Cornerstones - Integrated Pledge Manual

Gold Book Series
Acacia Fraternity International Headquarters
Cornerstones - Integrated Pledge Manual
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2010 Version
Acacia Fraternity International Headquarters
8777 Purdue Rd., Suite 225
Indianapolis, IN 46268
tel (317)872-8210
fax (317)872-8213
email: [email protected]
email: [email protected]
www.acacia.org
www.gatesofsamos.org
(C) Acacia Fraternity 2010
All portions of this manual may be reproduced for use in member education, provided
acknowledgement of the source and notification of such use is given to Acacia International
Headquarters.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2010 Version
Table of Contents
About Acacia Fraternity
4
About This Book
4
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2010 Version
About Acacia Fraternity
Acacia Fraternity, founded in 1904 at the University of Michigan, is a non-profit organization
headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, with chapters across North America. The headquarters
staff serves as the pleasure of the International Council of Acacia Fraternity, which is elected by the
International Conclave which meets every two years. Representatives from the local chapters of
Acacia Fraternity constitute the International Conclave - each chapter represented by the
undergraduate chapter president (Venerable Dean) and the alumni advisor (Chapter Advisor).
Acacia Fraternity has been the vehicle by which many young men have learned and improved their
leadership skills, participated in human service activities, and prepared for a role of great
importance in their communities.
The core values of Acacia Fraternity are Virtue, Knowledge, and Truth.
The mission of Acacia Fraternity is :
A - Academic achievement and betterment of ourselves through participation in student
activities
C - Community service to better the lives of everyone who comes in contact with the
Acacia Fraternity
A - Acquire leadership skills to become more involved with and have a greater influence in
society
C - Character building experiences which bring about maturity, integrity, and a sense of
responsibility
I - Individual development which instills personal confidence in every social arena, and
A - Ability to attract and retain people who represent and believe in these Acacian values
The vision of Acacia Fraternity is : “Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders”
The motto of Acacia Fraternity is “Human Service”
About This Book
This book is meant to contain all of the conceptual frameworks that are important to the
Cornerstones membership development program and is still a work in progress. You will find
information on how alumni can become involved in the program and how our chapters can apply
for pilot membership in the program. Please contact Patrick McGovern Director of Membership
Development, at [email protected] with any comments or questions.
Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
www.acacia.org
Acacia Fraternity International HQ 4
Table of Contents
Introduction
Unto whom much is given, of him shall much be required ......................................................................................X
Working together toward a common goal .................................................................................................................X
Accountability, Academics .........................................................................................................................................X
Getting Started With Cornerstones...........................................................................................................................X
Anti-Hazing Policy ......................................................................................................................................................X
Week One - Welcome to Acacia Fraternity ..............................................................................................................X
Cornerstones Activity: SMART Goals & Acacia Basic Chapter Operations ............................................................X
Cornerstones: Membership Development Program ..................................................................................................X
An Acacian’s Pledge ..................................................................................................................................................X
Worksheet One – Pythagoras, Acacia’s Mentor ........................................................................................................X
Week Two - Personal Growth and Expanding Relationships .................................................................................X
Parliamentary Procedure Tips/ Worksheet ................................................................................................................X
Intro: Human Service Project ....................................................................................................................................X
Cornerstones Activity: Academic Achievement.........................................................................................................X
Week Three - Leaving Your Legacy & Personal Development ...............................................................................X
XX History ..................................................................................................................................................................X
Your Acacia Story .......................................................................................................................................................X
Cornerstones Activity: Appreciation of the Arts, Fraternal Heritage .......................................................................X
Worksheet Three – Acacia History: 103 Years of Brotherhood.................................................................................X
Week Four - One Among Many: The International Fraternity..............................................................................X
Cornerstones Activity: Social Attitude ......................................................................................................................X
Worksheet Four – Acacia International Headquarters .............................................................................................X
Week Five - Know Thyself, Ancient Instructions for Life Today ...........................................................................X
Cornerstones Activity: Spirituality, Personal Wellness ..............................................................................................X
Worksheet Five – Insignia and Heraldry ...................................................................................................................X
Week Six - Human Service: Reaching Out to Help Others ....................................................................................X
Publicizing the Project ................................................................................................................................................X
Sample Press Release ..................................................................................................................................................X
Cornerstones Activity: Personal & Professional Development .................................................................................X
Week Seven - The XX Greek Community ...............................................................................................................X
Greek Terminology .....................................................................................................................................................X
Greek Community......................................................................................................................................................X
Week Eight - The 47th Proposition of Euclid...........................................................................................................X
Reflection & Evaluation: Pledgeship .........................................................................................................................X
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Insert_University Chapter of Acacia Fraternity
Pledge Education Manual
No portion of this manual may be reproduced
by any means without permission from the XX Acacia Fraternity
Venerable Dean, Executive Council, Chapter Advisor or from Acacia
International Headquarters.
The Fraternity acknowledges its sincere appreciation to:
The Kansas State Chapter of Acacia Fraternity,
The International Council of Acacia Fraternity,
& Acacia Fraternity International Headquarters Staff Members
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Being a Pledge of Acacia Fraternity
Unto whom much is given, of him shall much be required...
Congratulations on taking the first steps of your Acacia journey. The journey process marks a new
beginning and fresh start to examining yourself. We hope to strengthen the ties of friendship with all
members, as well as prepare ourselves to take an active part in the campus and community.
The accompanying material will serve as a resource for your journey. We seek to assist you in several ways,
directly with the Cornerstones program, as well as indirectly with goals aligned to meet high standards of
success. We offer the theories, concepts and resources; however, your creative mind must unlock some
ancient philosophies to fully learn and apply the skills we present.
We expect Pledges to learn, to think outside of the box, and to create original ideas from the enclosed
information. We encourage direct contact with anyone who can help you meet your potential in life, and to
seek guidance from Acacia Fraternity’s guiding principles of Virtue, Knowledge, and Truth.
Unto whom much is given, of him shall much be required. We will hold you accountable for contributing
to the program in several specific ways as a pledge. The education program will orientate you to Acacia.
Pledges are expected to:
•
Attend meetings ready to contribute
•
Complete assignments within the appropriate timeframe
•
Work willingly to make Acacia worthy of its ideals
•
Adhere to the Laws of Acacia, Chapter policies & ‘An Acacian's Pledge’
This supplement outlines our promises. The performance comes by committing and aligning yourselves to
the ideas. Dedication results in sacrifices, yet the benefits extend beyond any current challenges. Brothers
and Alumni will be available to assist with concerns or questions.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Education Goals
Working together toward a common goal...
The pledge education program is not intended to brainwash you or waste your time. This experience equips
you with the freedom to escape the confines of routine traditions, allowing you to focus on personal
application to your life. We will challenge you to examine the purpose of your life. We expect self-discipline
and initiative to address the complex issues to reveal your life mission. Grappling with deep questions may
not come easily, and we want to provide a controlled environment to give flexibility to each individual.
Along with individual development, teamwork will be stressed as a major component of the experience.
