THE CONSTITUTION OF THE
Delta Epsilon CHAPTER OF
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY
218 College Ave
The University of Rio Grande
Rio Grande, Ohio 45674
PREAMBLE
In order to assist each other in pursuing our personal and collective moral, scholastic, and social development through the practice and pursuit of our sacred ritual, first taught by our Founders Louis Manigault, Stephen Ormsby Rhea and Horace Spangler Weiser at Yale University on December 6, 1845, we the Brothers of the Delta Epsilon Chapter, a chartered chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. at the University of Rio Grande adopt the following Constitution.
ARTICLE I – OUR IDENTITY
Section 1 Name: The name of this chapter shall be known as the Delta Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. at the University of Rio Grande (referred to herein as the Chapter).
Section 2 National Organization: This Chapter is an organization governed by, affiliated with, and beholden to Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc., a non-profit corporation organized under the laws of the State of New York (herein the National Organization). To the extent this Constitution, the Bylaws or any other governing documents of the Chapter are inconsistent with the policies, procedures, regulations or governing documents of the National Organization they shall be void with regard to the inconsistent provision.
Section 3 Purpose: To Better the Man through the creation and perpetuation of brotherhood founded upon the Values of character: Silence, Charity, Purity, Honor, and Patriotism.
A. Silence: He has the strength to embrace silence and the will to build an interior life founded upon an honest desire to truly listen to others. Trust in silence transcends the gulf that is created when men feel the need to compete in action or rhetoric. He is introspective and self-reliant.
B. Charity: He is charitable in the broadest sense of the word. A man who strives for a life of charity and service is more patient, kinder, and more forgiving of the flaws of others. A charitable man sacrifices of himself to help others and seeks no recognition in return. He is humble, reverent, and generous.
C. Purity: He consistently strives for purity of mind, body, and soul. The man who is pure of thought, word, and deed does not shrink from adversity or lofty goals. There is no self-pity, rationalizations, or apologies. He is moral and a gentleman in the finest sense of the word.
D. Honor: He lives a life of personal integrity, thereby accruing honor. An honorable man lives up to promises made— to others and to himself. A man of honor is not vain, and is willing to endure scorn or ostracism rather than conform to the pressures of peers, superiors, or the fashion of the day. He is ethical, honest, and trustworthy.
E. Patriotism: He loves his country, remaining consistently engaged in its affairs. He seeks to know his country and to pass that knowledge on to others. He is devoted to the principles of personal freedom, justice, and civic responsibility embedded in the U.S. Constitution that have made our country. He is loyal, proud, and humble.
Section 4 Code of Conduct: All undergraduate members will adhere to the Fraternity’s Code of Conduct:
A. I will maintain a commitment to excellence in all of my endeavors.
B. I will respect the dignity of all persons; therefore, I will not physically, psychologically, or sexually abuse any individual.
C. I will be a financially responsible individual to both my chapter and the national fraternity.
D. I will not abuse, nor support the abuse, of alcohol.
E. I will not use, nor support the use of, illegal drugs.
F. I will achieve academic excellence.
G. I will hold myself and my brothers accountable for their actions, and understand that I always represent the Fraternity.
H. I will pursue the Values of Silence, Charity, Purity, Honor, and Patriotism through my actions and deeds.
I. I will not condone the discrimination of any individual based on: race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, or age.
J. I will encourage my Brothers to demonstrate the behavior which exemplifies this fraternity’s Code of Conduct.
ARTICLE II – MEMBERSHIP
Section 1 Membership: Membership is limited to male persons who:
i. Are not a member of any Greek-letter fraternity of college grade and national in scope; and
ii. Are not a member of any group antagonistic to fraternities; and
iii. Are likely to be intellectually, morally and socially of benefit to the Chapter; and
iv. Are duly elected by secret vote of the Chapter; and
v. Are fully and duly initiated in accordance with the ritual of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity; and
vi. Fulfill any other requirements for membership contained in the Bylaws of this chapter.
Section 2 Classes of Membership: There shall be four classes of membership and each member of this Fraternity, regardless the class of membership, shall be known herein as a Brother.
A. Undergraduate Members: Any male who meets the membership criteria as stated in Article II., Section 1 and is a full-time student at the University of Rio Grande or is a student attending the University of Rio Grande community college is eligible and shall be an Undergraduate Member of the chapter. Once a man is given a bid he is considered an undergraduate member of the chapter (herein referred to as a New Member). When that man is initiated, he is then considered an initiated undergraduate member of the chapter (herein referred to as Member, any references to all members shall utilize the term Brother(s).
B. Membership Transfer: A member initiated by a chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. who transfers to our institution may affiliate with our Chapter if he obtains transfer affiliation paperwork from Fraternity Headquarters and the chapter approves his affiliation.
C. Suspended Member: A member who has been suspended by the chapter is not eligible to participate in meetings or any function – social, service, fundraising, etc. until such time as his period of suspension is over. A suspended member must either graduate or transfer to another institution to receive alumni status.
D. Alumni Members: Alumni members are all those Brothers who do not qualify as an Undergraduate Member.
Section 3 Local Members: There shall be no local, social, honorary or associate memberships granted. All eligible men who complete the necessary paperwork and participate in the Initiation Ceremony will be considered Undergraduate or Alumnus Members respectively.
Section 4 New Members: This Chapter may admit New Members, which term shall refer to those men seeking to attain membership according to the requirements set forth in this article but have yet to fully satisfy those requirements. The requirements for a man to be accepted as a New Member shall be as follows:
i. An undergraduate male, presently enrolled at the University of Rio Grande may be considered as a New Member, provided that he meets the requirements of Article 2, Section 1., to become a Member and has attained a grade point average of not less than 2.3 on a 4.0 scale; and,
ii. The potential New Member shall be the subject of a review by the Members to ensure a wide spread belief in the integrity and honor of the man in question, a potential New Member should exhibit the purpose and values of this Chapter as described in Article I., Section 3-4
iii. If Members constituting a Quorum, as defined herein, vote to accept the man as a New Member he shall be extended a Bid to join Alpha Sigma Phi; and,
iv. If the man chooses to accept the Bid he shall become a New Member of the Chapter until such time as he meets, or fails to meet, the requirements for full Membership under this Constitution and the Bylaws.
ARTICLE III – GOVERNANCE
Section 1 Constitution: The Chapter shall be governed in all matters by this Constitution. This Constitution may not be set aside in times of adversity or prosperity and may be amended only by the procedures described herein.
Section 2 Bylaws: The Chapter shall adopt Bylaws that describe, in greater detail, the administrative responsibilities, authorities, duties and procedures of the officers and committees as well as other functions of the Chapter. To the extent the Bylaws are inconsistent with this Constitution; they shall be void as to the inconsistency only.
ARTICLE IV – LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY
Section 1 Robert’s Rules of Order: Robert’s Rules of Order, in the most recently published edition, shall govern the course of conduct of each and every meeting of the Chapter and the committees thereof except as they may conflict with any provision of this Constitution or the Bylaws.
