
3.
3.
4.
4.
5.
5.
Revised: 09/12
35
MEETING #4: Our History
Who does not flatter wealth, cringe before power, or boast of his own
possessions or achievements…
1 hour
OUTCOMES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Reveal Big Brother
Understand the proper way to Recruit
Understand the origin and purpose of Greek Letter Societies
Learn History of Local Chapter
Learn History of National Organization
CORE CONCEPTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
Self awareness
Communication
Critical thinking
Citizenship
PREPARATION
►Meeting Space

On-Campus
►Location
On-Campus
►Tasks to Complete




Laptop & projector or television with internet access to watch video
Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks
if possible.
Have Big Brothers write a letter to their little brothers and place in a sealed envelope.
Contact local alumni to tell history of the chapter (if available)
Revised: 09/12
36
►Attendees




All New Members
Pledge Educator(s)
Big Brothers (to be revealed at his meeting)
Adviser(s)
►Chapters to be covered in The Phoenix


Chapter 25 – The Greek-Letter Fraternity in America
Chapter 26 – The History of Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Revised: 09/12
37
MEETING #4 AGENDA
►Welcome



Welcome everyone
Have the secretary take roll
Have the treasurer collect any dues or monies to turn over to the Eminent Treasurer
►Icebreaker

Have an icebreaker that is appropriate for the size of the group.
o See Appendix A for a list of Icebreakers and instructions for facilitating one.
►Review of Meeting #3






How does one make a motion?
For what can a point of order be used?
How do you adjourn a meeting?
What are the three entities of Sigma Alpha Epsilon?
What does each of the entities do? What is their purpose?
Sing Friends, Hail to the Purple, SAE Yell, SAE Grace
►Review of Homework Assignments


Ask for a volunteer to recite the True Gentleman through the word achievements
Make sure everyone has their letter to their big brother.
►Songs of SAE


Have the new members open their handbooks to page XX. There are songs available in the book, as well
as in chapter 9 of The Phoenix.
Teach how to sing two Your in the Bonds, Phi Alpha Born.
►Officer Reports & Committee Reports

Have each officer and committee chair report on their activities from the past week.
►Big Brother Reveal
Revised: 09/12
38


Each of you have a letter from your big brother. Please at this time, come and pick it up, and read its
contents. After you have read your letter, go and greet your Big Brother. He will then work with you for the
rest of the meeting on the activities we have planned.
Pledges are to pick up their letter and after reading go greet their big brother. The big brother should have a
proper and appropriate gift (jersey, t-shirt, SAE related gift, etc)
►Origin of Greek-letter organizations




Fraternities are a uniquely American invention.
Ask for volunteers to discuss the chapter 25. Answer the questions at the end of the chapter in class.
Let’s now list the Greek-letter fraternities and sororities on campus.
o List them all out (make a list either on the board or type it on the pc so it appears on screen)
All of the groups share similar origins in that they want to advance the interest of their members.
►Historical Videos



Play the Historical Videos in the Pledge Education section of The True Gentleman Initiative Library.
o Noble Leslie DeVotie
o Harry Bunting
o Billy Levere
o John O. Moseley
o Alfred Nippert
After each video, ask for comments about what each did or why they are important.
Which was most important? Did they each play important roles?
►Purpose of Membership





We are now half-way through the new member program, and almost halfway through the term. Everyone
turn to Appendix E in your book. Review your progress towards your goals that you set
Have any of you achieved your goals yet?
Have any of your goals changed slightly?
Have you wanted to completely set new goals?
Your goals are yours to achieve, but remember to always keep them in mind as you go about your daily
business. Goals (and working toward achieving them) are essential to success.
►Local History


Invite some local alumni to tell the history of the chapter or if you have a written chapter history, even better.
Review the history and how it may be relevant to the current class.
►Recruitment
Revised: 09/12
39

Review the Recruitment module on “the Right Way to Recruit” in the True Gentleman Initiative Library
►Homework




Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net – this will supplement your education.
o History Videos
o The Right Way to Recruit
Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 4
Learn the remaining parts of The True Gentleman
Have your professors complete and sign the academic progress report in Appendix N in your book. Bring to
the next meeting.
►Comments for the Good of the Order


Have all stand in a circle and pass around a gavel (if available) or a copy of the Phoenix. Have an active
brother who is familiar with a ‘gavel pass’ start so that the new members can understand/see an example.
The ‘gavel pass’ is an opportunity for brothers to express their thoughts/feelings/feedback on what has or
has not happened and is a great way to close out a meeting.
Homework Activity #4
Who does not flatter wealth, cringe before power, or boast of his own possessions or
achievements.
Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify you not
Flattering wealth
Cringing before power
1.
1.
Boasting of possessions or
achievements
1.
2.
2.
2.
3.
3.
3.
4.
4.
4.
5.
5.
5.
Revised: 09/12
40
MEETING #5: Service Learning and Academic Preparedness
Who speaks with frankness but always with sincerity and sympathy….
1 hour
OUTCOMES
1.
2.
3.
4.
Understand the basics of planning an Event
Be able to discuss the entire TG and what it means as a member of the Fraternity
Be aware of academic standing as a result of Grade Review
Be familiar with SAE’s National Charity and Children’s Miracle Network
CORE CONCEPTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
Communication
Relationships
Self awareness
Membership & leadership
PREPARATION
►Meeting Space
Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks if
possible.
►Location
On-Campus
►Tasks to Complete

Laptop & projector or television with internet access to watch video
Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks if
possible.
Revised: 09/12
41
►Attendees


All New Members
Pledge Educator(s)
►Chapters to be covered in The Phoenix

None
Revised: 09/12
42
MEETING #5 AGENDA
►Welcome



Welcome everyone
Have the secretary take roll
Have the treasurer collect any dues or monies to turn over to the Eminent Treasurer
►Icebreaker

Have an icebreaker that is appropriate for the size of the group.
o See Appendix A for a list of Icebreakers and instructions for facilitating one.
►Review of Meeting #4








