greek life handbook 2019-2020 · tau, phi sigma sigma, and sigma alpha omega). the purpose of the...

Greek Life Handbook 2019-2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome ............................................................................................................................................................2

America’s Unique Greek System .......................................................................................................................3

GREEKS AT UVA-WISE

Greek Governing Councils .................................................................................................................................4

Greek Life at UVa-Wise ......................................................................................................................................6

Greek Organizations ..........................................................................................................................................7-15 POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Academic Expectations ......................................................................................................................................17

Advisor’s Role ....................................................................................................................................................17

New Member Education ....................................................................................................................................19

Leadership Development ...................................................................................................................................21

Organization Conduct ........................................................................................................................................21

Recruitment Rules & Regulations ......................................................................................................................22

Risk Management ..............................................................................................................................................23

Starting a Greek Organization ...........................................................................................................................23

Advertising & Publicity.......................................................................................................................................24

Event Planning ...................................................................................................................................................26

Facility Reservations ..........................................................................................................................................27

Greek Dictionary ................................................................................................................................................27

Other Resources ................................................................................................................................................30

Clery Act

Student Code of Conduct...................................................................................................................................31

Title IX , Sexual Misconduct & Interpersonal Violence ......................................................................................32

CAMPUS SECURITY-CLERY ACT: UVa-Wise is committed to helping the campus community provide for their own safety and security. The Annual Security Report and Fire Safety Report containing information on campus security and personal safety, including alerts, fire safety, crime prevention tips, and crime statistics is available at www.uvawise.edu/ASR. A copy is available upon request by calling 276-328-0190 or 276-376-3451. The University of Virginia’s College at Wise is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the baccalaureate degree. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of The University of Virginia’s College at Wise.


WELCOME

Being a member of the Greek community at UVa-Wise means more than just wearing letters. It means

you are dedicated to sisterhood/brotherhood, academic excellence, community service, leadership, and

campus service. It means you belong to an organization of friends who are there to support, encourage,

and travel this journey through UVa-Wise and beyond with you. It means you have a place to voice ideas

and initiatives and rely on the help of fellow members to turn your words into action. It means

belonging to a group with common goals and having the people power to see those goals come to

fruition. It means joining an organization with a national network that connects you to brothers and

sisters all over the world. It means learning to lead committees and organize worthwhile events and

programs. It means becoming a member of a dedicated organization and community with a desire to

affect change within and outside the UVa-Wise community.

Members of the Greek community impact the campus in many different ways. Greek leaders are

members of UVa-Wise clubs and organizations, including the Student Government Association, Honor

Court, Student Activities Board, cheerleaders, bands, and honor societies. They are freshmen mentors,

Resident Advisors, Student Ambassadors, as well as student-athletes. They facilitate discussions about

important campus and social issues and sponsor social and philanthropic activities.

Whether you are the president of your organization or the recruitment chair, the following information

will help you as you grow as a leader within your Greek organization. Understanding the policies and

procedures for Greek Life on campus helps you make informed and thoughtful decisions and helps your

organization be successful. The attached information provides you with policies and procedures for

recruitment, socials, academic requirements and much more. While the information provided is subject

to change, this handbook serves as the best reference for frequently asked questions.

If at any time you have any questions about the information or policies or procedure contained herein,

please do not hesitate to contact the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life or stop by the 3rd floor of

the C. Bascom Slemp Student Center. In advance, thank you for your contributions to both campus life

and for your leadership.

NATHAN RASNAKE, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF STUDENT ACTIVITIES & GREEK LIFE

OFFICE OF STUDENT ACTIVITIES & GREEK LIFE

OFFICE: 276.376.4651 EMAIL: [email protected]


AMERICA’S UNIQUE GREEK SYSTEM1

HISTORY

The first general fraternity for which records exist was the Flat Hat Club, organized in 1750 at the College of

William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. The members met periodically in an upper room of the Raleigh Tavern,

and over a bowl of punch, their laughter reportedly shook the house. Thomas Jefferson, author of the U.S.

Declaration of Independence and third President of the United States, was a student member of this club.

The first Greek-letter society came into being because a student had been refused admission into a William and

Mary organization known as PDA. The PDA club was supposedly a literary society but had long lost those purposes.

The rejected man was a superior Greek scholar. With four friends, he organized a society of his own, using Greek

letters to name it: Phi Beta Kappa. The first meeting of Phi Beta Kappa took place on December 5, 1776. It was a

secret meeting, for the faculty of William and Mary at the time did not approve of its students discussing the

pressing issues of the day and possibly straying too far from accepted beliefs. So Phi Beta Kappa developed

appropriate signals of challenge and recognition. They met weekly at the site of American patriot Patrick Henry’s

“give me liberty or give me death” speech in the Apollo room of the Raleigh Tavern in Williamsburg.

After two years, Phi Beta Kappa felt that other campuses should share in its experiment, that the higher education

experience should provide consideration in preparing the student for his future responsibilities by also preparing

his social skills. Thus, chapters were founded at several American colleges. As time went on, Phi Beta Kappa

became purely intellectual in its aims; its original cardinal principles were “literature, morality and friendship.”

During anti-secret movements of the 1830s, Phi Beta Kappa, the society, voluntarily revealed its once secret Greek

name, Filosofia Bion Kuberneqes (Philosophia Bios Kybernethes), or “Philosophy (is the) guide to life.” Today, Phi

Beta Kappa is a scholastic honorary society that recognizes undergraduate men and women who show superior

achievement in academics in more than 184 college campuses across the nation.

The secret grip and ritual, the distinctive badge, and the use of Greek letters — all were used by Phi Beta Kappa

and were adopted by subsequent Greek letter fraternities and sororities. However, the most important legacies of

Phi Beta Kappa are these: high moral ideals, scholastic advancement, and the friendship of brothers or sisters with

each other.

TODAY

Fraternities and sororities are student organizations whose primary purpose is the personal development of their

members, as distinguished from honorary, professional, departmental, and service fraternities. Unlike most other

student organizations, membership in a social fraternity or sorority is a lifetime affiliation, and students are not

permitted to be initiated into more than one fraternity or sorority.

Fraternities and sororities promote intimate relationship bonds of brotherhood/sisterhood and members typically

refer to fellow members as “brothers” or “sisters.” Traditionally, most fraternities and sororities are designated by

Greek letters; hence, they are often referred to as “Greek organizations,” “the Greek community,” or simply

“Greeks.”

Fraternities and sororities typically have rituals and creeds that promote ideals such as friendship, loyalty,

academic achievement, intellectual development, service to the community and alma mater, honor and integrity,

leadership, and personal responsibility. Many fraternities have an indoctrination and orientation period prior to


initiation, and pre-initiated members are commonly referred to as pledges, associates or associate members,

candidates, intakes, or new members. Some fraternities and sororities are culturally and/or community based.

Fraternities and sororities may select members according to subjective criteria consistent with college/university

nondiscrimination policies. They are entitled to single-gender membership, provided they qualify under the

provision of Section 86.14 of the regulations promulgated under Title IX of the U.S. Education Act of 1972, which

require that the organizations be exempt from taxation under section 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of

1954.

1The content in this section was originally created by the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life at The University of North Carolina — Chapel Hill.

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life is to cultivate a community of excellence among the fraternities and sororities at UVa-Wise with a focus on outstanding academic achievement, civic responsibility and service, inclusiveness, fellowship, and responsible decision-making that requires and expects the highest standards of integrity and ethics from all members and organizations. We strive to maximize the positive impact of Greek Life on-campus, in the community, and throughout the world at-large through a dedication to philanthropy and the personal growth and contributions of our members.