Working together toward a common goal teaches cooperation, collaboration, the importance of
relationships, and persistence. Refining these skills for improvement can advance your leadership style by
presenting the opportunity to accomplish the project and enjoy the satisfaction of completion.
Additional goals of the program are listed below:
•
Improve members in scholastic pursuits, personal self-discipline, leadership skills and social
interactions
•
Enhance the college experience by encouraging fraternity, campus and community activities
•
Focus on service to others with outside-of-the-fraternity projects
•
Develop an effective mentor relationship, with a Cornerstones Level Advisor
•
Provide an enjoyable and safe experience with strict adherence to all policies against hazing
•
Emphasize total integration and inclusion of all members, while respecting differentiation as a
natural part of any group
•
Complete an annual review of activities to insure up-to-date and effective membership
development
•
Provide post-initiation reflection time
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Accountability Structure
There may be times during your pledgeship that you have time commitment conflicts or questions
about the process, and it is important that you know who to speak with at those times. Your
Senior Dean (or Pledge Educator) is the first brother that you should speak with pertaining to your
situation. The Senior Dean must be kept informed about your status as a pledge, and must be
informed if there is any reason that you cannot fulfill the expectations for a pledge of Acacia
Fraternity. If the Senior Dean is not available, you should speak with the Venerable Dean.
If for any reason you feel that you have an issue that you cannot speak with a member of the about,
you are instructed to contact your alumni Chapter Advisor, Insert_Chapter_Advisor
at Insert_Advisor_Number or Insert_Advisor_EMail
Senior Dean or
Pledge Educator
Venerable
Dean
Chapter
Advisor
Acacia
Headquarters
You are always welcome to contact Acacia International Headquarters, in Indianapolis, IN at
(888)345-1904 or [email protected] for anything related to your membership.
Academics as Top Priority
As a college student, your first duty is to your academic work. As an Acacian, your second duty is
to your fraternity. No fraternity activity should be permitted to interfere seriously with academic
work, and no additional campus commitments should cause you to neglect fraternity obligations.
This does not mean that study can be used as an easy excuse to avoid participation in chapter
functions, or that the fraternity should cause you to drop out of all other forms of campus life.
Demands on your time will be most heavy during the week throughout the academic year.
Difficult assignments and examinations will require more time for study - while chapter meeting
nights, Cornerstones development activities, social functions, and major campus events in which
Acacia participates will require more time for fraternity activities. A mark of maturity is an
individual's ability to organize his time and balance his priorities so that justice is done to all of his
responsibilities while at the same time he enjoys a sufficient amount of recreation and develops his
special interests.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Anti-Hazing Policy
Acacia has a no hazing policy as a guideline for all pledging and membership programs. Hazing in
any form is absolutely forbidden. Hazing is defined as any instance of physical abuse, psychological
abuse, or improper obligations, requirements, or time restrictions associated with or involving new
members or their activities. In addition, the Human Rights Code prohibits any form of racial,
ethnic, and sexual harassment.
If at anytime you feel you are being hazed report it immediately to the Acacia Fraternity
Headquarters: 1-888-345-1904. You can also contact the Greek Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOTHAZE.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
The Cornerstones Program
(INSERT RELEVANT INFO HERE, THEN INCLUDE EXERCISES IN INDIVIDUAL
GUIDE IN THE WEEK ONE AGENDA)
Cornerstones Activity: Getting Started
Before you go any further, please make sure that your Senior Dean, or Pledge Educator, or
Cornerstones Chairman has the following information from you: first name, middle name, last
name, preferred email address. This information will be used to create a user account at
www.gatesofsamos.org and will allow you to chronicle your development throughout the
Cornerstones program. It will also network you to your alumni Level Advisor, allowing him to
provide feedback on the reflections you write, based upon your experiences. He will offer his time
to help guide you on your journey of brotherhood. If you ever have a problem with logging into
the site, or get locked out, please send an email to Patrick McGovern, Director of Membership
Development at Acacia Fraternity Headquarters, at [email protected].
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
The Road Ahead
Beginning this week, at your Week One meeting, we will follow a consistent format for your
acclimation to Acacia Fraternity. You will notice that the schedule for your education is 8-weeks.
Your Senior Dean should during the first meeting inform you of when you will be Initiated
assuming you meet all of the (1) participation expectations, (2) financial obligations, and (3)
personal conduct expectations.
Please remember that your time during pledgeship is “probationary” - during this time we will be
educating you about how we function as brothers, and expecting a reasonable effort be made on
your part to participate fully. This time is also probationary in the sense that you will always have
the final decision about whether you desire to continue your association with the chapter and the
International Fraternity.
Participation Expectations We, as Acacians, expect that you will fully participate in the affairs of the chapter, including your
weekly meetings, development assignments, and overall interaction with the brothers. We desire to
include you in our activities, and to educate you about “the way that we do things”, building a
foundation of understanding so that you may one day call yourself not only a member, but a leader
within the organization.
Financial Obligations As is the case with all membership associations, there are financial obligations for you to uphold in
order to begin and maintain your membership in the group. Some of these obligations are
determined by the International Conclave and International Council of Acacia Fraternity, and
some are determined by the local chapter that you are joining. A further explanation of these
obligations is listed on page _____. Trust that we, as Acacians, understand that there may be times
when it causes you a hardship to keep up these obligations, and that we only request honest and
timely communication from you in these circumstances. Many brothers throughout the years have
been able to request and fulfill a modified payment plan with their local chapter in order to
maintain their membership. Please just inform us at the earliest time that you can, and we will do
our best to collaborate with you to find a solution. We believe that “where’s there a will, there’s a
way.”
Personal Conduct Expectations
(INSERT LANGUAGE HERE ABOUT AN ACACIAN’S PLEDGE, OATH IN PLEDGE
INDUCTION)
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Format for Weekly Meetings and Expectations/Assignments
Following these pages you will find guides to your weekly meetings and assignments that will move
you toward full understanding of our fraternity. Each will have the following components:
• an outline of the week’s meeting and expectations
• an objectives statement to inform you of the intended outcome of our time together
• a list of the assignments for the upcoming week
• a preview of the areas of focus for the following week’s meeting
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Week One
Welcome to Acacia Fraternity
Outline:
Objectives:
• Reflections from Pledge Induction Ceremony
• Identify the purpose of our organization
• Pythagoras, chapters I and II
• Understand the resources available
• Executive Member Spotlight: Senior Dean
• Identify importance of goal setting
• Introduce Chapter Advisor & House Corp. Pres.
• Mission/Vision/Preamble
Assignments Due for Next Week:
• Chapter Constitution & Bylaws
• Commit the Preamble to memory
• Cornerstones Program Intro
• Worksheet #1 – Pythagoras: Our Mentor
• SMART Goal setting
• Cornerstones Activity: SMART Goals & Acacia
• Introduce ‘An Acacian’s Pledge’
Basic Chapter Operations
• Organizational Chart
Up Next Week:
• Cornerstones Activity: Academic Achievement
• Pledge Class Officer Elections
• Review of SMART goals
• Parliamentary Procedure
• Big Brother Requests
Reflections from pledge Ceremony
Do you declare, upon your honor, that you will...
