Phi Kappa Sigma International Fraternity
PILLARS NEW MEMBER EDUCATION PROGRAM
Facilitator Guide
Pillars
Facilitator Guide
Table of Contents
I. INTRODUCTION TO THE “PILLARS” ...................................................................................................................... 2
II. THE PURPOSE OF THE “PILLARS” ......................................................................................................................... 3
III. INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS FEES .......................................................................................................... 4
IV. “PLEDGING” VERSUS “NEW MEMBER EDUCATION” ..................................................................................... 5
V. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE IOTA ........................................................................................................................... 6
VI. REQUIREMENTS FOR INITIATION ....................................................................................................................... 8
VII. HOLD-OVER PROGRAM .......................................................................................................................................... 9
VIII. WEEKLY OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................................................... 10
IX. FACILITATION OF PILLARS ................................................................................................................................. 16
X. PILLARS PROGRAM GUIDE .................................................................................................................................... 18
XI. WEEKLY SCHEDULE ............................................................................................................................................... 19
WEEK 1: NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION ............................................................................................................................. 19
WEEK 2: PURPOSE AND PRINCIPLES .................................................................................................................................. 26
WEEK 3: RESPONSEABILITY.............................................................................................................................................. 31
WEEK 4: NEW MEMBER RETREAT..................................................................................................................................... 36
WEEK 5: FRATERNITY HISTORY ........................................................................................................................................ 41
WEEK 6: FRATERNITY AND STRUCTURE AND OPPORTUNITIES ......................................................................................... 44
WEEK 7: CHAPTER HISTORY AND STANDARDS ................................................................................................................. 47
WEEK 8: PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER ................................................................................................................................ 55
XII. POST-INITIATION EDUCATION .......................................................................................................................... 59
XIII. WEEKLY QUIZZES ................................................................................................................................................ 60
XIV. BROTHERHOOD AND TEAMBUILDING ACTIVITIES .................................................................................. 66
101 ACTIVITIES.................................................................................................................................................................. 66
“BIG BROTHER/LITTLE BROTHER PROGRAM”................................................................................................................... 69
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Pillars
Facilitator Guide
I. Introduction to the “Pillars”
So what is the “Pillars?” The new “Men of Honor Experience” from Phi Kappa Sigma is a new form of
membership development that encompasses four distinct areas of membership and growth in Phi Kappa
Sigma: The “Foundations” (recruitment program), the “Pillars” (New Member education program), the “Arches”
(membership/leadership development programs and opportunities), and the “Keystone,” which is the Ritual,
Values, Expectations, and Obligations of Phi Kappa Sigma. The Pillars is the training that each New Member
receives to shape their Phi Kap experience. With the Pillars (members) built up into strong uprights within the
fraternity, Phi Kappa Sigma, as a whole will become strengthened – our members (both undergraduate and
alumni) are the supports and basis of Phi Kappa Sigma‟s continued existence, and the stronger our members
are, the stronger Phi Kappa Sigma will become. Our life-long experience with Phi Kap, and the entire tone of
our experience as an undergraduate, is molded by the New Member education process. Done correctly, your
Chapter and the fraternity will reap the benefits of successful New Member Education for years to come.
Together, the “Foundation,” “Pillars,” “Arches”, and “Keystone” all form a strong, tightly bound gateway to the
future of both our individual members and the fraternity as a whole.
This manual was put together by the Phi Kappa Sigma International Headquarters, and is a compilation of
resources and ideas from Headquarters staff, Chapters, the North American InterFraternity Conference (NIC)
and other fraternities‟ New Member education manuals. No matter what the source, the fundamental ideas
among successful New Member Education are always the same. Training New Members by teaching them
about our Purpose and Principles will produce motivated, outstanding Brothers. Brothers that fully understand
Phi Kappa Sigma‟s ideals and values will be well prepared to truly excel in all aspects of fraternal life, and be
productive Phi Kap‟s well beyond their college years.
Many Chapters fail to see the “big picture” of New Member Education: that the education of New Members is
the responsibility of everyone in the Chapter, not just the Iota. New Members acclimate themselves to the
environment they see within the Chapter; when the Chapter doesn’t uphold our ideals and values then
New Members will learn to not uphold them as well, regardless of what the Iota teaches them. The
emphasis in this manual will be to quickly integrate your New Members into the Chapter, and train everyone at
the same time: constantly emphasizing the Purpose and Principles can help both your active members and
your New Members become better Phi Kaps, and help each learn from the other.
This program was designed to assist Iotas with a plan to provide a well-rounded education to New Members,
focusing on Phi Kappa Sigma‟s values and ideals, and smooth integration into the Chapter and fraternity. The
basis of this program is on the understanding of concepts and values motivated by respect for others, the
Chapter, and the fraternity. While it is important to learn certain Chapter and fraternity history, the dominant
part of the New Member program is teaching values to New Members as well as understanding those values,
so they can aptly apply those values throughout their life.
The New Member education program is designed to promote equality throughout all members of the fraternity:
not to separate Brothers and New Members, but to integrate New Members into the Chapter: the only
difference between a Brother and a New Member is the knowledge of our Ritual. After reading this manual,
your Chapter should be fully equipped to train New Members to become energized, motivated, stellar Phi Kaps
that will lead your Chapter and the fraternity to new levels of success.
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Pillars
Facilitator Guide
II. The Purpose of the “Pillars”
The New Member Education Program must be one both New Members and Active Members can understand,
support, and respect. New Members associate their educational experience with the whole concept of the
fraternity. Their attitude toward it will be, or will sharply influence, their attitude toward the Chapter during their
coming years as a Brother. If they think the program is stupid, unorganized, or nonsensical, that is
exactly what they will think of the Chapter.
By developing friendships with Brothers, learning fraternity and Chapter history, learning the various
responsibilities of the officers, and discovering the day to day routine of Chapter operations while he is a New
Member, the individual should be better prepared to become a good fraternity man. The greater respect he
develops for good scholarship, character, and his fellow Brothers, the better person he will become. The goal
of a New Member Education Program is for a man to enhance his personal growth in a significant manner. A
program must be built which allows an individual to realize his potential as a Phi Kap, as a student, and
ultimately as a man.
A positive and rewarding New Member education period should result in the creation of life-long friendships.
All of the benefits of an effective New Member Education Program reflect on the Chapter. Men who excel in
campus activities, become close friends, and contribute to the success of the Chapter‟s programs are the
essence of the purpose of the Phi Kappa Sigma Fraternity.
The purpose of the New Member education program is to:
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Instill within each New Member an awareness of benefits and responsibilities that are a part of Phi Kappa
Sigma membership.
Provide appreciation, understanding, and insight for the ideals, values, and beliefs of our Fraternity, as well
as learn about the history of the local Chapter and the International Fraternity.
Promote the interaction and integration of both members and New Members into a cohesive Chapter.
Promote individual development as both a member of Phi Kappa Sigma and a student, and emphasize
scholastics above all else.
Provide an education program that teaches leadership skills by providing members with responsibility, and
holding them accountable for their actions and execution of tasks.
Promote the interaction and integration of both New Members and active members.
Continue membership education throughout the undergraduate career.
Build great Brothers of Phi Kappa Sigma who live up to its high standards throughout their undergraduate
careers and throughout their life without utilizing any form of hazing, degradation, humiliation, or
embarrassment.
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Facilitator Guide
III. International Headquarters Fees
Our Fraternity is run like a business, and for a business to survive, we rely on accurate records, and prompt
payment of all required fees. New Members in Phi Kappa Sigma are required to send in four things to the
International Headquarters:

Complete New Member form within two weeks of bid acceptance (New Member form available at
http://tiny.cc/2eflz)
The information on this form will be used for each New Member‟s initiation certificate – make sure you fill
out the information as you want it to appear on your initiation certificate!

New Member Fee paid within two weeks of bid acceptance (fee schedule available at
www.pks.org/resources.php)
This New Member fee helps to cover the International Headquarters operating costs.
This fee also covers the cost of each New Member’s pin and Skull Sessions. If the New Member
fee is not paid within two weeks of bid acceptance, the Chapter will not be credited for New
Member pins and Skull Sessions.

