Beta Theta Pi - University of Missouri

A Publication of the Zeta Phi Chapter of Beta Theta Pi The Zeta Phi Inside: Alumnus Spotlight 2 New Business Manager 2 40 New Members 3 Policy Changes on the Horizon 4 FALL 2018 CREATING SUSTAINABLE PROGRAMS Zeta Phi to Implement Latest Initiatives for New Members A s was outlined in the spring newsletter, Zeta Phi continues to deal with a changed environment for fraternities. The chapter was placed on disciplinary probation until the spring of 2019 for hazing. In addi- tion, the chapter was required to present some written plans for new member training to the University. Several alumni, led by Steve Gardner '79 and Jason Swindle '91, have worked with the chapter president and other undergraduates to revise the pledge or new member pro- gram as it is now called. They learned that much of the new member program was not reduced to writing, thus creating a consistency gap from year to year. The new program will prohibit all forms of hazing— there will be no more lineups, no more yelling at fresh- men, no more personal servitude. Any active guilty of violating the new rules will be asked to move out of the fraternity house. If the chapter is found guilty of haz- ing violations by the University or General Fraternity, there is a strong chance the chapter will be suspended and closed down, so it is imperative that the members comply with the new rules. The new program will look at each activity and ask two essential questions: 1. Does it truly make a good man better? 2. Would the activity look good if the activity was detailed in the media? The new program outlines week by week what a new member should accomplish as far as Beta history, learn- ing songs, and other expectations including attendance at study hall daily from 6-10 p.m. The new member pro- gram is outlined for a period of 11 weeks, which means it will end long before the Christmas break. Initiation will take place in week 22 at the beginning of the sec- ond semester. By adding more structure and reducing the timeframe, we believe that we reduce our risks as they relate to the safety of the young men as well as reduce our risk with violating any MU regulations. This new program will take participation on the part of all of us. We request that fathers of men in the house and all alumni avoid the temptation to tell the undergradu- ates what it was like when they were in the house. Many "traditions" have been created over the years and they have no place in our fraternity today. The alumni group has taken these steps to improve the chances Zeta Phi can survive in the coming years. It is now up to the young men in the chapter to implement the changes. The new program will help us to return to our roots as a true brotherhood and make the chapter sustainable for years to come. The new program should help us return to our roots as a true brotherhood and make the chapter sustainable for many years ahead. The board wishes to thank Steve Gard- ner '79 for his leadership in creating this new program. Fraternally, John Hillhouse '69 Secretary Zeta Phi House Corporation

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