• fulfill all prerequisites for members
• let no unworthy motive prompt you to seek membership in Acacia
• endeavor to bring credit to Acacia
• not join any similar Greek organization
• live in Chapter house, unless excused for good and sufficient reasons
• retire quietly if unable to continue the Acacia journey
• faithfully observe regulations of international organization and the XX Chapter
Pythagoras Reading: Chapters I and II, The Acacia Fraternity and Pledge Membership
Executive Member Spotlight: Senior Dean, Brother____________________
Below list 3 main responsibilities and any other important notes about this office:
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Chapter Advisor Introduction:
Name:______________________
Phone:______________________
Email:______________________
Question: What is the primary role of the Chapter Advisor?
House Corporation Introduction:
Name:______________________
Phone:______________________
Email:______________________
Question: What is the primary role of the House Corporation President?
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Mission of Acacia Fraternity
A
Academic achievement and betterment of ourselves through participation in student
activities.
C
Community Service to better the lives of everyone who comes in contact with Acacia
Fraternity.
A
Acquire leadership skills to become more involved with and have a greater influence in
society.
C
Character building experiences which bring about maturity, integrity, and a sense of
responsibility.
I
A
Individual development which instills personal confidence in every social arena, and,
Ability to attract and retain people who represent and believe in these Acacian values.
Mission Statement of local chapter
Acacia Fraternity will be a XX campus leader in the development of men as an established
brotherhood, dwelling in harmony. We will be guided by our values in the development of each
member's life, while supporting the university's mission. An Acacian's life is a commitment to
support the community, university and undergraduate Chapter.
Vision
Virtue, Knowledge, and Truth
Preamble
"...to strengthen the ties of friendship, one with another; to prepare ourselves as educated men to
take a more active part and to have a greater influence in the affairs of the community in which we
may reside; and, above all, to seek the truth and, knowing it, to give light to those with whom we
may be associated as we travel along life's pathway."
Motto
Human Service
Chapter Constitution and Bylaws
*every new member/pledge should receive a hard copy of these documents
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Cornerstones: Membership Development Program
Reference: Cornerstones program manual
Cornerstones Mission
The mission of Cornerstones is to provide a framework for personal development of active
members in the areas of Intellectual Growth, Social Awareness, and Physical Well-Being. Through
effective deployment of human resources, technology, and positive reinforcement, Cornerstones
benefits the individual, the chapter, the campus on which the chapter resides, and Acacia
Fraternity.
Cornerstones Vision
Acacia Fraternity is dedicated to:
• empowering scholars to gain knowledge about a diversity of subjects,
• developing gentlemen who understand and demonstrate social responsibility, and
• encouraging athletes to always seek improvement in their physical fitness and personal wellness.
As such, the vision of the Cornerstones program is an intentional, transformative learning
experience for each individual member.
Acacia Values
The Cornerstones program, as we are beginning to understand, is not a new set of ideals for today as
much as it is a recommitment to Acacia values utilizing the language and technology of today. Our
focus is the same as it always has been, but we are exemplifying this focus in new ways. The
guiding principles of Acacia are Virtue, Knowledge, and Truth – and we can see these principles in
action through Cornerstones activity. By maintaining a focus on these values, Acacia Fraternity
will continue to stand the test of time.
A focus on Acacia’s guiding principles, or values, will be at the forefront of all Cornerstones
activity. This will involve a proactive effort amongst actives and alumni at each pilot chapter, an
effort that may challenge the comfort zone of each participant.
www.gatesofsamos.org
The Cornerstones website, www.gatesofsamos.org, is the primary means of communication
between undergraduates and Level Advisors. Managed at the Executive Staff level, the website
allows users to join the program as Student Members, Level Advisors, or Career Development
Mentors. Every activity listed in the program level outlines is backed by an interactive form on the
website. The forms allow students to describe their experiences and explain the benefits gained
from each activity. Level Advisors then review these entries to deliver feedback and confirmation of
activity completion. Once an individual student completes all necessary activities within a level, the
Level Advisor will meet with the chapter’s Membership Development Chairman to grant access to
the next level.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Creating your own Activity
While the Cornerstones program curriculum provides a complete development track, with
carefully selected activities and reflection questions, it is recognized that we have not covered all of
the possible activities that may suffice to provide the student with a transformative learning
experience. To that end, the Headquarters Staff encourages members to come up with alternate
activities that would suitably replace any of the curriculum requirements. Only after having been
approved by the Level Advisor is an alternative activity acceptable. An email should be sent to the
Level Advisor explaining the change in activity that the student is suggesting. The Level Advisor
will then assess its relevance and approve or disapprove the activity. The student will simply notate
the change in the text field of the website, i.e. “I completed an approved alternate activity for this
requirement; and it was to….” They will then respond to the question, “How was this experience
meaningful to you, and how will you incorporate what you learned?”
Cornerstones Level Advisors
Reference: Level Advisor Gold Book
A Level Advisor is an Acacia alumni member that has volunteered to participate as an advisor to
one or more undergraduate members working their way through the Cornerstones program.
Role:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Serve as a coach, a mentor, and a guide to one or a more Acacia undergraduates
Encourage the undergraduate members to advance through the 4 levels of Cornerstones
Monitor the progress of one or more Acacia undergraduates via the Cornerstones website at
www.gatesofsamos.org.
Provide feedback to the members that you advise, based on their progress
Approve a member’s advancement to higher levels
Communicate program feedback to HQ Staff via the local Lead Level Advisor
Cornerstones Activity: SMART Goals & Basic Acacia Operations
Reference: Cornerstones Manual
• Complete the Individual Guide for Cornerstones, including writing out your goals, clarifying your
values, and writing a personal mission statement
• Complete Basic Acacia Operations activities of the Cornerstones program.
• Finish these projects by logging them on-line and submitting them for review by your Level Advisor
Assignments Due :
• Make sure Senior Dean has your completed Pledge Record
• Learn the Preamble to recite next week at start of meeting
• Worksheet #1
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
Next Week: Election of Class Officers
A purpose of the pledge education process is to prepare individuals to become the next leaders of
the Chapter, university, and community. President John F. Kennedy said the day of his tragic
death that, “leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” We, as XX Acacians, find
this to be an important connection on our path of building an exceptional life.
As a pledge class, you will elect three officers who will be charged with the responsibility of
organizing, motivating, communicating, and cultivating this class as the next leaders of XX Acacia.
During next week’s class, you will choose your leadership. The positions elected are:
President
Serves as presiding officer in meetings and is responsible to the Senior Dean and pledge educator
Vice President
Assists the president, presides over meetings in his absence. Assumes the main responsibility of
the pledge class project proposal and implementation stages.