Section 2 Legislative Governance by Members: The Members may adopt policies and resolutions according to the terms in this section. In the event the policies or resolutions conflict with the Constitution or the Bylaws, they are void as to the inconsistency only. In all matters where the Members wish to express the opinion of the Chapter by resolution the following process, as it may be supplemented in the Bylaws, and subject to Robert’s Rules as described, shall apply:
i. Each Member has one vote;
ii. When fifty percent plus one of the Undergraduate Members are in attendance at any meeting a Quorum is present, no business may be conducted in the absence of a quorum;
iii. Resolutions, policies, and procedures may be adopted by fifty percent plus one of a Quorum (Simple Majority).
Section 3 Amendment of Constitution: The chapter cannot modify or change any part of the constitution or bylaws that contradict that of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. Constitution or Bylaws. The chapter is able to enhance requirements or increase them, but cannot pass changes that reduce requirements below the set minimum. There are sections of this Constitution taken directly from the national fraternity’s constitution and should those items change on a national level – they would automatically be updated in this document and do not require approval by the chapter. This Constitution may be amended by the following process:
i. At any meeting where a quorum is present, any Member may propose an amendment to the Constitution; OR any Member may propose an amendment to the Constitution to the Prudential Board, at any meeting of the same and at the next meeting of the Members, where a Quorum is present, the Prudential Board may present the proposed amendment; and,
ii. The amendment then may be discussed and debated upon the motion of a Member, and a second, and after a full and fair opportunity for debate the amendment shall be tabled by the chair until a subsequent meeting occurring at least three days later; and,
iii. Following any final debate a vote shall be called and in the event that a super majority numbering at least two-thirds (2/3) of the Members present votes in favor of its adoption, the amendment is adopted and shall become part of this Constitution; and,
iv. The Secretary shall ensure that the Amendment is properly incorporated into this Constitution and the President and Vice President shall agree that it was properly incorporated.
ARTICLE V – EXECUTIVE AUTHORITY
Section 1 Executive Authority of Officers: Those Members elected by the Members of the Chapter to various offices, as described herein (collectively known herein as Officers), shall have executive authority over the Chapter in accordance with the terms of this Constitution and the Bylaws.
Section 2 Elected Officers: The following positions are hereby created and endowed by the Members with such responsibility as defined herein and as may be further defined in the Bylaws. Each Member wishing to hold an office listed in this section shall stand for election according to the terms of this Article as may be supplemented by the Bylaws.
A. President
B. Vice President
C. Treasurer
D. Secretary
E. Marshal
F. Sergeant-at-Arms
G. Alumni Director
H. Recruitment Director
I. Scholarship Director
J. Membership Education Director
Section 3 Election of Officers: Officers of this Chapter shall be elected as follows:
i. Provided a Quorum is present, the President shall accept and record nominations of Members for each and, no later than the last meeting of December each year; and,
ii. Provided a Quorum is present, the President shall accept additional nominations no later than the first meeting in November each year; and,
iii. Following such time as is necessary to allow for all nominations to be made and accepted or declined the President shall open elections no later than the first meeting in December and shall proceed to call for each nominee to come forward and be heard; and,
iv. Each nominee shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to speak and the Members shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to question the nominee; and,
v. After each nominee has had an opportunity to be heard and questioned by the Members, the President shall call for a secret ballot vote to select the Officer from among the nominees; and,
vi. The President, assisted by the Vice President, shall collect and tally the votes in the presence of the Grand Chapter Advisor or a member of the Chapter Council; and,
vii. A majority of all votes cast shall be required to win an election and upon establishing the same the President shall announce the winner; and,
viii. In the event that any Member wishes to challenge the result he may move to have the ballots presented to the Chapter and upon a second and the approval of a Simple Majority the ballots shall be brought forth to be examined by the Members, provided that any such challenge must occur prior to end of the meeting during which elections are held; and,
ix. Following any permitted challenge the President shall declare the winner to be the position elect and the entire process beginning from sub-paragraph (iii) of this Paragraph shall begin again and repeat; and,
x. The elections process must be completed no later than the last chapter meeting in November. The officer installation can occur no later than Founder’s Day or at some point during Founder’s Day Weekend.
Section 4 Term: Each Officer elected under this Constitution shall serve a term of one year beginning no later than January 1st, unless he is removed or resigns according to the terms of this Constitution or the Bylaws.
Section 5 Resignation: Any elected Officer who can no longer perform his responsibilities may resign his office by notifying the President and the Secretary in writing. In the event the President must resign he shall notify the Vice President and the Secretary in writing.
Section 6 Vacancies: Except for the President, any elected Officer who is no longer able to fulfill his responsibilities due to resignation, removal, long term illness, long term absence from the Chapter or any other reason shall be replaced by the temporary appointment of a Member as an acting Officer who shall be appointed by the President and approved by the Prudential Board and shall have all of the authority and responsibility of the office. All such acting Officers shall serve until the expiration of the term of their elected predecessor expires.
Section 7 Succession of the President: In the event that the President is removed or resigns from office, the Vice President shall serve as the President until the expiration of the term of their elected predecessor in office expires.
Section 8 Removal of an Elected Officer: Officers elected according to this Article may be removed by the Chapter for conduct unbecoming of a gentleman or in the event the officer has lost the confidence of the Chapter to fulfill the objects and responsibilities of his office according to the following procedure:
i. At any meeting of the Members where a Quorum is present any Member may move that an elected officer be removed and, upon a second for the motion, such moving Member shall state specific reasons for the motion; and,
ii. The President shall open the floor for any Member to be recognized to speak for or against the motion, in the event that the President is the subject of the motion then the Vice President shall serve as the chairman of the meeting for the limited purpose of carrying forth the following process; and,
iii. Upon offering an adequate opportunity for Members to speak to the issue the President shall offer the floor to the officer who is the subject of the motion granting him a full and fair opportunity to speak to the charges;
iv. Having afforded the subject officer such opportunity the HSP shall call for a vote;
v. At least 2/3 of the Members present must vote in favor of the motion to remove the subject officer.
Section 9 Appointed Directors: The President shall appoint the following Directors (known collectively or individually as Director(s)); Social Director, Philanthropy Director, Risk Management Director, Service Director, Fundraising Director, Brotherhood Development Director, Family Relations Director, and Athletic Director who shall work at the direction of the President to fulfill certain important goals and needs of the Chapter. The Directors shall serve at the pleasure of the President. In the event of removal, resignation or other event precluding their further service their replacements shall be selected and appointed by the President. The Prudential Board must approve all appointed directors.
Section 10 Removal of an Appointed Director: Directors appointed by the President under the terms of this Constitution may be removed at will and without cause by the President. Directors may be removed by the Chapter for conduct unbecoming of a gentleman or in the event the director has lost the confidence of the Chapter to fulfill the objects and responsibilities of his office according to the procedure for removing an elected officer under this Constitution.
