Pythagoras (2016 Edition)

PYTHAGORAS The Membership Manual of

THE ACACIA FRATERNITY Jeremy N. Davis

International President

Patrick W. McGovern Executive Director

Published by the Acacia Fraternity Indianapolis, IN

2016

The Fraternity acknowledges its sincere appreciation to the following Brothers for their generous contributions which helped make this publication possible.

Pythagorean Society - $1,000 and above Darold W. Larson, Washington State Paul E. Ruby, Illinois Larry E. Schroeder, Georgia Dewayne E. Ullsperger, Nebraska Cornerstone Supporter - $500 and above Will B. Betchart, Colorado Peter J. Eversole, Iowa State Michael P. Fillman, Western Ontario Bruce F. Garnand, Kansas State Edward S. Knight, Texas Paul A. Larson, MD, Northwestern Kris R. Lutt, Nebraska Arlo E. Sommers, Ohio State James D. Weaver, Indiana 345 Club - $345 and above John F. Beering, Purdue Thomas J. Boagni, Louisiana State Jeffrey T. Boaz, Illinois Wesleyan Mark A. Christiansen, California Founders Club - $100 and above Aaron P. Darcy, Indiana L. Dennis Smith, Indiana Harold D. Zarr Jr., Iowa State Ralph N. Straley II, Penn State Jackson H. Aaberg, Missouri Daniel M. Arnold, Michigan Daniel D. Bayston, Illinois Neal E. Brown, Washington State Stewart L. Burger, Cornell Joseph M. Cook, Illinois Donald W. Dauterman, Oregon State Christ Drossos Jr., Indiana David L. Ferguson, Indiana Randolph S. Friedman, California Rodney K. Gangwish, Nebraska

Fredrick C. Garrott, Illinois Paul B. Goodman, Washington State Elbridge B. Griffy III, Oklahoma Edgar H. Grubb, Penn State Gary J. Haag, Kansas State Hal D. Hanes, Indiana Ronald T. Hopkins, Syracuse Gerald E. Kahler, Ohio Robert P. Kameen, Penn State Carl F. Kantner, Wisconsin James N. Katsaounis, Ohio Leonard W. Kearney, Oregon State Christopher W. Knapp, Iowa State Donald R. Lambert, Central Oklahoma James D. LaPierre, New Hampshire Brant E. Lieske, Indiana Anthony D. Little, Oregon State Joseph J. Lundy, Penn State William M. Lynn, UCLA Tomislav A. Marincic, Michigan Paul A. Meschler, Franklin Amos D. Meyers Jr., Shippensburg William J. Mollere, Louisiana State Lawrence A. Morton, Shippensburg Roger A. Nealis, Indiana Dr. William A. Peterson, Minnesota Joseph N. Psyk, Saint Cloud State George A. Ray, Penn State John A. Rosso, Arizona Allan F. Rucka, Northwestern Mark J. Sampias, Colorado Harrison W. Sigworth Jr., Oregon State Merrill G. Smith, Miami (OH) Paul V. Stevens, Southern California Britt W. Thomas, Oregon State Douglas F. Trumbower, Penn State Jarrod N. VanZant, Central Oklahoma Donald S. Wilson, Northwestern James T. Wormley, Illinois

Black and Gold Club - $50 and above Robert L. Billin, California David J. Bolger, Texas Aden T. Boschee, Saint Cloud State Barrett K. Byrne, Washington State Robert L. Falzone, Penn State H. Benjamin Funk, Kansas State David K. Haviland, Indiana Larry J. Kelly, Indiana Mark E. Lucas, California (PA) Brian C. Montgomery, Ohio Robert G. Mooth, Indiana Michael I. Nabel, Rensselaer Cory S. Oakley, Ohio Richard L. Pottenger, Purdue John B. Pugh, Iowa State Gary V. Reiter, Saint Cloud State James W. Sutton, Indiana Robert C. Trezise, Northern Colorado Benjamin B. Turconi, California Michael S. Weber, Iowa State Mack E. Wootton, Indiana Howard S. Zwiefel III, Cornell Sprig of Acacia - $25 and above Grant L. Albansoder, Iowa State Zachary T. Bailey, Trine Jeremy M. Bider, Carleton Shane M. Burns, Missouri Ben A. Burzlaff-Meyer, Saint Cloud State Keith M. Bushey, Indiana Frank J. Cassata, Illinois State Jared J. Christenson, Washington Robert E. Combs, Purdue Erwin D. Cornelius III, Illinois State Christopher F. Del Pino, Carleton Eric Dominguez, Rensselaer Hugh I. Ellis, California Nicolas A. Estrada, Rensselaer James C. Fetterman, Mississippi State

Matthew R. Finstein, Illinois State Harbin N. Q. Gado, Washington Timothy L. Glover, California (PA) Matthew S. Goodlett, Oregon State Blake E. Gurzynski, Trine John C. Haas, Kansas State Ryan M. Haefke, Kansas State Jonmarc J.F. Hewett, Trine Paul K. Hurlbut, Wisconsin Harrison G. Ingold, Missouri Jonathan A. Janoski, California (PA) The Men of Kansas State Chapter Justin M. M. Kaplan, Carleton Patrick B. Machus, Washington John W. Marks, Purdue Christopher P. Minardi, Rensselaer Nathaniel D. McKee, Missouri William B. McDonnell, Penn State Ryan N. McDowell, Oregon State Michael S. Miller, Nebraska Aditya S. Navale, Iowa State Matthew T. Newman, Oregon State Jacob S. Padilla, Cornell Anthony D. J. Phillips, Carleton Kyle A. Roskowski, Trine Mark A. Santucci, California (PA) Frank D. Staley Jr., Indiana Dana C. Stiefel, Cornell Dylan G. Tafuri, Saint Cloud State Nolan K. Valdivia, Illinois Wesleyan Jonathan C. Veres, California (PA) Andrew B. Vipond, Nebraska Jonathan P. Wedley, Carleton Arthur J. Wertzberger, Kansas State Nicholas M. Wolanczyk, Ohio Aaron H. Woodstein, Illinois Wesleyan Dalton A. Yost, Ohio Andrew T. Young, Illinois State Ryan D. Zumbach, Iowa State Derek E. Zynn, Purdue

Personal Record Property of: Chapter: Members of my pledge class:

Extra Curricular Activities:

Venerable Dean: Senior Dean: Junior Dean: Treasurer:

Date Pledged:

PYTHAGORAS, the membership manual of The Acacia Fraternity, is published by: Acacia Fraternity International Headquarters 8777 Purdue Road, Suite 225 Indianapolis, Indiana 46268 www.acacia.org No portion of this volume may be reproduced by any means without written permission from the International office of Acacia Fraternity.

TABLE OF CONTENTS I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII. VIII. IX. X. XI. XII. XIII. XIV. XV. XVI. XVII. XVIII. XIX. XX. XXI. XXII.