Secretary/Treasurer
Takes minutes at all pledge meetings, assists the president with any necessary correspondence.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth”
2010 Version
An Acacian’s Pledge
I – Ritual & Brotherhood
I will know and understand the ideals expressed in my Acacia Ritual and will strive to incorporate them in my daily
life. I will attend all regularly scheduled meetings, recruitment events, and brotherhood events, so that I may
contribute my honest share of effort.
II - Academics
I will strive for academic excellence and practice academic integrity at all times. I understand that my active
membership may be suspended if my academic performance falls below minimum chapter standard, or the Acacia
standard as stated in the Laws of Acacia. I understand that living in a chapter house may involve observation of
“quiet study hours” and I will abide.
III – Respect for Others
I will respect the dignity of all persons; therefore, I will not physically, mentally, psychologically or sexually abuse
or haze any human being, including any inappropriate actions against an individual due to their gender, religion,
race, or sexual orientation. If I witness an abusive situation, I will notify the Venerable Dean, the Chapter Advisor,
and/or other responsible authorities.
IV – Health & Safety
I will protect the health and safety of all human beings. I will know and abide by the Hazing Policy set forth by the
University, the Interfraternity Council and the Acacia Fraternity.
V- Respect for Property
I will respect my property and the property of others; therefore, I will neither abuse nor tolerate the abuse of
property. I will not intentionally cause damage to my chapter house. I acknowledge that a clean and attractive
environment is essential to both physical and mental health; therefore, I will do all in my power to see that the
chapter property is properly cleaned and maintained. If an accident occurs, I will notify the Chapter Advisor.
VI – Financial Integrity
I will meet my financial obligations to Acacia Fraternity, and all other parties, in a timely manner.
VII – Social Responsibility
I will neither use nor support the use of illegal drugs; I will neither abuse nor support the abuse of alcohol, either in
the chapter house or at any other location. I will understand and comply with the alcohol policy of my chapter, the
Interfraternity Council, the University, and Acacia Fraternity.
VIII - Loyalty
I will trust and support all of my Acacia brothers in abiding by these fraternal expectations, as they may trust in me
to do the same.
____________________________________________
Member
____________________________________________
Witness
____________________________________________
Date
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Worksheet One
Pythagoras, Acacia’s Mentor
Name:
Reference: Pythagoras, Membership Manual of the Acacia Fraternity, pages 58-62
1. The founders of Acacia Fraternity selected Pythagoras to serve as Acacia’s mentor because they
wished to embody three ideals. To provide an example of the ideals of
,
,
2. Timeline: Pythagoras was born on the Greek island of
off the coast of Asian
Minor about
. Having absorbed the elements of Greek philosophy and science,
Pythagoras set out to discover and study the
and
of
other lands. Pythagoras was recommended by Polycrates to
, King of Egypt,
and he was admitted to the entire range of Egyptian learning by the high priests of that land.
Pythagoras had spent the first 50 years of his life in the search for
and
and was ready to begin his life’s great work.
3. Pythagorean Institute: The citizens of Crotona established the world’s first university and a model
city. Describe the two main classes of students.
4. 47th Proposition of Euclid: Finish the sentence…Pythagoras discovered that the square on the
hypotenuse of a…
5. Pythagoras Contributions: List two other teachings of Pythagoras in music and science.
6. The right triangle, to Pythagoras, represented the
and the
representing the
. The hypotenuse, forming the connecting link between
the
and the
with mathematical
,
represented
.
7. The Six Meanings of Acacia
AKAKIA has ritualistic significance in the
to which the Fraternity
owes its Heritage.
AKAKIA is the name of a
which survived the seasons
standing out as a symbol of
and
.
AKAKIA is a Greek word which has been used to designate
and
among Mankind.
AKAKIA
indicate a truly masculine state, importing strength and
protection to the weaker.
AKAKIA reminds us of the need to live a life always mindful of the
.
AKAKIA
fraternity, is ever reminding us of our duty to its age-honored symbolic meanings
and our
as Acacians toward those with whom we
.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Week Two
Operating as a Team
Outline:
• Reflections from Week One
• Reciting the Acacia Preamble
• Pythagoras, chapter III and VI
• Executive Member Spotlight: Venerable Dean
• Meeting Etiquette/ParliPro Tips
• Discussion of personal goals
• “Human Service” Project
• Alumni Mentors
• Big Brother requests
• Election of Class Officers
Objectives:
• Be able to participate in meeting, using
parliamentary procedure
• Reinforce the importance of goal setting
• Begin planning “Human Service” project
Assignments Due for Next Week:
• Cornerstones Activity: Academic Achievement
Up Next Week:
• Cornerstones Activity: Appreciation of the Arts,
Fraternal Heritage
• Learning the Legacy
• Your Acacia Story
• Website Profiles
Reflections from Week 1
• What does the Senior Dean do?
• The Senior Dean, House Corp President and Chapter Advisor were all pledges at one time
• Are my goals realistic and obtainable?
• Am I already taking action to reach my goals?
• Do I want to run for an office?
In the Space Below Write the Preamble to Laws of Acacia:
Reference: Pythagoras, Membership Manual of the Acacia Fraternity, page 71
Pythagoras Reading: Chapters III and VI, Active Membership and The Chapter
Executive Member Spotlight: Venerable Dean, Brother____________________
Below list 3 main responsibilities and any other important notes about this office:
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Parliamentary Procedure Tips – Running Effective Meetings
What is Parliamentary Procedure?
It is a set of rules for conduct at meetings that allows
everyone to be heard and to make
decisions without confusion.
Summary
1. What is Parliamentary Procedure?
2. Why is Parliamentary Procedure
important?
3. Example of the Order of Business.
4. Motions
5. Types of Motions.
6. How are Motions presented?
7. Voting on a Motion.
Why is Parliamentary Procedure important?
Because it’s a time tested method of conducting
business at meetings and public
gatherings. It can be adapted to fit the needs of any
organization. Today, Robert’s Rules
of Order newly revised version is the basic handbook
of operation for most clubs,
organizations and other groups. So it’s important that everyone know these basic rules.
Example of the Order of Business
Organizations using parliamentary procedure usually follow a fixed order of business.
Below is a typical example
1. Call to order.
2. Roll call of members present.
3. Reading of minutes of last meeting.
4. Officer reports.
5. Committee reports.
6. Special orders – Important business previously designated for consideration at this
meeting.
7. Unfinished business.
8. New Business.
9. Announcements.
10. Adjournment.
Motions
The method used by members to express themselves is in the form of moving motions. A
motion is a proposal that the entire membership take action or a stand on an issue.
Individual members can:
1. Call to order.
2. Second motions.
3. Debate motions.
4. Vote on motions.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Types of Motions
There are four Basic Types of Motions.
1. Main Motions: The purpose of a main motion is to introduce items to the
membership for their consideration. They cannot be make when any other motion
is on the floor, and yield to privileged, subsidiary, and incidental motions.
2. Subsidiary Motions: Their purpose is to change or affect how a main motion is
handled, and is voted on before a main motion.
3. Privileged Motions: Their purpose is to bring up items that are urgent about
special or important matter unrelated to pending business.