Section 11 Multiple Positions: No single Member may hold more than one elected Office but a single Member may hold an elected office and one or more Appointed Directors except for the President, Vice President, Treasurer, Membership Education Director, and Recruitment Director.
ARTICLE VI – PRUDENTIAL BOARD
Section 1 Principal Governing Body: The Prudential Board is hereby established by the Members as the principal governing body of the Chapter which shall be responsible for ensuring the successful completion of the specific activities of the Chapter and continually ensuring progress toward the Chapter’s ENDs. The Prudential Board shall provide guidance and good counsel to the President and his appointed directors in the performance of their duties.
Section 2 Membership: The Prudential Board shall be comprised of eight members who shall be the President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Recruitment Director, Membership Education Director, Scholarship Director, and Alumni Director, all of which shall be elected in accordance with the terms of this Constitution.
Section 3 Governance: Except for the President, each member of the Prudential Board shall have one vote thereon. The Prudential Board shall be chaired by the President who shall conduct the meetings of the same in an orderly fashion, according to Robert’s Rules of Order, to ensure that all business before the committee is completed in a professional manner affording each member the opportunity to participate and have his voice and his vote heard.
Section 4 Responsibilities: The Prudential Board shall be responsible for the following.
i. Chapter Finances: The Prudential Board shall work with the Treasurer to develop the Chapter’s budget each year. The Prudential Board shall regularly review budget updates, projections and the Chapter’s balance sheet and ensure that all are current and that the Chapter’s financial policy and activity is sound; and,
ii. Standards Board Appeals: The Prudential Board shall serve as an Appeals Board, should a Member wish to appeal the sanction or decision of the Standards Board. The Prudential Board may either uphold the decision and/or sanction, make modifications, and/or reverse the decision.
iii. Chapter Officers: Ensuring the success of the Chapter’s officers at every level by holding the President and the Vice President accountable for their conduct. The Prudential Board should assist the President and the Vice President in the many tasks for which they are responsible and should serve as a board to which these senior officers report on the progress, successes and failings they have achieved or suffered in working toward the Chapter’s End’s. The Prudential Board should do all in its power to work with the Chapter’s elected officers and provide good counsel, advice and support to the same.
iv. Constitution and Bylaws Disputes: Resolving all disputes with regard to the meaning and implementation of this Constitution and the Bylaws. In the event that two or more Members reasonably disagree, in good faith, on the interpretation of this Constitution or of the Bylaws, and the outcome of the dispute will have some consequence regarding the actions of the Chapter or an Officer or Director in the immediate term and not in a hypothetical or academic way, then the following process will be used to resolve the dispute:
A. The dispute will be presented to the President and Vice President by at least one Member from each side of the dispute; and,
B. If the President and Vice President agree that (1) a reasonable, legitimate dispute exists and (2) that the resolution of the disagreement will have an impact on a pending action or matter related to the Chapter or an Officer or Director then; and,
C. The two sides may select spokesman to present arguments for their interpretation of this Constitution or the Bylaws to the full Prudential Board at a meeting thereof open to all Members; and,
D. The Prudential Board shall offer each side a full and fair opportunity to present its case and the Committee may ask questions in any meeting open to all Members until such time as the Committee is satisfied that it has heard enough argument to render a considered decision; then,
E. The Prudential Board may retire to deliberate the matter in private and shall only interpret what Constitution or Bylaws actually state and not what they may later be amended or revised to state or what they might ideally state; and finally,
F. The Prudential Board shall vote by a show of hands in any meeting open to all Members to resolve the dispute and the majority decision of the Committee shall be binding and beyond appeal.
Section 5 Constitutional Amendments: The Prudential Board shall carefully consider each and every proposed constitutional amendment prior to its adoption, either upon presentation to the Committee by a member prior to introduction at a Chapter meeting or in the required period between introduction and adoption of such proposed amendments. In considering such proposed amendments the Prudential Board shall develop their understanding of the proposed amendment and the short and long term consequences of adopting the same. The Committee may vote on a specific recommendation for, or against, adopting an amendment or may present a report in another manner to the Chapter.
Section 6 Meetings: The Prudential Board shall meet monthly during the academic year and on an as needed basis during any periods between academic periods.
ARTICLE VII – STANDARDS BOARD
Section 1 Principal Disciplinary Body: The Standards Board is hereby established by the Members as the principal disciplinary body of the Chapter which shall be responsible for managing chapter and individual disciplinary problems. The Standards Board shall receive, review, investigate, and conduct hearings to determine if an individual has broken the chapter and/or Fraternity’s Code of Conduct.
Section 2 Membership: The Standards Board shall be comprised of six members; the first two shall be the Marshal and Sergeant-at-Arms, both of which shall be elected in accordance with the terms of this Constitution. Four additional members, ideally one from each class (i.e. first year, sophomore, junior, senior) will be appointed by the Sergeant-at-Arms and approved by the Prudential Board to serve a one year term.
Section 3 Governance: Each member of the Standards Board shall have one vote thereon. The Standards Board shall be chaired by the Sergeant-at-Arms who shall conduct the meetings of the same in an orderly fashion, according to Robert’s Rules of Order, to ensure that all matters before the board are completed in a professional manner affording each member the opportunity to participate and have his voice heard. The Marshal will serve as the chairman in the absence of the Sergeant-at-Arms.
Section 4 Responsibilities: The Standards Board shall be responsible for the following.
i. Member Disciplinary Problems: The Standards Board shall be responsible for investigating actions of Members that reflect poorly on the Chapter as a whole, that violate the Fraternity’s Code of Conduct, violate the Chapter’s Constitution and/or Bylaws, the National Constitution or Bylaws, Campus Policy, local, state, and national laws, or are not in conformity with the values of the Chapter. The Standards Board shall give any Member accused of conduct unbecoming of a gentleman the opportunity to present himself, face his accusers and explain or deny the conduct leading to the hearing. In the event the Standards Board believes it appropriate, after careful consideration and a full and fair opportunity for the accused Member to be heard, the Board may impose sanctions upon the Member that are appropriate given the severity of his conduct.
ARTICLE VII – FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
Section 1 Budget: The Chapter shall approve a budget no later than two weeks into the term of elected officers. The chapter shall have a balanced budget each year.
Section 2 Fiscal Responsibility: The Chapter shall promptly pay its debts to its creditors and to Fraternity Headquarters and shall not permit a lien or encumbrance to accrue against its property or its good standing with the National Organization.
Section 3 Individual Responsibility: Each Member of the Chapter will pay his dues and debts to the Chapter promptly when due and shall pay all debts or dues that may accrue to the National Organization.
Section 4 Authorized Persons: Only the President, Treasurer, and Chapter officers specifically authorized by the Prudential Board may bind the Chapter to any agreement, financial or otherwise. No person, corporation, entity or creditor of any kind may rely on any act or agreement unless approved by the President, the Treasurer, or an Officer or Director authorized by the Prudential Board.
ARTICLE VII – RELATIONSHIP WITH ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY, INC.
Section 1 Relationship Defined: Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. is a non-profit corporation. It is incorporated under the laws of the State of New York. It is headquartered in Carmel, Indiana.