The Acacia Fraternity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Pledge Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Active Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Alumnus Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 The International Fraternity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The Chapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Fraternity Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 The Essence of Good Taste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Pythagoras, Acacia’s Mentor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Fraternity History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 The Preamble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 The Six Meanings of Acacia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 The Epic of Acacia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 An Acacian’s Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Acacia Sings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 The Roll of Chapters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 International Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Headquarters Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 International Conclaves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Award of Merit Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 George F. Patterson Jr. Award Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Roy C. Clark Award Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Dedication Brother George F. Patterson Jr., Cincinnati ’42 One brother stands alone for his continued 60 years of loyal service both at the local and national level — and that brother is George F. Patterson Jr. Brother Patterson, who entered Chapter Eternal on May 12, 2005, was one of the few members who had a relationship with two of Acacia’s Founding Fathers, Charles Sink and George Malcolm.

After many years of service to Acacia Fraternity in multiple capacities, including President from 1962-70, Brother Patterson was elected to the National Interfraternity Conference (NIC) Board. In 1974, that body selected him as its President. He was credited for bringing back into the fold many national fraternities who had left the conference in protest. George’s efforts were recognized by the interfraternity world in 1979, when the NIC Gold Medal, the highest interfraternity accolade, was bestowed upon him.

In 1980, Acacia’s Outstanding Alumnus Award — the highest award given any Acacian — was renamed the George F. Patterson Jr. Award.

At the 2004 Centennial Conclave, Brother Patterson was named the “Acacia Great” for the fourth quarter of Acacia’s first century. Given his links to the past and present, his knowledge of our Fraternity, and his accomplishments within the interfraternity world, “Acacia Great” barely scratches the surface.

George Patterson cherished the past and challenged the future. His vast contributions to Acacia will live forever. It is to this “Acacia Great” that we humbly dedicate this 14th edition of the Pythagoras.

Credo I am an Acacian.

I hold a trust for all good Acacians those who were Acacians before me, those who are now, and those who will become Acacians in the future.

In the Acacia spirit I charge myself with responsibilities; to better my fraternity’s record.

I am an Acacian wherever I may happen to be.

I gladly contribute my honest share of effort, and wish to serve Acacia to the best of my ability.

I will always think of Acacia as one of the best fraternities; its rich heritage of principles having been fostered so that I might enjoy a fine fraternal opportunity.

I am an Acacian.

I am proud of it.

FORWARD...

The PYTHAGORAS first appeared in the December 1933 issue

of the TRIAD, was published in booklet form the following year, and has been considerably expanded and revised in later editions.

This fourteenth edition of Pythagoras is intended not only to acquaint new members with Acacia Fraternity, but to also serve as a guide for Acacians throughout their fraternity careers.

PYTHAGORAS is not intended to provide everything that the new member should know. It must be studied in conjunction with local regulations and traditions, academic and social instruction, and the history and operations of the school, as presented in each chapter’s overall pledge education program.

In addition to points of policy, organization, and history, this manual also includes commentary on many subjects of special concern to fraternity men. It is hoped that these discussions will not simply be read, but will serve as starting points for further conversation from which Acacians will gain a broader understanding and appreciation of the challenges and virtues of fraternity living.

Each edition of the Pythagoras has embodied changes and improvements, many of which have come from alumni and undergraduate members. The Fraternity is deeply indebted to all those who, knowingly or unknowingly, have assisted in its preparation.

THE ACACIA FRATERNITY

Having completed the pledging ceremony, you are now an Acacian.

During your period of pledgeship you will want to learn as much as you can about the nature, purpose and history of the organization of which you are now a part.

What is Acacia?

The Acacia Fraternity is an international general college social fraternity.

In each of its chartered chapters on campuses across the United States and Canada, college men greet each other as brothers because, as Acacians, they share a common origin in the obligations and symbolism of our Fraternity.

Acacia is a Greek fraternity and was one of the founding members of the North-American Interfraternity Conference (NIC). But Acacia is unique in that it is the only general international Greek fraternity to select a Greek word rather than a combination of Greek letters for its name.

Acacia is a private organization composed of individuals exercising their constitutional right to free association. Just as no one is required to join Acacia, no one has a right to receive membership. Acacia membership is a privilege that is extended only by invitation from an undergraduate chapter to individuals whom the chapter believes will make worthy and compatible additions to its ranks.

Acacia Fraternity is an independent organization that owes allegiance to no other group. Acacia was founded, however, by members of the Masonic Fraternity, and because of this Acacia enjoys an informal, spiritual tie to Masonry. Individual Masons have been of invaluable service to Acacia chapters over the years, and many Acacians go on to join the Masonic Fraternity; these relationships are entirely voluntary.

Membership in Acacia

Membership in Acacia is fundamentally tied to the chapter. Each Acacia chapter is composed of two groups, the active (undergraduate) chapter and the alumni. Candidates are elected to membership only by the active chapter. The requirements that each candidate must meet are minimal:

• He must be a male student enrolled at an accredited college or university within the chapter’s jurisdiction • He cannot be a member of any other general national college fraternity 1

Except for a willingness to adhere to these principles, Acacia has no other qualifications or restrictions for membership.

Candidates are elected to membership either by an affirmative vote of the active chapter or by a specially empowered membership committee, as provided for in the Laws of Acacia. Each chapter has the option of adopting the voting ratio best suited to the wishes of its members while adhering to local campus requirements.

Membership in Acacia begins with the pledging ceremony and continues for life. It is divided into three consecutive stages: pledge membership, active membership, and alumnus membership. The pledging ceremony must take place within 90 days of a candidate’s election to membership.

Pledge membership is probationary in status and can extend for a maximum of two years, by which time the pledge must either be initiated or dropped from membership.

An objection to a pledge’s membership may be raised at any time before initiation, and if the objection is sustained by one-third or more of the active members present and voting, the pledge’s membership may be immediately terminated.

The initiation ceremony changes your Acacia membership from probationary to permanent. Once initiation is completed, active membership in Acacia can be terminated only by death or expulsion. The status of active membership extends only for the duration of the member’s enrollment as a student at the college or university within the chapter’s jurisdiction. If at any time the active member terminates or interrupts his student enrollment, he automatically assumes the status of an alumnus member. Upon re-enrollment, he must petition the chapter for renewal of his active status. Active members who transfer to a school within another chapter’s jurisdiction may petition for election to active status as an associate member of that chapter, but the granting of this privilege is entirely at the discretion of the new chapter.

Even as a student, no member can maintain active status for more than four years. At the end of this time every active member automatically enters into alumnus membership. If a member takes longer than four years to finish his undergraduate degree — or enters a graduate degree program at a college or university under the jurisdiction of the chapter — he may petition the chapter for an extension of his active membership in Acacia.

Reinstatement is at the sole discretion of the chapter and is only valid for one year, and the active chapter must vote to reinstate the member’s active status. Only two such extensions, per member, are permitted.

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Faculty members, fathers, men who have rendered service to Acacia, or men whose names and reputations would bring credit to the fraternity may be elected to honorary membership, provided that they are not already a member of another general college social fraternity. All proposals for honorary membership must be approved by the International Council. Upon initiation, an honorary member automatically assumes the status of alumnus member.