What was the first Greek-letter society in America?
Who was Noble Leslie DeVotie?
What was Harry Bunting?
Who was Billy Levere?
Who was John O. Moseley?
Who was Alfred Nippert?
Who would like to describe the right way to recruit?
Sing Yours in the Bonds, Friends, Violet, Phi Alpha Born
►Review of Homework Assignments

Ask for a volunteer to recite the True Gentleman
►Songs of SAE


Have the new members open their handbooks to page XX. There are songs available in the book, as well
as in chapter 9 of The Phoenix.
Teach how to sing Sons of Famed Minerva
►Officer Reports & Committee Reports

Have each officer and committee chair report on their activities from the past week.
►Children’s Miracle Network
Revised: 09/12
43



Introduce CMN
Watch CMN Video
Review Chapter Service projects/events
►Service Project

Finalize and discuss service project plans to be executed during week 8
►Individual Grade Review




We will now meet with you individually to discuss your academic progress in school this semester.
Turn in the signed forms from your professors and please wait while the scholarship committee discusses
each report with you.
Once you have met with the committee, you are free to go.
Be sure to do your homework.
►Homework




Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net – this will supplement your education.
o Children’s Miracle Network
o Scholarship and Study Tips
Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 5
Learn the remaining parts of The True Gentleman
Finalize the service events and social event.
►Comments for the Good of the Order


Have all stand in a circle and pass around a gavel (if available) or a copy of the Phoenix. Have an active
brother who is familiar with a ‘gavel pass’ start so that the new members can understand/see an example.
The ‘gavel pass’ is an opportunity for brothers to express their thoughts/feelings/feedback on what has or
has not happened and is a great way to close out a meeting.
Revised: 09/12
44
Homework Activity #5
Who speaks with frankness but always with sincerity and sympathy.
Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your:
Frankness
1.
Sincerity
1.
Sympathy
1.
2.
2.
2.
3.
3.
3.
4.
4.
4.
5.
5.
5.
Revised: 09/12
45
MEETING #6: Fraternal Relevance
Whose deed follows his word…
1 hour
OUTCOMES
1.
2.
3.
4.
Define what we mean when we say “fraternal relevance”
Challenge participants to redefine the idea of what it means to be the “best”
Challenge participants to think about what happens when we fall from greatness
Allow participants the opportunity to critically think and reflect on the ideas of fraternal relevance and
fraternal greatness
CORE CONCEPTS
1. Self awareness
2. Membership & leadership
3. Citizenship
PREPARATION
►Meeting Space
Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks if
possible.
►Location
On-Campus
►Tasks to Complete

Have the room setup in classroom style, with each person having their own chair; seated at tables or desks
if possible.
►Attendees


All New Members
Pledge Educator(s)
Revised: 09/12
46


Big Brothers
Adviser(s)
►Chapters to be covered in The Phoenix

None
Revised: 09/12
47
MEETING #6 AGENDA
►Welcome



Welcome everyone
Have the secretary take roll
Have the treasurer collect any dues or monies to turn over to the Eminent Treasurer
►Icebreaker

Have an icebreaker that is appropriate for the size of the group.
o See Appendix A for a list of Icebreakers and instructions for facilitating one.
►Review of Meeting #5


What is Children’s Miracle Network?
What are some of the basics of planning an event?
►Review of Homework Assignments


Ask for a volunteer to recite the True Gentleman through the word deformity
Review all songs
►Officer Reports & Committee Reports

Have each officer and committee chair report on their activities from the past week.
►The Story of Fraternal Greatness

People often use the words “great” or “best” fraternity when talking about a group they respect. Do
you think you are a “great” fraternity? Why? What makes a fraternity great? We are going to
examine that now.

Ask the participants to open their workbooks to page 44.

John Shertzer joined Theta Chi fraternity at Miami University in Oxford, OH in 1995. He has worked
professionally in higher education and is the former VP of Leadership Education for the North
American Interfraternity Conference (NIC). John writes a blog called “Fraternal Thoughts” and a
recent blog posting was titled “The Best Fraternity on Campus! For Now.”
Revised: 09/12
48

