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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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