Membership in a college fraternity can be a unique influence in a man’s personal development and an invaluable addition to his educational experience. Distinguished men in every field of endeavor and from all walks of life have acclaimed their college fraternity membership as one of the most significant factors in their personal growth and success. Fraternity living offers insights and experiences that cannot be found in any classroom or textbook. The personal relationships, mutual endeavors, leadership opportunities and daily shared experiences of fraternity life all contribute to prepare a man to live and work with others in a spirit of cooperation, respect and understanding.

The privilege of Acacia membership has been extended to you with all of its benefits and obligations. You now have a choice between passively accepting this privilege or actively pursuing every benefit and faithfully observing every obligation. The degree to which you apply your wisdom, energy, abilities and personal commitment to your fraternity will, in the final reckoning, be the measure of the value that you receive from it. The man who works for something greater than himself will ultimately benefit himself the most.

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PLEDGE MEMBERSHIP

The purpose of pledge membership is to prepare you for active mem-

bership in Acacia. If you are to become a worthwhile member of Acacia, you must come to a full and balanced understanding of fraternity life at the earliest possible stage. This period of pledgeship — during which time you will travel in the allegorical guise of the ancient learned Greek student, Pythagoras — is the appropriate time to acquire this understanding.

At the same time, pledgeship is a probationary period in which both you and the active chapter have an opportunity to examine each other and decide whether initial favorable impressions were indeed justified.

Your Responsibilities

Acacia expects that each pledge member will meet and maintain the following obligations:

• That he will labor with diligence to maintain his scholarship.

• That he will strive at all times to give proper attention to and support the interests of Acacia.

• That he regards the Fraternity with a spirit of sincerity and respect, and that he desires to give its teachings his earnest consideration.

• That he intends to cheerfully perform whatever tasks may be assigned to him for the good of the Fraternity.

• That he will at all times conduct himself with dignity and as a gentleman, showing courtesy towards all.

• That he will receive every member of his chapter as a brother, without reservation or evasion.

• That he will take part in worthy non-fraternal college activities.

• That he will uphold his financial commitment to the Fraternity.

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The Chapter’s Responsibility To You TO INCLUDE THE PERSON in total membership in the ongoing brotherhood. The member is a brother and must be accepted and integrated into a group or association organized as a brotherhood.

TO RESPECT THE INDIVIDUAL and his rights and character. Each member is unique. He must conform to group ideas, but he must always be seen as maintaining his individuality. He must be granted the right to dissent on the basis of honesty and pure conscience.

TO GIVE THE MEMBER WISDOM and understanding about life, the university or college, the chapter, others and self. The effort must be made to make each person a wise, noble and useful person.

TO INSPIRE THE MEMBER TO BE BETTER and to do better. Inspiration for lofty thinking and aims must emanate from the idea of brotherhood, comradeship, mutual respect, group effort and the common destiny of all.

TO UPHOLD HIGH IDEALS. The member should know that the Fraternity was founded on enduring ideals. Every fraternity and sorority has two such ideals in common — the developing of the mind and growth in right conduct and character.

TO TEACH GROUP LIVING. The group must live and work together, and each member must strive for group harmony and accord. To live peaceably within the brotherhood is the duty of each member.

TO DEVELOP LEADERSHIP AND RESPONSIBILITY. Each member has a responsibility to better his Fraternity. Achievement, financial obligations, right spirit and attitude should be impressed on each member.

TO GIVE THE MEMBER KNOWLEDGE of the scope, history and varied gifts of the great personalities in the Fraternity’s life and growth.

TO MAKE THE MEMBER REALIZE HE IS NOT ALONE. He belongs to something. He is attached. He bears the Fraternity’s name and wears its badge. He is a living part of a great tradition.

TO GIVE THE FRATERNITY EXPERIENCE — centered on brotherhood, the cultivated mind, proper behavior and gentlemanliness — to others. Hence loyalty is taught for country, college or university, chapter, association, community and fellow man.

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Your Responsibility To The Chapter TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY. No more need exists in personal and chapter life than for each man to do his reasonable service.

TO HAVE IMAGINATION. The member ought to think of how a fraternity system, fraternity, chapter, or pledge class can do things better. There must be no absolute or final fixed ideas.

TO DEVELOP AS A TEAM WORKER. A chapter belongs to no one man. No one can operate it single-handed. In a chapter, members must pull together, cooperate, put aside petty thinking and operate and advance as a totality.

TO LEARN THAT HISTORY, LORE AND TRADITION can be powerful influences for good. The member must become a part of the unfolding record of his Fraternity. He must write a paragraph or chapter through his own contributions.

TO KNOW WHAT ONE IS A PART OF — a brotherhood, a fraternity.

The member must study and learn all he can about his Fraternity — how it came to be and what it is.

TO ACCEPT THE BENEFITS A FRATERNITY OFFERS each member, and then to multiply them and hand them on intact or better to those who follow. The Fraternity has over a century of accumulated wisdom and benefits to offer each member. The wise member receives such offerings gladly.

TO HAVE A HIGH OPINION OF THE POSSIBLE. Many chapters have been recreated and reborn through the efforts of one or more dedicated members and leaders.

TO BELIEVE IN ORDER. Revolt, riot and anarchy are ruinous. The well-ordered chapter is the result of the well-ordered members who compose it.

TO UPHOLD THE DIGNITY OF THE FRATERNITY and chapter by word, action and intent — both inward and outward.

TO BE SELFLESS often. The member must have the capacity and vision to know and see the common good. The correct implication of the Fraternity and its chapters is that a man belongs to something greater than himself.

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Pledge Education

As a member-in-training you will be expected to master a certain

amount of basic information and demonstrate the desire and ability to take an active part in the affairs of the chapter. Monitoring your progress is the responsibility of the pledge educator, a role often filled by a chapter officer called the Senior Dean.

The purpose of pledge education is to orient the new member to the Fraternity, as well as to the campus if he is new to the school. No one can become a participating, productive member of a fraternity if he does not understand its nature, aims and how it functions.

The Fraternity exists within the framework of the campus and cannot be separated from the larger context of campus life. It is therefore not unreasonable for the Fraternity to require its members to have a working knowledge of the Fraternity’s organization, history and operations, as well as the school’s. If you cannot master this minimal obligation, the chapter is justified in assuming that your sincerity is superficial and that you are not ready for the greater responsibilities of active membership.

Pledge Status

No man wants to belong to a fraternity that he cannot respect; and conversely, no man wants to belong to a fraternity that does not respect him. Acacia believes that new members who are treated in a mature and constructive manner are much more likely to respond in a mature and constructive manner to the demands and responsibilities of membership.

The nature of fraternity living makes membership a two-way proposition — the group must give something to the individual, and the individual, in turn, must give something back to the group.

As a pledge member you are limited in your ability to influence the Fraternity’s policies and activities — your knowledge is incomplete, your experience unearned, and your talents untested. But even though pledge membership is limited, you still possess certain basic rights equaling those of every other member.

On assuming the obligations of pledge membership, you surrender none of your legal or social rights. Your status as an individual changes only in that you have assumed new responsibilities. You have the right to expect mature and responsible treatment from the active members, just as they have the right to expect mature and responsible treatment from you.