Initiation Fee prior to initiation (fee schedule available at www.pks.org/resources.php)
This fee covers the cost of each new Brother‟s badge, certificate, and card and ensures lifetime
membership in Phi Kappa Sigma.
This fee must be paid prior to initiation.
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Facilitator Guide
IV. “Pledging” Versus “New Member Education”
A number of Chapters feel that these two terms are interchangeable. While the terms are similar and have
similar intentions, the connotations associated with each are vastly different. “Pledging” conjures up images of
traditional “pledge programs” – an emphasis on unity within the “pledge class,” a large amount of
memorization, “pledges” only dealing with the “pledge trainer,” and so forth. In essence, training is the way it
has been done in the past. Education on the other hand, conjures up images of contemporary programs – an
emphasis on unity within the entire Chapter, less memorization (and more understanding of concepts), and
New Members interacting with the entire Chapter on a regular basis. Chapters that still practice traditional
“pledge programs” are often not even close to realizing their potential; there is a large rift between “pledge
classes;” “pledges” generally are considered second-class citizens; and the Chapter is more a collection of
“pledge classes” than it is a single Chapter. The Pillars was designed to be a contemporary New Member
program to maximize each Chapter‟s potential. It was designed to assimilate New Members and integrate
them smoothly, while teaching them how the Chapter functions on a day-to-day basis. Traditional “pledge”
programs operate on a superior/subordinate relationship where Brothers are superior to the second-class
citizenship of members, and the Chapter often fragments as a result. Does your Chapter want great Brothers
or great “Pledges?” Chapters that embrace the concept of a contemporary program instead of a traditional
“pledge” program are often stronger in nearly every single aspect of fraternal life. Take a look at the
comparison below and see which category your Chapter fits into.
Traditional “Pledging”
Contemporary New Member Education
(“Pledges” go through a rite of passage)
(New Members are assimilated)
1.) Emphasis on the group – A “good for one, good for all” and “I
went through it so you will too,” attitude is prevalent
2.) “Pledge class” unity is stressed – the Chapter forces
“pledges” to do things together and excludes them from the active
Chapter meetings and business
3.) “Pledge class” events – “pledges” interact at events only with
other “pledges” and don‟t get to voice opinions, or help out with
Chapter operations
4.) “Pledge trainer” is responsible for success of New
Members – only the “pledge trainer” works to teach New
Members, and the rest of the Chapter is apathetic and lazy toward
helping out
5.) Emphasis on memorizing material – Chapters feel that the
material is important for tradition‟s sake, and only care that the
material is learned word-for-word
6.) Development ends at initiation – new Brothers “coast” after
initiation because they have done all they need to do to “get in”
7.) Prime motivators are fear and intimidation – “pledges” do
whatever it takes to avoid being harassed for mistakes
1.) Emphasis on the individual – all members are
unique, and each brings something new to the
Chapter
2.) Chapter unity is stressed – New Members are
part of the whole Chapter, not just their class
3.) Chapter-wide events – New Members
participate in events with the whole Chapter, not just
their class, and learn how the Chapter operates on a
day-to-day basis by helping out
4.) Chapter members are all responsible for
success of New Members – New Member
education falls on everyone‟s shoulders because the
Chapter needs everyone to pull their weight and help
out
5.) Emphasis on understanding material, not
memorizing
6.) Development is never-ending – members grow
throughout their time in the fraternity, not just before
their initiation
7.) Prime motivators are pride, acceptance,
confidence, self-respect - Brothers set a good
example, and New Members want to emulate that
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Facilitator Guide
V. Responsibilities of the Iota
From article 8, section 7, of The Constitution & Acts, “Iota Duties”:
“The Iota, as ritualist, shall supervise the arrangements for and take his appropriate part in the ceremonies of
pledging, of initiation, and of the installation of officers. It shall be his special responsibility to provide for the
instruction and examination of New Members in the history, traditions, and organization of the Fraternity and of
his Chapter, and in related matters which may help them to prepare for the responsibilities of full membership.”
The major factors in meeting the responsibilities are:
Time: The Iota must be willing to devote whatever time is necessary to do the job. This time will be
considerable, but will be rewarded through friendships and the respect of the Chapter.
Organization: The job of Iota is a large one, and organization is necessary to not get behind. Rushing to
make plans at the last minute or failing to have everything organized for New Members will only hurt the
Chapter, the fraternity, and the New Member education program.
Follow-up: The Iota must be certain that his plans and goals for the program are met by those who take part
in the program.
Responsibilities of the Iota before recruitment and New Member education:
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Read all New Member Education materials as soon as possible following election to the office.
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Make certain that an adequate supply of New Member pins and Skull Sessions are on hand or have
been ordered from the International Headquarters. Be sure to get these in advance.
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Have each New Member complete and sign a New Member card and membership agreement, collect
all New Member fees and initiation fees (fee schedule available at www.pks.org/resources.php) and
mail it to the International Headquarters on a timely basis (within two weeks of the Pledge Pinning
Ceremony and two weeks prior to the Initiation Ceremony). This way, you will have your Skull
Sessions, New Member pins, and Brother badges well in advance of New Member education and
initiation. A copy of this card appears in the Appendix of this manual.
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Solidify the schedule of events for the entire New Member education period, and make sure the
Chapter is informed of the schedule well in advance.
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To compile all informational materials needed for the New Member education program, and have them
prepared for distribution to New Members.
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To be familiar with Phi Kappa Sigma‟s zero-tolerance policy that strictly prohibits Hazing.
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To be sure that everything is submitted into the International Headquarters on time.
Additional responsibilities during the New Member education period:
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To see that Phi Kappa Sigma‟s zero-tolerance policy on hazing is obeyed.
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To insure that New Member activities do not interfere with studying.
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Facilitator Guide
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To familiarize the Chapter members with the New Member education activities, the role they will play in
those activities and most importantly, to get their commitment to it.
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To ensure that all facets of The Pillars are covered thoroughly.
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To strive to set a proper example as an Active Member for the New Members.
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To be thoroughly prepared for each New Member education meeting.
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To announce well in advance any changes in the New Member education activities.
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To assist those New Members that are not meeting the responsibilities of the program in an effort to
help them improve.
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To communicate with the Active Members on the progress of the program.
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To organize the Big Brother program in a manner from which everyone will benefit.
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Urge the Chapter members to set proper examples.
Questions the Iota should ask to determine if a particular activity is hazing:
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Will this activity achieve the predetermined goals of our New Member Education?
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Would you be willing to tell your Chapter Advisor about the activity?
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Would you be willing to perform the activity in front of a university administrator?
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Would you be willing to send the parents a snapshot of the activity?
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Would you be prepared to go to court to defend the merit of this activity? Would you feel ridiculous,
humiliated, or intimidated participating in the activity?
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Would you be willing to send the International Headquarters a description of the activity?
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Pillars
Facilitator Guide
VI. Requirements for Initiation
Each individual New Member must meet this list of requirements in order to be eligible for a vote to be
initiated. If any requirement is not met the New Member is not eligible to be voted on or initiated under any
circumstances and must be held over.
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Community Service: The New Member Class will be required to coordinate and participate in at least one
Chapter community service project to assist a community service organization or a community service
project of the New Member class‟ choice. At least one project will be accomplished during the New
Member education program, with a minimum of four (4) hours per New Member earned.
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Social Virtues: Each new member will be required to demonstrate the promotion of Phi Kappa Sigma‟s
purpose and principles throughout the New Member Education period.
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Weekly New Member Sessions and Retreat: Every New Member is required to attend the weekly
sessions and retreat.
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Grades: According to the Phi Kappa Sigma Constitution & Acts, to be initiated, a New Member must earn
at least a 2.3/4.0 GPA with a minimum of 12 hours. If a New Member has a previous GPA that does not
meet the requirements, he is eligible for the New Member education program, but is not eligible to be
voted on for initiation until he meets the GPA requirements. For example: if a New Member has a 2.0 GPA
from summer semester and accepts his bid for the fall semester, he can go through the New Member
education program in the fall, but he must be held until after fall semester grades are received and meet
the 2.3/4.0 requirement before he can be initiated.
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Extracurricular involvement: Each New Member will be required to investigate joining at least one
extracurricular organization on campus or within the community. At the end of the semester the New
Member will write a letter to the New Member Educator (Iota) explaining his attempts to fulfill this
requirement. The New Member education program should not require extra-curricular activities, yet it
should make New Members aware of them and encourage participation where possible. The earlier a
college man gets involved on campus, the easier it is for him to stay involved. As he continues in his
course curriculum, it gets harder to budget in time for what may be a lower priority. New Members should
be encouraged to start early in their extracurricular development while they still have a moderate amount
of free time.
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Remain financially responsible and current: Each New Member will be aware of his financial
obligations and remain current to the Chapter. The New Member fee is due to the International
Headquarters within two weeks of accepting a bid, and pays for such materials as their Skull Sessions, the
New Member pin, and all associated insurance/International Headquarters paperwork. In addition to the
New Member fee, each New Member will pay in full his initiation fee prior to the initiation ceremony (fee
schedule available at www.pks.org/resources.php).
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New Member quizzes and final exam: All New Members must pass every quiz and the final exam with
at least 80%, and retake all failed quizzes and the final until passed. The Iota is responsible for setting up
make-up times when necessary to give quiz and final exam re-takes.
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Event participation: The active participation of New Members in Chapter activities that are not mandatory
is highly encouraged.
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Committee participation: Each New Member should be encouraged and expected to actively participate
in Chapter committees in order to become knowledgeable about Chapter functions, operations, and
events.
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Facilitator Guide
VII. Hold-over Program
If a New Member fails to pass the Chapter‟s voting procedure or fails to make the GPA required by the
Chapter then the Chapter has a few options.
If a New Member fails to make the GPA necessary for initiation, then it is not recommended that he
repeat the New Member program. The rationale is simple: if a New Member fulfilled all other obligations
except for grades, then he needs help with academics. He does not stand to gain anything by repeating the
New Member program again. Academics are what are holding him back, so academics is where the chapter
should focus his attention. The New Member‟s initiation should be delayed for one term (long enough to get
another grade report) so that he can be given another chance to initiate. The New Member, his Big Brother,
the Chapter Alpha, Chapter Iota and Chapter Pi should have a meeting to devise a study plan that the New
Member can utilize to support his academic improvement. It is a good idea for the study plan to include the
New Member reporting regularly to the Chapter Pi and his big Brother regarding his academics to avoid a
repeat of the situation. If the New Member fails to make the necessary GPA for a second time, the Chapter
should terminate his New Member status and remove him from the Chapter. Be sure to notify the
International HQ via email of his “depledged” status along with rationale. The Chapter Iota and Chapter
Pi should also make sure that the following is done:
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Make sure the New Member is clear on all aspects of the devised study plan.
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Make sure all members are aware of the situation and all aspects of the devised study plan.
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Make sure that the New Member‟s parents are aware of the situation including the Chapter‟s concern
and all aspects of the study plan.
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Conduct a review of the New Member‟s grades at the quarter, half, and three-quarters mark of the
term, and make sure the Chapter is aware of the status each time.
If a New Member does not pass the vote for initiation for a reason other than grades, then the Chapter should
have a policy in its By-Laws that outlines a procedure for next steps. If it is generally felt that a New Member
did not meet the requirements initially set forth for him to become initiated, then it is up to the discretion of the
Chapter to permit him to either join the next New Member education program, or to terminate his New Member
status and remove him from the Chapter. Be sure to notify the International HQ via email of his
“depledged” status along with rationale
Regardless of the situation, not being initiated at the end of the New Member education program is a traumatic
experience, and great care should be taken in handling the situation. The Chapter and the New Member
should be aware that this is an issue prior to the last minute before initiation, and be taking steps to prevent its
occurrence. If the situation is unavoidable, then the Chapter Alpha, Chapter Advisor, Chapter Iota, and big
Brother should all make sure that the lines of communication are open and that they are providing the support
necessary for the New Member in this time. They should also make sure that they are clear on the
requirements the Chapter has set for them to be initiated, and that the New Member is aware of each
requirement.
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Facilitator Guide
VIII. Weekly Overview
Following is a weekly overview for the Pillars New Member Education Program. The left side includes the agenda,
learning outcomes, and future preparation for each week and the right sides includes notes and references for each week.
Italics represent items that are completed prior to the weekly New Member Class meeting.
Please note that Pillars is based on an 8 week schedule. If your Chapter would like to conduct a 6 week program
you will need to combine weeks 2 and 3, and 5 and 6. No other changes to the program are permitted.
Week 1: New Member Orientation
Week 1 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class
Meeting
 Make sure New Members Complete New Member Forms
and Pay New Member Fees PRIOR to 1st meeting
 New Member Ceremony (should be done at regular
st
weekly chapter meeting prior to 1 New Member
meeting.)
 Collect contact information for all New Members, update
st
chapter roster and send to PKS HQ PRIOR to 1 meeting.
 Introduction of New Members, Iota, etc.
 Hand out Skull Sessions and Pillars Workbooks
 Discuss:
o Pillars Program
o Class Operations
o Risk Management Policy and Liability Insurance
o Requirements and Expectations
 GPA
 Financial
 Personal conduct
 Campus/Chapter involvement
 Class and meeting attendance
 Recruitment Overview and Referrals
 Fill out information for Big Brother
 Information on “Meet the Brothers Activity”
 Instruction on Chapter Community Service Project
(planned by New Members and performed by entire
Chapter)
 Instruction on “Social Virtues”
 Chapter House expectations (if applicable)
 Week 2 Reading Assignment:
o Skull Sessions Chapter 1 pgs 1-13.
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 Identify all other New Members and their Iota
 Summarize the Pillars Program, Class Operations,
Requirements and Expectations, and Risk Management
Policy
 Begin participating in recruitment of potential New
Members
 Describe the Community Service and “Social Virtues”
Projects.
 Summarize Chapter House expectations (if applicable)
Notes and References
 During Recruitment, inform potential New Members
of all fees, requirements, expectations, etc. and
advise them New Member Fee, Card, and
Membership Agreement are all due prior to New
Member Ceremony (all can be found at pks.org)
 The New Member Ceremony can be found in Skull
Sessions on page 151 or in the Book of Ceremonies
on page 18
 All ceremonies and meetings should be conducted in
a suitable location. Meetings should be conducted in
a classroom setting (not at a house/apartment)
 An overview of the Pillars Program and Class
Operations information will be included in Pillars.
 Roberts Rules of Order can be found in Skull
Sessions starting on page 99
 Minimum GPA to be initiated is 2.3
 See PKS Fraternity Fee Schedule at pks.org for all
dues and fees
 “Welcome to Phi Kappa Sigma”, “Preparing For
Membership” and “The “Membership Expectations”
on pages 3, 4, and 8 of Skull Sessions and the
“Membership Agreement” that each New Member
must sign outlines requirements and expectations
clearly and should be read to the class
 New Members will be encouraged to join at least one
other campus organization prior to initiation and
required to attend all Chapter and New Member
meetings and events (e.g. Brotherhood Building
Activities, Projects, etc.)
 Risk Management information can be found in Skull
Sessions starting on page 15 and should be read to
the class
 Recruitment and Big Brother information will be
included in Pillars
 The Chapter will match Big and Little Brothers over
the next week and announce them at the following
New Member Meeting
 Chapter House expectations (if applicable) will be
provided by the Chapter
Future Preparation
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Facilitator Guide
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Review the Purpose and Principles Exercise and gather
necessary materials (i.e., flip chart paper, tape, and
markers)
Meet with Pi to obtain grades for Big Brothers
Locate and confirm location for the “Meet the Brothers”
Activity to be completed BEFORE week 4.
Locate and confirm a location for the New Member retreat
in week 4. It must be in a classroom setting (NOT at a
house/apartment).
Verify that you have a copy of the ResponseAbility Video
Schedule Greek Advisor or Chapter Advisor to facilitate
the ResponseAbility Video
Week 2: Purpose and Principles
Week 2 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class
Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Reading Due: Skull Sessions Chapter 1 pgs 1-13
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Purpose and Principles Exercise
o International Fraternity Vision
o International Fraternity Mission
o “Doctrine of Excellence”
o “Statement of Core Values”
o Learn It, Live It, Teach It, Expect It
 Social Virtues
o Introduction
o Promotion of good fellowship / Trust
 New Member Officer Nominations
 Big Brother identified and introduced
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 Analyze the International Fraternity Vision, Mission,
“Doctrine of Excellence” and “Statement of Core Values”
 Demonstrate the promotion of good fellowship / Trust
Notes and References
 New Members will be invited to all regular Chapter
Meetings (not “Ritual Meetings”) in order to get
familiar with Chapter operations (they can ask
questions but are not allowed to vote)
 Ideas for Brotherhood Building Activities will be
included at the back of Pillars but can be as simple
as the Chapter (New Members and Actives) going
out to eat, cooking out, playing sports, watching
sports or a movie, etc.
 Review and quiz information will be included in Pillars
 The Vision, Mission, “Doctrine of Excellence” and
“Statement of Core Values” of the International
Fraternity can be found on pages 5-12 of Skull
Sessions
 The Purpose and Principles will be included in the
facilitator guide
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator
guide
 The New Members will nominate each other for New
Member Alpha, Beta, Pi, Sigma, Tau, Upsilon, Theta,
Psi, and Phi after the Iota reads the officer
descriptions starting on page 87 of Skull Sessions
Future Preparation
 Verify that you have a copy of the ResponseAbility Video
 Schedule Greek Advisor or Chapter Advisor to facilitate
the ResponseAbility Video
 Set up GreekLife.Edu
 Locate and confirm location for the “Meet the Brothers”
Activity to be completed BEFORE week 4.
Week 3: ResponseAbility
Week 3 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class
Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 ResponseAbility Video and Discussion
- Men of Honor Since 1850
Notes and References
 ResponseAbility and GreekLife.Edu information will
be included in the facilitator guide for week 3
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator
guide
 The New Members will elect each officer after the
nominees for that office have been given up to 1
minute to speak
 The “Meet the Brothers” Activity will be included in the
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




Instruction on GreekLife.Edu
o Set Part 1 completion deadline (w/in 2 weeks)
Social Virtues
o Review Promotion of good fellowship / trust
o Cultivation of social virtues / Honor
Officer Elections
Inform New Members they will need to identify potential
service projects at the retreat
Complete “Meet the Brothers” Activity BEFORE Week 4.
facilitation guide for Week 3.
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 State the barriers that keep bystanders from intervening
when problematic behavior arises including hazing,
discrimination, substance abuse, sexual abuse, eating
disorders, homophobia, and others
 Demonstrate proactive strategies for intervention
 Commit to being a person of action living out
organizational/personal values and confronting unhealthy
behavior
 Complete GreekLife.Edu
 Demonstrate the Cultivation of social virtues / Honor
Future Preparation
 Set up Week 4 day long retreat
 Review Doctrine of Excellence Exercise
 Review Personal Development Exercise
Week 4: New Member Retreat
Week 4 Agenda (Day Long Retreat)
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class
Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Identify potential service projects
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Personal Development Exercise
o Understanding Personal Values
o Understanding Personal History
o Self-Authorship (“who and why am I?”)
o Creating a personal Vision, Mission, and goals
o Balancing Individual and Organizational Purpose
and Principles

Social Virtues
o Review Cultivation of social virtues / Honor
o Protection of just rights / Respect
 Plan community service project
 Additional Brotherhood Building Activities throughout the
day (e.g. learning PKS songs)
 Week 5 Reading Assignment:
o Skull Sessions Chapter 3 & 4
Notes and References
 The Doctrine of Excellence can be found on pages
10-12 of Skull Sessions
 The Personal Development Exercise will be included
in the facilitator guide for week 4
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator
guide
 The New Members will need to identify potential
community service projects prior to the retreat so that
time is spent planning the project(s) chosen (after
voting on what to do they will create goals, assign
roles and responsibilities, then outline next steps,
etc.)
 Appropriate Brother Building Activities will be included
in Pillars (any activities not included in Pillars
MUST be approved by PKS HQ)
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 Evaluate their personal values
 Answer “who and why am I?”
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


Identify their personal core values
Balance Individual and Organizational Purpose and
Principles
Demonstrate the protection of the just rights / Respect
Future Preparation
 Review History of PKS Exercise
Week 5: Fraternity History
Week 5 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class
Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Reading Due: Skull Sessions Chapter 3 & 4
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Discuss:
o History of Greek Life
o Greek Alphabet
o Phi Kappa Sigma Founding Fathers
o History of PKS
 Social Virtues
o Review Protection of just rights / Respect
o Advancement of the best interests /
Responsibility
 Class reports on status on community service project
(community service must be complete by the next
meeting)
 Week 6 Reading Assignment:
o Skull Sessions Chapter 5 & 6
 Inform class Initiation Fee due in 2 weeks
Notes and References
 History of Greek Life can be found in Skull Sessions
starting on page 27
 The Greek Alphabet can be found in Skull Sessions
on page 39
 The Founding Fathers of Phi Kappa Sigma can be
found in Skull Sessions on page 42
 A History of Phi Kappa Sigma can be found in Skull
Sessions starting on page 43
 Questions about the History of Phi Kappa Sigma will
be included in the facilitator guide for week 5
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator
guide
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 State the significance of the history of Greek Life and Phi
Kappa Sigma (what sticks out, why is it important, how
does it relate to / impact us today?)
 Demonstrate the advancement of the best interests /
Responsibility
Future Preparation
 Schedule local alumnus to attend meeting to discuss their
experience
Week 6: Fraternity and Structure and Opportunities
Week 6 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class
Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Community Service Project complete
 Reading Due: Skull Sessions Chapter 5 &6
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Discuss:
o International Fraternity Structure
- Men of Honor Since 1850
Notes and References
 International Fraternity Structure can be found in Skull
Sessions starting on page 77
 International Fraternity Opportunities can be found in
Skull Sessions on pages 107-111
 Personal Development information can be found in
Skull Sessions starting on 112
 Invite a local alumnus other than the primary Chapter
Advisor to the meeting to discuss their Phi Kap
Experience and how it helped develop them
personally and professionally
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator
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




Grand Chapter, PKS HQ, and Executive
Board
o International Fraternity Opportunities
 “Men of Honor Experience”
o Personal Development
Local Alumnus invited to meeting to discuss their
experience
Social Virtues
o Review Advancement of the best interests /
Responsibility
o Encouragement of good scholarship and breadth
of training / Knowledge and Wisdom
Week 7 Reading Assignment:
o Skull Sessions Chapter 7 & 8
Inform class Initiation Fee due in 1 week
guide
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 Describe the International Fraternity Structure and
additional Educational Opportunities
 Summarize key points of Personal Development
 Demonstrate the Encouragement of good scholarship
and breadth of training / Knowledge and Wisdom
Future Preparation
 Schedule Greek and Chapter Advisor to discuss their
roles and Chapter/School structure
Week 7: Chapter History and Standards
Week 7 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class
Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Collect and send Initiation Fees to PKS HQ
 Reading Due: Skull Sessions Chapter 7 &8
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Discuss:
o Local Chapter History
o Local Chapter/School Structure
o Chapter/School Standards
o Mitchell Chapter Standards
 Greek Advisor and Chapter Advisor invited to this
meeting to discuss their roles and Chapter/School
structure
 Social Virtues
o Review Encouragement of good scholarship and
breadth of training / Knowledge and Wisdom
o Cooperation in the educational and cultural
programs of institutions of higher education in
which chapters are located / Integrity
 Week 8 Assignment: Read “You Are Always Wearing
Your Letters” and Write essays on “The Ideal Phi Kap”
and “How I will contribute”
Notes and References
 Initiation Fees (See PKS Fee Schedule at pks.org for
amount) must be paid to the International
Headquarters at least 2 weeks prior to initiation
 Local Chapter History will be provided by the Chapter
 Local Chapter Structure can be found in Skull
Sessions on pages 87-89
 School Structure (Administration and Greek Councils)
and Standards will be provided by the Chapter and/or
Greek Advisor
 Invite the Chapter Advisor and Greek Advisor to
attend this meeting
 Chapter Standards (MCS) can be found in Skull
Sessions on pages 90-94
 “You Are Always Wearing Your Letters” will be
included in the facilitator guide for week 7
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator
guide
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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


Summarize key points of Local Chapter History
Describe Local Chapter/School Structure, Chapter/School
Standards, and Mitchell Chapter Standards
Demonstrate the Cooperation in the educational and
cultural programs of institutions of higher education in
which chapters are located / Integrity
Future Preparation
 Select, review, and prepare closing Brotherhood Building
Activities (any activities not included in Pillars MUST
be approved by PKS HQ)
Week 8: Putting It All Together
Week 8 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class
Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Collect New Member Essays
 Social Virtues
o Review Cooperation in the educational and
cultural programs of institutions of higher
education in which chapters are located / Integrity
 Review and Final Exam on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Discuss New Member essays on “The Ideal Phi Kap” and
“How I will contribute”
 Reflection on New Member Education
 Closing Brotherhood Building Activities (e.g. “The Brick”,
“Pass the Gavel”, etc.)
 Initiation preparation (what to do, wear, bring, etc.)
 Initiation (at next regularly scheduled Chapter meeting)
Notes and References
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator
guide
 Review and Final Exam information will be included in
Pillars
 Appropriate closing Brother Building Activities will be
included in Pillars (any activities not included in
Pillars MUST be approved by PKS HQ)
 The Initiation Ceremony can be found in the Book of
Ceremonies on page 24
 The Chapter (especially officers with roles in the
ceremony) must be familiar with the Initiation
Ceremony prior to conducting it for the New Members
to ensure everyone knows the secrets and what to
do/say.
Future Preparation
 Prepare Initiation Ceremony
 Prepare Post-Initiation Education (i.e., Ritual
Exemplification or similar Ritual training)
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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IX. Facilitation of Pillars
The Chapter Iota and any other person who helps administer the Pillars Program will act as facilitators. All
facilitators of the Pillars Program should take time to read information below.
Facilitation is making things easier. It includes…