As a group, you should read the blog posting out loud. You can read it, ask for a volunteer or two to read out
loud, or do it “popcorn style,” (recommended). Popcorn style means the first person reads until he want to
take a break and then calls out the next reader, who reads until he wants to take a break and then calls out
the next reader, and so on. It keeps everyone engaged because they could be called on at anytime and they
pay more attention to what they are reading.
The Best Fraternity on Campus! For Now.
By John Shertzer
I just finished reading a great book by Jim Collins (of Good to Great fame) called “How the Mighty Fall.” In this book,
Mr. Collins describes how businesses that were once the top of their industry lose their footing and fall quickly to rock
bottom. From his research, he frames five stages that seem to be consistent among these businesses:
Stage One: Hubris Born of Success
Organizations that reach a high level of success can fall victim to the arrogant notion that they will always be there. For
these organizations, success becomes an entitlement, forgetting the hard work, tough decisions, chance, and lucky
breaks that were needed to get there.
Stage Two: Undisciplined Pursuit of More
The hubris of stage one leads these organizations to feel that they can take undisciplined leaps into areas where they
cannot be great. Instead of disciplined initiative, strategic planning, and thoughtful creativity, they overreach.
Stage Three: Denial of Risk and Peril
Whereas some external signs may still signal success, there are growing internal warnings that disaster is near.
However, these warnings are ignored. The blame game also begins – with organizational leaders making excuses for
mounting problems.
Stage Four: Grasping for Salvation
Now that decline is evident, leaders begin searching for a miracle cure. According to Mr. Collins, such cures include: “a
charismatic visionary leader, a bold but untested strategy, a radical transformation, a dramatic cultural revolution, a
hoped-for blockbuster product, a ‘game-changing’ acquisition, or any number of other silver-bullet solutions (p. 22).”
Stage Five: Capitulation to Irrelevance or Death
If the direction cannot be reversed in any of the preceding stages, it’s over.
Revised: 09/12
49
I found many of the lessons and stories in the book to be relevant for Greek-letter organizations. After all, we spend a
lot of time focusing on who is the best. We also all know fraternities or sororities that gloat or are cocky about their
success. Success in fraternity and sorority is often like a roller coaster. The successful chapters on any given campus
were not the same ones 10 years ago.
I encourage you to read the book and draw your own conclusions, but here are the primary lessons I found:
Arrogance and Entitlement
Are you the best fraternity or sorority on campus? Are you the best national organization? Why? What justifies you
declaring that? How do you prove that to potential members? Being the “best” in anything is tough to measure (except
for perhaps athletic competitions or awards). Oftentimes, it is left to the eyes of the beholder. I actually love it when
Greek organizations tell me that they are the “best,” because now that they’ve declared it, they need to back it up.
There is nothing wrong with having confidence and striving to be your definition of the “best.” Just beware of hubris.
Beware of the level of arrogance that makes others root for your demise. Those who gloat the loudest on the way up
often shriek the loudest on the way down.
There are certainly times in the course of a fraternity or sorority’s life when things are going very well. Those are times
to celebrate. Cautiously. Almost every Greek-letter organization that has a precipitous fall from grace once felt
indestructible; once thought the good times would last forever; once felt that they were the best.
At the same time, you shouldn’t lead with panic or fear that the end is near. Nobody wants to follow a doomsayer or
join a negative organization.
The key is to avoid the arrogance that leads to an entitlement mindset. Your success was earned – most likely by the
hard work of leaders before you. Luck and chance probably played a role too. Stay humble about your success, and
keep searching for more.
Revised: 09/12
50
Arrogance can lead to complacency as well. Once we start believing that we are entitled to our success, we stop
working for it. We stop expecting it in our new recruits. Consider these two statements and the type of individual that
would be attracted to them:

Join us – we’re the best!

Join us – we want to be the best!
Both messages would likely get quality men and women. However, the second message would get quality men and
women who want to work; who want to leave their mark; who want to build the ship, not just ride on it.
Reaching Too Far
Most of the companies profiled by Mr. Collins drifted away from their core purposes and missions. They felt so entitled
to their success, that they felt anything they touched would turn to gold. By shifting attention away from their core, they
let their most important aspects atrophy.
In fact, almost all of the organizations that reversed the downward spiral did so by reclaiming their core purpose. For
example, Xerox experimented with all sorts of new services (such as financial services), but soon found themselves
falling. When they returned to their core business – printing and copying – they started to see success again. They
experienced the danger of overreaching.
In the fraternity/sorority world, we see overreach in different ways. For example, groups that taste the success of being
the biggest organization on campus may suddenly feel the need to focus only on numbers. They begin bidding
members that they would have denied in their growth stage.
Some national organizations fall victim to the “keeping up with the Jones’s” mentality. The growth of membership
development programs are an example of this. Sigma Phi Epsilon’s success with The Balanced Man program was met
with a flurry of “we’ve got to have one too!” statements in board rooms across the country. Many of these efforts have
failed. What if these organizations spent time focusing on what they do best, rather than spend their energy on what
others do best?
Don’t Get Radical
The case studies and examples Mr. Collins uses in the book signal something very important: when an organization is
in a vulnerable place, radical change is NOT a good idea. Those companies that pulled themselves out of their decline
did so by incremental change, tough decisions, and by honoring the past. Like these organizations, fraternities that
face a decline should avoid redefining themselves, and rather, rediscover themselves.
There is a great principle from Appreciative Inquiry: in every human situation, something works. The key for leaders is
to keep the best from the past, and change the rest. Something is working. Don’t flip everything upside down. A radical,
transforming kind of change will most likely speed up the decline.
Be a Survivor
This passage from the book caught my eye:
“The point of the struggle is not just to survive, but to build an enterprise that makes such a distinctive impact
on the world it touches, and does so with such superior performance, that it would leave a gaping hole – a
hole that could not be easily filled by any other institution – if it ceased to exist (p. 112)."
Revised: 09/12
51
Does this describe your fraternity or sorority? Would there be a gaping hole in the universe if your organization was
gone? The work of a leader is to build a culture of continuous excellence in your chapter – so that it can survive
downward turns. I need to think this through some more, but here is an initial list of what I believe is needed for an
organization to be a survivor:

Constant care for the Ritual and how it is taught and practiced daily.

Relentless focus on financial solvency.

A culture of continuous, year-round recruitment.

The elimination of hazing practices, dangerous drinking, and other risky behaviors.

Working hard to change the belief that a house for the chapter is essential (after all, if it burns down, could
you carry on without hesitation)?

Anything you would add?
I recommend reading the book, or reading other summaries at least. We try so hard to learn from those that excel in
our world, and sometimes the best lessons come from those who fall. You may be the best on campus. But, when will
it be your turn to ride the downward slope? What will you do when that rocky bottom is approaching fast?
Source: How the Mighty Fall (2008), by Jim Collins
Processing Questions for Participants
►Debrief
Once you are done reading the article out loud, participants should turn to page 47 in their workbook and answer the
questions individually.
1.
2.
3.
4.
To who or what is the most important for your chapter to be relevant?
What can you do personally to ensure that your chapter is relevant in the next year? In the next five years?
How do you define what it means to be the “best fraternity?”
With regard to the five stages, where does your chapter currently stand? How did you get there?
After everyone has answered the questions, facilitators should have a group discussion on the article. Ask the
following questions.




Where is the chapter on this scale? (Have everyone state where they think their chapter is. They do not
need to explain why.)
Why is your chapter at that point on the scale? (Try to get a few people to respond that have chapters at
different points on the scale)
Do your chapter’s actions align with your values? Why or why not?
Do your chapter’s actions align with SAE’s values? Why or why not?
Revised: 09/12
52
►Fraternal Relevance

Now we are going to talk about the idea of “fraternal relevance.”