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The Fraternity provides a home for the college student while he is on campus. You have the right to expect a reasonably disciplined environment that is conducive to study and relaxation, where you can entertain guests, dates and prospective members without embarrassment. Conversely, you are expected to modify your own behavior so that others receive this same consideration from you.

The status of pledge membership does not require you to submit to degrading or undignified activities. A fraternity is a brotherhood, and while some members may exercise decision-making authority, no member is obligated to accept abuse from any other.

Physical hazing, mental harassment, all-night “hell� sessions, the performance of personal services for active members, and all of the other activities that fraternities have used to discredit themselves in the past have no place at Acacia. Physical punishment, any activity that places a pledge in physical peril, undignified activities (either public or private), and personal servitude are specifically prohibited by the Laws of Acacia.

You will be expected, however, to perform a certain number of duties for the chapter. These may include a daily housekeeping assignment, weekend work sessions, and other duties connected with house maintenance and other chapter needs. All of these assignments benefit the chapter as a whole and have to be done. You can demonstrate your willingness to assume responsibilities and work for the Fraternity by undertaking these tasks to the best of your ability and with a positive attitude.

While you have a right to the same consideration and respect as any other member, you are not immune to criticism or discipline. Every chapter must enforce policies and rules adopted for the benefit of all, and if you do not observe these regulations you can expect to be corrected and, when the situation warrants, disciplined. This process can be as simple as a talk with a chapter officer or as final as termination of your membership.

Pledge Attitude

An important factor in your progress toward active membership is the

attitude that you bring to your overall fraternity experience. If your desire is sincere and you accept that your pledge membership is temporary, you can hardly go wrong.

The most enlightened pledge education program, administered by the finest pledge educator, will fail if you do not cooperate. The best attitude that you can bring to your pledgeship is one of open inquiry. The pledge 8

period is a time of orientation and adjustment. Some of the situations you will encounter will be agreeable and others will not. You may not immediately understand the reason for every rule or activity, and you may not agree with the reason even after it has been explained to you. While you are under no obligation to change your opinions, you should be willing to suspend judgment until the breadth of your experience in chapter operations and group living gives you a reasonable foundation on which to base your views.

Acacia does not expect you to accept everything you are told at face value and follow every request without question. The essence of pledgeship is inquiry and learning. But you must always approach the Fraternity with a basic respect and willingness to be instructed.

Remain open to situations until you fully understand them. Every policy or activity resulted at some time from a valid need. Whatever the situation, there is no aspect of fraternity life that cannot be changed when the right circumstance arises. Once you are an active member you will not only have the opportunity, but also the responsibility to better Acacia’s record.

Scholarship and Activities

As a pledge member of Acacia, your first responsibility is to excel in the

classroom, and your second responsibility is to orient yourself to fraternity life. During your period of pledgeship you should limit your commitment to additional activities until you are sure of your ability to organize your time and use it effectively. No fraternity activity should be permitted to interfere seriously with academic work, and no additional campus commitments should cause you to neglect your Acacia obligations.

This does not mean that study can be used as an easy excuse to avoid participation in chapter functions, or that the Fraternity should cause you to drop out of all other forms of campus life. The following simple priority system has been established with great success: 1) Scholarship

2) Fraternity

3) All other campus activities

Demands on your time will vary during the week and during the year.

Difficult assignments and examinations will require more hours for study, while meetings, social functions and major campus events in which Acacia participates will require more time for Fraternity activities. A mark of maturity is an individual’s ability to organize his time and balance his priorities so that all of his responsibilities are effectively met, with sufficient time remaining for recreational pursuits.

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One of the primary purposes of a fraternity is to assist its members in developing into well-rounded individuals. Academic, social, athletic and creative pursuits should all be cultivated. The Fraternity should serve as a source of encouragement and opportunity in all of these areas — never as an excuse for a member to narrow his interests and avoid testing his abilities in new areas. At the same time, it is better to give your best to a limited number of activities and derive the most that you can from them, rather than taking part in so many activities that none receive a fair share of your time or energy.

In short, your period of pledgeship is a challenge. How well you respond to this challenge will determine not only your success as member of Acacia, but also your success as a college student.

Demands and Decisions

Like all of our society’s institutions, fraternities are not ideal theoretical

structures. They are composed of human beings with all their virtues and faults. During your pledgeship, you will face demands from every direction, and meeting them can test any man’s resources of energy, patience, perseverance and understanding. And, because fraternity membership is a living experience, you are in the unfortunate position of having to meet these demands without being able to assess their future value to your development as a fraternity brother and college student.

Inevitably, almost every pledge member will reach a point when the demands of fraternity membership seem greater than any possible benefits and the gleam of brotherhood loses its luster. You will eventually notice that the Fraternity you have joined, and the men who comprise it, are imperfect. Disagreements and antagonisms will arise. Policies and activities of little or no apparent value will be encountered. Some members will do things that are juvenile or irresponsible. You may feel disillusioned with fraternity life, and the investment of time and effort you must make to meet the demands of membership.

When this point is reached, you will have to decide whether or not to continue your membership in Acacia or to withdraw (de-pledge). This is a crossroads decision. The paths that lie beyond each choice are clearly divided and cannot be retraced in the clearer light that hindsight affords Because of this, it is important to avoid a sudden decision and to consider all of the factors in perspective: Is your dissatisfaction due to the attitude or behavior of the chapter as a whole, or only a few individuals?

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Are you using the Fraternity as a scapegoat for problems at home, with a girlfriend, or other difficulties outside the context of your membership?

Are you reacting to frustrations that are piling up this week but will be forgotten next semester?

Are you backing out because you sense that this new social environment will change you, and you feel insecure about the risk involved in freeing yourself from established patterns of thought and behavior?

The truth is that every other member is just like you — a unique individual with his own personality, background and desires. Having a perfect match of temperament, viewpoint and ideals is impossible in any group of 20 to 100 men, and in a fraternity it is not even desirable.

One of the finest — though sometimes disagreeable — benefits of a fraternity is that it obliges its members to work toward the ideal of harmony in spite of their individual shortcomings. While it may be pleasant to associate only with those who share the same values and goals that you do, it will have little value in preparing you to understand and relate to those who do not. In the face of individual failings, the ideal remains as a goal to be strived for, not rejected.

After every candidate has been pledged and before he is initiated, he is required to stand before the active chapter and answer, among other things, two questions: What can you do for Acacia? What can Acacia do for you?

Your answers will tell the active chapter a good deal about you. But even more importantly, your answers will tell you a good deal about yourself and your attitude and expectations as they relate to the fraternity.

The few weeks or months of pledgeship offer precious little time for insight into the fraternity experience. It is a time of change, adjustment, and constant effort that passes both too slowly for some purposes and too quickly for others. The pledge of today is the active of tomorrow, and they are almost always different men.

In deciding to remain or withdraw, the pledge must make a decision for that man he has not yet become — the active member of Acacia. It is the fortunate man who does not have to make such a decision, but the wiser man who has faced such a decision and resolved it.