Creating connections of shared information and experience
Helping participants get good information and affirmation
Providing focus and direction
Appropriately challenging and questioning participants
An effective facilitator is…







Natural and genuine
Interested in others
Using his/her experiences
Clear and non-judgmental
Flexible and able to adapt to different situations
One who avoids making promises
One who focuses on others, not himself
Effective Facilitation Tools
Communication
 Listening
 Questioning
 Restating
Observation
 Reading Non-verbals
 Flexibility
 Empathy
 Timing
Content Depth/Breadth
 Information
 Personal Experience
 Referral Skills
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Facilitator Competencies
The facilitator will exhibit skills in communicating by:
 Expressing ideas clearly and accurately
 Showing a lively interest in the subject
 Thinking well on his/her feet
 Showing a sense of humor with a sense of seriousness
The facilitator will regulate his/her remarks to:
 Call the group‟s attention to particularly helpful statements
 Rephrase participants‟ ideas to clarify and reinforce
 Avoid expressing personal opinions
 Summarizing at appropriate times
The facilitator encourages group participation by:
 Seeing that participation is distributed evenly among members
 Maintaining eye contact with the entire group
 Being alert to nonverbal cues of interest and boredom
The facilitator creates an accepting atmosphere by:
 Insisting that group members respect each other‟s opinions
 Showing an interest in the opinions of all members
 Accepting and supporting minority views
The facilitator shows skills in guiding the discussion by:
 Providing “meat” for the discussion without monopolizing the discussion
 Providing examples and fact to emphasize points
 Listening critically for puzzling aspects that are giving the group trouble
 Directing discussion away from inappropriate remarks
The facilitator will establish an accepting climate by:
 Encouraging freedom to express feelings without threat of reproach
 Helping students examine materials and their method of arriving at conclusions
The facilitator will encourage students to evaluate themselves by:
 Encouraging students to question the validity of their arguments or reasoning
 Helping students examine materials and their method of arriving at conclusions
The facilitator demonstrates skills in summarizing by:
 Having students summarize main points
 Encouraging students to explain how their ideas/opinions have changed
 Encouraging students to predict how the discussion could affect future behavior
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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X. Pillars Program Guide
The Pillars Program is set up in a weekly format and is outlined as follows:
Topic
Each week contains a theme, which emphasizes the importance and understanding of a particular concept
relating to the Chapter and fraternity. The activities and discussions done in each week should relate to the
topic of that particular week.
Agenda
Each week‟s meeting agenda centers around the topic and objectives for that particular week. The agenda
contains both things that the New Members need to complete by the following meeting, as well as discussions
to be held during the current meeting.
Learning Outcomes
The objectives for each week show that the Iota should be striving to have the New Members understand.
Future Preparation
Applicable items and information that should be acted upon before the following week(s) are included in this
section each week.
Notes and References
Each week needs certain resources (e.g. Pillars Manual, By-laws, Skull Sessions, etc.) to successfully
complete the week‟s agenda. The resources necessary and notes/reminders will be outlined for each week.
Facilitator Guide
Below is a key for the facilitator guide included in each week of the Pillars Program.
Name/Topic
The name/topic of each section in the educational guide will be included in bold on the right side of
the guide. The estimated time for that section will be to the left (See below)
XX/XX
SS pg. #
Throughout the outlines you will see two numbers separated by a slash mark. These are the
timing marks for the section. The first number represents the number of minutes during the
workshop that should be spent on a particular topic. The second number represents the total
number of minutes used at the completion of that section of the workshop. For example, “15/45”
would mean that you should spend 15 minutes on the next section of the session and, at the
conclusion of that time, you would be 45 minutes into the workshop.
This indicates the page in Skull Sessions the information refers to.
WB
This indicates there is an activity that the New Members must use their workbook to complete
AV
This indicates the use of audio/video during the session
=>
This symbol indicates that facilitators should pay special attention to the information, instructions,
or notes to the right.
Important points are highlighted in this style.
Regular copy and instructions for activities are in this style (Text should not be read word for word
so be sure to familiarize yourself with the text ahead of time).
Questions to be asked during a session are in this style.
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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XI. Weekly Schedule
Please note that Pillars is based on an 8 week schedule. Phi Kappa Sigma International Fraternity
recommends using an 8 week New Member period in order to ensure proper coverage of the material while
allowing new members to have appropriate time to focus on other commitments and priorities (e.g.,
academics). However, if your Chapter would like to conduct a 6 week program because of school
requirements or other reasons, you will need to combine weeks 2 and 3 and 5 and 6. No other changes to
the program are permitted.
Week 1: New Member Orientation
Week 1 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class Meeting
 Make sure New Members Complete New Member Forms and Pay New Member Fees PRIOR to 1st
meeting
 New Member Ceremony (should be done at regular weekly chapter meeting prior to 1st New Member
meeting.)
st
 Collect contact information for all New Members, update chapter roster and send to PKS HQ PRIOR to 1
meeting.
 Introduction of New Members, Iota, etc.
 Hand out Skull Sessions and Pillars Workbooks
 Discuss:
o Pillars Program
o Class Operations
o Risk Management Policy and Liability Insurance
o Requirements and Expectations
 GPA
 Financial
 Personal conduct
 Campus/Chapter involvement
 Class and meeting attendance
 Recruitment Overview and Referrals
 Fill out information for Big Brother
 Information on “Meet the Brothers Activity”
 Instruction on Chapter Community Service Project (planned by New Members and performed by entire
Chapter)
 Instruction on “Social Virtues” Project
 Chapter House expectations (if applicable)
 Week 2 Reading Assignment:
o Skull Sessions Chapter 1 pgs 1-13.
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 Identify all other New Members and their Iota
 Summarize the Pillars Program, Class Operations, Requirements and Expectations, and Risk
Management Policy
 Begin participating in recruitment of potential New Members
 Describe the Community Service and “Social Virtues” Projects.
 Summarize Chapter House expectations (if applicable)
Future Preparation
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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





Review the Purpose and Principles Exercise and gather necessary materials (i.e., flip chart paper, tape,
and markers)
Meet with Pi to obtain grades for Big Brothers
Locate and confirm location for the “Meet the Brothers” Activity to be completed BEFORE week 4.
Locate and confirm a location for the New Member retreat in week 4. It must be in a classroom setting
(NOT at a house/apartment).
Verify that you have a copy of the ResponseAbility Video
Schedule Greek Advisor or Chapter Advisor to facilitate the ResponseAbility Video
Notes and References
 During Recruitment, inform potential New Members of all fees, requirements, expectations, etc. and advise
them New Member Fee, Card, and Membership Agreement are all due prior to New Member Ceremony
(all can be found at pks.org)
 The New Member Ceremony can be found in Skull Sessions on page 151 or in the Book of Ceremonies on
page 18
 All ceremonies and meetings should be conducted in a suitable location. Meetings should be conducted in
a classroom setting (not at a house/apartment)
 An overview of the Pillars Program and Class Operations information will be included in Pillars.
 Roberts Rules of Order can be found in Skull Sessions starting on page 99
 Minimum GPA to be initiated is 2.3
 See PKS Fraternity Fee Schedule at pks.org for all dues and fees
 “Welcome to Phi Kappa Sigma”, “Preparing For Membership” and “The “Membership Expectations” on
pages 3, 4, and 8 of Skull Sessions and the “Membership Agreement” that each New Member must sign
outlines requirements and expectations clearly and should be read to the class
 New Members will be encouraged to join at least one other campus organization prior to initiation and
required to attend all Chapter and New Member meetings and events (e.g. Brotherhood Building Activities,
Projects, etc.)
 Risk Management information can be found in Skull Sessions starting on page 15 and should be read to
the class
 Recruitment and Big Brother information will be included in Pillars
 The Chapter will match Big and Little Brothers over the next week and announce them at the following
New Member Meeting
 Chapter House expectations (if applicable) will be provided by the Chapter
Week 1 Facilitator Guide
15/15
Introductions
Even if all the New Members have previously met, it is important to take time to make
introductions and do icebreakers/teambuilders. Start with Name Aerobics activity below then
have everyone tell their class, major, hometown, and one interesting fact, hobby, etc.
Have members stand in a circle. Have them identify the first letter of the name that they
would like to be called. This may be a nickname, last name, etc. Next step is to think of a
characteristic/adjective that starts with that letter. Example: Crazy Clarence. After name and
descriptor have been identified, they must come up with an action that corresponds to the
name. Example: Crazy Clarence might jump wildly. Reinforce with the group that the action
should be one that the rest of the group would be comfortable doing. Keep actions
“appropriate.”
Identify a starting point in the circle. The entire group repeats the starter‟s name and action.
Continue around the circle, each time restarting at the beginning. You may add some fun
alternatives at the conclusion, such as having the group mix into a new order repeating as
fast as they can, and/or going in reverse. This activity must be started with great enthusiasm
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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to have the greatest impact.
Why would we start with this activity?
After the Name Aerobics activity have each person tell their class, major, hometown, and one
interesting fact, hobby, etc.
5/20
Skull
Sessions
(SS) pgs. 3-4
10/30
Pillars Program Orientation
After handing out Skull Sessions books and Pillars Workbooks, take a few minutes to explain
the purpose of the Pillars Program. You can use the information in Section II of this
document along with pages 3 and 4 from Skull Sessions to give a proper
overview/introduction to the New Member program. Instead of reading it all yourself, have the
New Members take turns reading paragraphs from Skull Sessions. Please make it clear to
the New Members that Skull Sessions and Pillars Workbooks are to be brought to all New
Member Education Sessions.
Are there any questions before I move on?
Class Operations
Take a few minutes to explain how the New Member Class and meetings will be operated.
Make sure to clarify meeting days, dates, times, etc. Also explain that all formal meetings will
be conducted using Robert‟s Rules of Order and let the New Members know that basic
information on Robert‟s Rules of Order can be found in Skull Sessions starting on page 99.
Are there any questions before I move on?
30/60
SS pgs. 1524
Risk Management Policy and Liability Insurance
Risk Management and Liability are an extremely important part of Fraternity operations. Take
the time to go over this information clearly and carefully so that all New Members fully
understand all policies, their importance, and their consequences. Have each member read a
section from Skull Sessions pages 15-24 then ask the questions below.
Why is Risk Management and Liability Insurance important?
What will happen if we do not follow the risk management policy?
What would happen if we did not have liability insurance?
10/70
SS pg. 8
Requirements and Expectations
Take a few minutes to read section VI from this manual after having the New Members read
the Membership Expectations in Skull Sessions on page 8. Make sure all New Members
know the expectations for the following (this is not a time to plan or discuss how to do the
projects or programs listed below):
 GPA
 Financial
 Personal conduct
 Campus/Chapter involvement
 Class and meeting attendance
 Community Service Project
 “Social Virtues” Project
Why do we have these expectations of our New Members?
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10/80
Recruitment Overview (i.e. Referrals)
Recruitment is obviously an important part of Chapter operations and who better to help with
recruitment than our newest members! The New Members do not know enough about Phi
Kappa Sigma yet to be discussing what membership is all about but they can at least help
identify potential members.
Explain to the New Members that the Chapter is looking for other men just like them… “Men
of Honor” who exemplify what it means to be a Phi Kap. We are looking for members that are
Scholars, Leaders, Athletes, Gentlemen, etc.
What does that look like?
Have each member take the time to write the name and contact information for anyone they
know that has potential to meet (or currently meets) the expectations mentioned previously.
10/90
Big Brothers and “Meet the Brothers” Activity
Read the Big Brother Program Guidelines on the pages that follow this Week 1 Facilitator
Guide and have Active and New Members fill out the applicable information to properly match
Big and Little Brothers. Explain that the New Members will be matched with a Big Brother in
the next week and introduced to them at the following meeting.
Explain to the New Members that there will be a “Meet the Brothers” Activity within the next
couple weeks. Every Brother should have already met each New Member but this activity will
provide structured time for Brothers and New Members to get to know each other a little
better. The activity should be scheduled on a day and time that ALL Brothers and New
Members can attend. Please arrange a comfortable location for Brothers and New Members
to meet for this activity.
Possible questions to ask each other during the activity:
 What is your major?
 What is your hometown?
 How many siblings do you have?
 What are your interests and hobbies? (try to find at least one thing you have in common)
You should schedule at least 5 minutes for each Brother and New Member meeting during
this activity. Depending on the size of your Chapter the activity could take several hours so
you may want to arrange for food, snacks, and drinks (non-alcoholic) to be served.
10/100
Community Service and “Social Virtues” Projects
Go into more detail about the community service and social virtues projects.

Community Service: The New Member Class will be required to coordinate and
participate in at least one Chapter community service project to assist a community
service organization or a community service project of the New Member class‟ choice. At
least one project will be accomplished during the New Member education program, with a
minimum of four (4) hours per New Member earned.

Social Virtues: Each new member will be required to demonstrate the promotion of Phi
Kappa Sigma‟s purpose and principles throughout the New Member Education period.
Tell New Members they will have time to coordinate a community service project over the next
few weeks and the social virtues will be incorporated into the weekly New Member Education
Sessions.
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5/105
Chapter House expectations (if applicable)
Read and hand out any expectations applicable to your Chapter House. If your Chapter does
not have a Chapter House this section will be skipped.
15/120
Learning Outcomes and Closure
Take the time to go back and ask New Members to summarize what they learned this week to
ensure all learning outcomes have been accomplished and they will be able to answer
questions related to these weeks‟ topics next week.
Tell the New Members to read Skull Sessions Chapter 1 and to be prepared to be quizzed on
all the information that was presented this week.
Close the meeting and announce any dates, times, etc. for upcoming events, meetings, etc.
- Men of Honor Since 1850
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Big Brother Program Guidelines
The Big Brother is a very important part of the New Member education program. Regardless of what name
your Chapter uses for these Brothers, the goals of the program are the same. The relationship between a Big
Brother and a Little Brother often lasts much longer than the orientation period: it becomes meaningful to them
during both undergraduate and alumni years. The Big Brother should not only see that his Little Brother is
initiated, but that he also enjoys a strong collegiate experience and receives his degree.
However, the Big Brother is not the only person responsible for the education of New Members, and
specifically, his Little Brother. Making sure that every New Member‟s education is done right is the concern of
the entire Chapter, not just the Big Brother. While the Big Brother is certainly important, he should be able to
count on every Brother to help educate his Little Brother, and be a role model for the future Brother. Every
Brother should have an interest in every New Member.
Selection Process:
There are a number of criteria that should be taken into account in the selection process. These criteria
should be reviewed with the New Members prior to their listing of Big Brother preferences. These criteria
should also be used by the Iota during the matching process. Use the following as a guide:

Same or similar majors should be matched to help foster study habits.

Big Brothers need to have a positive influence academically, and have a strong GPA (be in good
standing with the school – not on academic probation or warning, etc.)

Big Brothers must be dependable in Fraternal and academic endeavors – they will be an integral part
of the New Member‟s education, and need to be completely dependable without the Iota constantly
having to remind them of their duties and obligations. They need to be able to function almost
completely autonomously from the Iota.

They should be strong role models within the Chapter, with a positive, proper attitude toward the
Chapter, the Fraternity, and other Brothers. Big Brothers with negative attitudes often transfer their
attitudes to the Little Brothers. Attitudes are learned, not intrinsic, and that is true for both positive and
negative attitudes.

Big Brothers and Little Brothers should have complementing personalities. It is imperative that New
Members try to meet as many Brothers as they can before they list their preferences to the Iota for the
Big Brother. This is so they will have a better idea of whom they will get along with, rather than just
blindly selecting from the few Brothers they know.

Members who are graduating soon should not be discouraged from being Big Brothers. The Big
Brother graduating shortly after the Little Brother is initiated is a negative experience and should be
avoided if possible. However, sophomore and junior members are generally more mature and can be
a better example for a New Member. Upperclassmen make excellent Big Brothers, but graduating
seniors are not recommended.

Similar hobbies and interests should be used as criteria for selection so that both can find ways to
spend time together easily.