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. as a non-profit corporation for the purposes of fostering fraternity, and as an educational and service resource for collegiate chapters of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc., and for persons associated with those chapters. Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. has a limited staff. It has limited funding sources which necessarily limit the size of its staff.
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. maintains and processes membership and other records for collegiate chapters associated with it. These chapters are located throughout the United States. These chapters have in excess of 2500 undergraduate members.
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. also serves as an educational resource and service organization for affiliate groups, members associated with those chapters, and for local alumni who volunteer their time on an independent basis to assist a collegiate chapter and its associated collegiate members. Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. provides education through conferences, written materials, and periodic consultant visits to collegiate chapters. Staff visits result in advisory recommendations for chapter operations. Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. strives through these educational efforts to enhance life skills, leadership skills and ethical traits for those who take advantage of these educational opportunities, and to assist through education and consultant recommendations the success of chapters associated with it.
No chapter of and no member of any chapter or affiliate group of Alpha Sigma Phi is an agent of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. No chapter and no member of any chapter have been appointed as an agent of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Section 2 Chapter Operations: Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. is not involved in the day-to-day activities of a chapter. Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. does not and cannot control or supervise the day to day operations or activities of a chapter.
Each collegiate chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. is a self-governing, financially self-sufficient association comprised of students of the institution at which they are enrolled. Under the Constitution and Bylaws, each collegiate chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. selects and initiates its own members, elects its own officers, establishes its own rules, operates and determines its methods of operation, and governs its own affairs, subject only to those rules and operations being in harmony with the policies, Constitution and Bylaws of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. The autonomy of a collegiate chapter in organizing and determining and conducting its own operations through a democracy is part of an educational process which association with the chapter adds to collegiate life and to the development and refining of life skills.
If a collegiate chapter’s operations are not in harmony with the policies, Constitution and Bylaws of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. has the right after the fact to determine whether that chapter will continue to be recognized by Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. as a chapter associated with it. In some situations, after an action by a chapter has occurred that is not in harmony with the policies or Constitution and Bylaws of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc., a “not in good standing” status may be implemented for the chapter by Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. In “not in good standing” situations, the chapter continues to be a self-governing, financially self-sufficient association of collegiate students. If a chapter ceases to be recognized by Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity as a chapter associated with it, but that group of collegiate students nonetheless continues its operations, they do so without any affiliation with Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity.
Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc. does not have the right to suspend or affect the membership status of a collegiate student associated with a chapter other than in those situations and in accordance with the procedures specifically set forth in the Constitution of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Section 3 Disposition of Chapter and Affiliate Group Assets:
I. Should the chapter or our affiliate groups become inactive or have its Charter suspended or revoked, the Charter, records, archives, ritual equipment and paraphernalia shall become the property of Fraternity Headquarters.
II. Personal property.
a. Should our chapter or an affiliate group become inactive or have its Charter suspended or revoked, its non-real property assets of less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000) shall become the property of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc. and will be absorbed into its general fund.
b. Should our chapter or an affiliate group become inactive or have its Charter suspended or revoked, its non-real property assets of more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000) shall be held in trust for a time period of eight years by Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc. During this time, interest earned from the funds held in trust will accrue to the trust, less a reasonable management fee which will accrue to the Fraternity on a yearly basis. In the event said chapter or affiliate group remains inactive or non-chartered after the eight year period, then the non-real property assets shall be absorbed into the Fraternity’s general fund.
III. Real property.
a. Should our chapter or an affiliate group become inactive or have its Charter suspended or revoked, any and all affiliate groups shall be dissolved and all real property owned by said chapter or affiliate group shall be transferred to the Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc. to be managed in the best interest of Alpha Sigma Phi.
b. Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity Inc. shall have ninety days from dissolution to disclaim its rights granted under this section. In the event it does not disclaim its right then said property shall be transferred as described in Article X Section 3 D1 of the national constitution.
The Constitution of the Delta Epsilon Chapter at the University of Rio Grande is here by adapted on March 1st, 2013 at the University of Rio Grande in Rio Grande, Ohio.
Signed by the chapter officers
President: Kyle Hackney
Secretary: Shawn Cox
Treasurer: Brad Cline
THE BYLAWS OF THE
Delta Epsilon CHAPTER OF
ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY
218 College Avenue
The University of Rio Grande
Rio Grande, Ohio 45674
ARTICLE I. MEMBERSHIP
Section 1 New Members: Membership into this Chapter is reserved for only those men who meet the requirements listed in the constitution.
A. Selection: New Members shall be selected by secret ballot of a quorum of initiated members in good standing.
i No abstention for membership voting is permitted.
ii. Prospective members will be voted on individually.
iii. Bids by proxy must be given directly to the Recruitment Director prior to the voting session.
iv. At least fifty percent plus one of the membership must be present to hold a vot
v. The Recruitment Director shall count the ballots and shall report to the membership whether or not a bid will be extended to the prospective member.
vi. Should an individual be extended a bid to join the Chapter, he maintains the right to turn the invitation down without question. vii. Should an individual not be given a bid, he will be notified as an act of courtesy by the Recruitment Director.viii. An individual who wishes to become a member of the Chapter may accept the bid within two weeks of receiving it.
B. Bid Acceptance: New Members are required to sign their “Bids” or provide notice to the Greek Advisor prior to participation in the New Member Ceremony.
C. Eligibility: Initiation into the Chapter requires a 2.3/4.0 minimum cumulative GPA to be determined by the grade report from the semester immediately preceding initiation. First term students are automatically eligible having met college/university requirements in order to be enrolled. In order to become eligible for initiation, a new member must complete four weeks of new member education and the new member program cannot exceed eight weeks.
D. Attendance: It shall be the responsibility of each new member to attend all initiations, rituals, regular meetings, chapter meetings, and all other functions held by the chapter as applicable. Chapter meetings are mandatory. Absences may be excused by the President
E. Fees: Members shall be subject to payment of a New Member Fee, Initiation Fee, and Membership Fee and any other fees or dues as shall thereafter be determined by the chapter in accordance with the Bylaws, rules, regulations, or rituals of the fraternity.
Section 2 Initiated/Active Members: To maintain active status, a member must: (a) be a male student at the University of Rio Grande, (b) neither be currently affiliated with, nor initiated into another Greek social fraternity, (c) maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.30.
A. Attendance: It shall be the responsibility of each initiated member to attend all initiations, rituals, regular meetings, chapter meetings, and all other functions held by the chapter. Chapter meetings are mandatory. Absences are to be excused by the President.
B. Fees: Members shall be subject to payment of a New Member Fee, Initiation Fee, and Membership Fee and any other fees or dues as shall thereafter be determined by the chapter in accordance with the Bylaws, rules, regulations, or rituals of the fraternity.
C. Campus/Chapter Participation: All members are required to retain a chapter leadership position or serve on a chapter standing committee. Members are encouraged to do both if times permits in their schedule. Additionally, members should be involved in at least one non-Greek student organization or sport each year.