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ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP

At the conclusion of initiation, a member of Acacia advances to the sta-

tus of active membership and assumes all the rights and responsibilities of a full initiate of the Fraternity. The purpose of active membership in Acacia is to provide college men with the social and educational advantages of living in a fraternal brotherhood. Acacia exists to bring college men together and establish the close relationships, mutual goals and common bonds that will enrich their educational experience and personal growth — both in college and in later life. It is toward these ends that every active member must direct his efforts.

Upon initiation, each member becomes an Acacian for life. Only death or expulsion can terminate his affiliation. A member can be suspended or expelled from Acacia for any of the following reasons: • Willful violation or disregard of the Laws of Acacia or the regulations of his chapter; • Failure to uphold his ritualistic obligation; • Disobedience of lawful Acacia authority, or contemptuous actions or language toward its official representatives; • Violation of law, or any other conduct that tends to bring discredit on the individual or Acacia; • Failure to meet financial obligations to the fraternity.

An active member can be suspended or expelled either by his chapter or by the International Council. Details of hearing and appeal procedures are given in the Laws of Acacia.

Active Rights and Responsibilities

It is not meaningful to distinguish between the rights and the responsibilities of active membership. Every right is a responsibility.

The Acacia active chapter is an excellent example of participatory democracy. In addition to the formal rights of active membership, every active member is also entitled to an equal share in the intangible benefits of the Fraternity. While some members may have greater natural abilities or more popular personalities than others, all members of Acacia are to be equally valued. All have been initiated into full membership in Acacia and are not only entitled to the full exercise of their formal rights as active members, but also to the same reasonable courtesy, respect and fair consideration that every member expects and deserves.

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Each active member has the right and responsibility: TO VOTE ON EVERY MAJOR DECISION that affects his daily fraternity life.

TO PERSONALLY EXPRESS HIS VIEWS in front of every other voter, and to hear the viewpoints of others face-to-face.

TO VOTE ON EVERY CANDIDATE FOR INITIATION, thus exercising a full share in determining the type of men who will be received into the Acacia brotherhood and take part in its affairs.

TO OBJECT TO THE INITIATION OF ANY NEW MEMBER, while still considering the wishes of the other members and the overall good of the Fraternity in addition to his own preferences.

TO STAND FOR ELECTION to every chapter office.

TO PRESENT PROPOSALS, with or without the formal responsibilities of office, that will determine the nature and direction of his chapter’s policies, social activities, membership and pledge education programs, and participation in campus and community life.

TO COOPERATE WITH THOSE WHO ARE ELECTED to office and to support the policies and regulations that the chapter adopts.

TO EQUALLY VALUE all members of the Fraternity and afford them an equal share of the Fraternity’s intangible benefits to which they are entitled.

Active Attitude

The attitude with which each member approaches his active status largely determines the value that the fraternity experiences will have for him, both while he is a student and in later life. Having successfully completed the period of pledgeship, the initiate is usually keenly aware of his new status and the privileges that it implies. However, he should be equally aware that he has assumed real and permanent obligations to Acacia and to his brothers.

The obligations of active membership are more demanding and more far reaching than those of pledgeship. They are also a greater challenge because the active member is no longer subject to the formal supervision and guidance of pledgeship. The active member, as a complete initiate, represents Acacia in the fullest sense and cannot claim the excuses of ignorance or inexperience.

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Every member has the duty to stand up for Acacia at whatever temporary cost to his personal prestige or extra-fraternal associations. Acacia stands for the ideals of brotherhood, the search for truth, love of wisdom and human service. While recognizing and working to perfect the occasional failings of men, every Acacian can feel and express pride in the Fraternity itself.

However inconvenient it may be, every member is a representative of Acacia at all times and in every place. No Acacian can leave his affiliation in a box with his pin. Every Acacian must conduct himself in every situation in a manner that will bring credit to his fraternity. A fraternity is far more than a casual club or social circle, and anyone who cannot assume this responsibility should not accept the privilege of Acacia membership.

While every Acacian should freely display his affiliation and express pride in it when such expressions are called for, no member should flaunt his affiliation or assume a superior attitude to others because of it. Snobbery is one of the least appealing character traits, and no Acacian will bring credit to his fraternity by displaying it.

Having subscribed to the ideals of Acacia brotherhood, every member is obligated to develop himself as a willing group worker, one part of a larger whole. No association can succeed in its aims if each individual seeks only to achieve his own pleasure and ambitions. The spirit of cooperation and compromise is vital to successful fraternity living.

Personal integrity is a necessary attribute of every fraternity man. Brotherhood can only emerge in an atmosphere of trust, good faith and confidence. In accepting the offer of brotherhood every Acacian obligates himself to pay his debts, observe the rules and policies of the chapter, meet his commitments, contribute his just share to every chapter effort, and act with sincerity.

And finally, in accepting the offer of brotherhood, every Acacian obligates himself to observe the simple rule of courtesy, the first essential of brotherhood. No situation is so serious, no disagreement so great that it will not be improved by courtesy. Acacians should always keep in mind the simple precept: Show courtesy to others, not because they are gentlemen but because you are one.

Active membership in Acacia is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Conduct yourself in such a way that when you must finally bring this unique chapter in your life’s experiences to a close, you will do so with regret — not regret that you have not made the most of your active chapter years, but only that they have come to an end.

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ALUMNUS MEMBERSHIP

At the conclusion of active membership each Acacian passes on to the

status of alumnus member. But while the opportunity to participate in the daily life of the active chapter is now past, the alumnus member remains an Acacian and can still render valuable support and service to his chapter and to the international fraternity. It is of primary importance that the alumnus member keeps his contact information current with the international office so that he may be informed of fraternity news and other happenings.Active members come and go with the regularity of the passing school years, but alumni members provide each chapter and the international organization with continuity and sustained success.

Chapter Assistance

An exceptionally useful service that every alumnus can perform for his

chapter is to be on the lookout for college-bound men who would make good Acacians. Every alumnus will at one time or another encounter a young man – perhaps a relative, neighbor, or family friend – who plans to attend a school where there is an Acacia chapter or colony. This alumnus can spark the young man’s interest in Acacia and inform the chapter about him — even arrange for him to visit the campus and stay at the chapter house before enrolling.

Each chapter offers a number of ways for its alumni to continue an active interest in its affairs. Each chapter has a Chapter Advisor and many have a housing corporation, and these functions provide outstanding opportunities for alumni members to be of service to Acacia chapters. Many chapters also have a formally organized alumni association that sponsors regular social events for alumni at homecoming and other times of the year, and may assist the chapter with fundraising for new furnishings and house improvements. Each alumnus member can continue to enjoy his Acacia associations and also serve his chapter by actively participating in his chapter’s alumni organization events and programs, or by helping to form such a group if it does not already exist.

Even if they never ask for it, and in many cases they won’t, your undergraduate brothers can benefit greatly from your involvement at the chapter level. What’s more, you’ll benefit from it, as well. Because when you assist young Acacians in their pursuit of a positive fraternal experience, you’ll strengthen the ties of friendship in new and meaningful ways. Your help is needed in a variety of ways. From simply referring a young man to Acacia, to serving a local alumni association, to making a donation to the 15

Acacia Fraternity Foundation, there are many ways to stay involved with the fraternity.