GREEK GOVERNING COUNCILS

GREEK JUDICIAL COUNCIL (GJC)

The Greek Judicial Council (GJC) exists to advance the general interests of the Greek community in connection with

the welfare of the student body and the College as a whole, and to exercise such judicial controls as might be

necessary to accomplish such ends. The GJC hears judicial matters pertaining to Greek organizations as a whole;

this organization does not exist to handle individual judicial violations or violations of the UVa-Wise student code

of conduct. The GJC consists of a representative for each chartered Greek-lettered organization at UVa-Wise.

Please note that all cases involving sexual misconduct and interpersonal violence will be adjudicated according to

the Sexual Misconduct & Interpersonal Violence Policy. The full policy is available at

www.uvawise.edu/compliance/sexualmisconduct

GJC members’ terms of appointment run from January through December. Members are selected in the fall

through an application and interview process.

*Should there not be an active GJC, the Student Conduct Board shall hear all cases.*

THE INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL (IFC)

The Interfraternity Council (IFC) is the umbrella organization for the

four recognized fraternities at UVa-Wise (Alpha Gamma Omega,

Kappa Sigma, Pi Kappa Phi, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia) The purpose

of the IFC is to promote and further the best interests of the

fraternity community, its member chapters, and The University of

http://www.uvawise.edu/compliance/sexualmisconduct


Virginia’s College at Wise. The UVa-Wise Interfraternity Council is a member of the North American Interfraternity

Conference.

Each fraternity is represented by 1 executive board officer (whose position rotates each calendar year) and 1

voting representative. The Interfraternity Council meets each Wednesday at 1pm in the C. Bascom Slemp Student

Center Honor Court Room. Officers and representatives are expected to attend all meetings or send a member in

their place. Failure to attend an IFC meeting can result in fines being imposed by the council.

THE PANHELLENIC COUNCIL (PHC)

The Panhellenic Council (PHC) is the umbrella organization

for our inter/national sororities at UVa-Wise (Alpha Sigma

Tau, Phi Sigma Sigma, and Sigma Alpha Omega). The

purpose of the PHC is to promote and further the best

interests of the sorority community, its member chapters,

and The University of Virginia’s College at Wise. The

Panhellenic Council is a member of the National Panhellenic Conference.

Each sorority is represented by a PHC Delegate, while the executive board consists of a President, Vice President,

Secretary, and Treasurer. The Panhellenic Council meets each Monday at 1pm in the C. Bascom Slemp Student

Center Honor Court Room. Officers and representatives are expected to attend all meetings or send a member in

their place. Failure to attend a PHC meeting can result in fines being imposed by the council.

PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL

In an effort to increase communication between fraternities and sororities and the Office of Greek Life, the

President’s Council meets once a month during the academic year. The President’s Council is composed of the

president from each fraternity and sorority, the IFC President, PHC President, GJC President and the Assistant

Director of Student Activities & Greek Life.


GREEK LIFE AT UVA-WISE

LEADERSHIP

The University of Virginia’s College at Wise’s sororities and fraternities are self-governing organizations that offer

significant opportunities for students to develop leadership skills. Members set policies and standards, serve in

chapter leadership positions, manage budgets, chair committees, and plan community service and social events.

These and other leadership opportunities help members learn how to motivate others, encourage critical thinking,

plan effective programs, resolve conflicts, and develop communication and organizational skills. Becoming a

member of a fraternity or sorority also provides the opportunity for involvement in other areas such as the, Greek

Judicial Council, Order of Omega, the Interfraternity Council, the Panhellenic Council, and much more.

SCHOLARSHIP

Fraternities and sororities are committed to academic success. Often, chapters provide academic resources for

their members, including planned study sessions and tutoring. Additionally, many chapters offer financial awards

and scholarship programs to encourage scholastic achievement.

SOCIAL

Fraternities and sororities come together to celebrate annual traditions such as Homecoming, Reunion Weekends,

philanthropic activities, and Greek Week. Mixers, formals, cookouts, theme parties, and other social events

provide opportunities to socialize within the organization and to meet other students on campus.

PHILANTRHOPY & SERVICE

One of the most gratifying parts of Greek life is the sense of satisfaction and pride that comes with involvement in

community service and philanthropic events. Each chapter has its own philanthropy and participates on both a

local and national level through volunteering, fundraising, and other projects. Each year, the Greek community

donates thousands of dollars and volunteer numerous hours to local and national charities.

COMMUNITY

Brotherhood and sisterhood represent the bonds of community and friendship that last a lifetime. These

communal bonds are not only found locally, but also among many chapters nationally. Brotherhood and sisterhood

activities include chapter retreats and alumni events. The familial bonds in Greek organizations are very strong and

last long past graduation. Membership is for life.


UVA-WISE GREEK ORGANIZATIONS FRATERNITIES ALPHA GAMMA OMEGA – ΑΓΩ

During the school year of 1926-27, three students at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) met during

lunch for prayer and fellowship. E. Harlan Fischer, Frank Young, and James Carter looked forward to the

establishment of a Christian club on campus. Fischer sent letters to 35 students during the Christmas break. A

dinner meeting was held for these young men at the Green Dragon Cafe on January 7, 1927, and 16 gathered there

to discuss their possibilities.

Those present at the cafe felt that a Christian fraternity, founded on Christian ideals and fellowship, would be more

reputable than a Christian club. E. Harlan Fischer appointed a committee to draw up a constitution. This

constitution was submitted and accepted at the first official meeting of the fraternity on February 15, 1927. Twelve

men signed as charter members.

Common name AGOs

Local founding date March 31, 2019

Chapter name Omega

National founding date February 25, 1927

Number of founders 13

Colors Blue and Gold

Flower Easter Lily

Symbol skull and crossbones (locally)

Open motto “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman who

needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth”

(2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

Website https://ago.org/

CREST

NEW MEMBER PIN

BADGE

https://ago.org/


COLONY OF KAPPA SIGMA —

Founded in 1869 at the University of Virginia, five friends, George Miles Arnold, John Covert Boyd, William Grigsby

McCormick, Frank Courtney Nicodemous and Edmond Law Rogers, came together to form what is now one of the

five largest fraternities in North America. Membership in Kappa Sigma rests on four pillars which guides a

member’s ambitions and success. They include fellowship, leadership, scholarship and service. The Pi Delta

Chapter’s history began in 1998 when five friends of UVA-Wise also came together to form what was then Gamma

Chi Omega, a local fraternity. On February 2, 2008, the fraternity was chartered as the Pi Delta Chapter of Kappa

Sigma.

Common name Kappa Sigs

Local founding date April 29, 1998 (In process of re-chartering)

Chapter name Pi Delta

National founding date December 10, 1869


Colors Scarlet, White & Emerald Green

Flower Lily of the Valley

Symbol Skull and crossbones (locally)

Open motto Bononia Docet ("Bologna Teaches")

Website www.kappasigma.org

CREST

NEW MEMBER PIN

BADGE


PI KAPPA PHI —

For over 100 years, Pi Kappa Phi has been building better men on college campuses across the country. Founded

at the College of Charleston in 1904 by three friends-- Andrew Kroeg, Simon Fogarty and Harry Mixson—Pi Kappa

Phi has given over 100,000 men the opportunity to lead. Pi Kappa Phi believes in the tenets of Character,

Leadership, Academics, Sportsmanship, and Service. These principles are not only valued but instilled through

leading-edge educational, service and leadership opportunities. Pi Kappa Phi is committed to service through its

own philanthropy The Ability Experience (formerly known as PUSH America) founded in 1977 by Brother Thomas

Sayre. The Epsilon Epsilon Chapter (UVa-Wise) of Pi Kappa Phi was founded on March 1, 1980 and takes pride in

being the longest standing social Greek organization on campus.