D. Rules and Regulations: All members of the chapter must abide by all federal, state, local, university, Interfraternity Council, and Fraternity laws and the Fraternity’s code of conduct.
Section 3 Suspended Members: The chapter has the power to suspend a member for the reasons listed below. The chapter does not have the right to expel a member, only the ability to recommend expulsion.
A. Academic Suspension: Should a member fail to meet the scholarship standards or the general requirements and/or responsibilities of Alpha Sigma Phi, he shall be placed on probation for the time period of one semester.
B. Behavioral Matters: Any member who has persistently or grossly violate the chapter’s constitutional provisions, bylaws, rules, regulations of the chapter, displays characteristics of immoral character or behavior, of whose actions become detrimental to the welfare and best interests and intentions of the members and new members of the fraternity, as determined by the Chapter, Prudential Board, or Standards Board, may be suspended from membership for a period of time.
Section 4 Alumnus: Alumni status shall be given to all members who have graduated or transferred to another institution. An alumnus of the Chapter may attend any meeting, social, service, and/or philanthropic events at any given time with notice and permission by Chapter President. They are also able to attend Ritual without notice. Alumni have been officially relived of their undergraduate duties and lose their voting rights upon receiving alumnus status.
ARTICLE II CHAPTER OFFICERS
Section 1 Qualifications: The following are required of any individual who holds or seeks to hold the office of President, Vice President, Treasurer, Marshal, and Sergeant-at-Arms.
A. Financial Requirements: Must be in good financial standing with Fraternity Headquarters.
B. Grade Point Requirements for officers is 2.5. Grades will be taken from the previous full academic term, and the GPA requirement must be maintained while holding office. Should a candidate for election not meet this requirement, he can ask voting members of the chapter to waive this requirement for one academic term. A new vote must be taken each academic term if he remains below the requirement. An appeal to the voting members of the chapter would have to achieve a 2/3 majority vote.
Section 2 General Expectations: Each officer is expected to follow the same general expectations:
A. Officer Familiarity with Customs, Traditions, and Laws: All officers should have an operational knowledge of all appropriate laws, including those of the Fraternity, locally and nationally, the State of Ohio, the City of Rio Grande, and the United States of America. All officers shall also be properly informed of all customary practices of the Fraternity, and pay particular attention to ensure the proper practice of them.
B. Paperwork: Each officer shall be responsible for staying within their budget, compete required chapter or college/university paperwork and submit paperwork and requests for reimbursement in a timely manner.
C. Transition: Each officer shall maintain a binder and be responsible to see to it that the binder is continually updated, and made more useful with each passing term. Each officer is especially entrusted with the duty of transitioning the next officer into that position and providing them with proper training.
ARTICLE III RESPONSIBILITIES OF OFFICERS
Section 1 Officer Expectations: Each officer shall have a set number of expectations, and the President and Prudential Board can add additional expectations as needed:
A. President: The President is the Chief Executive Officer of the Chapter and may direct all Officers and Members in the pursuit of the objectives, values and sacred ritual of the Chapter. He is also charged with the following:
i. Chairs the Prudential Board which includes developing a prepared agenda for every meeting and ensuring that the Prudential Board meets weekly at a standard time in a standard place.
ii. Chairs all chapter meetings which includes developing a prepared agenda for every meeting and ensuring that the chapter meets weekly at a standard time in a standard place.
iii. Directly supervises the following officers: Vice President, Treasurer, Recruitment Director, Member Education Director, Marshal, Scholarship Director, Alumni Director, Sergeant at Arms, and Secretary.
iv. Appoints all officers that are not elected, pending approval by the Prudential Board.
v. Ensures completion of all required reports due to the College/University.
vi. Ensures completion of the Annual Report to the National Fraternity.
vii. Works with the GCA to plan an annual goal-setting chapter retreat.
viii. Works with the GCA to plan an annual officer transition retreat.
ix. Serves as the chapter spokesman and point person in a crisis.
x. Communicates at least bi-weekly with the GCA through a structured one-on-one meeting.
xi. Leads by example.
xii. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
B. Vice President: The Vice President is the junior executive officer of the Chapter and shall assist the President in all of his responsibilities and, in the event the President is unavailable for any reason the Vice President shall fulfill the responsibilities of the President. He is also charged with the following:
i. Member of the Prudential Board.
ii. Assists the President with all duties and fills in for the President should the need arise.
iii. Directly supervises the following officers: Social Director, Risk Management Director, Philanthropy Director, Community Service Director, Brotherhood Development Director and Intramural/Athletic Director.
iv. Serves as AGC Representative.
v. Leads by example.
vi. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
C. Treasurer: The Treasurer shall be the chief financial officer and is responsible for the management and oversight of all financial matters of the Chapter as well as an accurate accounting of the same. He is also charged with the following:
i. Member of the Prudential Board.
ii. Directly supervises the Fundraising Director.
iii. Prepares a chapter budget each term to be approved by the Prudential Board and ultimately the entire chapter through seeking budget requests from chapter officers.
iv. Keeps track of all expenditures and revenues and ensures that the chapter is operating within the approved budget.
v. Provides a monthly financial summary for both the Prudential Board and the chapter.
vi. Works with the Director of Members Services at Fraternity Headquarters to ensure that the chapter is current on all bills, including ensuring that all individual members are current with membership fees (new members pay prior to the New Member Ceremony; initiation fee is due prior to the Initiation Ceremony; membership fees are due within six months after initiation) or are on an approved payment plan. This can be monitored through the Officer Portal.
vii. Pays all bills promptly and by the due date.
viii. Collects all dues and fees owed to the chapter.
ix. Works with the Financial Advisor on the Chapter Council to ensure an annual audit of the books.
x. Ensures that all potential members and new members understand the financial obligations of membership in the Fraternity (local and national fees and dues).
xi. Pays Liability Insurance bill by October 1 annually.
xii. Pays registration fee for the Academy of Leadership by November 1 annually.
xiii. Pays Chapter Fee Assessment by February 1 annually.
xiv. Pays Delegate Fee by April 1 annually.
xv. Communicates at least monthly with the Financial Advisor on the Chapter Council.
xvi. Works with the Financial Advisor to understand the tax rules that apply to the chapter’s financial situation and ensure that all IRS forms are filed on time, if applicable.
xvii. Ensures all members that have not paid chapter dues in full have signed a promissory note and are on a payment plan.
xviii. Serves as primary liaison with Greek Bill, if applicable.
xix. Leads by example.
xx. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
D. Secretary: The Secretary is responsible for the management and oversight of all communications as well as taking the minutes from Prudential and Chapter meetings. He is also charged with the following:
i. Member of the Prudential Board.
ii. Records minutes of all regular and special meetings with accuracy and fullness.
iii. Distributes and posts the minutes to all brothers within 48 hours after the conclusion of the meeting and ensures a copy of the minutes are preserved in the chapter archives.
iv. Calls the roll at all regular and special chapter meetings, along with required chapter events (ritualistic ceremonies, retreats, etc.).
v. Maintains the chapter roster book.