Brothers and New Members who already know each other should not be matched – they should be
matched with someone they don‟t know well to foster their better integration into the Chapter. This
avoids the issue that a Little Brother is always spending time with his Big Brother and nobody else in
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the Chapter, because they knew each other before the Fraternity paired them together. The point of a
Big Brother is to create new friendships, not strengthen old ones.
The selection process for Big Brothers should not be rushed, or hasty in any manner. This should be a
deliberate, well-considered action that has been researched and discussed adequately. There should be an
interview process early on in the semester for the Iota to determine who wants to be a Big Brother, which
serves two purposes. The first purpose is that this shows initiative on the Brother‟s part, and that he truly is
desirous of a Little Brother and by taking the effort to go through the process, he will not take a Little Brother
for granted. The second purpose is for the Iota to get a better feel for how the Brother will be as a Big Brother
(and very important role model), and make a better judgment. This will also give the Iota a chance to let the
Big Brother know what his expectations are: time commitments, and so forth. From the interview process, he
will see who is eligible to become a Big Brother (not on any sort of academic probation or warning, current in
bills to the Chapter, etc.) He will also solicit Little Brother preferences at this time for the eventual matching
process.
Responsibilities:
In order to make the Big Brother program effective, there must be specific responsibilities. They
should be written and distributed to the Big Brothers for their reference and use. The following is a list
of expectations and responsibilities:
A Big Brother should:
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Be in good standing with the Chapter (have a zero account balance).
Be at or above the all-men‟s GPA.
Serve as a positive role model for his Little Brother.
Have similar fraternal and personal interests.
Monitor academic performance (collect syllabi from the Little Brother).
Assist in the Little Brother‟s social adjustment to college.
Act as a sounding board when needed.
Meet with the Little Brother at least weekly.
Work closely with the Iota whenever necessary.
Want to be a Big Brother, not just do the job because he has to.
A Little Brother should:
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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 and let the Iota know if that is not happening.
Discuss any difficulties or problems with his Big Brother.
Use his Big Brother as a link for Fraternal, academic, and social issues
Information the Big Brother interview or written application should cover:
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What was your GPA last semester?
What is your major?
What is your hometown?
What are your interests and hobbies?
Who would you like as a Little Brother, and why?
How many school hours are you taking this semester?
Are you working (Full-time/part-time?)
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Week 2: Purpose and Principles
Week 2 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Reading Due: Skull Sessions Chapter 1 pgs 1-13
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Purpose and Principles Exercise
o International Fraternity Vision
o International Fraternity Mission
o “Doctrine of Excellence”
o “Statement of Core Values”
o Learn It, Live It, Teach It, Expect It

Social Virtues
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o Introduction
o Promotion of good fellowship / Trust
New Member Officer Nominations
Big Brother identified and introduced
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 Analyze the International Fraternity Vision, Mission, “Doctrine of Excellence” and “Statement of Core
Values”
 Demonstrate the promotion of good fellowship / Trust
Future Preparation
 Verify that you have a copy of the ResponseAbility Video
 Schedule Greek Advisor or Chapter Advisor to facilitate the ResponseAbility Video
 Set up GreekLife.Edu
 Locate and confirm location for the “Meet the Brothers” Activity to be completed BEFORE week 4.
Notes and References
 New Members will be invited to all regular Chapter Meetings (not “Ritual Meetings”) in order to get familiar
with Chapter operations (they can ask questions but are not allowed to vote)
 Ideas for Brotherhood Building Activities will be included at the back of Pillars but can be as simple as the
Chapter (New Members and Actives) going out to eat, cooking out, playing sports, watching sports or a
movie, etc.
 Review and quiz information will be included in Pillars
 The Vision, Mission, “Doctrine of Excellence” and “Statement of Core Values” of the International Fraternity
can be found on pages 5-12 of Skull Sessions
 The Purpose and Principles will be included in the facilitator guide
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator guide
 The New Members will nominate each other for New Member Alpha, Beta, Pi, Sigma, Tau, Upsilon, Theta,
Psi, and Phi after the Iota reads the officer descriptions starting on page 87 of Skull Sessions
Week 2 Facilitator Guide
15/15
Review and Quiz
Make sure New Members have their Skull Sessions and Pillars Workbooks.
Ask the New Members if they have any questions or need clarification on anything from the
previous week before you give them the quiz.
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Ask appropriate questions on these topics from the previous week:
 Class Operations
o What are the dates and times of regular Chapter functions?
o How are meetings conducted?
 Risk Management Policy and Liability Insurance
o Why are Risk Management and Liability Insurance important?
o What will happen if we do not follow the risk management policy?
o What would happen if we did not have liability insurance?
 Requirements and Expectations
o What are the requirements and expectations of membership?
o Why are they important
o What will happen if you do not meet the requirements and expectations of
membership?
 Recruitment (referrals)
o What type of individuals are we looking to recruit?
Either have another person grade the quizzes and report back to you at the end of the
meeting or grade them after the meeting and follow up with each member to let them know
how they did and what additional action they need to take if applicable (if they do not pass the
quiz they must retake and pass before the next meeting).
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WB
Purpose and Principles Exercise
Introduce the Purpose and Principles Exercise and ask the New Members to take notes in
their workbooks. There are several activities to be completed in the workbook.
10/30
WB
Understanding Purpose
Read the following quote and ask the following questions (possible answers in parentheses):
“Successful organizations have a clearly defined and articulated purpose and
principles.”
What is a vision?
(a direction or long term broad goal)
What is a mission? How is it different from a vision?
(a purpose or reason for existing)
What are goals? How are they different from a vision and mission?
(specific targets or objectives that help achieve the mission and vision)
Why are organizational vision, mission, and goals important?
(without them the organization and its members would have no direction or purpose or way to
measure progress or achievement)
Why should members of organizations promote that organization’s purpose?
(If the members do not promote the purpose it will not be achieved)
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SS pg. 5
WB
Phi Kappa Sigma Vision
Ask the following questions and seek appropriate answers (possible answers in parentheses):
What is Phi Kappa Sigma’s Vision? Skull Sessions page 5
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What does it mean (how would you explain it to an 18 year old prospective member, your
parents, or a school faculty or staff member)?
(“Lifelong growth and development of the Fraternity and its members.” Phi Kappa Sigma is
committed to the growth and development of individual members through programs,
opportunities, and experiences, and the growth of the Fraternity through recruitment and
expansion).
How does it affect your Chapter and you personally?
How can you promote (live) Phi Kappa Sigma’s vision?
20/60
SS pg. 5
WB
Phi Kappa Sigma Mission
Ask the following question and seek appropriate answers (possible answers in parentheses):
What is Phi Kappa Sigma’s Mission?
(“The Objects” – read it)
What do “The Objects” mean and what are some examples of how they can be acted upon?
Have the New Members take time to break down “The Objects” into several sections, define
each section in their own words (how would they explain it to a Freshman?), and give an
example of how a Brother can live the mission.
Depending on the size of the class, break the New Member‟s out into small groups of 6-8 to
do this activity and report back to the larger group. The New Members should be able to
break down “The Objects” into the seven sections below and give a real life example of each.

What is the object (broken down part of the Mission)?
o What does it mean (how would you explain it to an 18 year old prospective
member, your parents, or a school faculty or staff member)?
 How can you promote it (live it)?

The promotion of good fellowship
o Companionship, Brotherhood
The cultivation of the social virtues among its members
o Exemplifying gentlemanly conduct, volunteering, performing community service,
raising money for philanthropy, etc.
The protection of the just rights
o Living up to and holding others accountable to the oaths we take as Phi Kaps
and the advancement of the best interests, present and future, individual and collective, of
all those who shall be associated together as members of the Fraternity
o Lifelong Brotherhood and support - “Once a Phi Kap, Always a Phi Kap”
The encouragement of good scholarship
o Pursuit of knowledge in academics
and breadth of training for its members
o Development of life-skills
And cooperation in the educational and cultural programs of institutions of higher
education in which chapters are located
o Having a positive impact and being an asset to the school
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Phi Kappa Sigma Goals
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SS pgs. 1012
WB
What are Phi Kappa Sigma’s Goals?
(Doctrine of Excellence)
Ask the New Members to take turns reading sections of the Doctrine of Excellence out loud
and discuss specific ways to promote each section. There are eight primary goals to be
discussed:
 Fraternity
 Financial Commitment
 Personal Conduct
 Leadership
 Scholarship
 Collegiate and Community Relations
 Personal Development
 International Support
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WB
Some specific ways to promote each goal are included below the definition of each goal (i.e.,
“We strive to:”)
Understanding Principles
Ask the following questions (possible answers in parentheses):
What are values?
(principles, ideals, beliefs, etc.)
Where do organizational values come from?
(founders, leaders, current members, etc.)
Why are organizational values important?
(set the tone for how and why the organization operates – how it goes about achieving its
vision, mission, goals, etc.)
Why should members of organizations promote that organization’s values?
(if member and organization values are incongruent the organization will not achieve its
vision, mission, and goals)
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SS pg. 9
WB
Phi Kappa Sigma Values
What are Phi Kappa Sigma’s Values?
Ask the New Members to take turns reading sections of the Statement of Core Values out
loud and discuss specific ways to promote each value.
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What is the value?
o What does it mean (how would you explain it to an 18 year old prospective
member, your parents, or a school faculty or staff member)?
 How can you promote it (live it)?
Learn It, Live It, Teach It, Expect It
What is “It”?
(the purpose and principles of Phi Kappa Sigma)
Why is it important to Learn It, Live It, Teach It, Expect It?
(Review “How did we get here?!?!” in the workbook)
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Social Virtues
Through the previous activities this week, the New Members have now learned the purpose
and principles of Phi Kappa Sigma. Social Virtues is a way for them to live, teach, and expect
them.
Each week the New Members will be required to promote a purpose and principle of Phi
Kappa Sigma. Introduce the pair and ask New Members to explain it in their own words.
After that, ask New Members individually and collectively (as a New Member class) how they
will promote the pair over the next week. They will be required to report how they did at the
next New Member Education Session.
Promotion of good fellowship / Trust
How do you define Promotion of good fellowship / Trust?
How will you promote Promotion of good fellowship / Trust?
15/140
SS pgs. 8788
WB
New Member Class Officers
The New Members will nominate each other for New Member Alpha, Beta, Pi, Sigma, Tau,
Upsilon, Theta, Psi, and Phi (additional positions may be added if the class is large enough).
Ask New Members to read the officer descriptions from page 87-88 of Skull Sessions.
The New Members nominated will need to be prepared to give a brief 3 minute speech at the
next meeting explaining why they want the position and would be the best person for it.
Elections are held after the speeches. New Members can be nominated for multiple
positions.
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Big Brothers
Announce and introduce the Big Brothers.
10/160
Learning Outcomes and Closure
Take the time to go back and ask New Members to summarize what they learned this week to
ensure all learning outcomes have been accomplished and they will be able to answer
questions related to this week‟s topics next week.
Tell the New Members to read Skull Sessions Chapter 1 pgs 1-4 and 8 and to be prepared to
be quizzed on all the information that was presented this week.
Close the meeting and announce any dates, times, etc. for upcoming events, meetings, etc.
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Week 3: ResponseAbility
Week 3 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 ResponseAbility Video and Discussion
 Instruction on GreekLife.Edu
o Set Part 1 completion deadline (w/in 2 weeks)

Social Virtues
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o Review Promotion of good fellowship / trust
o Cultivation of social virtues / Honor
Officer Elections
Inform New Members they will need to identify potential service projects at the retreat
Complete “Meet the Brothers” Activity BEFORE Week 4.
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 State the barriers that keep bystanders from intervening when problematic behavior arises including
hazing, discrimination, substance abuse, sexual abuse, eating disorders, homophobia, and others
 Demonstrate proactive strategies for intervention
 Commit to being a person of action living out organizational/personal values and confronting unhealthy
behavior
 Complete GreekLife.Edu
 Demonstrate the Cultivation of social virtues / Honor
Future Preparation
 Set up Week 4 day long retreat
 Review Doctrine of Excellence Exercise
 Review Personal Development Exercise
Notes and References
 ResponseAbility and GreekLife.Edu information will be included in the facilitator guide for week 3
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator guide
 The New Members will elect each officer after the nominees for that office have been given up to 1 minute
to speak
 The “Meet the Brothers” Activity will be included in the facilitation guide for Week 2
Week 3 Facilitator Guide
15/15
Review and Quiz
Ask the New Members if they have any questions or need clarification on anything from the
previous week before you give them the quiz.
Ask appropriate questions on these topics from the previous week:
 Fraternity Vision
o What is it, what does it mean?
 Fraternity Mission
o What is it? What does it mean? What does it look like in action?
 Fraternity Goals
o What are they? What do they mean? What do they look like in action?
 Fraternity Core Values
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AV
o What are they? What do they mean? What do they look like?
Why is it important to know our Fraternity‟s Purpose and Principles?
Either have another person grade the quizzes and report back to you at the end of the
meeting or grade them after the meeting and follow up with each member to let them know
how they did and what additional action they need to take if applicable (if they do not pass the
quiz they must retake and pass before the next meeting).
Response Ability Video
It is important to have your Chapter Advisor or Greek Advisor help facilitate this program.
We are now going to watch a video entitled Response Ability: Transforming Values Into
Action.
The message conveyed is to believe in yourself – have enough self-confidence and
healthy self-esteem that you are willing to stand up for what you know to be right.
Your moral compass is so well developed that you are not tempted to second-guess
yourself. Your principles and your feelings about a situation are most likely shared by
others in the group.
WB
Please keep the following questions in mind as you watch the video:
What is bystander behavior?
What are the barriers to intervening? (Hint: there are five)
What example from the video (successful or not) best shows bystander behavior in action (or
inaction)?
When have I been a bystander?
What bothered me about the situation?
What kept me from doing something?
How did I feel afterwards?
Finally, please respect everyone‟s time/space during this video and remain silent. While
watching, remember any questions you may have and try to conjure images in your mind, in
your world, of bystander behavior. In other words, bring this conversation into your “real” life.
Begin by thinking about your Chapter and your campus, then everywhere else.
15/75
Processing Response Ability
Ask what bystander behavior is. Allow for a few comments.
Extensive research, most often by social psychologists, has been conducted on the
subject of why people don’t intervene. This research has identified four stages in the
process of moving from inaction to action (1). Individuals tend to move through these
stages one at a time as they progress from observing a problem situation and deciding
to do something about it. Understanding these stages can help us notice when we are
“in” one of them and motivate us to take action to move ourselves into the next stage.
The stages are:
 Notice the Event
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Interpret it as a problem
Feel responsible for dealing with it
Possess the necessary skills to act
Ask Participants to call out and explain a barrier to intervening. Try asking for an example of
each of the five barriers.
The published literature on bystander behavior suggests that most people want to respond
but may not do so for three reasons: social influence, audience inhibition, and diffusion of
responsibility. In addition to these three, fear of retaliation may also inhibit individuals from
intervening. A fifth reason is provided by recent research on social norms suggesting that
individuals may not intervene due to misperceptions regarding how others feel about the
situation.
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Social Influence – A situation that may feel harmful to you, but you assume your reaction
is unique, because no one else is reacting
Fear of Embarrassment – Not wanting to single yourself out or call attention to yourself.
Diffusion of Responsibility – Assuming that someone else will do something, thereby
alleviating yourself from the responsibility of intervening
Fear of Retaliation – fear of negative consequences or retaliation for intervening
Pluralistic Ignorance – when most people in a group are concerned and want to act, but
incorrectly believe that they are in the minority.
Ask everyone to call out or state what part of the video showed inaction or action on behalf of
others. Ask what their emotional response was and/or whether or not they now have a
different view for themselves.
What are some simple steps people have to take to even begin realizing they are, or could be,
a bystander?
15/90
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GreekLife.Edu
It is important to have GreekLife.Edu set up prior to this week so that New Members can log
on and complete the course before the following weeks‟ meeting.
As part of our continuing effort to improve the Phi Kappa Sigma fraternal experience,
we have contracted with Outside the Classroom to provide GreekLife.edu, a new webbased, educational initiative offering extensive information on alcohol consumption,
hazing and sexual assault. Providing educational material to all members and new
members about alcohol consumption, hazing and sexual assault will help us achieve
our ultimate goal of ensuring our members have a positive experience as part of Phi
Kappa Sigma as well as within their larger collegiate environment.
To that end, we are requiring every Phi Kappa Sigma member and new member to take
GreekLife.Edu™, an online education program. GreekLife.Edu uses science-based
research to educate students. It is a non-opinionated course that aims not to tell you
what to think but to help you make decisions for yourself and effectively deal with the
behavior of your peers.
The course has two parts:
Part 1 of the course takes approximately 2 hours to complete, and you may take it in
multiple sittings (it is strongly suggested that you not complete the course in one
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sitting!) You must earn a grade of 75% or higher to pass and receive credit for Part 1 of
the course.
About one month after you complete Part 1, you will receive an email asking you to
complete Part 2.
Please note that the course also includes three surveys that offer you feedback on your
attitudes and behaviors. All survey responses are strictly confidential; Phi Kappa
Sigma will only receive information about our organization as a whole and will never
see individual members’ responses.
To take GreekLife.Edu, you will need a computer with Internet access and audio
capabilities.
1. Go to: http://www.greeklifeedu.com
2. Under New User, enter the applicable Login ID (email [email protected] if you do not
have this already)
3. Click “Submit”
4. On the registration page, you will have the opportunity to create your GreekLife.Edu
account using your email address and a password of your choice.
5. You may log in and out of the course at the end of each section. Section ends are
marked with a “Next” button. DO NOT log out until you click the “Next” button or you
will have to repeat the section you have just gone through.
6. When you return, log in as a Returning User and enter the same email address and
password you created when you first logged into the course. Should you experience
any difficulties or require support, the Online Technical Support Center is available 24
hours a day, 7 days a week. Simply click on the “Technical Help” button located in the
upper right-hand corner of every GreekLife.Edu screen. You do not need to be logged
into the course to access the Technical Support Center.
After going over the information above ask the following questions:
What three topics does GreekLife.Edu provide information on?
Why is it important to know about these topics and how to prevent and take action on high
risk/inappropriate behavior?
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WB
Social Virtues
Each week the New Members will be required to promote a purpose and principle of Phi
Kappa Sigma. Introduce the pair and ask New Members to explain it in their own words.
After that, ask New Members individually and collectively (as a New Member class) how they
will promote the pair over the next week. They will be required to report how they did at the
next New Member Education Session.
Promotion of good fellowship / Trust Review
How did you promote Promotion of good fellowship / Trust?
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How did others promote Promotion of good fellowship / Trust?
Cultivation of social virtues / Honor
How do you define Cultivation of social virtues / Honor?
How will you promote Cultivation of social virtues / Honor?
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Officer Elections
Allow each New Member nominated for the various positions to give a brief 3 minute speech
explaining why they want the position and would be the best person for it. Vote after each
position using secret ballot (write name on a scratch piece of paper) and announce the winner
before proceeding to the next position. Congratulate all the winners.
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Learning Outcomes and Closure
Take the time to go back and ask New Members to summarize what they learned this week to
ensure all learning outcomes have been accomplished and they will be able to answer
questions related to this week‟s topics next week.
Tell the New Members to read Skull Sessions Chapter 1 pgs 8-10 and to be prepared to be
quizzed on all the information that was presented this week. They also need to identify
potential service projects before coming to the retreat next week. Encourage the New
Members to seek assistance from applicable campus personnel to help plan their service
project (e.g. Greek Life Office, Student Activities Office, etc.).
Close the meeting and announce any dates, times, etc. for upcoming events, meetings, etc.
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Week 4: New Member Retreat
Week 4 Agenda (Day Long Retreat)
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Identify potential service projects
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Personal Development Exercise
o Understanding Personal Values
o Understanding Personal History
o Self-Authorship (“who and why am I?”)
o Creating a personal Vision, Mission, and goals
o Balancing Individual and Organizational Purpose and Principles