4. Incidental Motions: Their purpose is to provide a means of questioning
procedure concerning other motions and must be considered before the other
motion.
How are Motions presented?
1. Obtaining the Floor
a. Wait until the last speaker has finished.
b. Rise and address the Chair by saying, “Mr. Chairman, or Mr. President.”
c. Wait until the Chair recognizes you.
2. Make your motion
a. Speak in a clear and concise manner.
b. Always state a motion affirmatively. Say, “I move that we…” rather than,
“I move that we do not…”.
c. Avoid personalities and stay on your subject.
3. Wait for someone to second your motion.
4. Another member will second your motion or the Chair will call for a second.
5. If there is not second to your motion, it is lost.
6. The Chair states your motion.
a. The Chair will say, “It has been moved and seconded that we…”. Thus
placing your motion before the membership for consideration and action.
b. The membership then either debates your motion or may move directly to
a vote.
c. Once your motion is presented to the membership by the Chair, it becomes
“assembly property”, and cannot be changed by you without the consent
of the members.
7. Expanding on your motion.
a. The time for you to speak in favor of your motion is at this point in time,
rather than at the time you present it.
b. The mover is always allowed to speak first.
c. All comments and debate must be directed to the Chair.
d. Keep to the time limit for speaking that has been established.
e. The mover may speak again only after other speakers are finished, unless
called upon by the Chair.
8. Putting the Question to the Membership.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
a. The Chair asked, “Are you ready to vote on the question?”
b. If there is not more discussion, a vote is taken.
c. On a motion to move, the previous question may be adapted.
Voting on a Motion
The method of vote on any motion depends on the situation and the bylaws of policy of
your organization. There are five methods used to vote by most organizations. They are:
1. By Voice – The Chair asks those in favor to say, “aye”, those opposed to say,
“no”. Any member may move for an exact count.
2. By Roll Call – Each member answers “yes” or “no” as his name is called. This
method is used when a record of each person’s vote is required.
3. By General Consent – When a motion is not likely to be opposed, the Chair says,
“If there is no objection….”. The membership shows agreement by their silence,
however, if one member says, “I object”, the item must be put to a vote.
4. By Division – This is a slight variation of a voice vote. It does not require a count
unless the Chair so desires. Members raise their hands or stand.
5. By Ballot – Members write their vote on a slip of paper. This method is used
when secrecy is desired.
There are two other motions that are commonly used that relate to voting.
1. Motion to Table – This motion is often used in the attempt to “kill” a motion.
The option is always present, however, to “take from the table” for consideration
by the membership.
2. Motion to Postpone Indefinitely – Often used as a means of parliamentary
strategy and allows opponents of motion to test their strength without an actual
vote being taken. Also, debate is once again open on the main motion.
Parliamentary Procedure is the best way to get things done at your meetings. But, it will
only work if you use it properly.
1. Allow motions that are in order.
2. Have members obtain the floor properly.
3. Speak clearly and concisely.
4. Obey the rules of debate.
Most importantly, BE COURTEOUS.
The Rules
*Point of Privilege: Pertains to noise, personal comfort, etc. – may interrupt only if necessary.
*Parliamentary Inquiry: Inquire as to the correct motion – to accomplish a desired result, or raise
a point of order.
*Point of Information: Generally applies to information desired from the speaker: “I should like to
ask (the speaker) a question.”
*Order of the Day (Agenda): A call to adhere to the agenda (a deviation from the agenda requires
Suspending the Rules).
*Point of Order: Infraction of the rules, or improper decorum in speaking. Must be raised
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
immediately after the error is made.
*Main Motion: Brings new business (the next item on the agenda) before the assembly.
*Divide the Question: Divides a motion into two or more separate motions (must be able to stand
on their own).
*Consider by Paragraph: Adoption of paper is held until all paragraphs are debated and amended
and entire paper is satisfactory; after all paragraphs are considered, the entire paper is then open to
amendment, and paragraphs may be further amended. Any Preamble cannot be considered until
the
debate on the body of the paper has ceased.
*Amend: Inserting or striking out words or paragraphs, or substituting whole paragraphs or
resolutions.
*Withdraw/Modify Motion: Applies only after question is stated; mover can accept an amendment
without obtaining the floor.
*Commit/Refer/Recommit to Committee: State the committee to receive the question or
resolution; if no committee exists, include size of committee desired and method of selecting the
members (election or appointment).
*Extend Debate: Applies only to the immediately pending question; extends until a certain time or
for a certain period of time.
*Limit Debate: Closing debate at a certain time, or limiting to a certain period of time.
*Object to Consideration: Objection must be stated before discussion or another motion is stated.
*Lay on the Table: Temporarily suspends further consideration/action on pending question; may
be
made after motion to close debate has carried or is pending.
*Take from the Table: Resumes consideration of item previously “laid on the table” – state the
motion to take from the table.
*Reconsider: Can be made only by one on the prevailing side who has changed position or view.
*Postpone Indefinitely: Kills the question/resolution for this session – exception: the motion to
reconsider can be made this session.
*Previous Question: Closes debate if successful – may be moved to “Close Debate” if preferred.
*Informal Consideration: Move that the assembly go into “Committee of the Whole” – informal
debate as if in committee; this committee may limit number or length of speeches or close debate
by
other means by a 2/3 vote. All votes, however, are formal.
*Appeal Decision of the Chair: Appeal for the assembly to decide – must be made before other
business is resumed; NOT debatable if relates to decorum, violation of rules or order of business.
*Suspend the Rules: Allows a violation of the assembly’s own rules (except Constitution); the
object of the suspension must be specified.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Discussion of personal goals
It is important that the goals you set meet the guidelines stated in the Individual Guide to
Cornerstones. Take some time now to review your goals with a partner or the whole pledge class.
Take an interest in the goals of your pledge brothers and think if there are any ways that you could
assist your brothers in the accomplishment of their goals.
Acacia “Human Service” Project:
As you probably already know “Human Service” is Acacia's motto. As an active member you will
play an important role in future philanthropic and service opportunities. The success of these
ventures hinges on your involvement and participation. Understanding what it takes to plan a
“Human Service” event is a great lesson you will learn during your pledge period.
The active Chapter is asking you and your pledge class to plan your own “Human Service” project.
This project was planned to be scheduled for week 6 of the pledge program. As a pledge class you
will have to answer these questions:
• Which organization or entity would we like to help? (Goodwill, Big Brothers and Big sisters, etc...)
• Why are we picking this organization? (It should have a connection with the pledge class.)
• How will we help this organization? (Raise money, volunteer, etc...)
• When will this take place? (Time, dates, check calendar for conflicting events.)
• What do we need to accomplish this task? (Raise $1000, 100 hours, etc...)
• Who can participate? (All of the pledge class, active members, even a sorority.)
This service project is designed to develop a stronger bond of brotherhood between you and your
pledge class. Learning how to plan a successful philanthropy or service project will increase the
likelihood that you will do so again in the future. But, regardless of those things, the most
important aspect is that you will be helping your fellow man.
