Pledge Program

Winter 2007 Pledges participating in a teambuilding exercise.

Over a twelve week period of time, it is the objective of our chapter to make good men better through the pledge education process. The education process includes an emphasis of several ideals of Beta Theta Pi and incorporates the wisdom of the older members. We take pride in our hazing free pledge process, through which all of our brothers have become closer and grown as men.

All of the events carried out during the Pledge Program are designed to unify the Pledge Class. For example, Pledges are driven to Oxford, Ohio around the middle of the quarter to observe the workings of our General Fraternity. The Pledges also participate in a handful of “teambuilding” activities designed specifically for their Pledge Class. As a Pledge Class, the members are also expected to make one improvement to the Fraternity House and to paint the rock. These events turn into amazing socializing functions, as teamwork and drive are tested.

The Pledges are also incorporated into the existing Brotherhood by several avenues. There is a weekly Chapter meeting which all Pledges are expected to attend. These meetings give the Pledges an insight into the business portion of the Fraternity. The Pledges are also assigned a “Big Brother”. During the course of the Pledge process, the Big Brother/Little Brother relationship becomes very important, as the Pledge’s Big Brother becomes very close to him. The Big Brother provides insight into the chapter’s ideals and helps the Pledge through his Pledging process. Incorporation of the Pledges into the Brotherhood before they become initiated members is a very important part of the Pledge program.

While the program described may seem like a huge time commitment, it is more of a path which provides insight into an honorable way of life. The events constructed are made with the Pledge in mind. They are constructed to foster lifelong relationships and to provide the Pledge with the tools necessary to become all that he can be. Our Pledge Program is truly one which makes good men better.