Blog

Why We Are Failing?

Editor Note: This blog has merged some narratives from an old blog and combined with some new messages. Fraternities have been around since 1776 and sororities since 1867. Clearly, we have done something right to have been around for centuries. Yet, our continued existence is being discussed on a daily basis. Why? Before I answer […]

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Five R’s of Fundraising

When raising money for fraternity and sorority chapters, there’s one approach to generating donations that’s sure to prove successful. Take a moment to consider how much time and effort goes into planning small and major special events.  Now, imagine that same effort strategically targeted toward cultivating a lifetime donor…a fan who loves and supports your […]

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The Choice Is Ours…Recruit and Educate To Fail or Succeed

I’ve spent more than 30 years involved with the Fraternity and Sorority system as a chapter officer, chapter advisor, regional volunteer, foundation board director, house corporation board member, and president of a company that focuses on alumni/ae and parent relations as well as fundraising. I met my wife through my fraternity. My son is a fraternity brother. My best friends are almost all fraternity brothers. My fraternal experience has been more than rewarding.

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Elements of a Successful Chapter Operations Program

Written plan & budget dedicated to alumni & parent relations. Written plan & budget dedicated to identifying, recruiting, training & recognizing volunteers to serve on your Advisory Board, and/or Educational Foundation Board, and/or Housing Corporation Board. Written plan & budget for maintaining a safe & competitive chapter house (for chapters who have housing on their […]

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Elements of an Effective Alumni & Parent Program

Brotherhood Development – The foundation of any alumni & parent program is the chapter’s ability to develop the bonds of brotherhood. Without loyalty and dedication, there is little to work with. A member education program that develops a pledge into a committed and involved active, as well as prepares a graduating senior to be a lifelong […]

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The Five I’s of Alumni/ae & Parent Relations

The strength and sustainability of undergraduate chapters can easily be linked to active alumni/ae and parent relations programs. Below are our Five I’s of an effective program. Identified – The first step to good alumni/ae and parent relations is knowing about your alumni/ae and parents are, starting with their mailing addresses, emails, phone numbers, and social […]

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The Seven Habits of Successful House Corporations

1. Operate Like A Business Alumni Leadership Alumni and Parent Relations programs in place Recruit leaders who possess a passion for the chapter Follow a specific plan for volunteer identification, recruitment, training, and recognition Identify 2-3 core leaders and surround them with others Invest in education Identify those with a “thick skin” Ensure that everyone […]

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The Seven Habits of Successful Advisory Boards

1. ABBA Advise By Being Around Officers & Committee Chairs Need To See You Often Members Need To See You As A Resource & Not Only As The Person That Deals With Discipline 2. Education & Training Read Websites (Chapter, National & University) Read Magazines (National & University) Attend National & University Leadership Conferences Model […]

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Are We Who We Say We Are?

The president of the Northern Interfraternity Council recently made this observation in an address to college students who are also members of Greek organizations on campus: “The vast majority of fraternity and sorority members join them for all the right reasons. They are looking for a place to belong. They want to learn and apply […]

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