You should ask the following questions. You may get a variety of answers for the last two questions. Record
answers on pre-made flip chart (ask for a new member to write).
o
o
o
o
o

By a show of hands, who has heard of the term fraternal relevance?
What do you think that means?
To who or what are we relevant to?
Why is it important that we are relevant to these groups?
What happens if we are not relevant?
The idea of fraternal relevance is a concept that applies to many aspect of fraternity life, not just
when discussing communities.
►Homework




Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net – this will supplement your education.
o Case Study 1
o Case Study 2
o Leadership Module
o Leadership Self-Study
Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 6
Review The True Gentleman
Review and write ways that you and the chapter can remain relevant to the groups that we discussed today.
►Comments for the Good of the Order


Have all stand in a circle and pass around a gavel (if available) or a copy of the Phoenix. Have an active
brother who is familiar with a ‘gavel pass’ start so that the new members can understand/see an example.
The ‘gavel pass’ is an opportunity for brothers to express their thoughts/feelings/feedback on what has or
has not happened and is a great way to close out a meeting.
Revised: 09/12
53
Homework Activity #6
Whose deed follows his word
Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your deed following your word.
Deed follows your word
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Revised: 09/12
54
MEETING #7: Greek Debate
Who thinks of the rights and feelings of others, rather than his own…
1 hour
OUTCOMES
1. To be able to discuss and debate the merits of values-based organizations
2. To be able to identify and develop solutions to issues within the Greek community on your campus
CORE CONCEPTS
1. Relationship
2. Citizenship
3. Self awareness
PREPARATION
►Meeting Space
Have the room divided into two sets of chairs, each facing the other, so that there is an aisle between the two sets.
►Location
On-Campus
►Tasks to Complete

Contact administration and Greek Adviser to attend. Let them know that your chapter (new members and
pledges) will be discussing the relevance of fraternities
►Attendees





All New Members
Pledge Educator(s)
Big Brothers
Chapter Officers
Adviser(s)
Revised: 09/12
55

University guests and administration as judges
►Chapters to be covered in The Phoenix

None
Revised: 09/12
56
MEETING #7 AGENDA
►Welcome


Welcome everyone
Have the secretary take roll
►Officer Reports & Committee Reports

Have each officer and committee chair report on their activities from the past week.
►Review of Meeting #6




What is fraternal relevance?
To whom is it important that we remain relevant?
Why is being relevant important?
What if we are being irrelevant?
►Greek Community




These are to be asked to not just the pledge class, but to the entire group.
We are looking for a few points and main topics, not a debate on the issues of the Greek community
What or who are the constituents of the Greek community here on campus?
What are some of the current issues facing the Greek community?
►Greek Debate





USE THE SCRIPT BELOW TO MODERATE THE DEBATE
Right now, the room should be divided evenly down the middle, with the chairs facing each other. The
objectives of this activity are:
o Encourage participants to rethink the current reality of fraternity and sorority movement.
o To challenge participants to see how the present reality affects their future.
o To begin to identify issues and problems that confront fraternities and sororities
o To begin to understand and apply the skills necessary to affect positive chanve.
This activity is adapted from the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute
We have spent our time so far in this new member program developing a stronger understanding of
ourselves, the behavior of effective leaders and the role that leaders have in developing others. Now, it is
time to turn our attention to why this is so important for fraternity and sorority life and our collective future.
The issues that will emerge through our discussion are the challenges that face our shared fraternity and
sorority community. We are going to do this by having honest dialogue and creating some productive
conflict.
Revised: 09/12
57







If we are to be successful in rethinking and reimagining our future, we need to be honest with ourselves and
each other when we discuss our successes as well as our challenges
The topics/questions for this debate which we will address are:
o What is the purpose of fraternities and sororities today in this day and age?
While there are varied and diverse opinions about today’s fraternity and sorority community, they can
generally be narrowed down to two opposing viewpoints. Tonight, we are going to critically examine those
viewpoints by engaging in a debate about the current reality and the future of our movement:
o The left side of the room will take the position that fraternities and sororities are a benefit to the
success and development of today’s college students.
o The right side of the room will take the position that fraternities and sororities are a hindrance to the
success and development of today’s college student.
Each person must speak, but will be allowed to speak only once for their position during the debate. We will
alternate between pros and cons. Each person can speak for up to 30 seconds. Arguments may be
repeated.
After everyone has spoken, the sides will have 4 minutes to prepare their final statements. They may select
up to 4 representatives from each side to make closing arguments. The con side will go first, followed by
the pro side. Each side will have 3 minutes to make their final argument.
I will need a total of six volunteers – four students (balance male and female if you can) and two adults.
These four will serve as judges, and will determine the fate of fraternities and sororities. Their decision will
be based solely on the arguments of the debate and will be final.
Ask for any questions, and if none, then begin. It may be easier to have them start making their statements
in the order they are seated.

After the entire debate is finished, allow the judges 5 minutes to discuss their result. Have them leave the
room.