vi. Maintains and updates a current undergraduate directory including on-campus address, permanent address, phone number and e-mail.
vii. Reads all correspondence to the chapter during its regular or special meetings.
viii. Ensures that thank you notes are promptly sent to alumni, faculty/staff, other organizations, etc. as appropriate.
ix. Creates a chapter calendar prior to the start of each term by soliciting proposed events/dates from chapter officers.
x. Maintains an updated copy of the chapter’s constitution and by-laws.
xi. Completes the Report of Elections to the National Fraternity.
xii. Submits chapter news to the National Fraternity for inclusion in publications.
xiii. Maintains annual album to record chapter’s honors, accomplishments, and activities.
xiv. Ensures that all chapter events are appropriately photographed.
xv. Maintains an updated chapter website.
xvi. Leads by example.
xvii. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next Board/officer
E. Marshal: The Marshal is responsible for the practice and maintenance of the ritual of the fraternity and for the education of the Brothers therein. He is also charged with the following:
i. Directs all ritual ceremonies and ensures that all ritualistic ceremonies are performed correctly, using proper tone and environment.
ii. Leads all newly initiated brothers in the ritual education program as outlined in the ritual book.
iii. Holds at least one practice session prior to each ritualistic ceremony.
iv. Works with the Recruitment Director and Membership Education Director to select dates for New Member Ceremonies and Initiation Ceremonies prior to the beginning of each term.
v. Communicates at least monthly with the Ritual Advisor on the Chapter Council.
vi. Serves as a member of the Standards Board.
vii. Leads by example.
viii. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
F. Sergeant-at-Arms: The Sergeant-at-Arms is to preserve the items that reflect the history of the chapter, assists in preservation of ritual items, and guards the outer door from those who would expose our secrets. He is also charged with the following:
i. Assists the Marshal in the presentation of all ritualistic ceremonies and fills in should the need arise.
ii. Serves as Historian for the chapter and maintains all items that reflect the history of the chapter, along with all ceremonial equipment.
iii. Guards the door during all chapter meetings.
iv. Acts as Chaplain during ceremonies and when prayers are appropriate.
v. Maintains order and dignity during chapter meetings and rituals.
vi. Ensures that all plaques and awards are updated each term or as needed.
vii. Serves as Parliamentarian for chapter meetings.
viii. Chairs the Standards Board and makes appointments to the Standards Board, pending Prudential Board approval (two seniors, two juniors, and two sophomores).
ix. Leads by example.
x. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
G. Alumni Director: The Alumni Director is responsible for maintaining correspondence between the chapter and Alumni, planning and organizing all events where Alumni attend, and updates the Alumni contact database at least once per academic year. He is also charged with the following:
i. Member of the Prudential Board.
ii. Directly supervises Family Relations Director.
iii. In conjunction with the Chapter Alumni Association, organizes at least one reunion event per year, typically during Homecoming, Founders Day or the chapter’s chartering.
iv. Promotes the Alpha Sigma Phi Linked In site as an opportunity for members to network with other Alpha Sigs.
v. Works with the appropriate officers to ensure that alumni are invited to significant events such as ritual ceremonies, recruitment events, formal dinners, etc.
vi. Develops a program for juniors and seniors to encourage retention and prepare brothers for the transition to alumni status.
vii. Ensures that the Senior Service Ceremony is performed at the conclusion of every term in which a member graduates. This would include ordering monogram pins from the National Headquarters at least two weeks prior to the ceremony.
viii. Orders graduation cords from National Headquarters, at least two weeks prior to graduation.
ix. Seeks membership referrals from alumni annually.
x. Communicates at least monthly with the Chapter Alumni Association President.
xi. Produces at least two alumni newsletters annually.
xii. Leads by example.
xiii. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
H. Recruitment Director: The Recruitment Director is responsible for all matters relating to recruitment including, but not limited to, the development and execution of the chapter’s recruitment strategy. He is also charged with the following:
i. Member of the Prudential Board.
ii. Communicates at least monthly with the Recruitment Advisor on the Chapter Council.
iii. Creates a detailed and complete recruitment calendar/timeline prior to the start of each academic term.
iv. Divides the chapter into recruitment teams including selecting each team captain.
v. Works with the Prudential Board to determine appropriate incentives and disincentives for individuals, teams and the entire chapter for recruitment efforts.
vi. Coordinates with an outside presenter at least one training workshop annually to help members develop social skills.
vii. Coordinates a recruitment workshop prior to the start of each term for the purpose of teaching members how to recruit and reviews the plan/calendar for the upcoming term.
viii. Manages the names list database (name, phone, e-mail, campus address) of all potential new members.
ix. Meets weekly with recruitment team captains.
x. Leads by example.
xi. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
I. Scholarship Director: The Scholarship Director is responsible for promoting and encouraging good scholarship within the Brotherhood, he establishes and maintains relationship with the Faculty Advisor, and he will create a program to assist Brothers with academic difficulties. He is also charged with the following:
i. Communicates at least monthly with the Academic Advisor on the Chapter Council.
ii. Coordinates and implements the to Better the Man Scholarship application and selection process.
iii. Advises all potential members and members on academic expectations and requirements to receive a bid, hold an office, be initiated (2.30), attend social events, participate in intramurals, be in good standing, etc.
iv. Develops, implements, and assesses a chapter scholarship program for all members that is customized for each member based on academic standing, major, need, etc.
v. Creates an academic recognition program to recognize members for academic achievement (Dean’s List, highest GPA, most improved GPA, GPA above all-men’s average, above all-fraternity average, above all-undergraduate average, highest big/little, highest family term GPA, etc.).
vi. Coordinates at least one educational program a semester focused on academics or career planning.
vii. Does not coordinate structured study tables.
viii. Works with the House Manager to ensure that the chapter facility is an environment conducive to academic success (quiet hours, courtesy hours, etc.).
ix. Submits GPA for chapter each term, along with all-fraternity GPA, all-men’s GPA, all-Greek GPA, all-undergraduate GPA and fraternity rank)
x. Leads by example.
xi. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
J. Membership Education Director: The Membership Education Director is responsible for all matters relating to the education of new members and initiated undergraduate members. He is responsible for executing the chapter’s educational programs. He is also charged with the following:
i. Member of the Prudential Board.
ii. Ensures that all new members complete the required biographical data form on-line, prior to the New Member Ceremony.
iii. Creates a New Member batch in the Officer Portal for each new member class.
iv. Serves as the lead facilitator for all new member meetings.
v. Ensures that the member education program is implemented in a manner consistent with the national prototype program.
vi. Communicates at least monthly with the Member Education Advisor on the Chapter Council.
vii. Leads by example.
viii. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
K. Brotherhood Development Director: The Brotherhood Development Director is responsible for all matters relating to the brotherhood. He is responsible for executing the chapter’s educational and social retreats. He is also charged with the following:
i. Plans at least one non-alcoholic brotherhood event each month of the academic year.
ii. Organizes at least one overnight, off-campus, non-alcoholic, brotherhood retreat annually.