Social Virtues
o Review Cultivation of social virtues / Honor
o Protection of just rights / Respect
Plan community service project
Additional Brotherhood Building Activities throughout the day (e.g. learning PKS songs)
Week 5 Reading Assignment:
o Skull Sessions Chapter 3 & 4
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 Evaluate their personal values
 Answer “who and why am I?”
 Identify their personal core values
 Balance Individual and Organizational Purpose and Principles
 Demonstrate the protection of the just rights / Respect
Future Preparation
 Review History of PKS Exercise
Notes and References
 The Doctrine of Excellence can be found on pages 10-12 of Skull Sessions
 The Personal Development Exercise will be included in the facilitator guide for week 4
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator guide
 The New Members will need to identify potential community service projects prior to the retreat so that time
is spent planning the project(s) chosen (after voting on what to do they will create goals, assign roles and
responsibilities, then outline next steps, etc.)
 Appropriate Brother Building Activities will be included in Pillars (any activities not included in Pillars
MUST be approved by PKS HQ)
Week 4 Facilitator Guide
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Retreat Agenda and Welcome
Feel free to add in team builders, breaks, activities, etc. into the schedule below. However,
=>
keep in mind that any activities not included in Pillars MUST be approved by PKS HQ.
Take some time to welcome everyone to the retreat and start with an appropriate icebreaker
or team building activity.
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Review and Quiz
Ask the New Members if they have any questions or need clarification on anything from the
previous week before you give them the quiz.
Ask appropriate questions on these topics from the previous week:
 Response Ability
o What is bystander behavior?
o What are the barriers to intervening? (Hint: there are five)
o What example from the video (successful or not) best shows bystander behavior in
action (or inaction)?
o What are some simple steps people have to take to even begin realizing they are,
or could be, a bystander?
 GreekLife.Edu
o What three topics does GreekLife.Edu provide information on?
o Why is it important to know about these topics and how to prevent and take action
on high risk/inappropriate behavior?
Either have another person grade the quizzes and report back to you at the end of the
meeting or grade them after the meeting and follow up with each member to let them know
how they did and what additional action they need to take if applicable (if they do not pass the
quiz they must retake and pass before the next meeting).
5/35
WB
90/125
WB
Personal Development Exercise
Introduce the Personal Development Exercise and ask the New Members to take notes in
their workbooks. There are several activities to be completed in the workbook.
Individual Principles
This part of the exercise covers the following sections in the workbook:
 Understanding Individual Values
 Values Audit
 Core Values
 Trigger Events
 Who and Why Am I?
Use the workbook and cover each section one at a time. Ask New Members to share at least
two of their core values and answer the questions that go along with that section. Also ask
New Members to share at least one trigger event and answer the questions that go along with
that section. Give New Members 15-20 minutes to answer “Who and Why Am I?” then ask
them to share with the group.
55/180
Break
Now would be an appropriate time to take break for food and drink and/or rest and relaxation
90/270
WB
Individual Purpose
This part of the exercise covers the following sections in the workbook:
 Vision
 Mission
Use the workbook and cover each section one at a time. Give New Members 15-20 minutes
to answer draft their vision then ask them to share with the group. Give New Members 15-20
minutes to answer draft their mission then ask them to share with the group.
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30/300
60/360
Break
Now would be an appropriate time to take a break for food and drink and/or rest and
relaxation
Personal Development Plan
This part of the exercise covers the following sections in the workbook:
 SMART Goals
 Development Themes and Goals
Use the workbook to cover each section one at a time.
SMART Goals
Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Relevant (to vision and mission)
Time-bound
Give the New Members 15-20 minutes to complete their goal worksheets and then ask them
to share their goals and a couple actions to achieve the goals.
60/420
Balancing Individual and Organization
This part of the exercise covers the following sections in the workbook:
 Individual and Organization Values
 Individual and Organization Vision
 Individual and Organization Mission
Use the workbook and give members 20-30 minutes to complete all three sections. Then ask
them to share one action that can help them bring greater alignment and between them and
the organization.
30/450
20/470
WB
Break
Now would be an appropriate time to take a break for food and drink and/or rest and
relaxation
Social Virtues
Each week the New Members will be required to promote a purpose and principle of Phi
Kappa Sigma. Introduce the pair and ask New Members to explain it in their own words.
After that, ask New Members individually and collectively (as a New Member class) how they
will promote the pair over the next week. They will be required to report how they did at the
next New Member Education Session.
Cultivation of social virtues / Honor Review
How did you promote Cultivation of social virtues / Honor?
How did others promote Cultivation of social virtues / Honor?
Protection of the just rights / Respect
How do you define Protection of the just rights / Respect?
How will you promote Protection of the just rights / Respect?
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60/530
Project and Presentation Planning
Give the New Members time to plan their community service project. In addition to identifying
what to do and when they should set goals and assign roles and responsibilities.
70/600
Break
Now would be an appropriate time to take a break for food and drink and/or rest and
relaxation
Learning Outcomes and Closure
Take the time to go back and ask New Members to summarize what they learned this week to
ensure all learning outcomes have been accomplished and they will be able to answer
questions related to this week‟s topics next week.
15/615
Tell the New Members to read Skull Sessions Chapter 3 and 4 and to be prepared to be
quizzed on all the information that was presented this week.
Close the meeting and announce any dates, times, etc. for upcoming events, meetings, etc.
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New Member Retreat Agenda
Overview
A New Member retreat is a great way of introducing the New Members to one another, Phi Kappa Sigma, the
Chapter, and the New Member program education program. It is always best to plan the retreat away from the
Chapter house, to reduce distractions and get the group in a new setting. This should be a weekend for the
New Members to start to see themselves as a group, and an opportunity for the natural leaders to emerge
from within the group. The retreat is not a time for a history lesson, or intense study of By-laws or the Skull
Sessions, it should offer a relaxed atmosphere that can foster friendship and reflection on the Fraternity, as
well as what everyone‟s role in the future of the Chapter will be.
Attendance
The Iota, all New Members, and a few members to serve as facilitators should be present. You should limit
the number of Brothers who attend (imagine a retreat with 5 New Members and 6 Brothers). Brothers should
only be there to help with the events and facilitate discussions, not be an active role in the process. There
should be a set agenda (an example is included on the previous pages), and New Members should be fully
prepared in advance for anything they will need to bring to retreat (e.g., a sleeping bag, meals, etc.)
Exercises and activities

Personal Development Exercise: Before a New Member can help the Chapter achieve its goals they
must know and start achieving their own. They must also have balance between their individual
purpose and principles and Phi Kappa Sigma‟s purpose and principles.

Brotherhood building activities: Use the “Brotherhood Building Activities” section at the end of
“Pillars” (any activities not included in Pillars MUST be approved by PKS HQ).

Athletic events: Schedule some time for pickup swimming, basketball, football, Frisbee, or any other
events that New Members might want to play.

Bonfire/Pass the Gavel – Have a bonfire session to end the retreat. Have everyone “Pass the Gavel”
by passing around the Alpha‟s gavel and discuss the most important thing they learned during the
retreat, why they want to be a part of a fraternity, and why they want to be part of Phi Kappa Sigma.
Each member says “Proud to be a Phi Kap” or “Proud to be a Skull” and passes the gavel on to the
next member.
Regardless of what you decide to do at your retreat be sure to have an agenda written up before the
retreat, so everything goes smoothly!
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Week 5: Fraternity History
Week 5 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Reading Due: Skull Sessions Chapter 3 & 4
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Discuss:
o History of Greek Life
o Greek Alphabet
o Phi Kappa Sigma Founding Fathers
o History of PKS
 Social Virtues
o Review Protection of just rights / Respect
o Advancement of the best interests / Responsibility
 Class reports on status on community service project (community service must be complete by the next
meeting)
 Week 6 Reading Assignment:
o Skull Sessions Chapter 5 & 6
 Inform class Initiation Fee due in 2 weeks
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 State the significance of the history of Greek Life and Phi Kappa Sigma (what sticks out, why is it
important, how does it relate to / impact us today?)
 Demonstrate the advancement of the best interests / Responsibility
Future Preparation
 Schedule local alumnus to attend meeting to discuss their experience
Notes and References
 History of Greek Life can be found in Skull Sessions starting on page 27
 The Greek Alphabet can be found in Skull Sessions on page 39
 The Founding Fathers of Phi Kappa Sigma can be found in Skull Sessions on page 42
 A History of Phi Kappa Sigma can be found in Skull Sessions starting on page 43
 Questions about the History of Phi Kappa Sigma will be included in the facilitator guide for week 5
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator guide
Week 5 Facilitator Guide
30/30
Review and Quiz
Ask the New Members if they have any questions or need clarification on anything from the
previous week before you give them the quiz.
Ask appropriate questions on these topics from the previous week:
 Doctrine of Excellence Exercise
o What are the sections of The Doctrine of Excellence and what do they represent?
 Personal Direction
o What are the components of a strategic plan?
o What is SWOT?
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
o What are SMART goals?
Recruitment 101
o What is Recruitment?
o Why do we Recruit?
o When do we Recruit?
o How do we Recruit? What does it look like in action?
o Who do we Recruit?
o Where do we Recruit?
Either have another person grade the quizzes and report back to you at the end of the
meeting or grade them after the meeting and follow up with each member to let them know
how they did and what additional action they need to take if applicable (if they do not pass the
quiz they must retake and pass before the next meeting).
60/90
SS Chapters
3&4
WB
Fraternity History
Discuss the following separately and ask why each is important and how they relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today.




History of Greek Life
Greek Alphabet
Phi Kappa Sigma Founding Fathers
History of PKS
Spend additional time on the History of PKS and ask for at least 4 things from the first 50
years that are significant and why? Some examples include:
 Only Fraternity to have a college named after them and the first institution of higher
education in Arkansas (The Phi Kappa Sigma Male College, Monticello, Arkansas
February 7th, 1859)
 Debated and adopted an anti-discrimination at the 1860 convention
 Northern and Southern Skulls assisted each other during the Civil War
 First Fraternity to organize a Grand Chapter and establish a democratic system of
government, based on Chapter representation (1869)
 First Fraternity to publish a Fraternity wide newspaper/magazine for its members (Phi
Kappa Sigma Magazine 1891) (now the Maltese Cross)
 Grand Alpha James Hartley Merrick instituted the Chapter Advisor system at turn of the
century, making Phi Kappa Sigma one of the first fraternities to utilize such a program
20/110
WB
Social Virtues
Each week the New Members will be required to promote a purpose and principle of Phi
Kappa Sigma. Introduce the pair and ask New Members to explain it in their own words.
After that, ask New Members individually and collectively (as a New Member class) how they
will promote the pair over the next week. They will be required to report how they did at the
next New Member Education Session.
Protection of the just rights / Respect Review
How did you promote Protection of the just rights / Respect?
How did others promote Protection of the just rights / Respect?
Advancement of the best interests / Responsibility
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How do you define Advancement of the best interests / Responsibility?
How will you promote Advancement of the best interests / Responsibility?
15/125
Project and Presentation Status
Have the New Members report on the status of their community service project and give them
time to work on anything they need to do. The community service project must be complete
by the next meeting.
15/140
Learning Outcomes and Closure
Take the time to go back and ask New Members to summarize what they learned this week to
ensure all learning outcomes have been accomplished and they will be able to answer
questions related to this week‟s topics next week.
Tell the New Members to read Skull Sessions Chapter 5 and 6 and to be prepared to be
quizzed on all the information that was presented this week.
Close the meeting and announce any dates, times, etc. for upcoming events, meetings, etc.
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Week 6: Fraternity and Structure and Opportunities
Week 6 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Community Service Project complete
 Reading Due: Skull Sessions Chapter 5 &6
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Discuss:
o International Fraternity Structure
 Grand Chapter, PKS HQ, and Executive Board
o International Fraternity Opportunities
 “Men of Honor Experience”
o Personal Development
 Local Alumnus invited to meeting to discuss their experience

Social Virtues

o Review Advancement of the best interests / Responsibility
o Encouragement of good scholarship and breadth of training / Knowledge and Wisdom
Week 7 Reading Assignment:
o Skull Sessions Chapter 7 & 8
Inform class Initiation Fee due in 1 week

Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 Describe the International Fraternity Structure and additional Educational Opportunities
 Summarize key points of Personal Development
 Demonstrate the Encouragement of good scholarship and breadth of training / Knowledge and Wisdom
Future Preparation
 Schedule Greek and Chapter Advisor to discuss their roles and Chapter/School structure
Notes and References
 International Fraternity Structure can be found in Skull Sessions starting on page 77
 International Fraternity Opportunities can be found in Skull Sessions on pages 107-111
 Personal Development information can be found in Skull Sessions starting on 112
 Invite a local alumnus other than the primary Chapter Advisor to the meeting to discuss their Phi Kap
Experience and how it helped develop them personally and professionally
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator guide
Week 6 Facilitator Guide
30/30
Review and Quiz
Ask the New Members if they have any questions or need clarification on anything from the
previous week before you give them the quiz.
Ask appropriate questions on these topics from the previous week.
 History of Greek Life
o What are some highlights, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
 Greek Alphabet
o What is it, why is it important, and how does it relate to our members, Chapter, and
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

Fraternity today?
Phi Kappa Sigma Founding Fathers
o Who are they, why are they important, and how do they relate to our members,
Chapter, and Fraternity today?
History of PKS
o What are some highlights, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
Either have another person grade the quizzes and report back to you at the end of the
meeting or grade them after the meeting and follow up with each member to let them know
how they did and what additional action they need to take if applicable (if they do not pass the
quiz they must retake and pass before the next meeting).
30/60
SS Chapters
6&8
Fraternity Structure and Opportunities
Discuss the following separately and ask why each is important and how they relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today.