Common name Pi Kapps

Local founding date March 1, 1980

Chapter name Epsilon Epsilon

National founding date December 10, 1904


Colors Blue, White & Gold

Flower Red Rose

Symbol Student Lamp

Open motto “Nothing shall ever tear us asunder”

Website www.pikapp.org

CREST

NEW MEMBER PIN BADGE


PHI MU ALPHA SINFONIA— ΦΜΑ

Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia is the world’s oldest and largest secret national fraternal society in music. Sinfonia was born

on October 6, 1898, at the New England Conservatory in Boston, when a group of thirteen young men under the

guidance of Ossian Everett Mills met “to consider the social life of the young men students of that institution [and]

to devise ways and means by which it might be improved.” Sinfonia became a national fraternity on October 6,

1900, with the admission of a group of men at the Broad Street Conservatory in Philadelphia. For over a century,

Sinfonians in nearly every field of study and professional endeavor have transformed music in America. The

opportunity of becoming a Sinfonian is offered to as many men as possible who, through a love for music, can assist

in the fulfillment of the Fraternity’s Object and ideals either by adopting music as a profession or by working to

advance the cause of music in America.

Common name Phi Mu’s or Sinfonians

Local founding date April 21, 2018

Chapter name Sigma Omicron

National founding date October 6, 1898


Colors Red, Black, and Gold

Flower Chrysanthemum

Symbol Lyre

Open motto “Among Men, Harmony”

Website https://www.sinfonia.org/

CREST



SORORITIES

ALPHA SIGMA TAU — ΑΣΤ

On November 4, 1899, Alpha Sigma Tau sorority was founded by eight women at Michigan State Normal College

(now Eastern Michigan University) in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Since 1899, the purpose of the sorority has been to

promote the ethical, cultural, and social development of its members and to help members maintain high standards

of scholarship, friendship, and social grace. The UVa-Wise chapter of Alpha Sigma Tau was born out of a local

sorority, Xi Gamma Zeta (known as the Zetas), founded at UVa-Wise on April 27, 2001. On April 14, 2007, the

Epsilon Zeta chapter was chartered at UVa-Wise. Partnerships with Pine Mountain Settlement School and Habitat

for Humanity have allowed members to work to end poverty, thus mirroring the Alpha Sigma Tau motto of being

active, self-reliant and trust worthy.

Common name AST or Tau’s


Chapter name Epsilon Zeta

National founding date November 4, 1899


Colors Emerald Green & Gold

Flower Yellow Rose

Symbol The Anchor

Open motto “Active, Self-Reliant, Trustworthy”

Website www.alphasigmatau.org

CREST



PHI SIGMA SIGMA — ΦΣΣ

On November 26, 1913, Phi Sigma Sigma sorority was founded at Hunter College in New York by 10 visionary

women. The women approached the Dean of the College about starting a sorority that would promote open

membership to all women of character regardless of background; a sorority committed to sisterhood, excellence in

scholarship, and selfless giving. Phi Sigma Sigma was the first nonsectarian sorority; the only one that was open to

diverse membership from inception and the only one with a ritual that was not based in scripture. The Theta Rho

chapter of Phi Sigma Sigma was founded at UVA-Wise on April 13, 1996.The chapter is the longest standing

national sorority on campus.

Common name Phi Sigs


Chapter name Theta Rho

National founding date November 26, 1913


Colors King Blue & Gold

Flower American Beauty Rose

Symbol Sphinx

Open motto Diokete Hupsala "Aim High"

Website www.phisigmasigma.org

CREST



SIGMA ALPHA OMEGA--ΑΩ

Sigma Alpha Omega’s national roots are linked to Chi Alpha Omega, a co-ed Christian fraternity founded at East

Carolina University in Greenville, NC. In January 1998, members of the Beta Chapter of Chi Alpha Omega

established Sigma Alpha Omega in hopes of benefiting both the fraternity and the new sorority. The sorority is

committed to living according to Christian principles. The organization’s founding sisters were Michelle Bull,

Kathryn Meyer, Kimberly Rogers and Josie Watson. At UVa-Wise, Sigma Alpha Omega was established by a group

of committed friends who shared a vision to bring a sorority whose values were tied to the Christian faith to

campus.

Common name Sigma Alpha Omega

Local founding date Summer 2012

Chapter name Alpha Zeta

National founding date January 1998


Colors Burgundy & Forest Green

Flower Lily

Symbol Dove

Open motto “One in Christ Through Unity in Sisterhood”

Website www.sigmaalphaomega.org

CREST

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ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS

Education is the primary mission of the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. As such, scholarship and academic achievement are two of the most important tenants of the Greek community. In order to be in good academic standing, each fraternal organization must maintain a chapter average cumulative GPA of a 2.50. Sororities must maintain a chapter average cumulative GPA of a 2.50. Organizations falling below these standards are subject to sanctions based on the Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council policies. Organizations not associated with a governing council who fall below these standards, are placed on academic probation for one semester. If, after the end of the following semester, the organization’s GPA does not meet the set requirement, the organization is placed on academic suspension and cannot recruit until the organization GPA meets the College standard. Academic expectation plays a vital role in the Greek life system for the national offices and the Office of Student Activities & Greek Life. Each spring, the Student Leadership Awards committee uses the chapter GPAs to assist them in determining the Greek Chapter of the Year at the Student Leadership Awards Banquet.

ADVISOR’S ROLE

Advisors are important resources to Greek organizations. While national standards usually require several different advisors (alumni advisor, financial advisor, recruitment advisor, etc.), UVa-Wise requires that each organization have one primary advisor, a full-time faculty or full-time staff member, who will be responsible for signing off on paperwork, being contacted in the event of an emergency or problem, etc. Per the Office of Greek Life and the Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management & Student Life, Greek Life advisors are limited to only serving one chapter on The University of Virginia’s College at Wise’s campus. In the event that a Greek organization advisor resigns or is dismissed, the organization will be placed on a “interim suspension” until they are able to find another advisor. Additional information about the role of the advisor and expectations of members and advisors is listed below:

ORGANIZATION OFFICERS & MEMBERS TO ADVISORS —

1. Be aware that the advisor is a resource and a guide for organization members throughout the process of effectively operating an organization, and realize that serving as an advisor is a substantial commitment of time and energy. Provide a potential advisor with your organization’s expectations before offering the position.

2. Consult your advisor: a. prior to all outings, fundraisers, events, and elections to ensure that organization activities are

consistent with the UVa-Wise and organizational missions, the Student Code of Conduct, and Student Activities risk management guidelines regarding event planning (i.e. submission of the Event Planning Form). Be sure to invite the advisor to attend organization-sponsored activities.

b. on all organization business (meetings, financial statements, reports, etc.) and provide copies of

all meeting minutes. Again, be sure to invite the advisor to attend organization-sponsored meetings.

c. on all organizational materials (flyers, brochures, etc.) prior to usage/distribution; always include

the organization president’s signature/initials on the materials. Note that all flyers must also


then be approved by a member of the Slemp Student Center professional staff for campus distribution.

d. when internal organizational difficulties (communications, delegation of responsibilities, etc.) arise; he/she may be able to assist officers with resolution of the conflict.

3. Thank your advisor for his/her time and effort.

ADVISORS TO ORGANIZATION OFFICERS & MEMBERS —

1. From the start, clarify your role as an advisor to organization members and provide your expectations. Be aware of your own departmental expectations and how they will impact your role as advisor.

2. Ensure organizational compliance with UVa-Wise policies and procedures and with federal, state and local laws by sharing policies, regulations, roles, and responsibilities with organization members (i.e. travel, purchasing, fundraising, student conduct, etc.).

3. Provide continuity to the organization — encourage, challenge, and assist the group in setting

organizational long and short term goals; mentor the art of leadership; and assist with annual officer transitions.

4. Be available to the organization, its officers and members for:

a. consultation on organization business, procedures, conflicts, etc. b. assistance to the organization officers and members in planning and hosting programs and

events and for referrals to the appropriate campus resources during the planning process

c. review and approval of required event paperwork (event planning forms, fundraising request forms, etc. require an advisor’s signature) as well as flyers, brochures, etc. prior to distribution

d. attendance and supervision at the organization’s official functions, meetings, trips, etc.