Alumni Association

Each active chapter should have an alumni relations program and newsletter or email newsletter to keep its graduates informed and interested in the chapter’s activities. An alumni association is organized in order to support the local chapter, and to facilitate alumni member interaction and communication.

The alumni should provide guidance and assistance to the active chapter, responding to its needs as circumstances require, but without transgressing upon the functions of the active members. A spirit of cooperation and understanding between undergraduates and alumni is essential for a strong chapter.

House Corporation Board

Serving in an essential capacity, the House Corporation Board is a legal

entity and group of individuals charged with ownership and management of the chapter house facility, in the case that one exists. The House Corporation Board is importantly a distinct entity from the Alumni Association and does not serve the chapter in an advisory capacity. The House Corporation simply holds title to the chapter house, while undergraduate members run the chapter; thus, the relationship is akin to one of a landlord and a tenant. Such an arms-length relationship protects the chapter house from liability in the case of a chapter incident.

Alumni Chapters

Alumni chapters draw their members from the alumni of all chapters

who are living in the area. The Laws of Acacia provide that 15 or more alumni residing near each other in any part of the world can petition the International Council for a charter as an alumni chapter. Alumni chapters elect a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and other officers necessary to best promote the chapter’s affairs, and each is entitled to send its president or an alternate to the International Conclave as a non-voting delegate.

The purposes for which alumni chapters are organized are many, including assistance to active chapters in recruitment, scholarship, and other programs; assistance to the International Fraternity in its overall 16

programs, especially in the formation of new active chapters; support of the Acacia Fraternity Foundation; promotion of favorable community understanding of the fraternity system and particularly Acacia; vocational and employment assistance to newly graduated brothers and alumni transferring into the area; and of course, enjoyment of Acacia fellowship with brothers from many chapters.

Each alumni chapter’s activities differ according to the size of its membership, its proximity to undergraduate chapters, and the special interests and talents of its individual members. In addition to introducing Acacia alumni to others in the same area and keeping them in touch through meetings and online communications, alumni chapters have sponsored summer recruitment parties for active chapters in their area, formed teams to demonstrate the Ritual for active chapters and colonies, and provided scholarships and awards for outstanding undergraduates and chapters.

Many fraternity men do not fully realize how significant a part their undergraduate fraternity experiences have played in their personal development until after they have left school. Through the various opportunities offered by alumnus membership, you have a chance to repay a small part of the debt you may feel for the brotherhood that offered you membership. Acacia membership does not end with graduation, it is for life.

While the avenues for participation may change, the opportunities for involvement remain.

International Fraternity Involvement

The need for alumni involvement in the international organization is as

great as that of the local chapter. While the Chapter Advisor attends the International Conclave as a voting delegate, every alumnus member is welcome to attend and take part in the workshops, discussions and social events. Every alumnus member is also eligible for election to the International Council and for appointment to various standing and ad hoc international committees.

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THE INTERNATIONAL FRATERNITY

Acacia Fraternity is composed of two organizational components,

the chapters and the International Fraternity. The average Acacian will identify most closely with his chapter, but he should also be fully aware of Acacia’s international organization. While the chapter is the focal point of Acacia, the broader framework, continuity, prestige and practical services provided by the international organization greatly enhance the potential of each chapter in providing its members with a fine fraternal opportunity.

International Conclave

The supreme governing body of Acacia is the International Conclave,

which is composed of the International Council and two delegates from each chapter, the Venerable Dean and Chapter Advisor. Each Council member and delegate is entitled to one vote. International Conclaves convene in the summer of each even-numbered year at sites selected by the International Council, and vote on all legislation and constitutional matters affecting Acacia. Constitutional questions acted upon by the International Conclave are then also subject to ratification by the active chapters.

In addition to its policy-making and legislative functions, the International Conclave is also a forum for exchange of information and experiences between the active chapters and for leadership training. While only the official delegates are entitled to vote, every undergraduate and alumnus is welcome to attend and take part in the many programs, workshops and discussions offered. Every Acacian should try to attend at least one International Conclave during his undergraduate years.

International Council

The International Council is the supreme executive and judicial body

of Acacia Fraternity. Stated differently, the International Council is the “Board of Directors” of the 501(c)(7) organization, Acacia Fraternity, Inc. It implements all legislation passed by the International Conclave, establishes policies to meet situations that may arise between Conclaves, plans the overall programs of the fraternity, directs finances, handles public relations and approves all international publications. The Council also grants recognition to Acacia colonies, grants and suspends charters, and suspends or expels members as provided in the Laws of Acacia. The International Council meets regularly throughout the year via a series of conferences calls, as well as in person.

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The International Council is composed of eight officers: a president, first vice-president, second vice-president, treasurer, international counselor, judge advocate and two undergraduate counselors. Council members are elected by the International Conclave and serve, without pay, for terms of four years. The president, treasurer, and counselor are elected at one Conclave and the two vice-presidents and judge advocate (an appointed position) two years later, so that there are always experienced members on the Council. The undergraduate counselors are elected for two-year terms and are elected at every Conclave.

International Headquarters

The day-by-day supervision of Acacia affairs, chapter visitations, pub-

lications, finances, records and implementation of policy at the working level are duties of the International Headquarters staff. The configuration of the Headquarters staff adapts to the ever-changing needs and resources of the Fraternity. Common staff positions include: The Executive Director is in charge of the Headquarters staff and supervises all of its work. He reports to the International Council and directs the efforts of all staff members and office personnel. The Executive Director is responsible for general leadership in fraternity operations, chapter relations, university and interfraternity relations, crisis response, and budget and staffing matters. In addition, he assists with alumni relations and fundraising and serves as the primary liaison between the Fraternity and the Foundation. An Assistant Executive Director is sometimes also employed to support the Fraternity in these areas.

The following positions have been common in recent years, although may be periodically vacant due to the current priorities and programs of the Fraternity:

The Director of Operations is responsible for coordinating all chapter services, visits and reports. He facilitates the preparations for all Conclaves and Leadership Academies, and he assists with financial operations such as accounting and managing chapter-related accounts receivables.

The Director of Communications coordinates all of the Fraternity’s publications and online communications, develops marketing materials and other resources, and he also assists chapters with the same.

The Director of Membership Development works to promote the Cornerstones program and the concept of lifelong learning in all Acacia chapters, provides training and education across a broad range of topics related to personal and group development, and provides resources for chapters to personalize at the local chapter level.

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The Director of Expansion and Recruitment assists chapters and colonies in recruitment efforts in response to the ever-changing dynamics found on campuses across North America. He seeks out new expansion opportunities and works with new colonies in their critical startup stage.

Leadership Consultants work directly with the active chapters. They make periodic visits during which they assist the chapter in strengthening its programs, confer with the Chapter Advisor and other alumni, and render whatever other assistance may be needed for the chapters to meet and exceed Acacia standards.

The Office Manager manages chapter payments and fees, Foundation donations, membership materials, changes of address and alumni updates, chapter supplies, office equipment, and mailings.