Alumni Mentors
You will now be paired up with your alumni Level Advisor for the Cornerstones program. Get his contact
information from the Senior Dean or Cornerstones Chairman
Name: ________________________________
Phone: ________________________________
Email: ________________________________
Big Brother/ Cornerstones Mentors request
Identify three brothers in the chapter that you would like to be paired with as your Big Brother or
Cornerstones Mentor and submit those names to your Senior Dean.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Pledge Class Officer Elections
Hold officer elections according to Parliamentary Procedure.
List the elected officers here:
Name: _____________________________
Office: _____________________________
Name: _____________________________
Office: _____________________________
Name: _____________________________
Office: _____________________________
Name: _____________________________
Office: _____________________________
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Week Three
The Legacy of Acacia & You
Outline:
• Reflections from Week Two
• Pythagoras, chapters X and XI
• XX Chapter History
• Insert_Local_Alumni
• Your Acacia Legacy
• Executive Member Spotlight: Treasurer
• Cornerstones Activity: Appreciation of the Arts,
Fraternal Heritage
Objectives:
• Develop a knowledge of the history of Acacia
• Prepare tools to begin building a personal legacy
Assignments Due for Next Week:
• Worksheet #3 – Acacia History
• Complete your Acacia Story
Up Next Week:
• The International Fraternity
• Acacia History
• Cornerstones Activity: Social Attitude
Reflections from Week 2
• What is the preamble actually saying?
• Have I been making an effort to strengthen the ties of friendship?
• How does ParliPro help run a meeting?
• What have I done this week to get me closer to completing my goals?
• What can I do to help the class officers, or what do I need from others to help me succeed in my
office?
Pythagoras Reading: Chapters X and XI, Fraternity History and Acacia History
XX Acacia History
Reference: Reference_For_Local_History
Local_History The chapter was chartered on January 17, 1911, as the twenty-fifth chapter of Acacia.
The chapter remained in operations until 1970 when the charter was revoked. CHAPTER was just
one of many chapters to fold during this era of anti-establishment. In the mid-70's there was a push
to recolonize the chapter but after about five years the Chapter was again closed.
On May 5, 1990 the chapter received another charter, with a membership base of 45 men. The
chapter was very active in human service in the community. It recognized at the 1992 Conclave as
the Best New Chapter for their superior operations and commitment to Acacia’s ideals. A fire in
the mid-90's set blaze to the second floor of the fraternity house dooming the chapter. It
subsequently closed shortly after.
In 2008 the XX was again recolonized by Acacia Fraternity. At an all-time level of success in the the
XX Greek Community the Acacia Alumni decided to push once again for a recolonization effort.
Led by a massive INSERTCHAPTER Alumni outpouring and the Acacia Fraternity Headquarters
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
staff, Patrick W McGovern, Michael Pastko, & Ryan M Allen, the XX Chapter is now recognized as
an Associate Member of the IFC and have begun to plan for chartering as a chapter. The
recolonizing class members are:
Spencer Cummins
Owen Brennan
Chris Thompson
Ethan Fox.
Martin Hughes
Mike Willemain
Walker Phillips
Steve Smith
Bryon Wells
Mick Toren
Joey Cirilo
Shane Von Krosigk
Tim Coates
Acacia History – reference the Pythagoras membership manual, Chapter XI, pages 72-80
Notable Local Alumni
Insert_Local_Alumni, XX Acacian 1918
REPLACE WITH PIC
OF YOUR ALUM
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
FIND AN ALUM WHO YOU WISH TO FEATURE IN THIS SPACE. IDEALLY
HE WILL BE FROM YOUR CHAPTER. IF NO ALUMS ARE CONSIDERABLY
NOTABLE, USE AN ALUM WHO HAS MADE A BIG IMPACT ON CHAPTER.
2009 Version
Reflection Essay
Name:
Your Acacia Story
Write the first chapter to your own Acacia story. What has Acacia meant to you thus far? What
are your visions for a lasting legacy at Acacia, XX and your life?
Executive Member Spotlight: Treasurer, Brother____________________
Below list 3 main responsibilities and any other important notes about this office:
Cornerstones Activity: Appreciation of the Arts, Fraternal Heritage
Reference: Cornerstones Manual
o Complete an activity from the Appreciation of the Arts, and Fraternal Heritage section of
Cornerstones.
o
Finish these projects by logging them on-line and submitting them for review by your Level Advisor
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Worksheet Three
Acacia History: 103 Years of Brotherhood
Name:
Reference: Pythagoras: Membership Manual of the Acacia Fraternity, pages 72-80
1. “We’ve got to organize on a fraternity basis,’ Marshall said. Thus Acacia was conceived in the
library of the University of
, and thanks to the enthusiasm and insight of one
man it was fanned into life from the dying embers of the moribund, undiscriminating
.
2. In the minutes of the first meeting, held on
it was recorded: “...for the purpose
of organizing a fraternity to be known in law as “The Aleph Chapter of the Acacia Fraternity.”
3. In 1904, membership was restricted to those who had already taken the Masonic obligations. The
members were to be motivated by a desire for high
and of such
that the fraternity house would be free of the
vices and
unbecoming activities.
4. Originally Chapters were named in
dropped at the 1913 Conclave.
nomenclature but this designation was
5. The Dual Membership Question: What was the first great conflict of the fraternity?
6. The Pre-Pledge Era: With the average age of students in colleges and universities declining and
initiations in the Masonic Lodges steadily decreasing, change had to come. At Conclave at
, Colorado, in
, the Chapters voted to dispense with the
Masonic prerequisite altogether.
7. What happened to the membership of Acacia following the internal conflict?
8. Depression and War: In 1942 the first
Chicago and the position of
and
was set up in
were created.
9. The Post-War Era: What was the ‘adherence clause’?
10. In 1969 Acacia left its rented quarters and moved to its own National Headquarters building in
,
. And in December 1981, to better service the
undergraduate Chapters, Acacia again moved its National Headquarters to its present location in
.
11. The 1980s witnessed Acacia become
in scope as Chapters were
chartered at the University of Western Ontario and Carleton University in Canada.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Week Four
One Among Many: The International Fraternity
Outline:
• Reflections from Week Three
• Pythagoras, chapters V and VII
• Review of our Acacia Stories
• Acacia Credo
• Executive Member Spotlight: Secretary
• Cornerstones Activity: Social Attitude
Objectives:
• Understand XX Acacia’s role in the Acacia
International community
• Empower our knowledge of Acacia history
Assignments Due for Next Week:
• Worksheet #4 – Acacia International
• Memorize the Credo
Up Next Week:
• Chapter Leadership Structure
• Cornerstones Activity: Spirituality, Personal
Wellness
Reflections from Week Three
• What does the Treasurer do?
• Someday I may help a pledge with their Acacia Legacy writing exercise
• Acacia has such a rich history
• What have I done this week to achieve my goal?
• Where would I be if this chapter was never rechartered?
Pythagoras Reading: Chapters V and VII, The International Fraternity and Fraternity Living
Acacia Credo
Reference: Pythagoras – Membership Manual of the Acacia Fraternity, page VI
I am an Acacian.