5. Most importantly — have fun! It is important to build rapport with your organization by being a caring individual with a real interest in and concern for students and their growth. Do not let personal goals interfere with or influence group decisions, activities or goals.

ADDITIONAL EXPECTATIONS FOR GREEK CHAPTER ADVISORS —

Due to the uniqueness of UVa-Wise Greek organizations, the following additional guidelines are provided for fraternity and sorority chapter advisors. Advisors to Greek chapters are not required to be members of the particular organization which they advise. Each Greek chapter may make this determination based upon its organizational mission and needs.

1. Advisors to Greek chapters must be knowledgeable of UVa-Wise organizational policies, as well as Greek chapter, governing council (i.e. IFC or PHC), and/or national/international policies and regulations.

2. Advisors to Greek chapters should regularly attend chapter and other Greek Life meetings, so as to provide guidance and mentoring in areas including, but not limited to:

a. serving as a resource for the chapter executive board and individual members b. developing the chapter’s philanthropic and service programs c. being called upon to assist with chapter conflicts and/or crises


d. assisting in the development of a scholarship and/or academic incentive program

CLERY ACT REQUIREMENTS — ALL advisors (not just primary advisors) that interact with chapter members and participate in chapter events are designated as Campus Security Authorities (CSAs) per the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. (NOTE: Any chapter student members who are responsible for event security/monitoring the entrance into registered parties are also CSAs.) Annual training is required for all CSAs and is coordinated by the Office of Compliance, Conduct & Inclusion. CSAs are responsible for promptly reporting allegations of Clery Act crimes that are reported to them to Campus Police at 276-328-01290 weekday business hours; 276-376-3756 after hours, non-emergency; 911 emergency). CSAs are not responsible for determining authoritatively whether a crime took place—that is the function of law enforcement personnel. Reports will be included in the crime log and in campus crime statistics in accordance with Clery Act requirements, as well as be assessed for timely warning and emergency notifications. Clery Act reporting requirements also include off-campus locations when students travel overnight for College-sponsored events, including athletics events, Study Abroad trips, and organization/chapter events and trips. Those advisors or faculty/ staff coordinating the travel/event must submit the Clery Act Student Travel Form AFTER each trip. The form is available at www.uvawise.edu/clery in two formats (printable pdf and online fillable). For more information, visit the Policy Section in this handbook or contact Molly Land, Assistant Director of Compliance at 276-376-3424 or [email protected] .

NEW MEMBER EDUCATION

New member education periods usually begin at the conclusion of recruitment or once a chapter hosts its new member pinning ceremony. The College requires that all new member education periods not last more than 10 weeks and must be completed by the Sunday before the last week of classes begin. Initiations must be completed prior to start of final exams, unless approval has been granted by the Assistant Director of Student Activities & Greek Life.

New member education periods are a time to build brotherhood or sisterhood with your new members and where

new members are exposed to the history, traditions, and values of the organization. New members will typically be

involved in leadership retreats, community service projects, and other activities that will offer them opportunities

to better know the organization and its other members.

New member education should provide new members with the information and tools they need to be a successful

leader within a Greek organization. Organization leaders should do all they can to ensure that events follow all

college and national policies and that events do not constitute hazing. Chapter leaders must review with their

Chapter’s membership, the College’s hazing policy, and state hazing law at the beginning of each semester.

http://www.uvawise.edu/clery

mailto:[email protected]


HAZING

Hazing is prohibited under the State statute on hazing as well as by College policy, both outlined below.

UVa-Wise Policy The UVa-Wise policy on hazing is as follows:

Hazing is prohibited under the State statute on hazing (Virginia Hazing, Civil and Criminal

Liability, Code of Virginia, 18.2-56) as well as by College policy.

The College does not condone hazing in any form.

The term "hazing" means any action taken or situation created by a member(s) of a student

organization toward one or more organization members or toward prospective members (as a

part of the new member selection process), that occurs on College-owned or leased property or at

College-sponsored or supervised functions or at the local residence of any College student, faculty

member, or employee, and that is designed to or produces mental or physical harassment,

discomfort, or ridicule.

Such activities and situations include, but are not limited to, creation of excessive physical or

psychological shock, fatigue, stress, injury, or harm.

Student organizations and/or individual members found to have engaged in hazing shall be in

violation of College policy and may also be in violation of the State statute.

Virginia State Law § 18.2-56. Hazing unlawful; civil and criminal liability; duty of school officials, etc.

It shall be unlawful to haze so as to cause bodily injury, any student at any school, college, or university.

Any person found guilty thereof shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Any person receiving bodily

injury by hazing shall have a right to sue, civilly, the person or persons guilty thereof, whether adults or

infants.

The president or other presiding official of any school, college or university receiving appropriations from

the state treasury shall, upon satisfactory proof of the guilt of any student hazing another student,

sanction and discipline such student in accordance with the institution's policies and procedures. The

institution's policies and procedures shall provide for expulsions or other appropriate discipline based on

the facts and circumstances of each case. The president or other presiding official of any school, college or

university receiving appropriations from the state treasury shall report hazing which causes bodily injury to

the attorney for the Commonwealth of the county or city in which such school, college or university is, who

shall take such action as he deems appropriate.

For the purposes of this section, "hazing" means to recklessly or intentionally endanger the health or

safety of a student or students or to inflict bodily injury on a student or students in connection with or for

the purpose of initiation, admission into or affiliation with or as a condition for continued membership in a

club, organization, association, fraternity, sorority, or student body regardless of whether the student or

students so endangered or injured participated voluntarily in the relevant activity.


No UVa-Wise club, organization, Greek chapter or colony, nor its members or advisor, shall conduct or condone

hazing activities. Additional examples of prohibited hazing activities include, but are not limited to:

use of alcohol

paddling in any form

creative of excessive fatigue

physical and psychological shocks

quests, treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, road trips, or any other such activity carried out on or off

campus property

wearing of public apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste

engaging in public stunts and buffoonery

morally degrading or humiliating games and activities

any other activities which are not consistent with academic achievement, or the regulations and

policies of the College or applicable state law

Questions about new member education events or the hazing policy should be directed to the Assistant Director of

Student Activities & Greek Life.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

The Office of Student Activities and Greek Life promotes the development of student leaders through a variety of

ways, including leadership trainings, education sessions, organizations and recognition. Each spring, the Office of

Student Activities and Greek Life awards a variety of honors to Greek organizations (ex. recognizing recruitment

excellence, academic excellence, service excellence, excellence in campus involvement, and the highest honor of

Greek Chapter of the Year). In order to be considered for any of these honors, a chapter must complete Leadership

Awards applications and submit them by the required deadline to the Student Leadership Awards Planning

Committee. In addition, three individual member honors are presented by the Greek Community, including Greek

Man of the Year, Greek Woman of the Year and Greek New Member of the Year. Nominations for these awards are

accepted by the Office of Greek Life and the recipients are voted upon by a committee made up of organization

presidents, IFC members and PHC members. All of the awards listed above are presented at the annual Student

Leadership Awards Banquet at the end of the spring semester each academic year.

In addition, Greek leaders may be recognized through induction in Order of Omega. Order of Omega is a national

organization that only recognizes the top 3% of Greek leaders on College campuses. Membership first requires a

nomination, application and then selection from members of Order of Omega. In order to be considered for

membership in Order of Omega, Greek students must be a junior or senior in standing, have significant leadership

experience in the Greek community, have held residency at the College for at least one full academic year, be in

good standing with their organization and the College, be involved within their Greek Chapter or a Greek governing

council and at least one other student organization, be nominated for membership in Order of Omega, complete

the required application and have the met the GPA requirement set by the selection committee (made up of

members of Order of Omega).


