Phi Kappa Tau Membership Manual Study Notes

PHI KAPPA TAU MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

  • An initiation document template for new members including:

    • Name of the chapter/colony

    • Date of initiation

    • Assigned badge number

    • Officers who initiated the member

MEMBERSHIP MANUAL DEDICATION

  • The 28th edition of the Membership Manual is dedicated to the four honored Founders of Phi Kappa Tau:

    • Dwight Ireneus Douglass (1884-1940)

    • Clinton Dewitt Boyd (1884-1950)

    • William Henry Shideler (1886-1958)

    • Taylor Albert Borradaile (1885-1977)

  • A message to the Founders wishing their vision to flourish in the organization.

QUOTE ON FRATERNAL VALUES

“Fraternity is understanding, it is recognition, it is a joining with men, in common enterprises. It is a willingness to share and to participate. It is discipline, it is selflessness, it is these things and many more. It is above all an attitude.” - Jack L. Anson, Colgate '47

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MEMBERSHIP MANUAL
  • Living the Creed - Expectations

    • The Creed of Phi Kappa Tau…

  • Chief Executive Officer's Welcome

  • The Mission Statement of Phi Kappa Tau

  • Introduction

ORIGINS OF PHI KAPPA TAU
  • The history and founding details of Phi Kappa Tau.

  • Important historical events and figures in the fraternity's foundation.

ORGANIZATION OF PHI KAPPA TAU
  • Structure and governing body of the fraternity, detailing how chapters operate.

AWARDS
  • Categories of various awards and recognitions within the fraternity structure.

LIVING THE CREED - EXPECTATIONS
  • Detailed exploration of the Creed of Phi Kappa Tau, including its significance and implications for chapter members.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
  • Overview of programs funded by the Phi Kappa Tau Foundation aimed at enhancing leadership skills and character development.

CHAPTER STANDARDS PROGRAM (BORRADAILE CHALLENGE)
  • A breakdown of the standards for chapter performance, including membership, scholarship, finance, philanthropy, community service, and alumni relations.

THE CREED OF PHI KAPPA TAU

  • Full Text: Provided to initiate a sense of pride and obligation to the fraternity's ideals:

    • "Phi Kappa Tau, by admitting me to membership, has conferred upon me a mark of distinction in which I take just pride…"

  • Significance: An exploration of what the Creed means for members in everyday fraternity life.

A WELCOME FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

  • Message emphasizing the joy of brotherhood, the commitment to ethical leadership, and the ongoing support from alumni.

  • Overview of the membership journey and commitment to lifelong membership.

MISSION STATEMENT

  • Quote: “To champion a lifelong commitment to brotherhood, learning, ethical leadership, and exemplary character.”

LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

  • Description: An annual leadership training event focused on fraternal ideals and membership.

  • Goals: Provide education and foster leadership skills among members.

BARRADAILE CHALLENGE - CHAPTER STANDARDS PROGRAM

  • Foundations: Established expectations for chapters regarding conduct and operational standards.

  • Basic Standards: Include areas like membership size, recruitment, financial stability, and community engagement.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND RISK MANAGEMENT

  • Policies: Clear guidelines on managing alcohol, drugs, hazing, and responsibilities regarding chapter conduct.

  • Commitment to Safety: Measures to ensure a safe and conducive environment for all members.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND HONORS

  • Recognition of various awards received both by chapters and individuals in the fraternity, such as the Shideler Award and the Jack Anson Undergraduate Award.

OTHER SIGNIFICANT MOMENTS IN HISTORY

  • Leading moments from the founding to present day, including key figures and transformations throughout its existence.

INSIGNIA AND SYMBOLISM OF PHI KAPPA TAU

  • Badge Designs: Detailed descriptions of the fraternity's badge and coat of arms, including their significance in fraternity culture.

  • Symbol Colors: Harvard Red and Old Gold as representative colors.

SONGS OF PHI KAPPA TAU

  • Lyrics and Themes: Introduction to the bonds of brotherhood as sung through various anthems and songs recognized by the fraternity.

CONCLUSION

  • Enabling a fulfilling membership experience based on the values, vision, and historical legacy of Phi Kappa Tau, encouraging deeper commitment and connection among members across generations.