I hold a trust for all good Acacians –
Those who were Acacians before me, those who are now,
And those who will become Acacians in the future.
In the Acacia spirit I charge myself with responsibilities;
to better my fraternity’s record.
I am an Acacian wherever I may happen to be.
I gladly contribute my honest share of effort,
And whish to serve Acacia to the best of my ability.
I will always think of Acacia as one of the best fraternities;
Its rich heritage of principles having been fostered so that
I might enjoy a fine fraternal opportunity.
I am an Acacian.
I am proud of it.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Executive Member Spotlight: Secretary, Brother____________________
Below list 3 main responsibilities and any other important notes about this office:
Cornerstones Activity: Social Attitude
Reference: Cornerstones Manual
o Complete an activity from the Social Attitude section of Cornerstones.
o
Finish these projects by logging them on-line and submitting them for review by your Level Advisor
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Worksheet Four
Name:
Acacia International Fraternity: One Among Many
Reference: Pythagoras: Membership Manual of the Acacia Fraternity, pages 24-27 & www.acacia.org
1. List Acacia’s fourteen Founding Fathers:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
2. The supreme governing body of Acacia is the
, which is composed of the International Council and two delegates
from each Chapter, the
and
.
3. The International Council is the supreme executive and judicial body of Acacia. List the
five main functions of the Council:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
4. Complete the current International Headquarters staff.
Office
Name
Executive Director
Assistant Executive Director
Director of Membership Development
Director of Communications
Leadership Consultants
Yr/College
5. List the active chapters and colonies of Acacia Fraternity.
6. Bonus: (Extra Points Awarded!) What Chapter is brother Darold W. Larson from?
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Week Five
Know Thyself, Ancient Instructions for Life Today
Outline:
Objectives:
• Reflections from Week Four
• Develop personal understanding of recruitment
• Cornerstones Activity: Spirituality, Personal
• Learn how to recruit
•
Wellness
Assignments
Due for Next Week:
• Executive Member Spotlight: Recruitment Chair
• Worksheet #5 – Insignia & Heraldry
• Pythagoras, chapters IX
• Personal Thoughts on pledge project
Up Next Week:
• Cornerstones Activity: Personal & Professional
Development
• Human Service
• Pledge Class Project
Reflections from Week Four
• What does the Secretary do?
• What exactly do the lines in the Credo mean?
• I want to travel to our other chapters and meet brothers from all over
• What have I done this week to achieve my goals?
• Will I ever have the opportunity to work for the international headquarters?
Pythagoras Reading: Chapters IX, Pythagoras, Acacia's Mentor
Cornerstones Activity: Spirituality, Personal Wellness
Reference: Cornerstones Manual
o Complete an activity from the Spirituality and Personal Wellness sections of the Cornerstones
Manual.
o Finish these projects by logging them on-line and submitting them for review by your Level
Advisor
Executive Member Spotlight: Recruitment Chair, Brother____________________
Below list 3 main responsibilities and any other important notes about this office:
* It is strongly recommended that the Recruitment Chairman plan on conducting a Recruitment Training Session (guidelines
in Member Recruitment Gold Book) with all new members. The focus should be to build skills in the new members, explain to
them how the process works from the chapter’s standpoint, and inform them about how they play a role.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Worksheet Five
Insignia and Heraldry
Name:
Reference: Pythagoras: Membership Manual of the Acacia Fraternity, pages 28-30
1. “The official coat of arms of The Acacia Fraternity shall be composed of a
, and
___,
. The motto,
shall be inscribed in Greek.”
2. Draw the Badge of Acacia:
3. Where is the badge worn? The badge is not to be worn where?
4. Draw the Pledge Pin of Acacia:
5. The Banner of Acacia measures 3 by 5 feet. What are in the four corners?
6. The Colors of Acacia are:
7. The Flower of Acacia is a
and
in bloom.
8. Essay: (Complete with the remaining space below) Imagine for a moment that you are in an
elevator with a family friend. She asks you where you are living. You respond with, “uh,
Acacia.” She inquires with, “What is Acacia?” Reflecting on your first month of your
Acacia journey, what is Acacia? What does Acacia mean to you?
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Week Six
Human Service: Reaching Out to the Community
Outline:
• Reflections from Week Five
• Executive Member Spotlight: Human Service
Chair
• Pythagoras, chapter XII
•
“Human Service” Project Completion
• Publicizing
• Press-Release
• Cornerstones Activity: Personal & Professional
Development
Objectives:
• “…to take an active part in the community in which
we may reside…”
• Understand importance of human service
Assignments Due for Next Week:
• Complete pledge “Human Service” Project
Up Next Week:
• XX Greek Community
• Greek Alphabet
• Cornerstones Activity: Campus & Community
Involvement
Reflections from Week Five
• Recruitment is the life-blood of the fraternity
• I can be the leader of this chapter one day
• Will I recruit someone who will have an impact on this fraternity
• What have I done this week to achieve my goals?
• Pythagoras not only has made an impact on this fraternity but also the entire world
Pythagoras Reading: Chapter XII, Acacia Sings
Executive Member Spotlight: Human Service Chair, Brother____________________
Below list 3 main responsibilities and any other important notes about this office:
Cornerstones Activity: Personal & Professional Development
Reference: Cornerstones Manual
o Complete an activity from the Personal & Professional Development sections of the
Cornerstones Manual.
o
Finish these projects by logging them on-line and submitting them for review by your Level Advisor
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Complete the philanthropic or human service project your class has been planning.
Describe the project:
What was the project?
What was its significance?
How has your participation in this project affected you?
Publicizing the project:
Fraternities in this day in age generally have a bad public image. The media is quick to jump when
a fraternity screws up, but is reluctant to cover fraternity good will. This is why you should take it
into your own hands by publicizing your own positive impact.
You should always invite campus news organizations to your events. If they don't come, cover it
yourself. Write up a press-release(example in next page), take some pictures, and send it out to
local media outlets and to the headquarters. Another good idea is to contact a Journalism
professor, ask them to announce this event to their class and have a student cover it. In most cases
these students are forced to write real news stories and submit them for publication. They may be
more eager to cover your event than actual working reporters.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Acacia Fraternity, __________ Chapter
(Address)
(City, State, Zip Code) (Local Chapter or National Website)
(Email)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRESS RELEASE
(Date)
FOR IMMIDEATE RELEASE
Contact:(NAME)
(PHONE NUMBER)
(EMAIL)
(Name of Story)
(Short Sentence About Story)
(City Where it Happened) – (Insert story) dfjdsfkhdsfs kdfsdkfdsfhsd dshf dhfsd
hfshjhfsjdfh dhsfjhsd jhfjdshf sdhfjsdh jdshfjdshfjdsh hf jhfjdshf hadsfdhfierfh ahfudhe eur
euhehrfuewh ewh h afdhfiehihfeuiahf hdfharfeiouriejfie fhdsaf sdhafjshafdsjf jfh dsfh fdsjh
fdjshf.