ORGANIZATION CONDUCT

All organizations are responsible for adhering to the policies set forth by their respective inter/national

organizations, the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life, Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Council, Greek

Judicial Council, the Student Code of Conduct and College Policies, and all other applicable regulations. The College

may take action, including organizational charges filed with the Greek Judicial Council and/or individual charges

filed with the student conduct board, against an organization or its individual members when the behavior of the

members of the organization allegedly violates these policies. Reports of organizational misconduct received by

the Dean of Students Affairs office or the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life that violates policies are

referred to the Greek Judicial Council who hears the case and determines responsibility. Sanctions may be imposed

on those organizations that are found to have violated policy through warnings, probation, restitution, educational

programs, community service, social restrictions, loss of privileges and loss of College recognition of the chapter.

Organizations may be held responsible for the acts of individual members when acting individually or on behalf of

the organization. The organization is expected to take appropriate disciplinary action against any members who

violate the rules and expectations of their organizations or the College.

Chapter events are defined as events where chapter or provisional group members are present and the general

perception is that the event is chapter or new member group related. If the organization is unsure if it is a chapter

or new member event, consider the following questions:

1. Was the event planned or pre-meditated?

2. Was it discussed at a meeting (chapter, executive council, committee, etc.)?

3. Did the majority of the members know about the event?

4. Were a significant number of members present?

5. Were a significant number of those attending the event invited by members?

6. Were chapter funds used in any way?

7. Was the event advertised using the chapter’s name, house addresses or nicknames, or other identifying

information?

8. Did the chapter officers know about or take part in the planning of any part of the event?

9. Did the event occur in conjunction with a chapter function (bid day, initiation, community service event,

other chapter event, etc.)?

10. Would those attending the event attribute it to your organization?

It is the policy of the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life to defer complaints or reports about an

organization’s behavior to the Greek Judicial Council who will hear the case and determine responsibility and/or

sanctions. If there is not a Greek Judicial Board in place, the Dean of Students or his/her designee shall hear the

case.

Please note that all cases involving sexual misconduct and interpersonal violence will be adjudicated according to

the Sexual Misconduct & Interpersonal Violence Policy. The full policy is available at

www.uvawise.edu/compliance/sexualmisconduct



RECRUITMENT RULES & REGULATIONS

Recruitment is the life of any Greek organization. Recruitment periods are established by the individual governing councils, who set dates, additional requirements and restrictions, as well as continuous open bidding periods. Usually the recruitment process is a 2-3 week time frame. Organizations who do not operate under the supervision of a Greek governing council, must consult with the Assistant Director of Student Activities & Greek Life who will give approval for the organization’s plan for recruitment or intake. Outside of rules and regulations established by the governing council, the following policies apply to all Greek organizations at UVa-Wise:

• A potential member must be a regularly matriculated, full-time student (unless approved by the Assistant

Director of Student Activities and Greek Life)

• Upperclass male students seeking membership in a fraternity on campus must have a minimum

cumulative GPA of a 2.50 (the lowest GPA requirement of a member fraternity on campus. Upperclass

female students seeking membership in a sorority on campus must have a minimum cumulative GPA of a

2.50 (the lowest GPA requirement of a member sorority on campus).Please note that individual

organization may have higher GPA standards for membership.

• First semester freshmen students must have a 2.75 high school academic GPA (as determined by the

office of admissions) to be eligible to go through recruitment during their first semester. Transfer students

(over 30 hours) are permitted to go through recruitment as long as they meet the GPA requirements set

above.

• A potential member shall register for recruitment by completing the registration form through the Office

of Student Activities and Greek Life.

• A potential member shall not be a current or previously initiated member of a national fraternity or

sorority.

• A potential member shall consult with the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life before withdrawing

from recruitment or new member period, and must sign an official withdrawal form.

• Membership in a fraternity or sorority is based on not only the college’s standards as stated above, but as

well as those standards required of the national headquarters.

RISK MANAGEMENT

Establishing and following risk management procedures outlined by your national headquarters and the College are keys to a successful chapter. All members of an organization should familiarize themselves with their national risk management policies as well as those of the institution. UVa-Wise requires that organizations complete an event planning form for off campus and on campus events providing they meet certain criteria. If any ONE of the following criteria is met, an Event Planning Form must be completed and returned to the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life at least ten (10) business days prior to the event. This allows time for proper response/adjustment of event plans, if necessary.

Alcohol will be present (submit and attach the Alcohol Event Planning Form).

Attendance will be in excess of three (3) times the organization’s membership (including members).

The event is equal to or greater than 10 miles from the campus.

The reservation of space and/or the request of campus services.

A contract(s) is signed with an outside company/group (including the College).


The event is co-sponsored by another group. ‘Co-Sponsored’ can be defined as any event where another

group takes part in the planning, organizing, advertising, funding, operating, or monitoring of an event.

Each participating organization must submit its own Event Planning Form.

If alcohol will be present at an event, whether on or off campus, an “Alcohol Event Planning Form” should be submitted in lieu of a general events form. Organizations wanting to host on-campus events with alcohol must contact Chartwells Dining Services at (276) 328-5514. Events with alcohol carry additional risks and organizations should exercise caution and ensure all members are following risk management procedures.

UVa-Wise also requires that organizations annually submit a Certificate of Insurance (COI) from their insurance provider. The certificate should list the following as an additional insured: “The Commonwealth of Virginia and the Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia, its officers, employees and agents.” COIs should be submitted to the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life by October 1st of each academic year.

Please note that all Risk Management Chairs of each Greek organization is required to attend a quarterly meeting with the Title IX Coordinator. The purpose of this meeting is so that organizations can be reprised of any changes and educational needs regarding Sexual Misconduct & Interpersonal Violence.

In an event of an emergency, whether on campus or off campus, organizations should contact Campus Police at 276-328-COPS (2677) and the Wise County Sheriff’s Office at 276-328-3756, as well as the Assistant Director of Student Activities and Greek Life.

STARTING A GREEK ORGANIZATION

Establishing a new Greek chapter on campus is a challenging, yet rewarding experience for any undergraduate student. Prior to embarking on bringing a new organization to campus, students should seek out additional information about the campus climate and ask several questions. Can UVa-Wise maintain an additional fraternity or sorority? Is the student population large enough to support a new chapter (membership is key!)? What are the time commitments?

UVa-Wise requires all fraternities and sororities wishing to be recognized by the College to be chapters of a national organization. Students wishing to charter a new organization on campus should first contact Nathan Rasnake, Assistant Director of Student Activities & Greek Life, who will help students examine different Greek organizations and review the charting process in depth. Once a national organization has been picked and is willing to expand to campus and an interest group formed, expansion approval must be granted by the appropriate governing council (either IFC or PHC). Without approval from an appropriate governing council, the expansion process cannot take place. For expansion of organizations that are not represented by a governing council (for example, NPHC organizations), approval must be granted by the Assistant Director of Student Activities and Greek Life who will consult with other member organizations on the opportunity to expand the Greek system.

Once approval for expansion has been granted by the appropriate parties listed above, the interest group must seek approval to be chartered as a student organization by the UVa-Wise Student Government Association (SGA). Approval from the SGA requires a completed and reviewed Constitution, at least five (5) students who are interested in being members of the organization, and an organization advisor. Once approved by the SGA, the interest group becomes a probationary Greek organization and can begin the colonization and chartering process as outlined by the national headquarters.

All Greek organizations are allowed to function on campus at the discretion of the College. At any time (either as a probationary member or a chartered chapter) that the College feels that a fraternity or sorority’s presence on campus is detrimental to the mission of the College, recognition of the chapter’s charter may be revoked by the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life.