Ask the following questions to the group:
o
o
o
o
o
o

What are your general reactions to this experience?
Since you didn’t have a choice of what side you were on, was creating arguments in support of
your assigned position hard or easy?
Are fraternities and sororities under fire? Why or why not?
Is this debate here on campus? Who’s winning? Why? Who sits on the jury?
Who controls our fate?
Why should we care?
Have the judges announce their results. Then ask these questions:
o In terms of the our debate, does the decision of the judges really matter? Why or why not?
o Are fraternities and sororities sustainable given our current direction? In other words, will we
continue to exist in 5, 10, 20 years from now?
o Why is that important to consider?
o Who is responsible for securing our future?
o What do we need to ‘own’ in order to make that happen?
Revised: 09/12
58
►Values Review/Discussion


What are some of the values of Sigma Alpha Epsilon?
Why is it important that we live our values – both in the chapter and in our lives?
►Conclusion

Thank everyone for attending, offer the floor for administration to offer comments or discussion.
►Homework



Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net – this will supplement your education.
o Case Study 3
o Case Study 4
Complete all activities in your pledge manual for Homework for Meeting 7
Finalize all plans for Phi Alpha Week Service Activity
Homework Activity #7
Who thinks of the rights and feelings of others, rather than his own.
Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify your thinking of the rights and feelings of
someone other than yourself.
Thinking of the rights and feelings of someone other than yourself
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Revised: 09/12
59
MEETING #8 Honor is Sacred and Virtue Safe
And who appears well in any company, a man with whom honor is sacred and
virtue safe.
1 hour
OUTCOMES
1.
2.
3.
4.
Be able to apply prior knowledge gained through pledge program via discussion over case studies
Participate in Chapter Etiquette Dinner
Host a successful service project
Initiate into the brotherhood of Sigma Alpha Epsilon
CORE CONCEPTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
Self awareness
Citizenship
Critical thinking
Membership & leadership
PREPARATION
►Meeting Space
This will utilize various locations as there are several days of programming
►Location
On-Campus
►Tasks to Complete



Ensure that plans for the etiquette dinner are complete
o This is activity to be planned by the active chapter and all members are to take part
Ensure that the new member’s service project is ready to go
Ensure that all members are ready to initiate into Sigma Alpha Epsilon (grades, initiation supplies ready, etc)
Revised: 09/12
60
►Attendees



All New Members
All Members
Adviser(s)
►Chapters to be covered in The Phoenix

None
Revised: 09/12
61
MEETING #8 AGENDA
►Welcome



Welcome everyone
Have the secretary take roll
Have the treasurer collect any dues or monies to turn over to the Eminent Treasurer
►Day 1 - Final Test (Pledges, Big Bros, Pledge Eds, EC)



Length: 1.5 hours
- Final Exam
- Coat-of-arms discussion
- Topoi Writing
Complete homework assignment for Meeting #8
Complete the online components available at thetgi.sae.net, which will supplement your education
►Day 2 – Etiquette Dinner


Is for entire chapter
Planned by chapter member educator
►Day 3 – Service Project


Is for entire chapter
Planned and executed by service committee of pledge class
►Day 4 – Initiation