International Fraternity Structure
o Grand Chapter, PKS HQ, and Executive Board
International Fraternity Opportunities
o “Men of Honor Experience”
Personal Development
Spend additional time on Personal Development and have the New Members summarize
what they learned from reading Skull Sessions and how they can use it in their daily lives.
30/90
Local Alumnus
Invite a local alumnus to discuss their “Phi Kap Experience” and answer questions.
30/120
WB
Social Virtues
Each week the New Members will be required to promote a purpose and principle of Phi
Kappa Sigma. Introduce the pair and ask New Members to explain it in their own words.
After that, ask New Members individually and collectively (as a New Member class) how they
will promote the pair over the next week. They will be required to report how they did at the
next New Member Education Session.
Advancement of the best interests / Responsibility Review
How did you promote Advancement of the best interests / Responsibility?
How did others promote Advancement of the best interests / Responsibility?
Encouragement of good scholarship / Knowledge and
Breadth of training / Wisdom
How do you define Encouragement of good scholarship / Knowledge?
How will you promote Encouragement of good scholarship / Knowledge?
How do you define Breadth of training / Wisdom?
How will you promote Breadth of training / Wisdom?
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15/135
Learning Outcomes and Closure
Take the time to go back and ask New Members to summarize what they learned this week to
ensure all learning outcomes have been accomplished and they will be able to answer
questions related to this week‟s topics next week.
Tell the New Members to read Skull Sessions Chapter 7 and to be prepared to be quizzed on
all the information that was presented this week.
Close the meeting and announce any dates, times, etc. for upcoming events, meetings, etc.
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Week 7: Chapter History and Standards
Week 7 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Collect and send Initiation Fees to PKS HQ
 Reading Due: Skull Sessions Chapter 7 &8
 Review and Quiz on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Discuss:
o Local Chapter History
o Local Chapter/School Structure
o Chapter/School Standards
o Mitchell Chapter Standards
 Greek Advisor and Chapter Advisor invited to this meeting to discuss their roles and Chapter/School
structure
 Social Virtues
o Review Encouragement of good scholarship and breadth of training / Knowledge and Wisdom
o Cooperation in the educational and cultural programs of institutions of higher education in which
chapters are located / Integrity
 Week 8 Assignment: Read “You Are Always Wearing Your Letters” and Write essays on “The Ideal Phi
Kap” and “How I will contribute”
Learning Outcomes
New Members will be able to:
 Summarize key points of Local Chapter History
 Describe Local Chapter/School Structure, Chapter/School Standards, and Mitchell Chapter Standards
 Demonstrate the Cooperation in the educational and cultural programs of institutions of higher education in
which chapters are located / Integrity
Future Preparation
 Select, review, and prepare closing Brotherhood Building Activities (any activities not included in Pillars
MUST be approved by PKS HQ)
Notes and References
 Initiation Fees (See PKS Fee Schedule at pks.org for amount) must be paid to the International
Headquarters at least 2 weeks prior to initiation
 Local Chapter History will be provided by the Chapter
 Local Chapter Structure can be found in Skull Sessions on pages 87-89
 School Structure (Administration and Greek Councils) and Standards will be provided by the Chapter
and/or Greek Advisor
 Invite the Chapter Advisor and Greek Advisor to attend this meeting
 Chapter Standards (MCS) can be found in Skull Sessions on pages 90-94
 “You Are Always Wearing Your Letters” will be included in the facilitator guide for week 7
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator guide
Week 7 Facilitator Guide
30/30
Review and Quiz
Ask the New Members if they have any questions or need clarification on anything from the
previous week before you give them the quiz.
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Ask appropriate questions on these topics from the previous week.
 International Fraternity Structure (Grand Chapter, PKS HQ, and Executive Board)
o What is each, why is it important, and how does it relate to our members, Chapter,
and Fraternity today?
 International Fraternity Opportunities (“Men of Honor Experience”)
o What are they/what is it, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
 Personal Development
o What are some highlights, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
Either have another person grade the quizzes and report back to you at the end of the
meeting or grade them after the meeting and follow up with each member to let them know
how they did and what additional action they need to take if applicable (if they do not pass the
quiz they must retake and pass before the next meeting).
30/60
SS Chapter 7
Chapter History and Standards
Discuss the following separately and ask why each is important and how they relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today.




