The Objectives of Theta Chi Fraternity
were adopted by the Grand Chapter in 1935. Our Objectives
present our goals as a Fraternity, define and explain the
relationship of Theta Chi to other organizations, and set
forth expectations for undergraduate and alumnus members
and chapters. The preamble clearly states the purpose and
mission of the Objectives and the importance which we in
Theta Chi attach to the Objectives. In the latest edition
of The Manual of Theta Chi, we have changed and updated
some terms and definitions found in the Objectives to conform
to our organization and modern usage.
The Objectives can be arranged
into four groups relating to personal, social, cultural
and financial
subjects.
Preamble
To make Theta Chi Fraternity a
positive force for constructive and continued development
of the highest type of citizenship among its members and
to perpetuate the fundamentals of the Fraternity, the following
Theta Chi Objectives are established for attainment by the
individual members and the various chapters.
1. The Fraternity.
To recognize that the fraternity, ever an independent institution,
is a valuable part of higher education, cooperating at all
times with the college or university with which it is associated,
to make the chapter serve as a campus home to the members,
while they are undergraduates and when, as alumni, they
return to campus for visits; to render a definite service
as a means of helping undergraduates to develop and mature;
to provide experience in making and enforcing regulations
for mutual forebearance and cooperation while living together,
in selecting leaders, and in participating in other democratic
processes, as excellent preparation for life after graduation,
and to provide the opportunity for making life long friendships,
which is one of the most valuable assets of college life.
2. Obligations.
To impress upon each member an appreciation of the fact
that the privileges and honors of brotherhood in Theta Chi
carry with them obligations and duties to be properly performed,
and to inspire in all members a sense of responsibility
which will serve them well in their involvement in family,
civic and community life following graduation.
3. Code of Conduct.
To develop a definite practical code of conduct for fraternity
members which will reflect the ideals of our founders, and
by compliance with that code our members will set an example
of true gentlemanly conduct that will be recognized in the
campus and community. The code will include absolute honesty
in our interaction with others, respect for all persons
and property, a responsible attitude in the conduct of all
individual and chapter events, a commitment of service to
the campus and community, and assistance to those less fortunate.
4. Chapter House.
For those chapters with houses, to establish the house as
a fraternity home for members, pledges, alumni and guests.
The appearance and upkeep of the house and the property
are critically important to the image of the chapter and
are key factors in the evaluation of the chapter by the
campus community. All members should be involved in the
maintenance and cleaning of the house.
5. Chapter Government.
To establish in chapter operations and government the principles
of democracy, to encourage involvement and participation
by all members, to develop disciplinary
standards and to administer the operations of the chapter
in an efficient and businesslike manner.
6. College Cooperation.
To communicate and work closely with representatives of
the college or university, recognizing that our maxim, "Alma
Mater First, and Theta Chi for Alma Mater"
emphasizes the significance and importance of the host institution
in Theta Chi Fraternity for each of our chapters. This cooperation
includes regular meetings with the Greek Advisor or other
administrators, and working to assist the college or university
in maintaining and enhancing relations
with the chapter and the Greek System.
7. Pledging Standards.
To base the standards for the selection of new members on
character, the qualities reflected in our Creed and our
Ritual, and potential for development as an active and
involved brother in Theta Chi Fraternity. The pledge education
program must also reflect those qualities, and positive
and constructive methods are utilized in teaching, instructing,
and leading our new members.
8. Scholarship.
To strive to maintain a chapter grade point average which
is above the All Men's Average on campus and to provide
members and pledges with support, encouragement and
recognition for academic excellence. If the chapter has
a house or other facility, to provide an area equipped for
study and an atmosphere which encourages academic achievement,
with quiet hours, a tutor system, reference books, and other
forms of assistance. To identify a Faculty Advisor and to
have that person work with members and pledges on a regular
basis.
9. Activities.
To encourage all members and pledges to involve themselves
in campus activities or organizations. This enhances the
leadership skills of members and emphasizes our mission
on campus to serve alma mater.
10. Library.
To develop a library for use by members and pledges which
includes reference and resource books, supplementary volumes
for textbooks, and the great works of literature, as well
as current news and special interest magazines and periodicals.
11. Alumni.
To sponsor at least two events for alumni each year and
to publish, with the assistance of the alumni board, a newsletter
at least three times each year.
12. Chapter Meetings.
To conduct meetings in an efficient and expeditious manner,
while allowing for the intelligent interchange of opinions
and ideas and encouraging the participation of all
members. Chapter meetings should also be a time for reflection
upon the chapter and the Fraternity, and all members should
have the opportunity to voice their feelings at the end
of the meeting.
13. Interfraternity Council.
To take an active and energetic role in the campus interfraternity
council through regular representation at meetings, holding
offices, and providing leadership through
participation in and support of interfraternity events and
activities. The interfraternity council can have an extremely
positive impact upon the campus and community, and Theta
Chi Fraternity has an obligation to provide support and
leadership for the IFC. Chapters must also strive to uphold
all interfraternity council policies and regulations, supporting
the larger brotherhood of all chapters on campus.
14. Interchapter relations.
To develop and encourage positive relationships with other
chapters and colonies through retreats, meetings, regional
activities and visits.
15. Conferences and Conventions.
To be represented by a delegation of members at all
national and regional events, including regional conferences
and regional retreats, the National
Convention, and the Chapter Leadership Conference.
16. Guest Night.
To designate one evening each week as guest night, at which
a member of the faculty or administrative staff, an undergraduate
leader, or a citizen from the community will be present
at dinner and present a brief talk to the members and pledges.
17. Mother and Father.
To invite and encourage involvement in the chapter by the
mothers and fathers of all members and pledges. This can
be accomplished through clubs for mothers, fathers, or
parents, by scheduling special events for parents, and by
sending a newsletter or the chapter newsletter to all parents.
18. Chapter Endowment Fund.
To create an endowment fund for use in emergency
situations and for loans to deserving undergraduate members.
19. Cash Operation.
To operate the chapter on a sound financial basis with timely
payment of bills, collection of fees, dues and receivables,
and a balanced budget.
20. Chapter Credit.
To establish a good credit rating for the chapter by prompt
payment of all bills or scheduled payments. It is to be
understood that the national fraternity is not responsible
for debts incurred by an undergraduate chapter.
21. House Ownership.
In recognition of the important role that a house, lodge,
residence hall floor or other central living or meeting
place may play in the development of a chapter, all chapters
without a house or other designated meeting place are encouraged
to identify a property or place for that purpose.
22. Internal Cooperation.
To maintain a high degree of cooperation and communication
with the Grand Chapter, the International Headquarters,
the Regional Staff, Leadership and Education
Consultants, and other members of the Official Family of
Theta Chi Fraternity.
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