iii. Communicates at least monthly with the Brotherhood Development Advisor on the Chapter Council.
iv. Coordinates guest speakers for the enrichment of members (etiquette, career and life skills, etc.).
v. Leads by example.
vi. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
L. Community Service Director: The Community Service Director is responsible for coordinating and advocating community service and general volunteerism among members of the chapter. He is also charged with the following:
i. Communicates at least monthly with the Community Service/Philanthropy Advisor on the Chapter Council.
ii. Plans at least one community service event a month.
iii. Tracks each member’s community service hours.
iv. Leads by example.
v. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
M. Family Relations Director: The Family Relations Director is the chief liaison between the chapter and parent and family members. He is also charged with the following:
i. Communicates at least monthly with the Parent/Family Member representative on the Chapter Council.
ii. Holds at least one event annually for parents/family members typically around the University planned Family Weekend.
iii. Ensures that parents/family members are invited to attend the New Member Ceremony.
iv. Organizes a light reception following the New Member Ceremony for parents/family members and other invited guests.
v. Sends a letter to all prospective members’ parents educating them on the fraternity.
vi. Leads by example.
vii. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
N. Intramural/Athletic Director: The Intramural/Athletic Director shall coordinate all intramural the chapter chooses to participate in. He is also charged with the following:
i. Coordinates chapter participation in Greek and non-Greek intramural leagues.
ii. Representative of chapter on Greek Week committee.
iii. Leads by example.
iv. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
O. Philanthropy Director: The Philanthropy Director coordinates all of the chapter’s philanthropic activities. He is also charged with the following:
i. Communicates at least monthly with the Community Service/Philanthropy Advisor on the Chapter Council.
ii. Plans at least one event a semester that raises money for a charity. At least one event should raise money for LIVESTRONG.
iii. Tracks how much money the chapter raises for charity.
iv. Leads by example.
v. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
P. Risk Management Director: The Risk Management Director works to reduce exposure to risk and liability of the chapter and its members. He is also charged with the following:
i. Ensures that risk management policies are followed at all chapter events.
ii. Communicates at least monthly with the Risk Management Advisor on the Chapter Council.
iii. Meets with each new member class to review risk management policies.
iv. Assists the President and Prudential Board with crisis management.
v. Works with the House Manager to ensure proper health, safety and welfare inspections are carried out including at least two fire drills each term.
vi. Coordinates at least one educational program related to risk management each term.
vii. Completes an incident report and submits to Headquarters for all incidents.
viii. Leads by example.
ix. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
Q. Social Director: The Social Director coordinates all social events of the chapter. He is also charged with the following:
i. Plans and implements the chapter’s social calendar.
ii. Plans a Black and White Formal annually.
iii. Plans a semi-formal in the subsequent semester.
iv. Hosts at least one social event with a sorority a term.
v. Understands and abides by all national and university/college risk management policies.
vi. Leads by example.
vii. Documents everything and prepares a transition binder to pass on to the next officer.
ARTICLE IV CHAPTER POLICIES
Section 1 Chapter Attendance Policy: The Prudential Board will enforce an attendance policy at all chapter meetings. The first and second excuse will be considered an academic leave. The third absence will result in the member being referred to the Standards Board.
ARTICLE V. DISCIPLINE IMPOSED BY THE CHAPTER
Section 1 Authority of the Chapter: The chapter shall have the power to discipline its own members. We shall have jurisdiction over all of our undergraduate and graduate school members.
Section 2 Rights of the Accused: The accused has the following rights:
A. The right to due notice as defined below.
B. The right at trial to be heard or remain silent, to present evidence, to hear the evidence against him, and to be represented by an advisor or counselor who may be a member of the fraternity.
C. The right to be present throughout the proceedings except during deliberation.
D. The right to appeal as provided herein.
E. The accused may waive some or all of his rights.
Section 3 Cause for Discipline: An active member may be disciplined for any one or more of the following causes:
A. Financial Delinquency;
B. Violation of the Fraternity’s Code of Conduct, Constitution or Bylaws of the Fraternity, and/or the Constitution or Bylaws of the chapter;
C. Violation of the College/University’s Code of Conduct;
D. Violation of chapter, college/university, or Fraternity policy.
E. Violation of local, state, and national laws;
F. Conduct unworthy of a member of Alpha Sigma Phi.
Section 4 Procedure for Discipline by the Chapter: We shall exercise our powers of discipline only after full investigation and for just cause.
A. All discipline is reviewed and considered by the Standards Board.
B. The active member sought to be disciplined has a right to be present at the meeting at which the action is to be taken and shall be given notice in writing by the Sergeant-at-Arms of the alleged cause for his discipline and of the time and place at which a meeting of the Standards Board will be held to consider the matter.
C. The notice in writing to the member sought to be disciplined shall be delivered no later than three (3) days prior to the meeting of the Standards Board and shall be emailed to the member’s university email address, or hand delivered by the Sergeant-at-Arms to the member sought to be disciplined. When said notice to the member sought to be disciplined is by certified mail, return receipt requested, delivery shall be deemed to have been made the date the notice is placed in the mail.
D. A meeting of the Standards Board shall then be held to decide upon such discipline and any vote to discipline the member shall only be effective if passed by a majority vote of members of the Standards Board who are present. The Sergeant-at-Arms of the chapter shall promptly report any action of discipline in writing to the Prudential Board.
Section 5 Discipline Imposed: The Standards Board, Prudential Board, and Chapter (when applicable) may impose one or more of the following penalties by majority vote or impose a predetermined penalty as detailed in the chapter’s constitution or bylaws:
A. Warning;
B. Probation;
C. A written apology to those wronged;
D. Loss of privileges;
E. Exclusion from various fraternity activities;
F. Payment for loss or damage;
G. Removal from Chapter or General Fraternity office;
H. Suspension of membership in the Fraternity for a period not to exceed twelve (12) months;
I. Other educational sanctions as might be agreed upon by the Standards Board, Prudential Board, or Chapter and the Accused;
J. Recommend Expulsion from the Fraternity.
Section 6 Reconsideration and Appeals: The Prudential Board, by a majority vote of members who are present, can reconsider any decision of the Standards Board. Any such action by the Prudential Board resulting in a different decision shall be promptly reported in writing to the Standards Board.
Section 7 Term of Suspension: Suspension, other than for failure of the member to meet his financial obligations to the chapter, shall be for a finite time not to exceed twelve (12) months. Suspension for failure of the member to meet his financial obligation to the chapter may be imposed to continue until the financial obligation is met. Suspension for a finite time may be renewed on notice, as provided in Section 6. If not renewed, the suspension expires and the previously suspended member is restored to good standing in the appropriate membership status.
Section 8 Rights of Disciplined Members: During the period of a suspension, or after expulsion from the Fraternity by the Grand Council, the disciplined individual shall be afforded no membership rights or privileges.