ADVERTISING & PUBLICITY

The best advertising and publicity for your organization and/or event is consistent, clear, concise, and timely. Deficient advertising and publicity efforts, such as grammatical errors, utilizing trademarked or licensed logos, being too wordy, and providing short notice, not only are ineffective, but reflect poorly on your organization and its members. Remember, you get what you put into something —minimal efforts on the part of your organization in advertising and publicity provide minimal returns for your event (i.e. low attendance, audience dissatisfaction, etc.), however, stronger efforts on the part of your organization in advertising and publicity provide stronger returns for your event (i.e. good attendance, audience satisfaction, etc.). ADVERTISEMENT POSTING GUIDELINES

Usage of the College name, logos and colors must follow established guidelines as outlined in the College Style Guide Primer (see Appendix)

Advertisements, flyers, etc. posted on campus must not mention alcohol and/or drugs or promote illegal alcohol or drug activity.

Advertisements, flyers, etc. must not have any material which may be damaging to the College’s credibility or reputation, must avoid the use of profanity and must not be demeaning to others (including women or any group of people).

Advertisements in a language other than English require an English translation to be provided to a professional staff member of the C. Bascom Slemp Student Center for consideration of approval.

Advertisements, flyers, etc. created by and for ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS on campus must be pre-approved by the Office of the Provost and College Relations Office.

After approval, appropriate advertisements/organizational materials may be placed on designated general information bulletin boards on campus and in residence halls. Flyers should not be placed on windows, walls, doors, painted surfaces, etc. If you would like the RAs to post your approved flyers in the residence halls, provide 30 copies to the Office of Housing and Residence Life in Cantrell Hall.

All flyers and banners will be removed from bulletin boards and kiosks on the 1st and 15th of each month. Designated professional staff members will remove the flyers from bulletin boards within their respective buildings and kiosks across campus.

The Office of Student Activities has compiled a list of additional ways in which your organization may promote itself or its events. Please contact the Assistant Director of Student Activities & Greek Life (376-4651) for additional information or assistance with publicity efforts.

Banners – contact the IT Help Desk at 276-376-4509 for campus computer lab capabilities.

Campus mailings – contact the Post Office at 276-328-0209 to distribute on-campus mailings for free; commercial ads, chain letters, non-

College sponsored activities, & political ads are prohibited

Campus newspaper – contact The Highland Cavalier at 276-328-0212


Campus television – contact Media Services at 276-328-0312 for advertising on local UVa-Wise information channel 55

Dances – require completion of the Event Planning Form and Campus Police notification at least 30 days in advance of the event

Flyers / door knob cards / table tents) – get the word out visually. Contact the Office of Student Activities for assistance 276-376-4651.

Food – the ultimate draw for students...for catering assistance, call Brett Lawson in Chartwells Dining Services at 276-328-5514 or [email protected] note: Bake sales require Chartwells or Virginia Department of Health approval

Press releases in local media – contact Kathy Still in College Relations, at 276-328-0130 for local newspaper and/or radio information

Sidewalk chalk – chalk may be used on exposed (not below roofs or overhangs) exterior concrete or asphalt sidewalks or walkways. Use

of chalk on brick, slate or other stones surfaces or on buildings, stairs, or other structures of any kind is strictly prohibited. Only non-permanent sidewalk chalk may be used. No paint, spray/adhesive chalks, markers or ink are allowed.

Student Activities Calendar – contact Nathan Rasnake at 276-376-4651 to include events in either the fall or spring editions

T-shirts – purchasing and fundraising guidelines apply for clubs and organizations; consult your advisor or Office of Student Activities for more information Website / College web calendar – Contact

Nathan Rasnake at 276-376-4651 for posting

events to the Club & Organization webpage or

College web calendar

(www.uvawise.edu/calendar)

COMPLIANCE WITH POLICY

Posted materials that are not in compliance with the Advertising & Publicity policy will be removed by members of

the Student Life staff or other College officials without regard to content.

Individuals and organizations failing to comply with this policy may jeopardize future posting privileges; be liable

for damage and/or clean-up costs if any are incurred; jeopardize funding or other privileges afforded to them; or

face charges before the Student Conduct Board.

http://www.uvawise.edu/calendar


EVENT PLANNING Assistance with planning on or off-campus events, recruitment of members, fundraising activities, advertising, programming, conflict resolution, time management and more is available to UVa-Wise clubs and organizations from a variety of campus resources, including those listed below. Please note that no UVa-Wise organization, advisor, or other personnel may sign any contracts for services. For additional assistance, contact the Assistant Director of Student Activities & Greek Life at 276-376-4651.

Resource Contact Person Telephone Audio-visual equipment Rosa Bott 328-0312 Bookstore Scott Lawson 328-0210 Campus Police Ronnie Short 328-0190 (office)

328-COPS (2677) Career Services Neva Bryan 328-0126 Chartwells/Dining Services Brett Lawson 328-5514 Computer Services Help Desk 376-4509 Conferencing & Events Julie Scott 376-1000 The Counseling Center Melissa Jones 376-1005 Ely Health & Wellness Sarah Smith-Carlson 376-4514

Greear Pool Sarah Smith-Carlson 376-4514 Greek Life Nathan Rasnake 376-4651 Health Services Johnnie Bledsoe 328-1005 Highland Cavalier Mike Still 328-1046 Intramurals Mikaela Logan 376-3430 Maintenance David Short 328-0196 Outdoor Recreation Mikaela Logan 376-3430 Post Office Jean Good 328-0209 College Relations Kathy Still 328-0130 Residence Life Joshua Justice 376-4517 Student Activities Nathan Rasnake 376-4651 Student Government Association Joshua Justice, Advisor 328-0102

Mason Philips, President 328-0213 SGA Allocations/Purchasing Denise Maggard 328-0214

Vehicle Reservation David Amos 328-0101


FACILITY RESERVATIONS

Each facility at UVa-Wise may be reserved for campus events by contacting the person listed below. The Event Planning Form (see Appendix) requires approval of the Office of Student Activities and other appropriate College personnel 15 days in advance of the event. Additionally, organizations wishing to sponsor any public social event, including dances, on campus must submit the Event Planning Form at least 15 business days in advance of the event AND notify the Campus Police Department of the event. Coordinating/scheduling facility set-ups for organization events are the responsibility of the organization.

ORGANIZATIONAL CORRESPONDENCE

All organizational forms, including the Event Planning Form, Fundraising Request Form,

Outdoor Space Reservation Form, Request to Charter an Organization Form, SGA Allocations and Pre-

purchasing Form, and Organization Registration Form, are available in the SSC 3rd floor Leadership Wing

organization mailbox area and online at www.uvawise.edu/student-life/getting-involved/clubs-

organizations.

All forms must be completed for ALL organizational events and submitted to the Office of Student Activities at least two (2) weeks prior to the event taking place. Forms submitted later than two (2) weeks may result in an event not being approved. In addition, organizations holding events without submitting the appropriate paperwork and receiving approval may be subject to sanctions by the Office of Student Activities and the SGA, including probation and fundraising/SGA funding restrictions.

http://www.uvawise.edu/student-life/getting-involved/clubs-organizations

http://www.uvawise.edu/student-life/getting-involved/clubs-organizations

GREEK DICTIONARY

The following terms are frequently used by the Greek community:

ACTIVE: A member who has been initiated into lifelong fraternity/sorority membership and is active at the collegiate level.

ALUMNA: A graduated member of a women's sorority/fraternity: Plural Alumnae. Alumnae often support chapter activities through donations, assistance with advising, employment of undergraduates, etc.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION : An organization of alumni from an individual fraternity or sorority. The association may be based on a geographical location or chapter.

ALUMNUS: A graduated member of a men's fraternity: Plural Alumni. Alumni often support chapter activities through donations, assistance with advising, employment of undergraduates, etc.

BADGE/PIN : The pin of an initiated member.

BID: A formal invitation to join a fraternity or sorority.

BID DAY: The last day of formal recruitment when new members accept their bids and officially join their new organization.

BIG: Short for “big sister” or “big brother”; an active member who serves as a mentor for newer members.

BROTHER: A term used by fraternity members to refer to one another.

BYLAWS: Rules made by the local chapter or colony in conjunction with national policies to administer chapter/colony affairs.