The Acacia Fraternity Foundation Executive Director serves the Acacia Fraternity Foundation Board of Directors and oversees the financial management, fund development, public relations, organizational records, and implementation of Foundation policies to advance the educational mission of Acacia. He is employed by the Foundation, not the Fraternity.

Finances

The expenses of Acacia’s international operations are paid for with rev-

enue from several sources. These include the annual per capita dues paid by each active chapter; annual voluntary dues of alumni; the initiation fee paid by each active member; charter fees paid by each new chapter; interest on investments; and voluntary contributions.

This revenue is used to provide a large number of programs and services. These include a full-time, qualified staff; the chapter visitation program; the expansion program; direct financial assistance to chapters and colonies; publications; legal counsel and action; regional retreats and leadership training seminars; grants in aid to active members assisting in chapter rehabilitation or the expansion program; expenses involved in the International Conclave and International Council meetings; and the expenses of international officers and staff in representing Acacia at Interfraternity meetings and appearing at special chapter events.

The Acacia Fraternity Foudation

The Acacia Fraternity Foundation (AFF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit

foundation established in 1989 to support Acacia’s leadership and other educational activities, and to provide direct support to student Acacians 20

through scholarships and to chapters for qualified educational purposes.

Contributions to the Foundation are fully tax-deductible in the United States as charitable contributions. Contributions can be made by active and alumni Acacians, parents and other friends of Acacia. The Foundation is headquartered at Acacia’s International Headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The Foundation’s membership is composed of Acacians making financial contributions to the AFF each year. At the Foundation’s annual meeting, members elect representatives to the AFF board of directors, which oversees the day-to-day affairs of the Foundation. The Foundation board of directors is made up entirely of Acacians, and the Executive Director of the Foundation serves as the Foundation Administrator.

The Foundation’s endowment funds are derived from tax-deductible contributions and bequests. Contributions of cash and securities, bequests in wills, the assignment of existing life insurance policies and the purchase of additional policies naming the Foundation as beneficiary are among the many ways to support Acacia through the AFF. Contributions can be made for the general benefit of the entire Fraternity through the Annual Fund, or may be directed to specific Foundation endowment accounts for scholarships, or use by individual chapters. The Foundation maintains an individual tax-deductible endowment account for each chapter that is managed by the AFF on the chapter’s behalf. Disbursements from chapter endowment accounts are made at the request of the chapter house corporation, or chapter advisor in cases where no house corporation exists.

The Foundation’s Annual Fund is the largest source of funding for the International Headquarters, apart from pledge and initiation fees and chapter per capita dues. Foundation funding supports the Acacia Leadership Academy and Leadership Schools, visits to chapters by Leadership Consultants and the publication of chapter standards manuals and other educational materials. Undergraduate Acacians may also apply for Foundation scholarships, which are awarded annually.

The Foundation chapter endowment funds provide a way to fund educational and scholarship programs at the chapter level, including: chapter scholarships; high school senior scholarship recruitment programs; leadership and other chapter achievement awards; educational seminars and speakers; faculty speaker honorariums; chapter library materials; and the rental of on-campus study rooms.

Chapters can raise funds for their Foundation account by publicizing the 21

AFF in chapter newsletters and at alumni gatherings; sending a fund raising letter to chapter alumni and parents; establishing a tradition of giving through the Foundation with a class gift from graduating seniors; adding an extra line for contributions to the chapter’s endowment account on the chapter’s annual alumni dues letter; creating a named chapter scholarship or memorial fund within your chapter endowment account and conducting a special fund raising drive; or sponsoring an alumni fund raising event.

The Acacia Fraternity Foundation is an excellent way for Acacians, parents and others to assist worthy students to pursue their higher education without sacrificing the leadership training and development available from fraternity membership.

Acacia Leadership Academy

The Darold W. Larson Acacia Leadership Academy, commonly known

as ALA, is held in off-Conclave years and brings together over 100 of Acacia’s undergraduate leaders to live together under one roof and share in the free flowing exchange of ideas between chapters. In addition, a balanced mix of speakers, small group sessions, and the Acacia Olympics provide undergraduates with an unforgettable fraternal experience.

At the ALA, our undergraduate brothers learn, experience and live fraternity. The realization that the Acacia community truly extends beyond the boundaries of each chapter comes to fruition, and new skills are developed and passed on to chapter members back home.

The Acacia Leadership Academy is named for Darold W. Larson, Washington State ‘81, in honor of his more than 25 years serving Acacia as Executive Director and AFF Executive Director. Brother Larson created the ALA in 1995, and it has become a favorite event for undergraduates ever since.

Venerable Dean Summit

The Lee Kearney Venerable Dean Summit is Acacia’s newest leadership

program. Named after lead donor Leonard W. Kearney, Oregon State ‘59, this event features two days of leadership and fraternity operations training specifically for Venerable Deans. Chapters may send an alternate representative if the Venerable Dean is unable to attend. Through educational presentations, small group discussions, and shared meals and social time, this event is educational and fosters stronger relationships among chapter leaders and International Council and Headquarters staff.

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Acacia’s Motto, Human Service

Human Service is Acacia’s motto and guiding principle. Our founders

believed that human service is the profoundest Truth upon which we can base our lives and that in serving our fellow man we find the ultimate expression of our own humanity.

Acacia supports and encourages the many philanthropic efforts of each of our chapters and colonies. Many chapters hold their own annual events or volunteer within their communities when immediate needs or emergencies arise. Internationally, Acacia’s most popular service projects today include the Acacia Claus Holiday Toy Drive and Seven Days of Service.

Acacia’s philanthropic partner is Shriners Hospitals for Children, which specializes in pediatric neuromusculoskeletal conditions and burn care.

Insignia and Heraldry

Acacians use various signs and symbols to communicate, from identi-

fying one another as members and marking official documents to simply displaying pride in our Fraternity.

The Coat of Arms of Acacia was a much-discussed subject in Acacia’s early years, and it was not until 1910 that a formal design was proposed. The 1913 National Conclave adopted a simpler design. In 1927 the present design was adopted, and its description was specified thus: “The official coat of arms of The Acacia Fraternity shall be composed of a crest, shield, ribbon, and motto. The crest shall be a candelabra supporting three burning tapers within a wreath of acacia. The shield shall consist of a field of gold bearing fess and the two bentlets in black, surmounted by three triangles in gold of the shape and proportion prescribed for the official badge. The ribbon shall be blue. The motto, ‘Human Service,’ shall be inscribed in Greek.”

Prior to the Fraternity’s Centennial in 2004, the Coat of Arms was modernized to take better advantage of digital formats and modern printing techniques.

The Badge, commonly referred to as the pin, also is not the same as the one originally adopted. The badge used by the Michigan Chapter in 1904 was a large right triangle within which were three small right triangles, containing three Hebrew letters, Shin, Teth and He. The large right triangle was surrounded by 24 jewels. The badge’s description was clarified at the 1905 National Conclave when it was decided that the triangle should be of the first quadrant, in the proportion of 3-4-5, and the three Hebrew letters should appear from the right to left, counterclockwise, beginning at the 60 degree angle.