Local Chapter History
Local Chapter/School Structure
Chapter/School Standards
Mitchell Chapter Standards
Information on each Chapter position and what they should discuss follows this week‟s
facilitator guide.
30/90
Greek Advisor and Chapter Advisor
Invite Greek Advisor and Chapter Advisor invited to this meeting to discuss their roles and
Chapter/School structure and answer questions.
30/120
WB
Social Virtues
Each week the New Members will be required to promote a purpose and principle of Phi
Kappa Sigma. Introduce the pair and ask New Members to explain it in their own words.
After that, ask New Members individually and collectively (as a New Member class) how they
will promote the pair over the next week. They will be required to report how they did at the
next New Member Education Session.
Encouragement of good scholarship / Knowledge and
Breadth of training / Wisdom Review
How did you promote Encouragement of good scholarship / Knowledge?
How did others promote Encouragement of good scholarship / Knowledge?
How did you promote Breadth of training / Wisdom?
How did others promote Breadth of training / Wisdom?
Cooperation in the educational and cultural programs… / Integrity
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How do you define Cooperation in the educational and cultural programs… / Integrity?
How will you promote Cooperation in the educational and cultural programs… / Integrity?
15/135
Learning Outcomes and Closure
Take the time to go back and ask New Members to summarize what they learned this week to
ensure all learning outcomes have been accomplished and they will be able to answer
questions related to this week‟s topics next week.
Tell the New Members to read, “You Are Always Wearing Your Letters” and write essays on
“The Ideal Phi Kap” and “How I will contribute.” Also tell them to be prepared to be quizzed on
all the information that was presented over the entire New Member period.
Close the meeting and announce any dates, times, etc. for upcoming events, meetings, etc.
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Example Chapter Structure Speech Topics
Chapter Alpha: The Alpha will speak regarding his job as the overall maintainer of the Chapter, and the
helmsman for any direction the Chapter takes. He will discuss that his job is to do what keeps the Chapter‟s
future and well-being safe, not necessarily what the Chapter wants (if it is not in the best interest of the
Fraternity or the Chapter). He will touch on this as an example of the fine line he has to walk between
Fraternity policy and popular opinion, among other issues that an Alpha has to deal with. Finally, he will speak
on the Objective of Personal Conduct: how everyone‟s actions reflect on the Fraternity and the Chapter, and
so forth. He will try to impress upon them the need to act as a gentleman in all cases as it always reflects on
the Chapter and the Fraternity, as well as anything else he sees fit to discuss.
Chapter Beta: The Beta will speak about recruitment, and specifically how New Members can be used to
access other freshmen on campus that might be interested in rushing. He will encourage them to passively
recruit by bringing non-Greek friends to informal rush events throughout the semester and non-closed Chapter
events (e.g. parties), and explain how recruitment works in general. He will mainly be preparing them for
passive rush events, and preparing them for formal IFC recruitment when the time comes. He will also have a
discussion with all New Members regarding what worked and what didn‟t work during this past rush to tweak
the Chapter‟s recruitment tactics. He will solicit as much feedback as possible from the New Members to
improve future rushes, and anything else he sees fit to discuss.
Chapter Pi: The Pi will speak on the importance of balancing scholarship and Fraternity, and the fact that
scholarship is the most important thing while an active undergraduate. He will prepare some information to
present to the New Members regarding scholastic help available (e.g. in-house Chapter and/or University
tutoring.) He will also discuss the Chapter and International academic programs, Chapter awards,
International Fraternity awards, and scholarships available from the Chapter and the Fraternity. He will also
discuss FIPG and Risk Management policies as they relate to hazing and alcohol. He will do a short
presentation on good study habits (calendars, planning ahead, syllabi, etc.), and how to stay prepared for
school, as well as school-specific questions. He will pass out the previous semester‟s IFC grade report sheet
to each New Member. Finally, he will also explain the Chapter‟s scholastic program, and the participation he
expects of New Members, as well as anything else he sees fit to discuss.
Chapter Iota: The Iota will speak regarding the development of New Members into Brothers, and the
importance of the New Members with regards to the future of the Fraternity. His main task will be to orient the
New Members to the New Member education program, and let them know that he should be the first person to
come to with any questions, problems, or concerns. He will review all Chapter-specific rules and policies.
Finally, he needs to make sure that every New Member has his contact information (as well as that of the
Alpha and the Chapter Advisor) in case of an emergency.
Chapter Tau: The Tau will review the financial obligations of the Fraternity. He will also talk about the specific
obligations of each New Member and Brother, how the Chapter budget works (what is in the Chapter budget),
and how rent and dues are billed and paid. He will also discuss delinquent accounts and collections, as well
as an explanation of the Chapter to House Corporation relationship, and an explanation of the Estes Finance
Cup, as well as anything else he sees fit.
Chapter Sigma: The Sigma will speak about his role as secretary of the Chapter. He will discuss the Chapter
minutes, and distribute and briefly explain the Chapter By-laws (how they are the local amendments to the
Constitution and Acts of the Fraternity), and anything else that he sees fit to discuss.
Chapter Upsilon: The Upsilon will speak about the current state of alumni relations. He will discuss postgraduate opportunities with the Phi Kappa Sigma International Headquarters. He will also discuss our current
alumni contact, what the Chapter does well when it comes to alumni, fraternity/Chapter publications, the
alumni newsletter, what the Chapter needs improvement on, traditional alumni events the Chapter has, and
events the Chapter would like to have in the future, as well as anything else that he sees fit to discuss.
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Chapter Theta: The Thetas will speak about their roles in the Chapter as Sergeants-At-Arms. They will
discuss their role as guards for the Chapter, as well as anything else they see fit to discuss.
Chapter Psi: The Psi will speak about the social side of the organization. He will stress that while the social
nature of the Fraternity is a benefit, it does have its risks. He will talk about our risk management policy in
general terms. In specific terms, some issues to talk about include: what is a Chapter event, FIPG rules,
“cans” and “cannots” regarding social events, how and why we have alcohol-free functions, what third-party
vendors are, how third-party vendors fit into our insurance policy, and the issue of Chapter liability when it
comes to social functions, as well as anything else he sees fit to discuss.
Chapter Phi: The Phi will speak about the service side of the organization. He will discuss the various
National and local organizations the Chapter supports (e.g. Phi Kappa Sigma‟s National Philanthropy is the
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society), when and where events are held throughout the year and anything else
that he sees fit to discuss.
Chapter Parliamentarian: The Parliamentarian will discuss his role as the order-keeper during Chapter
meetings. He will talk in detail about Robert‟s Rules of Order, and the parliamentary procedure that the
Chapter uses in its meetings. He will also answer questions about the By-laws if any New Members have
questions, and anything else that he sees fit to discuss. He will also make it a point to explain that his office is
not a national office of Phi Kappa Sigma, but a local office that was created for the Chapter.
Chapter Advisor: The Chapter Advisor will speak regarding his role in advising the active Chapter. He will
also announce his availability to New Members for their concerns or questions, and make sure each New
Member has his contact information in case of an emergency.
Chapter Alumnus: The Alumnus should speak about the lifelong commitment that he made to Phi Kappa
Sigma, as well as what it means to be a Phi Kap. The specific material should be left to the Alumnus because
he has seen Phi Kappa Sigma from an angle that undergraduates have not.
Greek Advisor: The Greek Advisor will speak on the relationship that the Chapter has with the campus Greek
community. He will also speak on the campus Greek community in general: its strengths, weaknesses, and
what is being done to improve it. He will mainly talk about the Greek system on a larger scale to give the New
Member class a broader scope of what is happening with Greeks on campus.
House Corporation President: The House Corporation President will speak about his role as the liaison
between the Chapter and the Housing Corporation. He will discuss what the Housing Corporation is (it‟s own
legal entity), what they provide (basic services, plus auxiliary services such as scholarships and sponsorships
for things like leadership retreats), and how the Corporation functions, as well as anything else he sees fit to
discuss.
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You Are Always Wearing Your Letters
You're interested in joining our fraternity? We'd love to have you. You're the type of person we look for:
committed, enthusiastic, a leader. We think you'll do great things here, and we hope that we'll open some
doors for you. You will make lifelong friendships, and hopefully, you'll be the type of person whose positive
impact will be felt here for many years.
This is the start of something really cool.
We know you have your reasons for joining, and we also know that the reasons you'll stay will be entirely
different. Trust us on that one. People tend to join for the image, the props, and the social stuff. They stay
around for the friendships and because they find a place where they can impact the lives of others. It's a
family. We know this. Soon, you will, too.
Soon, these letters will be yours. But, there's one lesson that we need to impress upon you before you sign
your name on the dotted line, pay that first fee, and get that first t-shirt. It's the single most important thing
we're going to ask of you, so you need to listen and understand it, now, before you say "yes."
It's the one most important thing that any fraternity or sorority can impress upon its new members. It's the one
lesson that every group must impress upon its newest members. Truly, our survival as an organization on this
campus, and nationwide, depends on you understanding this one simple lesson and taking it to heart.
It's more important than our history, our traditions, our structure, or our rules. Because, if you don't understand
this most fundamental lesson, then none of the other stuff will matter. If you don't get this one "golden rule of
fraternity," then your son or daughter won't have this kind of organization to join someday, and all of this will
just be a fuzzy memory.
Here it is. Ready?
From the moment you say yes to this organization, you are always wearing your letters.
I'm going to repeat it.
From the moment you say yes to this organization, you are always wearing your letters.
We're not talking about t-shirts, or sweatshirts, or hats made in the colors of the group. We're not talking about
a tattoo on your ankle, some party favor, or a badge you wear on your dress shirt.
What we mean is that when you say yes to lifetime membership in this group, everything you say, do and
represent from that moment forward is a direct reflection on this group, your brothers, and the thousands of
members who have come before you. Everything you put out to the world is a direct reflection of this fraternity.
Every decision, every achievement, every mistake you make happens to all of us from this point forward.
When you go to the grocery store, you represent us. If you fall asleep in class or earn a weak grade, you
represent us. When you drive down the road and slow down so a pedestrian can cross the street, you
represent us.
When you turn 21 and hit the town, you represent us. When you become a leader of another campus
organization, you represent us. When you insult someone or talk badly about another fraternity, you represent
us. When you break up with someone and make decisions about how you behave during that difficult time,
you represent us. When you go on Spring Break, you represent us.
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When you go home and sit at your mother's dining room table, you represent us. When you get a job and go
to work for a company or organization, you represent us. When you commit your life to that special person,
someday, you represent us.
You are always wearing your letters.
From this day forward, always. Every day, in every situation. They never come off.
As surely as if you tattooed these letters on your forehead. It doesn't matter if you're wearing a jersey with our
name on it, or a business suit at an interview. You have to assume that every person you meet will form a
permanent opinion about fraternities – good or bad – based on how you interact with them. Every good thing
you do builds us up. Every dumb thing you do tears us down.
We live in a time when the actions of one man or one woman can kill a group like ours. One person who acts
in a way that is inconsistent with our shared values can end a hundred years of tradition and pride. One choice
you make on a Friday night can take away everything that generations of men have worked to build.
All the stuff you see that belongs to us can be boxed up or thrown out, because of the choices you make.
If this seems a little intense, that's good. Because it's serious. If it sounds like too much responsibility, or if you
don't think you can behave in a way that reflects well on us at all times, then walk away now. Do us the favor.
We won't think less of you. In fact, we'll thank you. This sort of commitment isn't for everybody.
But, don't say yes unless you understand.
We're not asking you to give up anything. We aren't asking you to become something you aren't. We're asking
you to become something more. We're inviting you to become part of a group of men who make a promise to
take care of each other, every day. We're asking you to become the very best version of you that you can be.
We're asking you to take a leap of maturity and to go to that place where you're the same, honorable, dignified
person on Saturday night as you are on Tuesday morning.
It's a big deal, and not everyone can do it. Forget everything you've heard up to this point. Forget how much
you might desire this, or how much we might want to bring you into the group. Just clear your mind and ask
yourself one question.
Are you ready to never take them off?
Because when you say yes, you're not just putting letters on a sweatshirt. You're putting them in your heart.
You're forever stamping your identity with them. Everything you are, from this point on, becomes who we are.
You will make mistakes, and brothers will remind you of your commitment. There will be times where you will
see other brothers forgetting their promise, and you'll need to remind them. That's part of this whole "fraternity"
thing. We work together to make ourselves better men who stand for something. We carry each other. We
matter to one another.
If we're doing fraternity right, then we'll make you a better man. If you're doing everything right, then you will
make us a better organization.
So, please think about it. Take it seriously.
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Because if you say yes, these letters belong to you as surely as they belonged to our founders. If you say yes,
these letters become your responsibility forever.
That's the promise.
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Week 8: Putting It All Together
Week 8 Agenda
Italics = Completed Prior to Weekly New Member Class Meeting
 Attend weekly Chapter Meeting
 Attend weekly Brotherhood Building Activity
 Collect New Member Essays
 Social Virtues
o Review Cooperation in the educational and cultural programs of institutions of higher education in
which chapters are located / Integrity
 Review and Final Exam on Previous Week‟s Topics
 Discuss New Member essays on “The Ideal Phi Kap” and “How I will contribute”
 Reflection on New Member Education
 Closing Brotherhood Building Activities (e.g. “The Brick”, “Pass the Gavel”, etc.)
 Initiation preparation (what to do, wear, bring, etc.)
 Initiation (at next regularly scheduled Chapter meeting)
Future Preparation
 Prepare Initiation Ceremony
 Prepare Post-Initiation Education (i.e., Ritual Exemplification or similar Ritual training)
Notes and References
 The Social Virtues will be included in the facilitator guide
 Review and Final Exam information will be included in Pillars
 Appropriate closing Brother Building Activities will be included in Pillars (any activities not included in
Pillars MUST be approved by PKS HQ)
 The Initiation Ceremony can be found in the Book of Ceremonies on page 24
 The Chapter (especially officers with roles in the ceremony) must be familiar with the Initiation Ceremony
prior to conducting it for the New Members to ensure everyone knows the secrets and what to do/say.
Week 8 Facilitator Guide
10/10
Social Virtues
Each week the New Members will be required to promote a purpose and principle of Phi
WB
Kappa Sigma. Introduce the pair and ask New Members to explain it in their own words.
After that, ask New Members individually and collectively (as a New Member class) how they
will promote the pair over the next week. They will be required to report how they did at the
next New Member Education Session.
Cooperation in the educational and cultural programs… / Integrity Review
How did you promote Cooperation in the educational and cultural programs… / Integrity?
How did others promote Cooperation in the educational and cultural programs… / Integrity?
60/70
Review and Final Quiz
Ask the New Members if they have any questions or need clarification on anything from the
previous week before you give them the quiz.
Ask appropriate questions on these topics from the previous weeks.
Week 1
 Class Operations
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o What are the dates and times of regular Chapter functions?
o How are meetings conducted?
Risk Management Policy and Liability Insurance
o Why is Risk Management and Liability Insurance important?
o What will happen if we do not follow the risk management policy?
o What would happen if we did not have liability insurance?
Requirements and Expectations
o What are the requirements and expectations of membership?
o Why are they important
o What will happen if you do not meet the requirements and expectations of
membership?
Recruitment (referrals)
o What type of individuals are we looking to recruit?
Week 2
 Fraternity Vision
o What is it, what does it mean?
 Fraternity Mission
o What is it? What does it mean? What does it look like?
 Fraternity Core Values
o What are they? What do they mean? What do they look like?
 Why is it important to know our Fraternity‟s Purpose and Principles?
Week 3
 ResponseAbility
o What is bystander behavior?
o What are the barriers to intervening? (Hint: there are five)
o What example from the video (successful or not) best shows bystander behavior in
action (or inaction)?
o What are some simple steps people have to take to even begin realizing they are,
or could be, a bystander?
 GreekLife.Edu
o What three topics does GreekLife.Edu provide information on?
o Why is it important to know about these topics and how to prevent and take action
on high risk/inappropriate behavior?
Week 4
 Doctrine of Excellence Exercise
o What are the sections of The Doctrine of Excellence and what do they represent?
 Personal Direction
o What are the components of a strategic plan?
o What is SWOT?
o What are SMART goals?
 Recruitment 101
o What is Recruitment?
o Why do we Recruit?
o When do we Recruit?
o How do we Recruit? What does it look like in action?
o Who do we Recruit?
o Where do we Recruit?
Week 5
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History of Greek Life
o What are some highlights, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
Greek Alphabet
o What is it, why is it important, and how does it relate to our members, Chapter, and
Fraternity today?
Phi Kappa Sigma Founding Fathers
o Who are they, why are they important, and how do they relate to our members,
Chapter, and Fraternity today?
History of PKS
o What are some highlights, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
Week 6
 International Fraternity Structure (Grand Chapter, PKS HQ, and Executive Board)
o What is each, why is it important, and how does it relate to our members, Chapter,
and Fraternity today?
 International Fraternity Opportunities (“Men of Honor Experience”)
o What are they/what is it, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
 Personal Development
o What are some highlights, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
Week 7
 Local Chapter History
o What are some highlights, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
 Local Chapter/School Structure
o What is it, why is it important, and how does it relate to our members, Chapter, and
Fraternity today?
 Chapter/School Standards
o What are they/what is it, why is it important, and how does it relate to our
members, Chapter, and Fraternity today?
 Mitchell Chapter Standards
o What is it, why is it important, and how does it relate to our members, Chapter, and
Fraternity today?
Either have another person grade the final quiz and report back to you at the end of the
meeting or grade them after the meeting and follow up with each member to let them know
how they did and what additional action they need to take if applicable (if they do not pass the
final they must retake and pass before being initiated).
30/100
Essay Discussion
The “The Ideal Phi Kap” and “How I will contribute” essays are due before the meeting and
should be “graded” prior to the meeting. Discuss and give/get feedback on the New Member
essays.
120/220
WB
Closing Brotherhood Activities
Appropriate Brother Building Activities are included at the end of this manual. It is
recommended that Chapters do “The Brick” as part of the final meeting. Any activities not
included in Pillars MUST be approved by PKS HQ.
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Conclude by having the members complete the Reflection on New Member Education in their
workbook and sharing it with the rest of the group.
15/235
Closure and Announcements
Close the meeting and announce date, time, etc. for initiation.
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XII. Post-Initiation Education
One of the biggest mistakes that Chapters make regarding educating New Members is the belief that
education stops after initiation. It‟s exactly the opposite: once the member is a Brother, the education really
begins. The New Member period is mostly learning about our expectations, vision, mission, objectives, Core
Values, and history (both local and national). Once the member has been exposed to our deeper meanings
within the Ritual, the real process of learning to be a Brother begins. Only once they are initiated can
members find out what we truly stand for, and begin to learn to live up to that ideal (instead of before, when
they were trying to live up to an ideal that they didn‟t know). That is the challenge, and when the real
education starts.
Immediately after initiation (no more than one week), the Iota needs to review everything regarding the
ceremony that took place. During initiation, New Members are feeling a huge range of emotions:
nervousness, fear, wonder, and excitement. Chances are they did not learn everything they should have
learned the first time the ceremony was done, which is normal. It‟s hard to learn a motto in a new language
(such as Greek) when your emotions are running so high and everything is so new and impressive to you.
The Iota needs to re-read the entire ceremony, so new Brothers are aware of exactly what obligations they
took and committed their lives to. He then needs to make sure that they are proficient in all of the Fraternity‟s
esoteric material that binds us to one another. Lastly, he can discuss the origin and background of the Ritual
using any auxiliary materials available. Contact the International Headquarters for more information or to
schedule someone to conduct the Ritual Exemplification presentation.
There should also be a presentation by the Chapter Alpha on the Phi Kappa Sigma Constitution and Acts, and
a presentation by the Chapter Parliamentarian on the By-laws.
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XIII. Weekly Quizzes
The weekly quizzes should be made up of a mix of questions from Skull Sessions, and open-ended (nonmemorization) questions to see if a New Member is truly learning about being a Phi Kap and a “Man of
Honor.”
All New Members must pass every quiz with at least 80%, and retake all failed quizzes until passed. The Iota
is responsible for setting up make-up times when necessary to give quiz re-takes.
There are two main purposes for New Member quizzes. They are to:
1.
Monitor New Member‟s learning of factual Phi Kappa Sigma information;
2.
Inspire thought and understanding of Purpose and Principles – not solely the memorization of them,
but the understanding of them as well (e.g. not just understanding that “Financial Commitment” means
to pay your dues on time, but the understanding of the ramifications to the Chapter and the
International Headquarters of not paying dues in a timely manner).
Skull Sessions questions should be graded based on factual information.
Open-ended questions should be graded based on how much thought, seriousness, and consideration were
put into the answer. These questions are meant to inspire thought about the Fraternity‟s aims, goals,
purposes, Values, and Objectives.
The following pages have suggested questions already selected for use in the New Member education period.
These questions are to be used in addition to the questions already presented in the facilitator guide if the
Chapter so chooses. This allows Chapters to be flexible in selecting what questions to ask on a quiz from a
pre-determined bank of questions deemed appropriate toward fraternity education. Chapters are encouraged
to add other campus-specific or Chapter-specific information to their quizzes.
Choose the questions from the appropriate quiz bank section, based on what material (which Chapters of
Skull Sessions) was covered in the previous week. Make sure to add a few discussion questions to make sure
those New Members are understanding concepts, not just memorizing factual information.
Discussion questions:
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Why do you want to be a part of Phi Kappa Sigma?
What do you think needs to be changed within the Chapter? How can it be fixed?
What do you think the Chapter does well? How can it be made even better?
What is our hazing policy? Name one good thing about hazing (trick question: there are none!) Why do
we have this policy?
What is Brotherhood?
What is the point of having an International Headquarters, how does it help us be a better Fraternity?
What is the point of having a Chapter Advisor? Is his job to do whatever the Chapter wants to do, or what
is best for the Chapter‟s future?
Pick a Core Value and talk about it. Why do we have it? What is the point? What do we get out of it?
What do you think would be different if we didn‟t have it?
Pick a Chapter office that you think you might want, and talk about it. Why would you want it? What
would you do differently? What would you bring to the office? How does that office contribute to the
Chapter?
Why do we need insurance to operate? If we don‟t have insurance and there is an incident, what do you
think happens?
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Did you join Phi Kappa Sigma, or your Chapter? What‟s the difference?
What should the Chapter do – whatever it wants to do (by a majority vote), or whatever keeps the Chapter
and Fraternity‟s future in mind (even if it‟s not popular)?
How long is the commitment to Phi Kappa Sigma? Why?
Dedication of the Skull Sessions:
Note: answers are in parentheses
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Who are the two men that the Skull Sessions is dedicated to? (Carroll K. Simons and Dr. Karlem Reiss)
What Chapters were each of these men initiated into, Chapter designation and school name? (Carroll K.
Simons - Alpha Epsilon (Illinois Institute of Technology); Dr. Reiss - Mu (Tulane))
Name one honor that each of these men has had bestowed upon them. (Carroll K. Simons - National
InterFraternity Conference Silver Medal; Dr. Reiss - National InterFraternity Conference Gold Medal)
Chapter 1 of the Skull Sessions (Purpose and Principles):
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Who is in charge of the organization and development of New Members? (The Iota)
Who is this person (their name) in your Chapter?
Where did the name Skull Sessions come from? (From the learning sessions that Chapters had with all
their New Members)
What is the program called “The Pillars?” (The New Member Education program)
What are the 4 goals of The Pillars? (Orientation – to get you to feel at home in the Chapter and introduce