ARTICLE VI FEES AND DUES
Section 1 Determination of Fees: The Prudential Board shall determine the appropriate amount of dues that each member must pay, at which time the chapter as a whole will vote to set dues for the upcoming term or academic year. A majority vote of the chapter is required to amend the dues.
Section 2 Chapter Dues: Chapter dues are currently set at three hundred dollars ($300) per term. Membership dues will be reviewed annually by the Prudential Board. These fees are in addition to any national fees and dues charged to the chapter or each member of the chapter.
Section 3 Payment: Chapter dues will be paid annually at the first weekly meeting of each fall term/semester.
Section 4 Special Assessments: Under such circumstances that a member may have difficulty paying the full amount of dues at one time, that member may opt to accept an alternative payment plan provided by the Prudential Board, which will extend a minimum period of the current term.
Section 5 Non-Payment of Fees: Should a member be unable to pay the full amount of dues, even with respect to the Special Assessments Clause, within the same term the individual will be suspended from all chapter activities and functions for a maximum of one year or until all of the fees have been paid in full.
A. If he is not in good financial standing, the Prudential Board will petition the chapter to suspend the member indefinitely. All paperwork must be filed appropriately with the President.
Section 6 Suspension of Membership due to Finances: Should a person whose membership has been suspended due to financial difficulties wish to rejoin the membership, he must repay all his outstanding debts to the brotherhood.
ARTICLE VII MEETINGS
Section 1 Meetings: Committee meetings, Prudential Board meetings, and Chapter Meetings will be held on a regularly scheduled basis each week or as deemed necessary by the chairman of each individual meeting during the school year.
Section 2 Attendance: Attendance by all members is mandatory for the chapter meetings as defined in this Constitution and Bylaws. Attendance polices for all other meetings are determined by the chairman of the meeting.
Section 3 Quorum: A quorum consisting of fifty percent plus one of the active membership must be present in order to act upon any legislation.
Section 4 General Motions: A majority vote of the quorum is required to pass a general motion unless otherwise specified for matters described in this constitution.
ARTICLE VIII CHAPTER PROGRAMS
Section 1 Scholarship Program: The chapter has adopted a scholarship program that aims to improve and maintain the academic grades of each member.
A. Members who fall below the 2.5 required semester GPA will be required to complete a study program as set up by the Scholarship Director and approved by the Prudential Board.
B. Members who fall below a 2.0 semester GPA will be placed on social probation and will be required to complete a study program as set by the Scholarship Director and approved by the Prudential Board.
C. The Scholarship Director will bestow awards to the member with highest chapter GPA, most improved GPA, highest new member GPA, and highest big/little GPA at the beginning of each term.
D. Each member holding a GPA higher than 3.7 cumulative will receive a 10% reduction in chapter dues the following semester.
E. Each member holding a GPA higher than 3.5 cumulative will receive a 5% reduction in chapter dues the following semester.
Section 2 Risk Management Program: The chapter has adopted a risk management program that aims to reduce risk and educate each member of the chapter.
A. Risk Management is defined as; anticipating risk and taking actions to minimize exposure and possible negative repercussions.
B. The purpose of the Risk Management Program is to help undergraduate members of the fraternity better understand that “risk” is a part of life and that given the tools and resources to recognize “risk” and individuals liability and be greatly reduced.
C. To inform members of all applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as national fraternity and college or university policies and regulations.
D. Develop a year-round educational plan to help members learn about risk management issues.
E. Inform members about campus, community, and national organization resources for risk management.
F. Make sure that all chapter policies are consistent with federal, state, and local laws, as well as college or university and national fraternity policies.
G. Help chapter officers learn to identify the potential areas of risk associated with the position’s programs and / or responsibly on how to minimize such risk.
H. Work with the chapter house corporation and / or the university to ensure a safe chapter living facility.
I. Review all relevant fraternity policies with all members of the chapter at least once a year.
J. Ensure that every chapter activity is evaluated for potential risks and that all possible actions are taken to manage such risks.
K. Develop and maintain a crisis management plan and make sure each chapter member is familiar with the actions contained within the plan.
L. Educate members on the Alpha Sigma Phi’s National Fraternity’s alcohol polices.
Section 3 Recognition Program: The chapter will recognize those members who meet and exceed expectations within the chapter and contribute greatly to the Greek community and campus as a whole.
A. The chapter has established awards to be given out at a recognition ceremony to be held during the spring term.
B. The following are those awards to be determined by the President: the Sig of the year Award and the Legacy Award. The Achievement Award is in honor of the chapter’s original founding father. This award is given to someone who has gone and above and beyond, thinking often of others before himself. The Legacy Award was created in honor of a member whose guiding principles are ones we still use to this day. The award is given to someone who demonstrated the ability to leave a legacy for future members.
C. The following are those awards to be determined by the Prudential Board: Outstanding New Member, Outstanding Brother of the Year, Athlete of the Year, and Officer of the Year.
D. The following are those awards to be determined by the Scholarship Director: highest chapter GPA, most improved GPA, highest new member GPA, and highest big/little GPA at the beginning of each term.
E. The Cardinal and Stone Award is presented to no more than three seniors. This award is designated for the brother who has “bled cardinal and stone” during his time as an undergraduate. The recipient will be determined by the Prudential Board and recognized during the spring awards ceremony.
F. The Phoenix Award is given to an alumnus, faculty member, or parent who has demonstrated a true dedication to the success of the chapter. The award is determined by the Prudential Board and is handed out during the spring awards ceremony.
ARTICLE IX CHAPTER PROPERTY
Section 1 Chapter Minutes: Chapter minutes are the property of the Delta Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity at the University of Rio Grande and are not public documents and should not be distributed as such. This includes Prudential Board, Standards Board, and all other minutes taken during a fraternity sponsored meeting.
Section 2 Chapter Purchases: Anything purchased with funds from the fraternity is considered chapter property and should be marked and recorded as such. That means that chapter property needs to be accounted for at all times.
Section 3 Insignia: Logos, letters, slogans, images, photos, etc. are considered chapter property. Permission to use any insignia on materials, t-shirts, banners, sponsorships, etc. must be with written permission from the Prudential Board and/or Fraternity Headquarters where applicable.
Section 4 Disbursement of Funds: In the event that the Delta Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity at the University of Rio Grande should close, go inactive, or dissolve, all funds remaining shall be given to the Alumni Association of the Delta Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi. In the event that the Alumni Association does not accept the funds, refuses the funds or is not active, the funds should be given to Fraternity Headquarters to first pay outstanding chapter debt and then be considered a donation. Remaining funds in excess of $10,000 will be given to the Alpha Sigma Phi Educational Foundation to establish a chapter endowment.
Section 5 Chapter Property: In the event that the Delta Epsilon Chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity at the University of Rio Grande should close, go inactive, or dissolve, all property of the chapter including the roster book, charter, ritual books, ritual materials, composites, etc. will be returned to Fraternity Headquarters at the chapter’s expense for safe keeping until the chapter can return to campus.
ARTICLE X Fiscal Year
Section 1 The fiscal year for the chapter will begin on December the 1st of each year and end on November 31st of each year.