Oewroiewuri fdo woi fdsfdi sfiasfweruefhjdnh dfs sd sdfjds fj sdfjsdjf sfsjdf dsf dsf df
hfksakjewjirjewijewif iew wefiwei wwieuifao oif aoi aodfjdoif foods spdfidofidf sodfod
dofidoiere eiei eue oeroerw.
Fjksd djsfk js ks skjdfdfsd d df dfd fddfdfd ddfdferew werwea dfdg ewad dgfgfdsgfd
dfgdfgdf sfdgdswerfg rte r rtrtrtrt srtrtertasgfg fgfgd fgdfgdfg dfgyhtr ytryrty rtytryrtytry
ewtytytrwy weywywe ewrywyu6w jdshfjdshfjdsh hf jhfjdshf hadsfdhfierfh ahfudhe eur
euhehrfuewh ewh h afdhfiehihfeuiahf hdfharfeiouriejfie fhdsaf sdhafjshafdsjf jfh dsfh fdsjh
fdjshf.
###
EDITOR'S NOTE: THE ATTACHED PHOTOGRAPH WAS TAKEN IN (City Where Photo
was Taken) AT (At What Event). LISTED IN ORDER FROM RIGHT TO LEFT ARE: (List People in Photo)
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Week Seven
A Tradition of Excellence: XX Greek Community
Outline:
• Reflections from Week Six
• Executive Member Spotlight: Junior Dean
• Pythagoras, chapter IV and VIII
• Greek Terminology
• Greek Alphabet
• Cornerstones Activity: Campus & Community
Involvement
• XX Greek Life
• IFC Officers
Objectives:
• Identify Acacia’s role in XX Greek Community
and its success
• Unite as an active part of the XX Greek
Community
Assignments Due for Next Week:
• Memorize the Greek Alphabet
Up Next Week:
• 47th Proposition of the Euclid
• Pledgeship Review
Reflections from Week Six
• How many people did I affect with our philanthropy?
• Acacians have been singing the songs we have learned for 100 years
• Why is Human Service important to Acacia?
• What have I done this week to achieve my goals?
Pythagoras Reading: Chapters IV and VIII, Alumnus Membership and The Essence of Good Taste
Executive Member Spotlight: Junior Dean, Brother____________________
Below list 3 main responsibilities and any other important notes about this office:
Cornerstones Activity: Campus & Community Involvement
Reference: Cornerstones Manual
o
o
Complete an activity from the Campus & Community Involvement sections of the
Cornerstones Manual.
Finish these projects by logging them on-line and reflecting on the experience.
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Greek Terminology
Reference: Acacia Fraternity Headquarters
ACTIVE
An initiated undergraduate member of a fraternity or sorority.
BID
A formal invitation to join a fraternity or sorority.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Time and effort donated toward a charitable cause or community institution to benefit the public
(note the difference between Community Service and Philanthropy).
IFC
Interfraternity Council, the local governing body for the fraternities.
LEGACY
A man whose father, brother or grandfather is a member of a fraternity, or a woman whose
mother, sister or grandmother is a member of a sorority.
MGCA
Mid-American Greek Council Association. A leadership organization that serves Interfraternity
and Panhellenic Councils from schools within a 17-state region of the central United States. Our
executive officers visit the regional conference in Chicago each year to compete for awards, attend
education sessions, and learn about other Greek communities.
NIC
North-American Interfraternity Conference, the national leadership organization for its member
fraternities. XX has 23 member Chapters including Acacia. Acacia Fraternity was a founding
member of the NIC.
NPC
National Panhellenic Conference, the national leadership organization for its member sororities.
XX has 11 member Chapters.
PHC/ PANHEL
Panhellenic Council, the local governing body for the sororities.
PHILANTHROPY
Fund-raising activities or service projects for charitable institutions; or charitable aid/donations to
these institutions (note the difference between Philanthropy and Community Service).
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
XX Greek Community
Reference: Insert_Greeklife_Website
Facts_about XX Greek Life:
• The XX IFC operates separately from the university
• University_Admin_1
• His contact info is Admin_1_Email or Admin_1_Number
• The XX Office of Greek Life is located Where_is_Located
• University_Admin_2
• The Office of Greek Life's contact info is: Admin_2_Email, Admin_2_number
Below List All IFC Officers:
Reference: IFC_Web_Site
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Week Eight
The 47th Proposition of Euclid
Outline:
• Reflection from Week Seven
• Executive Member Spotlight: House Manager
• Evaluation – Pledgeship Reflection
• The 47th Proposition of Euclid
• Evaluation & Reflection: Pledgeship
Objectives:
• Reflect on your Acacia experience to this point
• Identify challenges that may be ahead
Assignments Due for Next Week:
• Worksheet #7 – FINAL Review
• Memorize the 47th Proposition of the Euclid
• Log any Cornerstones events you have not
already logged
Up Next Week:
• International Test
• Initiation, pending...
Reflections from Week Seven
• A lot of planning goes into the social events
• XX has a rich Greek Community
• Am I connected with enough fellow greeks?
• What have I done this week to achieve my goals?
• Would I want to lead the IFC one day?
Executive Member Spotlight: House Manager, Brother____________________
Below list 3 main responsibilities and any other important notes about this office:
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
The 47th Proposition of Euclid:
Reference: Teachings of Pythagoras
The Problem:
The square of the hypotenuse of a right triangle is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.
Note: The proof is a geometric proof. A proof based on arithmetic and measurements is unsatisfactory. This
method is the simplest and most precise geometric proof.
STEPS:
REASONS:
1.Draw line CE perpendicular to side AB.
1.The shortest distance between two points is a
straight line.
2.Draw lines CG and BH.
2.Same as 1.
3.Line AB equals line AG.
3.The sides of a square are equal.
4.Line AC equals line AH.
4.Same as 3.
5.Angle BAH angle GAC.
5.Angle GAB and angle HAC are right angles, and
angle BAC is common to both.
6.Therefore, the triangle GAC is congruent to the 6.The two sides and the included angle are equal in
triangle BAH.
both triangles.
7.Triangle BAH equals ½ square AI.
7.Base AH is common to both and the height is the
same in both (the area of a triangle equals ½ the
same base x the height).
8.Triangle GAC equals ½ rectangle GD.
8.Same as 7.
9.Square AI then equals rectangle GD.
9.Things equal to the same thing , or like things, are
equal to each other.
10.Likewise, square BJ is equal to rectangle EB.
10.Same as 9
11.Therefore, square BJ plus square AI equals
11.The sum of all the parts equals the whole.
square GB
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version
Reflection & Evaluation: Pledgeship
1. In your opinion, what are the purposes of being a pledge?
2. How does the Chapter’s program promote this purpose?
3. Did your first impressions portray an accurate reflection of the process?
4. Identify strengths and weaknesses to the process.
5. Provide suggestions for improvement.
6. Were other areas of your life, such as academics, social, or work affected?
7. How did Cornerstones play into the pledgeship process?
“Virtue, Knowledge, & Truth
2009 Version