you to the workings of the Chapter; Education – learn about Phi Kappa Sigma; Interaction – promote
interaction between New Members and Brothers; Ritual – develop an understanding of the ideals of Phi
Kappa Sigma)
What are the seven Objects of the Fraternity? (The promotion of good fellowship, cultivation of the social
virtues among members, protection of the just rights, advancement of the best interests of individuals and
the Chapter, good scholarship, breadth of training, cooperation in educational and cultural programs at
Chapters‟ schools)
What are the five Objectives of the Fraternity? (Financial Commitment, Scholarship, Fraternity,
College/University, Personal Conduct)
What are the seven Core Values of the Fraternity? (Trust, Honor, Respect, Knowledge, Wisdom,
Responsibility, and Integrity)
Chapter 2 of the Skull Sessions (Risk Management):
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What is our hazing policy? (Zero tolerance, any violations are to be reported to the International
Headquarters)
What is the phone number for the International Headquarters? (888-PKS-INTL or 610-469-3282)
What is risk management? Why do Fraternities need to get better at this? (Risk management is making
sure that alumni and undergraduates are following all rules, laws, and policies to minimize Fraternity and
Chapter liability. Fraternities need to get better because of rising insurance rates, a litigious society that
loves lawsuits, and horrible publicity)
What is our risk management policy on alcohol on Chapter property? (No alcohol on Chapter property,
with zero tolerance)
Name the 5 FIPG guidelines sections and describe each. (Alcohol and Drugs, Hazing, Sexual Abuse and
Harassment, Fire, Health and Safety, and Education)
Name at least 3 of the 4 Fraternity policies and describe them. (No alcohol on Chapter property, no
Chapter can dispense alcoholic beverages, no alcohol permitted at any recruitment events, and no
possession of illegal drugs)
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Name at least 4 of the 7 policies of Phi Kappa Sigma functions. (All functions are invitation only, invitation
lists are limited by number of members, only 4 Greek groups maximum in multi-group functions, Chapter
functions on Chapter property are alcohol-free, off-campus functions should be located close to the
Chapter when possible, all events with alcohol must comply with Third-Party Vendor guidelines, and if
alcohol is served, the Chapter must have designated drivers or a bus system in place)
What is our drug policy? Why do we have it? (Zero tolerance for illegal substances. We have this
because it is completely incompatible with Phi Kappa Sigma standards and is a basis for disciplinary action
against the Chapter)
What is our sexual abuse policy? Why do we have it? (Zero tolerance for it, we have this policy because it
is also completely incompatible with Phi Kappa Sigma standards and is a basis for disciplinary action
against the Chapter
Do we have to have insurance to operate as a Chapter? Is Fraternity insurance expensive? Why or why
not? (Yes, we have to have insurance to operate, if insurance is ever revoked we have cease Chapter
operations immediately. Fraternity insurance is expensive to have, and can go up or down depending on
the Chapter‟s risk management track record. Fraternities have horrible reputations and are generally a
liability, so it is expensive to begin with, and increases with risk management violations)
Is a Brother, if he is under 21, permitted to consume alcohol at a Chapter function? Why? (No, it is against
the law, and against our risk management and insurance policy)
Chapter 3 of the Skull Sessions (History of the American College Fraternity):
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What is the oldest (non-Greek letter) society still in existence today at Harvard? (The Speaking Club, at
Harvard, established September 11, 1770)
What is the oldest Greek-letter society still in existence? Where and when was it founded? (Phi Beta
Kappa, founded December 1779, at the College of William and Mary)
What is the Miami triad? (Beta Theta Pi, Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Chi)
What is the Union triad? (Kappa Alpha Society, Delta Phi, Sigma Phi)
What is the “Mother Of All Colleges?” Why? (Union College in New York, because six fraternities were
founded there)
What was the first Fraternity-like (non-Greek letter) society for women? Where and when was it founded?
(The Adelphean Society, founded on May 15, 1851, at Wesleyan College in Macon, GA)
What were the first two Greek letter sororities for women? Where and when were they founded? (Kappa
Alpha Theta, founded in 1870 at DePauw, and Kappa Kappa Gamma, founded in 1870 at Monmouth)
What happened to Fraternities during World War I and II? (They were severely crippled, many Chapters
were forced to shut down)
What happened to the Greek system after World War II ended? (They exploded, as soldiers came to
fraternities to be social and escape the hardships of war)
What happened to the Greek system in the ‟60s and „70s? (They declined, as an anti-establishment
attitude took over and membership suffered)
What happened to the Greek system in the „80s through the present time? (They moderately and steadily
increased again, nothing major, but they are at peak size and strength right now)
What is the NIC? When was it founded? Are we a part of it? (It is the National InterFraternity
Conference, a governing body comprised of 70+ social fraternities to discuss issues relevant to the Greek
system. It was founded in 1909, and yes we are a part of it)
What is the NPC? (The National Panhellenic Conference, basically the NIC equivalent for social sororities)
What is the Greek alphabet? (Greek symbol and English word).
Chapter 4 of the Skull Sessions (Phi Kappa Sigma History):
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Name the seven Founding Fathers. (Dr. Samuel Brown Wylie Mitchell, Andrew Adams Ripka, John Thorn
Stone, Charles Hare Hutchinson, Alfred Victor Dupont, Duane Williams, James Bayard Hodge)
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Where was Phi Kappa Sigma started? – What college and what city? (University of Pennsylvania,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
When was Phi Kappa Sigma conceived? (August 16th, 1850)
When was Phi Kappa Sigma founded? (October 19th, 1850)
Was Phi Kappa Sigma‟s Alpha Chapter ever not recognized by the school? If so, did we ever get our
recognition back? (Yes, we were unrecognized when the school banned fraternities in 1852. We were
allowed to operate sub-rosa and were recognized again when the ban was lifted in January 1855)
What was the “Theta Resolution” that the Theta Chapter wanted to add to the Constitution and Acts in
1860? Did the amendment pass? What was put into the Constitution and Acts in its place? (They wanted
to make the Fraternity open only to Caucasians, and the amendment was struck down. Instead, an antidiscriminatory clause was put into the Constitution and Acts)
Who are the “Silver Skulls?” (Members of southern Phi Kap Chapters who painted their skulls silver to
represent their southern roots)
What Chapter makes us an International Fraternity? (Alpha Beta, at the University of Toronto)
What is the first official publication of the Fraternity? What is it called now? (The Phi Kappa Sigma
Magazine, now called The Maltese Cross of Phi Kappa Sigma)
What happened to Phi Kappa Sigma during World War I and II? (The Fraternity was nearly closed as
many Chapters shut down when sending Brothers off to war)
What happened to Phi Kappa Sigma after World War II ended? (Rapid expansion and a large influx of
members was the after-effect of the war ending)
Who founded the Phi Kappa Sigma Male College? When and where was it? (It was founded by James
William Barrow, in February 1859, in Monticello, Arkansas (Drew County))
Why is the Male College so important to us? (We are the only Fraternity to ever have a college named
after it, showing our commitment to scholarship)
Who was the first Grand Alpha? (John Clark Sims)
Who is the current Grand Alpha?
When were Grand Chapter and the Executive Boards established? (Convention of 1869)
When did Grand Chapter approve of an International Office? (The 52nd Grand Chapter in 1915)
What city and state was the International Office in? (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
When did the Fraternity first buy an office building? (1927)
Where did the International Office move to in 1982? (Valley Forge, Pennsylvania)
Where did the International Office move to after that (the current location)? (Chester Springs,
Pennsylvania)
How much did this last International Office cost, and where did the money come from? ($230,000, and the
money came from the Fraternity Endowment Fund)
What do you see when you walk in the front door? (A giant oil painting of Dr. Mitchell, and a 125 year old
grandfather clock donated from Alpha Chapter)
Who works in the Office? (The Executive Vice President, Director of Chapter Services, two Educational
Consultants, and an Administrative Assistant)
Draw the New Member pin.
Draw the membership badge.
Draw the standard recognition symbol.
Draw the Fraternity flag and write the colors. (Black and old gold)
What are Phi Kappa Sigma‟s 2 nicknames? (Skulls, Phi Kaps)
What is the Fraternity flower? (Yellow Chrysanthemum)
Draw the Coat of Arms.
Draw the Chapter seal.
What does the maxim mean? (“Equal To The Stars In Endurance”)
Chapter 5 of the Skull Sessions (Phi Kappa Sigma Chapters):
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Name at least 10 active Chapters (Greek letter and school).
What Grand Delta region are we in?
What are the other Chapters in our region?
Chapter 6 of the Skull Sessions:
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What is Grand Chapter? (A bi-annual convention meeting of undergraduates, national volunteers and
officers, Headquarters staff, and alumni, with legislative and executive powers, authorized to pass laws
necessary for governance and administration of the Fraternity)
When and where was the first Grand Chapter? (1869, in Philadelphia)
Prior to 1869, who had the power to call conventions and grant charters to new Chapters? (Alpha Chapter)
What is the Executive Board, and who is on it? (The Executive Committee, the Grand Deltas, and past
Grand Alphas)
What is the Executive Committee, and who is on it? (It serves as a Board of Directors for the Phi Kappa
Sigma Incorporated Company. It is made of the Grand Alpha, Grand Beta, Grand Pi, Grand Sigma, Grand
Tau, and the 2 Grand Thetas)
Name the seven Grand Officers and their duties. (Grand Alpha – presides over Grand Chapter and serves
as President of the Fraternity. Grand Beta – long range planning of the Fraternity, and public relations, as
well as Vice-President of the Fraternity. Grand Pi – leadership and educational programs. Grand Sigma –
Secretary to the Grand Chapter, Executive Board, and Executive Committee. Grand Tau – collection of all
dues and fees. Grand Thetas – supervise Grand Deltas and help with expansion. Grand Deltas – regional
officers for undergraduate Chapters)
What is a Chapter Advisor? Who is ours? What is his duty? (A liaison between the Fraternity and the
undergraduate Chapter, and counsel to the Chapter officers. His duty is to provide assistance to the
Chapter wherever necessary)
What 3 positions make up the Executive Staff, and what are their duties? (Executive Director – basically
the CEO of the Fraternity, and helps manage the business side of the Fraternity. Director of Chapter
Services – coordinate and direct the Chapter services and provide resources for all undergraduate
Chapters. Educational Consultant – traveling consultant to help assist Chapters with whatever they need
assistance in)
What is the Endowment Fund, and when was it established? (Established in 1907, it‟s a fund that supports
all general operations of the Fraternity)
What is the Phi Kappa Sigma Foundation? (A separate entity from the Fraternity, founded by alumni in
1953. It manages programs such as leadership programs, and scholarships)
Name the 9 undergraduate officer positions in the Chapter and their duties. (Alpha – President. Beta –
Vice-President / Recruitment Chair. Pi – Scholarship Chairman. Iota – development of New Members.
Tau – collection of fees and dues. Upsilon – Alumni Relations Chairman. Sigma – Secretary. Psi – Social
Chairman. Thetas – Sergeants-at-Arms and meeting enforcement)
Chapter 7 of the Skull Sessions (The Undergraduate Chapter Roles and Responsibilities):
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What is Mitchell Chapter Standards? (A standardized way of assessing how Chapters are doing on a
yearly basis)
What happens to a Chapter that receives less than a 70 on Mitchell Chapter Standards? (Automatic
probation, sanctions such as social probation or fines, possible suspension)
Name the 7 areas of Mitchell Chapter Standards and at least 2 requirements for each. (Chapter
Management, Financial Management, Community Involvement, Membership Development, Fraternity
Involvement, Risk Management, Bonus Points – see page 69 in the Skull Sessions for the list of
requirements for each section)
Name at least 8 Mitchell Chapter Standards awards, and their requirements. (Chapter Excellence,
Distinguished Chapter, Outstanding Chapter, Founder‟s Cup, Best Presentation, Keller Scholarship Award,
Jens Scholarship Award, Educational Fund Scholarship, Community Service Award, Most Improved
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Chapter, Estes Finance Cup, Chapter Newsletter Award, Hart Newsletter Award, Risk Management
Excellence Award, Grand Chapter Attendance Award, Alpha Omega Song Award, Best Chapter Website
Award)
What is the Founder‟s Cup? (The award for the highest 2 year total score on Mitchell Chapter Standards)
Name 3 scholarship awards that Phi Kappa Sigma gives out, and describe each. (Keller Scholarship
Award, Jens Scholarship Award, Educational Fund Scholarship, Hutchinson Key Scholarship Award)
Name and describe the 4 individual awards that Phi Kappa Sigma gives out. (Alumnus Of The Year, Neal
L. Hospers Outstanding Undergraduate Award, Hutchinson Key Scholarship Award, Phi Kappa Sigma
College Diploma)
Chapter 9 of the Skull Sessions (Phi Kappa Sigma Hall of Fame):
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Name at least 5 distinguished alumni in the Phi Kappa Sigma Hall of Fame.
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XIV. Brotherhood and Teambuilding Activities
Introduction
These activities have been developed and compiled to help your Chapter become stronger and more unified.
The purpose of these activities is to build brotherhood and promote interaction among brothers. Each has an
associated purpose: getting acquainted, self-disclosure, discussion, building trust, building rapport, developing
respect, enhancing unity or discussing fraternity and personal values.
While all of the activities have definite purposes; try to think of ways to use one activity to accomplish a
number of goals. For example, combine a “getting acquainted” activity with introducing yourself and others
during a rush event. Think of creative ways to maximize participation.
The activities can be used for New Member retreats, Chapter retreats, Chapter recruitment workshops,
Brothers-only parties, New Member activities, Interfraternity Council retreats, pre-initiation activities, Chapter
pride weeks, post-initiation programs, Junior IFC programs, or simply an inspirational beginning or end to a
Chapter meeting.
101 Activities
1. Participate in a leadership retreat/weekend with a ropes course and teambuilding activities
2. Incorporate teambuilding activities into the regular meetings of the new member class and solicit the
participation for the chapter leadership
3. Develop a community volunteer service project for the chapter to be performed on a regular basis
4. Create a senior recognition ceremony, demonstrating the continued involvement of members and
commitment to the organization
5. Sponsor/host a career skill development and planning workshop for all members (can be held in
conjunction with resources available on campus)
6. Attend an educational speaker as a chapter with the new member class, process and discuss what was
presented as a large group
7. Institute a book club focused on leadership and growth, comprised of all members of the chapter
8. Invite faculty members to lunch with new members
9. Have a discussion facilitated by a chapter advisor, Fraternity representative or chapter officer in relation to
the values and purpose of the organization
10. Sponsor or host a study skills workshop for the chapter membership (can be held in conjunction with
resources available on campus
11. Host an alumni speaker each week for formal dinner and/or chapter meeting
12. Host and plan an arts and crafts/construction session, contracting items for needing organizations
13. Participate in a recruitment retreat and/or workshop with the entire chapter membership
14. Invite officers of the IFC/PHC or the undergraduate leaders of the Greek community to speak about
governance, involvement and relationships of the community
15. Invite the Greek Affairs advisor to speak about the resources available from his/her office
16. Host a dinner and movie for the new member class and/or the chapter membership
17. Shadow an officer of the chapter and assist in the planning/execution of a program/event
18. Shadow an alum/advisor in your field of study to generate better relationship among constituents of the
chapter and yourself
19. Develop semester/annual goals and objectives for the chapter and a series of action plans and strategies
for accomplishing these benchmarks
20. Plan and execute a fundraiser to help offset initiation cost and membership fees
21. Include all new members in chapter meetings or a portion thereof
22. Include all new members in regular programming and activities
23. Host/sponsor a speaker on health and fitness
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24. Encourage members to become involved in activities in the community and campus outside of the
organization
25. Evaluate the new members process, before, during, and after (ask for the opinions of constituents and
those outside the organization)
26. Host a father‟s weekend
27. Host a mother‟s weekend
28. Host a family and friends weekend
29. Ask a representative from the National Headquarters and/or advisor to provide a presentation or
information on available programs and resources
30. Host a discussion on the finances of the chapter and the breakdown of each expense, facilitating
conversation on the dues to the IFC/Greek Council and National Headquarters
31. Attend/host a IFC/PHC/NPCH/NALFO or Greek Council meeting
32. Participate in Greek community sponsored events (athletic events, speakers, and philanthropy projects)
33. Review parliamentary procedure, its purpose and necessary areas of use
34. Work with University/College involvement/leadership programming to develop a presentation and
discussion on motivation and group dynamics
35. Host/sponsor a presentation from the University/College alumni association and/or Foundation to
encourage involvement in host institution after graduation
36. Host a certified instructor to administer the Meyers-Briggs Personality Type Inventory
37. Ask a faculty member or University/College staff to provide a presentation on ethical decision making
38. Ask a faculty member or University/College staff to provide a presentation/discussion on diversity
39. Host/sponsor a campus health educator to provide a presentation on suicide, eating disorders, depression,
sexual assault, and other health issues
40. Create and execute an alumni pen pal or writing campaign among the members
41. Discuss risk management liability with the University/College legal counsel
42. Brainstorm new methods of positive recruitment and education
43. Host an all campus/community event to “meet the members”
44. Encourage new members to play on the chapter intramural teams
45. Schedule a weekend each season devoted to the maintenance and up keep on internal and external
facilities, invite parents and alumni to help
46. Develop an academic incentive program for new members and the entire chapter membership
47. Conduct regular roundtable, candlelight, gavel pass ceremonies
48. Host/sponsor a speaker on the history of the Greek organizations
49. Brainstorm new methods for improving scholarship performance of members
50. Attend a campus performance or athletic event chosen by the new member class
51. Host a speaker from the campus library to provide information regarding effective research methods
52. Hold a discussion regarding membership standards and expectations
53. Participate and attend regional and national leadership programming of the Fraternity
54. Participate and attend local leadership programming of the University/College
55. Utilize case studies on hazing and risk management to discuss positive methods of development and
additional alternatives
56. Write a letter to the founders stating your thoughts of the organization, make a copy for yourself
57. Write a letter to a mentor thanking them for their guidance and leadership
58. Write a letter to yourself to be mailed in two months or upon a major event stating your goals, aspirations,
thoughts, feels, and hopes for continued development
59. Conduct an executive board meeting with open and encouraged attendance of chapter members
60. Conduct a joint meeting of the chapter executive board and the new member class officers
61. Host/sponsor the University/College president to speak about the campus and his/her role and
understanding of the Greek community
62. Host/sponsor a speaker from the University/College career development/planning center
63. Host/sponsor a faculty recognition dinner
64. Create and develop an event with a non-Greek organization on campus
65. Host/sponsor CPR and FIRST AID certification for all members of the chapter
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66. Host/sponsor a city council representative and/or Mayor to speak to the chapter
67. Encourage members to register to vote
68. Host/sponsor a financial advisor to discuss credit and personal finances
69. Produce an educational project researching the founding and evolution of the organization
70. Encourage members to write an editorial essay on thoughts from the book “Wrongs of Passage,” by Hank
Nuwer
71. Host/sponsor a domestic abuse speaker with another organization on campus
72. Develop and create an alternative spring break program for all members
73. Recognize positive contributions to the chapter from alumni members, parents and volunteers
74. Recognize the positive contributions of 1 member in each class year
75. Encourage members who attend local, regional and national leadership programming to provide
testimonials and speak of their experiences
76. Conduct a chapter fundraiser to sponsor a member to attend UIFI, FuturesQuest, or Leadershape
77. Hold a discussion on the symbols and insignia of the organization
78. Research and review publications and materials from other organizations to learn of resources and
programs each provides
79. Develop and create a parents alliance for the chapter membership
80. Dedicate a weekend to clean, repair, and refurbish any and all ritual regalia and equipment
81. Encourage new members to schedule at least 1 hour each day for personal development and reflection
82. Host/sponsor a campus health professional to discuss personal fitness and dietary facts
83. Dedicate an evening to officer transition and election for the new member class. Ask each chapter officer
to provide a 5 minute testimonial on their role and responsibilities
84. Identify a chapter gift for the University/College and begin to allocate the proper budgeting
85. Eliminate the creation of pledge class paddles, mugs, nick names, canisters, etc.
86. Host/sponsor a speaker on etiquette
87. Gather once a week for dinner and lunch in a formal dining hall
88. Invite chapter advisors to new member meetings
89. Visit the National Headquarters as a chapter and/or new member class
90. Partner with a local service organization/altruism to support throughout the year
91. Host/sponsor a sorority recognition week in conjunction with Women‟s awareness month
92. Recognize a member of the week or MVP throughout the semester, who receives a special badge,
medallion or specific artifact of the chapter
93. Celebrate the birthdays of members in the new member class with a jointly signed card
94. Encourage the consistent practice of thank you cards and correspondence of members to all constituents
95. Develop a new member class journal with pictures and inspirational quotes to capture the experience and
thoughts of the class
96. Develop a mentoring program with a local elementary school, where members visit once a week to spend
time with their designated student
97. Visit local retirement center and volunteer service to the staff and simply spend time with the residents
98. Develop and construct a neighborhood and community relationship plan, fostering good relationships
among neighbors
99. Donate clothing and food to local pantries and shelters
100. Meet with local alumni to learn of their experience and speak of the current happenings of the chapter
101. Host/sponsor a BBQ and welcome reception for international students
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“Big Brother/Little Brother Program”
Supplies Needed:
None
Activity description:
The Big Brother is a very important part of the new member education program. Regardless of what name
your chapter uses for these brothers, the goal of the programs are the same. The relationship between a Big
Brother and a Little Brother often lasts much longer than the orientation period. It becomes meaningful to
them during both undergraduate and graduate years. The Big Brother should not only see that his Little
Brother is initiated, but that also enjoys a strong collegiate experience and receives his degree.
The brothers in the chapter who are not Big Brothers also have a very important responsibility. New member
education is the concern of the entire chapter, not only the New Member Educator, his committee, and the Big
Brothers. Every member should have an interest in every new member.
SELECTION PROCESS
The selection process for Big Brothers should not be hasty or random. The Big Brother program and its full
intent should be reviewed during the first week of the program. After a full understanding and a conscious
decision, Big Brother selection should take place. Each new member should list his first three preferences for
a Big Brother. The New Member Educator and his committee will match the Big Brothers with Little Brothers
using proper judgment. Prior to the Big Brother announcement all members selected to be Big Brothers
should be asked if they are willing to participate.
There are a number of criteria which should be taken into account in the selection process. These criteria
should be reviewed with the new members prior to their listing of Big Brother preferences. These criteria
should also be used by the New Member Educator and his committee during the matching process. Use the
following as a guide in formulating your own list:
The same or similar majors or curriculums should be matched in order to help foster a relationship which will
allow the Big Brother to assist the Little Brother in his studies. It is important to select Big Brothers who will
have a positive influence academically on the new members. A minimum grade point average for Big Brothers
should be established.
Dependability: Select Big Brothers who have proven themselves dependable in fraternal and academic
endeavors. Use past Little Brother results as possible indicators.
Attitude: Strong role models with the proper attitude should be selected for the Big Brother positions. Poor
and negative attitudes have a strong possibility of being transferred to Little Brothers.
Personality: Big Brothers and Little Brothers should have complementing personalities. Communication,
style, and sense of humor should be matched.
Graduation date: Members who are expecting to graduate in the coming few months should not be allowed to
be Big Brothers, this would not allow for the proper amount of exposure to the Big Brother program.
Interests: Similar hobbies should be used as a criterion, as they can automatically stimulate a strong
friendship.
Hometowns: Brothers and new members from the same hometown or who are currently very good friends
should not be matched. The big Brother program is designed to create new friendships.
RESPONSIBILITIES
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In order to make the Big Brother an effective part of the program, they must have specific responsibilities.
They should be written and distributed to the Big Brothers for their reference and use. The following is a list of
expectations and responsibilities which should serve as a guide in helping you develop your own list.
I. A Big Brother should:
Be in good standing with the chapter (have a zero account balance)
Be at or above the all-men‟s grade point average
Attend all new member meetings with his Little Brother
Serve as a positive role model for his Little Brother
Have similar fraternal and personal interests
Monitor academic performance
Assist in the Little Brother‟s social adjustment
Establish a relationship with the parents of the Little Brother through letters and telephone calls
Act as a sounding board when needed
Give introduction and explanation of chapter customs
Hold weekly meetings with the Little Brother
Expect his Little Brother to perform the responsibilities listed below
Work in close cooperation with the New Member Educator
II. A Little Brother should:
Meet with his Big Brother at least once each 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
Expect his Big Brother to perform the responsibilities listed above
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