Is for entire chapter
Revised: 09/12
62
Homework Activity #8
And who appears well in any company, and man with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe.
Identify five (5) things that you did during this past week that exemplify:
You appearing well in any company
1.
Honor being sacred with you
1.
Virtue being safe with you
1.
2.
2.
2.
3.
3.
3.
4.
4.
4.
5.
5.
5.
Revised: 09/12
63
APPENDIX A – ICEBREAKERS
These were adapted from http://www.training-games.com/. There are numerous other icebreakers available at
thetgi.sae.net
Three Questions Game
•Everyone in the group writes down 3 provoking questions they would like to ask others in the group. Not the normal
“what’s you name” type questions but something like, "Where is the most interesting place you have ever traveled" or
"Name a topic you feel absolutely passionate about".
•Give them time to mingle, and to ask three different people in the group one of their three questions.
•Get back together and have each person stand and give their name. As they say their name, ask the group to tell
what they know about this person.
The Pocket/Purse Game
•Everyone selects one (optionally two) items from their pocket or purse that has some personal significance to them.
They introduce themselves and do a show and tell for the selected item and why it is important to them.
The Talent Show
•Everyone selects one talent or special gift that they possess and can demonstrate for the group. They introduce
themselves, explain what their special talent is, and then perform their special talent for the group.
Toilet Paper Game
•Pass around a roll of toilet paper to the group and ask them to take what they need. No further explanation.
•When done. Tell the group that as they go around the room, each person must tell a fact or something about
themselves for each square of TP they took.
Birthday Game
•Have the group stand and line up in a straight line.
•After they are in line, tell them to re-arrange the line so that they are in line by their birthday. January 1 on one end
and December 31 at the other end. The catch is that they must do all this without talking or writing anything down.
Map Game
•Hang a large map of the world. Give everyone a pushpin. As they enter, they pin the location of their birth on the
map.
Paper Airplane Game
•Everyone makes a paper airplane and writes their name, something they like and dislike on it (You may also want to
add additional questions). On cue, everyone throws their airplane around the room. If you find an airplane, pick it and
keep throwing it for 1-2 minutes. At the end of that time, everyone must have one paper airplane. This is the person
they must find and introduce to the group.
Revised: 09/12
64
The Shoe Game
•When entering, everyone must take off one shoe and leave it in a pile at the door. They keep the other shoe on.
After everyone is in. The host will distribute the shoes to people not wearing the same shoe. When instructed,
everyone must find the mix and find the person who belongs to the shoe and get some info about them. They then
introduce their new friend to the group.
The Artist Game
•Give everyone a piece of paper and a pencil. In 5 minutes they must draw a picture that conveys who they are with
out writing any words or numbers. At the end of 5 minutes the host collects the pictures. Show the pictures to the
group one at a time and have them try to guess who drew it. After this allow each of the artists to introduce
themselves and explain how their work clearly conveys who they are.
Three in Common Game
•Break the group into 3’s. Their objective is for each group to find 3 things they have in common. But not normal
things like age, sex or hair color. It must be three uncommon things. After letting the groups converse for 10 - 15
minutes, they (as a group) must tell the rest of the groups the 3 things they have in common.
Dream Vacation Game
•Ask participants to introduce themselves and describe details of the ideal, perfect dream vacation.
Polaroid Game
•As participants arrive, take their picture with a Polaroid type camera. Hand out the pictures to the group with each
participant getting a picture of another member of the group. Give them 15 minutes to find and talk to the people
matching their picture. When the group reassembles, have each member introduce their new picture pal to the group
and talk about what they learned about them.
Favorite T-Shirt Game
•Ask attendees to bring (not wear) their favorite T-shirt to the meeting. Once all participants have arrived, ask each
person to show the shirt to the group and explain how the T-shirt best resembles their personality.
Famous People/Cities Game
•As each participant arrives, tape a 3 x 5 index card on their back with the name of a famous person or city. They
must circulate in the room and ask questions that can ONLY be answered with a YES or NO to identify clues that will
help them find out the name of the person or city on their index card. EXAMPLES: Paris, Madonna, Santa Claus,
John Wayne, Casablanca.
Favorite Animal Game
•As the guests arrive, and before you write their names on a name card, ask them to tell you their favorite animal and
three adjectives to describe the animal. As they tell you, write the three adjectives on a name tag BEFORE their
name (omit the name of the animal). Ask them to mingle with the crowd, sharing why these adjectives best describe
their own personality. EXAMPLES: Loyal, cuddly, playful Dan
Creative Name Tags
•Give everyone 15 minutes to make their own name tag-they can list hobbies, draw a picture, give a self profile, etc.
Revised: 09/12
65
Circle of Friends Game
•This is a great greeting and departure for a large group who will be attending a seminar for more than one day
together and the chances of meeting everyone in the room is almost impossible. Form two large circles (or simply
form two lines side by side), one inside the other and have the people in the inside circle face the people in the
outside circle. Ask the circles to take one step in the opposite directions, allowing them to meet each new person as
the circle continues to move very slowly. If lines are formed, they simply keep the line moving very slowly, as they
introduce themselves.
Marooned Game
•You are marooned on a island. What five (you can use a different number, such as seven, depending upon the size
of each team) items would you have brought with you if you knew there was a chance that you might be stranded.
Note that they are only allowed five items per team, not per person. You can have them write their items on a flip
chart and discuss and defend their choices with the whole group. This activity helps them to learn about other's
values and problem solving styles and promotes teamwork.
The Interview Game
•Break the group into two person teams (have them pick a partner that they know the least about). Have them
interview each other for about twenty minutes (You can also prepare questions ahead of time or provide general
guidelines for the interview). They need to learn about what each other likes about their job, past jobs, family life,
hobbies, favorite sport, etc. After the interviews, reassemble the group and have each team introduce their team
member to the group. This exercise helps them to learn about each other.
Story Time Game
•The facilitator starts a story by saying a sentence. It then goes in a circle, each person adding a sentence onto the
story-after repeating each sentence that's already been added.
Ball Toss Game
•This is a semi-review and wake-up exercise when covering material that requires heavy concentration. Have
everyone stand up and form a resemblance of a circle. It does not have to be perfect, but they should all be facing in,
looking at each other. Toss a nerf ball or bean bag to a person and have tell what they thought was the most
important learning concept was. They then toss the ball to someone and that person explains what they though was
the most important concept. Continue the exercise until everyone has caught the ball at least once and explained an
important concept of the material just covered.
Positive Reinforcement Cards Game
•Whenever a participant arrives to class on time from breaks, lunch, etc. give them one playing card. You can also
hand out cards to people who volunteer for activities, are helpful, answers a difficult question, etc. At the end of the
day, play one hand of poker. Give a small prize to the best hand (you can also pick the top two or three hands if you
want to give away more prizes). Note that the more cards a person has, the better the chance of winning.
Revised: 09/12
66
Human Bingo Game
•Before the meeting, make a bingo matrix and at the top of each square put something that someone in the group
might have done-for example, voted for the current President of the United States, served in the Peace Corps, etc.
Everyone gets a copy and is asked to circulate, getting other group members to sign one square that is true of them.
The first person to get "bingo" wins the prize (a candy bar or some other small thing).
Out on the Town Game
•If you have a two-day meeting and need a quick warm-up for day two, ask everyone to pantomime something they
did the night before. Individuals or groups can act out a movie they went to, describe a meal they ate, or recreate a
scene witnessed at a bar….
Lucky Penny Game
•Each person takes a penny or other coin out of their pocket and looks at the date. When it's their turn, they tell the
year that's on their coin and recall something spectacular that happened that year.
Straw & Paperclip Game
•Give each group a box of straws not flexible straws) and a box of paperclips. Check that the paperclips can fit
snuggly into the end of the straws. Give each group a task (you can use the same one for each group if you want)
and let them go. Sample tasks: Build the structure as a group – tallest, strongest, longest, most creative, most