CHAPTER: A local group of the larger inter/national organization.

CHAPTER ADVISOR: An alumna/alumnus who establishes and maintains a close advisory relationship with a chapter and serves as a teacher, counselor and friend.

CLOSED RELATIONS: A period of time when conversation and contact between potential new members and IFC active members and alumni are strictly limited by the recruitment guidelines.

COLONY: A student organization in the final stage before being installed as a charted chapter of a inter/nationally affiliated organization.

CONTINUOUS OPEN BIDDING/RECRUITMENT: A process that allows chapters to continuously recruit and bid new members outside of the formal recruitment period.

DEPLEDGE : The process of terminating one's fraternity membership (pledging) before initiation.

FACULTY/STAFF ADVISOR: A faculty/staff member who is the organization's representative to the university and who advises the organization on university matters.

FORMAL RECRUITMENT: The period of time set aside by the Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council for meeting potential members.

FRATERNITY: The name applied to all Greek-letter organizations. Informally, this name applies to men’s groups while women’s organizations may be sororities or female fraternities.

GAMMA SIGMA ALPHA: A national academic honor society for fraternity and sorority members.

GREEKS: Members of a fraternity or sorority. The term Greek is used because a majority of fraternities and sororities use Greek letters to distinguish themselves.

GREEK ORGANIZATION : A fraternity or sorority (social, honor, or professional) See Also Greeks.

GREEK WEEK: An annual celebration in which chapters participate in educational, social, and service events. It is a time for all Greek organizations to unify.

HAZING : Any conduct which subjects another person, whether physically, mentally, emotionally, or psychologically, to anything that may endanger, abuse, degrade, or intimidate the person as a condition of association with a group or organization, regardless of the person's consent or lack of consent.

INACTIVE MEMBER : A member who has no material participation in undergraduate chapter activities, such as social activities, living in the chapter house or voting at undergraduate chapter meetings.

INITIATION: The formal ceremony that brings a new member into full Greek membership. Each chapter has a different set of requirements that must be met in order to be initiated.

INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL (IFC): The governing body of the four inter/nationally recognized fraternities at UVa-Wise. IFC oversees Formal Recruitment for its member chapters.

LEGACY: Someone whose mother, father, sister, brother, grandmother, or grandfather is an initiated member of a specific Greek organization.

LITTLE: Short for “little sister” or “little brother”; a newer member who is mentored by an older member of the organization.

NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL (NPHC): The governing body of nine nationally recognized fraternities and sororities, one of which is active and operates on the UVa-Wise campus.

NATIONAL PANHELLENIC CONFERENCE (NPC): The governing body for 26 national and international sororities and female fraternities, three of which are active and operate on the UVa-Wise campus.

NORTH AMERICAN INTERFRATERNITY CONFERENCE (NIC): A conference of men’s private fraternities founded in 1909, which includes 66 member national and international fraternal organizations comprising 5500 chapters in the United States and Canada.

NEW MEMBER: A potential member who has accepted the bid of a fraternity/sorority, but who has not been initiated.

NEW MEMBER EDUCATOR: The chapter officer who oversees the development of new members and prepares them for initiation.

NEW MEMBER PROGRAM: The period of learning about fraternity and sorority life prior to initiation. In addition to learning the history of the organization, new members may attend presentations on topics such as study skills, acquaintance rape, substance abuse, and other important issues.

OPEN RECRUITMENT: The period after Formal Recruitment in which fraternities may recruit and offer bids without scheduled events through IFC.

ORDER OF OMEGA: A national academic and leadership honor society for fraternity and sorority members.

PANHELLENIC COUNCIL: The governing body for three inter/nationally recognized sororities and female fraternities at UVa-Wise.

PHILANTHROPY: Community service events done by fraternities and sororities to raise money for local and national charities. Each organization has their own philanthropy to which they donate time, money, and energy.

POTENTIAL NEW MEMBER: A college man or woman who is participating in Recruitment.

PREFERENTIAL BIDDING: The process of mutual selection between Panhellenic sororities and potential new members.

QUOTA: A specified number of women a Panhellenic sorority may offer bids to during formal recruitment.

RECRUITMENT COUNSELOR: An initiated member of a Panhellenic sorority who guides potential new members through the formal recruitment process.

RITUAL: The traditional beliefs and oaths of a sorority or fraternity usually used in reference to the Ceremonies of Initiation as well as weekly chapter meetings. These traditions do not include any forms of hazing, because hazing weakens the bonds of brotherhood / sisterhood, and undermines the common experience of the fraternity or sorority. Ritual does, however, ensure that all members share a common experience across multiple campuses and generations.

RUSH: see “Formal Recruitment.”

RUSH CHAIR: The person from each fraternity or sorority who is in charge of each chapter's rush functions.

SILENCE: A period of time when conversation and contact between potential new members and active members and alumnae of Greek organizations is strictly limited by recruitment rules.

SISTER: An initiated member of a sorority/women's fraternity. It is used as a form of address when one initiated member refers to another member.

SORORITY: A group of women joined together in friendship for leadership and academic purposes.

OTHER RESOURCES

BACCHUS/GAMMA www.bacchusgamma.org Greeks Advocating for Management Mature of Alcohol BACCHUS/GAMMA Peer Education Network

Fraternal Law publication www.manleyburke.com

Fraternity and Sorority Leadership Conferences Mid-American Greek Council Association: www.mgca.org

Southeastern Interfraternity Conference: www.seifc.org

Southeastern Panhellenic Conference: www.sepconline.org

Fraternity Executives Association http://fipg.org/

Gamma Sigma Alpha www.gammasigmaalpha.org

Hazing & Chad Meredith Act (HB193) hazing.fsu.edu/ Florida House of Representatives, law in effect July 1, 2005

Hazing / National Hazing Prevention Week www.nhpw.com/

Hazing / National Hazing Prevention Week stophazing.org An extensive website covering many aspects of hazing including fraternity, sorority, athletic, high school and military hazing.

How to Decide if Greek Life is Right for You: Tips and Resources for Students and the Ins-and-Outs of Fraternity and

Sorority Life https://www.affordablecollegesonline.org/college-resource-center/choosing-greek-life/

National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations www.nalfo.org

National Multicultural Greek Council, Inc. www.nationalmgc.org/home.html

North-American Interfraternity Conference www.nicindy.org/

Order of Omega www.orderofomega.org

TIPS: Training for Intervention Procedures www.gettips.com/ TIPS is a skills-based training program that is designed to prevent intoxication, underage drinking, and drunk driving.

http://www.bacchusgamma.org/

http://www.manleyburke.com/

http://greeklife.fsu.edu/www.mgca.org

http://greeklife.fsu.edu/www.seifc.org

http://greeklife.fsu.edu/www.sepconline.org

http://www.gammasigmaalpha.org/

http://hazing.fsu.edu/

http://www.nhpw.com/

http://www.stophazing.org/alternatives.html

https://www.affordablecollegesonline.org/college-resource-center/choosing-greek-life/

http://www.orderofomega.org/

CLERY ACT

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (20 USC § 1092(f)), better known as the Clery Act, is the landmark federal law that requires colleges and universities across the United States to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses.

Individuals in certain positions throughout campus whose functions include significant responsibility for student and campus activities, building relationships with students, and/or providing access to campus events/facilities are designated as Campus Security Authorities (CSAs). CSAs include, but are not limited to, the following personnel: campus police, resident advisors (RAs), club/organization advisors, athletics, student life, student center, convocation center, and Greek life. Licensed counselors and athletic trainers are exempt from reporting. NOTE: Counselors and trainers serving as club or organization advisors forfeit this exemption.