functional, etc. Debriefing included describing teamwork and situational leadership skills used as well as how
different models are needed to accomplish different tasks.
Four Facts Game
•Each person writes down four facts about themselves, one of which is a lie. Each person takes turns reading their
list aloud and the rest of the team writes down the one they think is the lie. When all are done reading the lists aloud,
the first person reads their list again and identifies the lie. The team sees how well they did.
A to Z Freeze Game
•Ask participants to recite the alphabet in unison. Let them go on for a while until you yodel “Stop!” At that point,
identify the letter they stopped on and ask everyone to share something they are looking forward to at school that
begins with that letter. For example, if the letter is “R,” they might say “ravioli in the dining hall” or “rooming with
someone cool.” Once everyone has shared, have them recite the alphabet again. Stop them on a different letter and
ask participants to share a personality trait they possess that begins with begins with that letter. If the letter is “D”
they might say things like “diligence” or “doofiness.” Come up with different questions to ask for each letter and
repeat the process.
Reception Line Game
•Divide everyone into 2 groups. Have them stand facing each other. Each person talks to the person across from
them until signaled (flash lights). At signal, person at end of one line moves to other end. Consequently everyone has
a new person to talk to.
Revised: 09/12
67
Autograph Sheets Game
•Prepare a sheet listing traits or facts about people with a line for them to sign their name next to the trait if it applies
to them (i.e.: someone who wears contacts, someone who has been to Europe, etc.). People then mingle around the
room with their sheets seeking to find people who are eligible to sign their sheets. A person can only sign once on
any sheet. The process may also be reversed by having people seek out the autograph of people to which they think
the category applies (i.e.: someone who looks like they enjoy the outdoors, someone who is from the east, etc.)
Puzzles Game
•Give participants a blank piece of puzzle (cut up a sheet of index card stock). Each person writes on the piece one
skill which they contribute to the group. The puzzle is then assembled to show that everyone contributes to the
whole.
Human Knot Game
•Divide into groups of 6-10 people. Each group forms a tight circle, standing and facing each other.
Everyone extends their hands into the circle and by intermingling their arms, grasps hands with other members of the
group. Instruct people to “be sure that the two hands you are holding does not belong to the same person”. The
groups’ goal: untie the knot which results. Member of the group physically climb over/ under/ through each other’s
arms to untie the knot of bodies. Note: It’s RARE but it is possible for a knot to be unsolvable or end in two separate
circles.
Find Someone Game
•Each person writes on a blank index card one to three statements, such as favorite color, interest, hobby, or
vacations. Pass out cards so everyone gets someone else's card. Have that person find the person with their card
and introduce themselves.
Get in the News Game
•Divide your group into teams of four or five persons each, and make sure each team has the necessary supplies-scissors, tape, pins, and plenty of old newspaper. You'll also need a separate room or corner in which each team can
work with privacy (and hilarity). Each group selects one person to be the model. After deciding what kind of costume
to make, the team goes to work--cutting, crumpling, bunching, rolling, piecing, pinning, taping. After an appropriate
amount of time, call everybody together for a costume show. (And don't forget to recycle your newspaper when
you're finished!)
Kangaroo Court Game
•Try this if there's an incident that irritates members of your group. Announce that a kangaroo court will beheld to
properly try and prosecute all guilty parties. After you make the announcement, everyone will begin to view the
incident in question with a contagious sense of humor. Name the defendants. Select a lawyer for the defense, as well
as a prosecuting attorney. Write up formal charges and submit them to the judge. Appoint a bailiff and court recorder.
Screen and swear in your jurors.
Revised: 09/12
68
Make a Date Game
•Give each participant a paper plate. Have them draw the face of a clock on their plate with a line next to each
number (no digitals!). Then have participants walk around a find a "date" for each hour, writing their name by the
hour. The catch is, no one can make a "date" with more than one person per hour. After everyone has made their
dates, speed up time and allow 1-3 minutes for each hour. The facilitator then asks a question for discussion on each
date. The pairs will have a chance to get to know one another.
People Knots Game
•Everyone sits on the floor in a circle with legs extended toward the middle. Each person grabs two others' hands and
holds them. The hands cannot be those of either person sitting on your sides and also cannot be the two hands of
the same person. Now, everyone stands up and untangles each other into a single circle, without letting go of the
hands you have.
Quick Change Artist Game
•Pair off into partners facing each other. Each player is to observe his or her partner's appearance. Then the players
turn around back-to-back and make two or more changes in their dress, hair accessories, etc. When they face each
other again, each partner must identify the changes made by his or her partner. This game can be repeated several
times by changing partners and increasing the number of changes made.
The Quiet Game
•The instructor explains that this exercise will take self control. Members pair back to back. On the count of three,
everyone must face their partner, look each other in the eyes, and then try to remain solemn and serious. No
speaking! The first to smile or laugh must sit down. All who remain standing then take a new partner and the activity
continues until only one person has not smiled or laughed. (Second round of playing can involve two teams
competing to outlast each other.) If you get a pair at the end who are both keeping a straight face, the rest of the
group can act ask hecklers to disrupt them.
Sunshine Cards Game
•Everyone writes their name in the center of a piece of paper and draws a sun around their name. Pass your paper
around to the person on your right. That person will write something positive about you and they do not have to sign
their name. Continue to pass your name around until everyone has written something on all the papers.
Finish the Sentence Game
•Write the start of a question on the board (i.e. My Favorite job was, My Hobby is.) and go around the room with each
person finishing the sentence. When the group is finished, post another question and start again.
Revised: 09/12
69
APPENDIX B – THE BIG BROTHER PROGRAM
A Big Brother program is one of the most important parts of the pledge program for a number of reasons. It
creates a relationship between a first-year student and a man who has been through the trials and tribulations of
freshman year of college. The Big Brother can be a mentor and a friend. A strong Big Brother will take the
charge cultivating this relationship and will understand the weight of the difference he can make on his Little
Brother. Therefore, it is important that each Big Brother and Little Brother pairing is chosen with thought and
scrutiny behind it.
►The Purpose of the Big Brother Program
To provide new members to the organization with support for the transition to college life as a Fraternity man.
The Big Brother will accomplish this by:
1) Support of the new member in his academic endeavors
a. Tutoring services, checking up to ensure they are making grades, letting them know they can reach
out for help and it’s okay to ask for it.
2) Encourage proper time management and working to ensure enough time is spent on studies
b. Review schedule for the week and have the new member determine if they are best using their
time
3) Mentor proper and gentlemanly social, public actions
c. Teach and demonstrate how to be a True Gentleman in public
4) Ensure that the new member is familiar with Minerva’s Shield
d. Use this as a guide for how new members should behave
5) Be a resource and a friend to the new member
e. Be a friend to the new member as the new member’s needs define it. In other words, hang out
with them as they want, do not make them do what you want.
►Considerations for pairing big brother/little brother:
 Students of the same major
o Students of the same major can help each other academically. The Big Brother knows what
classes are most worthwhile, what the student needs to do to get his major on track and how
to succeed in harder classes. As Big Brothers should have a positive academic influence on
his Little Brother, you should consider holding Big Brother candidates to a minimum grade
point average.
 Big Brothers should be dependable.
o They should do what they say they will do and should be willing to make themselves available
to their Little Brother whenever possible.
 The Big Brother should possess a positive attitude about all things fraternity
o From chapter meetings to intramurals, service events to running for office. There is a very
good chance the Big Brother’s attitude will rub off on his Little Brother.
Revised: 09/12
70
 Big Brothers and Little Brothers should have complementary personalities
o Sense of humor, communication styles, interests and hobbies are all tell-tale signs of whether
the experience will be mutually beneficial.
 Members who are from the same hometown or have previously-established relationships should not be
matched.
o The Big Brother program is designed to create new friendships.
►Selection Process