ALL advisors (not just primary advisors) that interact with chapter members and participate in chapter events are designated as Campus Security Authorities (CSAs) per the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. (NOTE: Any chapter student members who are responsible for event security/monitoring the entrance into registered parties are also CSAs.) Annual training is required for all CSAs and is coordinated by the Office of Compliance, Conduct & Inclusion. CSAs are responsible for promptly reporting allegations of Clery Act crimes that are reported to them to Campus Police at 276-328-01290 weekday business hours; 276-376-3756 after hours, non-emergency; 911 emergency). CSAs are not responsible for determining authoritatively whether a crime took place—that is the function of law enforcement personnel. Reports will be included in the crime log and in campus crime statistics in accordance with Clery Act requirements, as well as be assessed for timely warning and emergency notifications. Clery Act reporting requirements also include off-campus locations when students travel overnight for College-sponsored events, including athletics events, Study Abroad trips, and organization/chapter events and trips. Those advisor or faculty/ staff coordinating the travel/event must submit the Clery Act Student Travel Form AFTER each trip. The form is available at www.uvawise.edu/clery in two formats (printable pdf and online fillable). For more information, visit the Policy Section in this handbook, visit www.uvawise.edu/clery or contact Molly Land, the Assistant Director of Compliance at 276-376-3424 or [email protected] .




STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Expectations The College is a community of scholars in which the ideals of freedom of inquiry, freedom of thought,

freedom of expression, and freedom of the individual are sustained. It is committed to preserving the

exercise of any right guaranteed to individuals by the Constitution. However, the exercise and

preservation of these freedoms and rights require a respect for the rights of all in the academic

community to enjoy them to the same extent. It is clear that in a community of learning, willful disruption

of the educational process, destruction of property, and interference with the orderly process of the

College or with the rights of other members of the College cannot be condoned. Students enrolling in the

College assume an obligation to conduct themselves in a manner compatible with the College's function

as an educational institution. To fulfill its functions of imparting and gaining knowledge, the College

retains the authority to maintain order within the College and exclude those who are disruptive of the

educational process. Students of the College are expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting a

civilized society, both within the College and elsewhere. For student conduct which is outside the

jurisdiction of the Honor Court but which tends to discredit or injure the College, the Chancellor is

authorized by the President of the University of Virginia to provide applicable due process and, upon

determination of a College policy or code violation, to impose an appropriate penalty, up to and including

expulsion from the College. This authority has been delegated by the Chancellor to the Assistant Director

of Conduct & Responsibility and the Student Conduct Board. The College reserves the right to suspend,

enforce the withdrawal of, or expel a student who violates the Standards of Conduct. Generally,

prohibited conduct for which a student is subject to discipline is defined as, but not limited to, the

following:

1. Physical or emotional abuse of any person on College-owned or controlled property or at College-

sponsored or supervised functions, or conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of

others.

2. Prohibited Conduct as defined by the Sexual Misconduct & Interpersonal Violence Policy, including but

not limited to: sexual assault, rape, fondling, harassment, stalking, domestic violence, and dating violence.

(Title IX Coordinator oversees cases involving Prohibited Conduct; full policy available at

(www.uvawise.edu/compliance/sexualmisconduct).

3. Unauthorized entry/exit or occupation of College facilities which are locked, closed to student activities,

or otherwise restricted as to use, including designated construction/work zones.

4. Intentional disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration or other College activities, or

of other authorized activities on College property.

5. Falsely pulling or tampering with fire alarm or fire safety equipment or failure to exit the building or

returning to the building before being told to do so by a College official during a fire alarm.

6. Theft, vandalism, destruction, or unauthorized use or movement of College property or personal

property of other students, employees, or visitors.


7. Intentionally providing false identification or information or failure to comply with the reasonable

direction(s) of a College official.

8. Altercation of, fabrication of or misuse of, or obtaining unauthorized access to College ID cards, other

documents, or computer files or systems.

9. Violations of published College policies, procedures or regulations, including but not limited to:

Alcohol or Drugs (possession, distribution, manufacture, or use of illicit drugs and alcohol, or

drug paraphernalia; public intoxication; underage consumption; etc.)

Tobacco Products

Housing Agreement terms and conditions

Information Technology/Computing

Weapons, Firearms, Fireworks or Explosives (possession, storage or use; see Student Handbook

or Campus Police for full policy)

10. Knowingly violating the terms of any disciplinary sanction imposed in accordance with this Code or

engaging in retaliatory behavior.

11.Conduct that is unbecoming, disorderly, or that reflects negatively on the College community,

including but not limited to acts that breach the peace, are lewd, indecent, or obscene, and that are not

Constitutionally-protected speech.

12. Violations of Federal, State or local laws not otherwise covered under the Code of Conduct.

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT & INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE

UVa-Wise is committed to maintaining a respectful, professional and nondiscriminatory working

environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. This includes having an environment free

from sexual and gender-based harassment, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, stalking,

sexual exploitation, complicity and retaliation (“Prohibited Conduct”). The College will take

prompt and equitable action to eliminate Prohibited Conduct, prevent its recurrence, and

remedy its effects.

To foster a climate of respect and security on campus as it relates to preventing and responding

to acts of Prohibited Conduct, this policy has been created and serves to demonstrate the

College’s commitment to:

Identifying the forms of Prohibited Conduct that violate this policy;

Disseminating clear policies and procedures for responding to Prohibited Conduct reported to the College;

Delivering primary prevention and awareness programs and ongoing training and education campaigns to students and employees so they may identify what behavior constitutes Prohibited Conduct; understand how to report such misconduct; recognize warning signs of potentially abusive behavior and ways to reduce risks; and learn about safe and positive options for bystander intervention that may be carried out by an individual to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk Prohibited Conduct against a person other than such individual;

Engaging in investigative inquiry and resolution of reports that are adequate, reliable, impartial, prompt, fair, and equitable;

Supporting complainants and respondents and holding persons accountable for established violations of this policy; and

Providing a written explanation of the rights and options available to every student or employee that has been the victim of Prohibited Conduct, regardless of when or where the conduct occurred.

In addition, this policy:

1. Identifies the College’s Title IX Coordinator, Deputy Title IX Coordinator, and Title IX Investigators, and describes their roles in compliance with Title IX, the Clery Act and VAWA.

2. Identifies how students and employees can report Prohibited Conduct to the College confidentially and what resources are available both on and off campus to aid them, including employees’ and students’ rights to notify local law enforcement and their right also to decline to notify such authorities.

3. Provides information about how reports are assessed, investigated, and resolved. 4. Provides the College with a means to take all reasonable steps to identify Prohibited

Conduct, prevent recurrence, and to correct its discriminatory effects on the complainant and others, if appropriate.

The UVa-Wise Sexual Misconduct & Interpersonal Violence Policy is available at

www.uvawise.edu/compliance/sexualmisconduct.

Notice of Non-Discrimination/Notice of Coordination

The College is committed to maintaining an environment free from harassment and

discrimination for everyone and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, national origin,

religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other protected status. The

College does not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in any of its education or

employment programs and activities. This policy prohibits specific forms of behavior that may

violate Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX); relevant provisions of the

Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA); Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of

1964 (Title VII); the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime

Statistics Act (Clery Act); and the Virginia Human Rights Act.

The College recognizes that it is important to coordinate this policy with other existing policies

related to harassment and discrimination knowing that harassment related to an individual’s

sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression can occur in conjunction with

misconduct and harassment related to a person’s race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age,

pregnancy or parenting status, disability, or other protected status. Therefore, when a report is

made of harassment or discrimination based on sex as well as harassment or discrimination

based on some other protected status, the College’s response will be governed by the

procedures referenced in this policy. Questions about which policy applies in a specific instance

should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator.

Title IX Contact Information

The Title IX Coordinator at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise is Tabitha Smith. Her

office is located in Cantrell Hall, 1 College Avenue, Wise, VA 24293. She may be contacted at

276-328-0131 (office), 276-870-5065 (cell) or [email protected].



Office of Student Activities & Greek Life

Slemp Student Center, 3rd floor

(276)376-4651

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