Eligible Big Brothers will complete the Big Brother Application Form prior to the start of the semester
All Big Brother candidates are to attend the first pledge meeting to participate in the meeting and work
with the new members.
Little brothers will complete the Little Brother information form. This will be due during the second
pledge meeting,
After both are complete, the pledge educator, with the assistance of the executive council, will match
big/little combinations
This should be completed after the second week of pledgeship.
►Program Outline



Big brothers, in order to welcome their little brothers, may provide gifts for the little brother
These are to be given and keeping the identity of the brother a secret, and include a letter of
encouragement or note encouraging the member through the first few weeks of school.
The Big Brother will be revealed to the little brother during the fourth pledge meeting. This will allow for
increased mentorship and friendship between the pair.
o By revealing earlier, this allows for the big brother to address any academic or social issues
that may arise earlier than if the reveal occurs later in the year.
►Big Brother Responsibilities
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Be in good standing with the chapter (have a zero account balance)
Be at or above the all men’s average
Serve as a positive role model for his Little Brother
Monitor academic performance
Assist in the Little Brother’s social adjustment
Act as a sounding board when needed
Serve as a confidant to your little brother
Introduce and explain chapter customs to the Little Brother
Spend time with his Little Brother at least once a week (this is the absolute minimum)
Help and hold his Little Brother accountable for completing the requirements of the pledge program
He should NOT be a drinking buddy.
Revised: 09/12
71
►Little Brother Responsibilities
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Meet with his Big Brother at least once a week
Not select a best friend, but an ideal person to emulate
Demand continual involvement from his Big Brother
Discuss any difficulties and problems with his Big Brother
Use his Big Brother as a link for fraternal, academic and social issues
A final note: It is always important to reiterate that the success of the pledge program does not lie in the hands of
one or two people. The pledge educator and a great Big Brother can only do so much if the entire chapter isn’t
behind them. Every member should have an interest in every pledge.
That being said, the Big Brother should be held responsible for the pledge’s growth in the program. If the pledge
isn’t doing his job, first look to see if the Big Brother is doing his. And remember, that if what you say and what you
do don’t match up, it’s going to be what you do that leaves the biggest and most lasting impression.
Revised: 09/12
72
BIG BROTHER APPLICATION
Last Name:
GPA Above All men’s Average Yes/No
First Name:
Hours Per week you can devote to pledge activities and your little brother:
Semesters you have been a active brother:
Academic Major:
Favorite Activities:
Have you met all of your financial obligations?
Yes/No
Will you be able to be present for the required chapter meetings that big brothers/big brother candidates must
attend? These include Weeks 1, 4, 6, 7
Yes/No
In 250 words or less, explain why you want to be a big brother.
In 250 words or less, how will you benefit your little brother and chapter by being a big brother?
Revised: 09/12
73
By signing below, I agree to become a candidate for big brother for the XXXXXX Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon for
the XXXXX Term. I understand all requirements outlined in the Pledge Manual and will be an active participant in the
pledge and recruitment process. I understand that I must attend all pledge events required by the pledge educator
and must remain a brother in good standing throughout the semester. I will be a positive role model for my little
brother and will check on his academic and fraternal progress weekly. I understand that failure to uphold these
requirements will lead to the dismissal of my duties as a big brother. Signing this document dues not guarantee me a
little brother and approval/dismissal is subject to the Pledge Educator and Executive Council.
_________________________
Signature of Member
Revised: 09/12
_________________________
Date
74
LITTLE BROTHER APPLICATION
Last Name:
First Name:
Hours Per week you can devote to pledge activities and your little brother:
Academic Major:
Favorite Activities:
Write down the names of FOUR active brothers from the approved list that you would like to be your Big Brother.
Names should be written in order of preference, with 1 being the most desired.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Revised: 09/12
75
QUALIFIED BIG BROTHER CANDIDATES
APPROVED
NOT-APPROVED
(Note – this should be completed prior to the start of the pledge program so this printed form can be included in the
pledge handbook)
Revised: 09/12
76
APPENDIX C – FINAL EXAM
Name: _________________________________
1. What does the True Gentleman mean to you as pledges?
2. What year was Sigma Alpha Epsilon founded and by whom?
3. What is Minerva's Highway?
4. Who are our eight founding fathers?
5. What is the name of the only female SAE member?
6. Out of the 15 total southern chapters, only 1 survived the civil war. What chapter was it?
Revised: 09/12
77
7. What is the name of the brother who established and re-established 29 chapters?
8. What are the official colors of Sigma Alpha Epsilon?
9. Who is our National Headquarters named after and tell me 3 positions he served in Sigma
Alpha Epsilon?
10. Who is Al Nippert and what did he contribute to Sigma Alpha Epsilon?
11. What year did Sigma Alpha Epsilon hold its first Leadership School?
12. Who developed the Leadership School?
13. What is the date that Sigma Alpha Epsilon was founded?
14. What is the name of the 1st American Greek lettered fraternity?
Revised: 09/12
78
15. How many stars are on the flag and what do they represent?
16. Who is the patron Goddess of Sigma Alpha Epsilon?
17. How many fleurs-de-lis are represented on the crest?
18. What is the name of the province our chapter is in and how many chapters are in it? List
all chapters and universities in the province.
19. What is the name of the room with all the crests of various national fraternities and
sororities?
20. What is the flower of Sigma Alpha Epsilon?
Revised: 09/12
79
21. What is the name of the stained glass in the front of the Chapel?
22. Who was the artist that painted all the images in the Levere Temple?
23. What is the name of our current Eminent Supreme Recorder and what is his official title in
the National Office?
Revised: 09/12
80