The Hebrew letters were removed from the badge in 1914. The present Acacia badge is in the shape of a right triangle of the first quadrant whose sides are of the proportions 3-4-5, the shortest side being the base. The sides are set with twelve pearls, three on the base, four on the altitude, and five on the hypotenuse, and the three corners are set with garnets.

Within the triangle are three small right triangles of the same proportion, outlined in gold on a black enameled background.

The badge is worn on a vest, shirt, or sweater, over the heart with the base parallel to the ground. The badge is not to be worn on the lapel of a blazer or suit. Only initiates and their wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, or fiancées are entitled to wear the badge of Acacia.

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FO

Coat of Arms

Shingle

ACACIA F R RNI TY

GRAND S E

L

E AT

A

UNDED 1904

Seal

Badge

Flag

Pledge Pin

Banner

The Pledge Pin is a circular black emblem bearing a gold solid right triangle of the same proportions as the badge. The pledge pin is worn on shirts and sweaters, but when a coat is worn it should appear on the lapel. The altitude of the triangle should always be vertical.

The Seal of Acacia is circular, 2-1/8 inches in diameter. The coat of arms appears in the center, and around the sides and tip of the rim are the words, “Grand Seal Acacia Fraternity.” At the bottom, “Founded 1904” is inscribed.

Paper indicia of membership: Each initiated member of the Fraternity receives a large membership certificate, the shingle, bearing a gold Acacia seal and suitable for framing, and an identification card bearing the initiate’s name, chapter, chapter roll number and date of initiation. The card is embellished with the Acacia seal and is signed by the Executive Director.

On the back of the card is a coded message that the bearer must be able to decipher in order to prove his membership.

The Flag of Acacia is composed of three cloth panels, the outer panels gold and the center panel black. On the black panel appears the coat of arms with “Acacia” spelled in Old English lettering over it. The flag is for use outdoors.

The Banner of Acacia measures 3 feet by 5 feet and is made of heavy, gold colored silk. In the four corners, beginning with the upper left and going clockwise, are embroidered the coat of arms, the badge, a sprig of Acacia, and the pledge pin. Across the center of the banner in large, black, Old English letters is spelled ACACIA. The banner is only for use indoors.

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The Colors of Acacia are Black and Old Gold (metallic). Further specifications can be found in the Graphic Standards Manual of Acacia Fraternity.

The Flower of Acacia is a sprig of Acacia in bloom.

The Whistle of Acacia is the first four notes of the adjutant’s call, and the answer is the first, third, and fourth notes of the same.

Publications

The publications of the International Fraternity include THE TRIAD,

PYTHAGORAS, THE CREST, THE LAWS OF ACACIA, THE RITUAL, OFFICER MANUALS, ACACIA SINGS and various other publications the International Council may see fit to direct the Headquarters staff to produce.

In 1954, the Fraternity also published Acacia Fraternity, The First Half Century, now out of print, a detailed and excellent history of Acacia’s first 50 years by William S. Dye Jr., a 1909 initiate of the Penn State Chapter and a past National President. In 1982, Acacia Fraternity, The Third Quarter Century was published. This detailed account of the 25 years between Acacia’s Gold and Diamond Anniversaries was written by Delmer M. Goode, a 1915 initiate of the Minnesota Chapter and long-time Oregon State Chapter Advisor.

The TRIAD. The official magazine of Acacia Fraternity is published twice annually and is devoted to articles of general interest to the Fraternity, news of active chapters and alumni, and announcements and reports by 26

the international organization. A portion of each initiation fee is used to produce the TRIAD, and each initiate receives the magazine free for life.

Issues of The TRIAD are also available for download in PDF form on the Fraternity’s website.

PYTHAGORAS. The official membership manual of the Fraternity is designed to assist each chapter in its pledge education program and to provide members with a handy reference for basic fraternity information.

The CREST. Acacia publishes an electronic newsletter every month, plus special editions, for the enjoyment of our members. The Crest features news from our chapters and colonies, notable alumni news, Council and Headquarters Staff news, and various other items pertaining to Acacia.

The Laws of Acacia. This supreme fraternal document contains Acacia’s constitution, by-laws and code of procedure. Each initiate should have a thorough working knowledge of this document. The Laws of Acacia is available in printed form from the International Headquarters.

The Ritual. This is the Fraternity’s most guarded and prized tome. Written by the Founding Fathers over a century ago, the Ritual is restricted to initiates’ eyes only. Only six numbered copies are provided to each chapter — five for the chapter’s use and one for the chapter advisor. Each of these copies must be signed for, and no other member may obtain one without the express authorization of the Executive Director.

Officer Manuals. The indispensable guides, also known as “Gold Books” due to their traditional cover color, are prepared to assist each chapter officer and the chapter advisor in performing the respective duties of their offices. Officer Manuals are available in printed form from the International Headquarters, or as PDFs from the Fraternity’s website.

Acacia Sings. The Fraternity’s official songbook contains the sheet music and lyrics to a host of songs traditionally used by the Fraternity to serenade sororities and girlfriends, celebrate intramural victories, and foster greater brotherhood. Acacia Sings sheet music and .mp3 files are available on the Fraternity’s website.

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Awards and Honors

To encourage chapters and individual Acacians to attain the highest

possible standards, and to recognize outstanding achievements in various areas of concern to the Fraternity, Acacia bestows a number of awards and honors upon its members.

THE GEORGE F. PATTERSON JR. AWARD. Acacia’s most prestigious individual award is given annually in honor of Brother Patterson’s many years of service to Acacia and the interfraternity movement. It recognizes Acacia alumni whose contributions to the fraternity are both sustained and outstanding. To be considered for a Patterson Award, an alumnus must be a prior recipient of the Award of Merit.

THE AWARD OF MERIT. Introduced at Acacia’s Golden Anniversary celebrations in 1954, the Award of Merit is Acacia’s second highest individual honor. It is given to “brothers who have given of their time and substance unstintingly for the promotion and furtherance of Acacia, both nationally and locally, and brothers who have rendered outstanding service in their chosen fields, and have attained high position therein, thus exemplifying the motto of Acacia, human service, and the teachings of the fraternity, which constantly admonish our members to prepare themselves as educated men to take a more active part in their communities.”

No more than 10 Awards of Merit may be given at any one Conclave.

THE ORDER OF PYTHAGORAS. Established in 1962, The Order of Pythagoras recognizes contributions to Acacia Fraternity by those “serving beyond the ordinary call of duty.” Election to the Order of Pythagoras is by the International Council and may include alumni, undergraduates and, occasionally, non-Acacians. No more than 25 awards will be granted to undergraduates during any year. Chapters may nominate as many brothers as they deem fit to be nominated, with recipients determined by the International Council. It simply takes two nominators to put forward a brother for consideration.

THE ROY C. CLARK AWARD. Brother Roy C. Clark (often referred to as “Mr. Acacia”) was a devoted Acacian who served the Fraternity in a number of capacities, including that of National Executive Secretary (now termed Executive Director) from 1947-1966. This award, dedicated to him in 1966, is presented annually to a single undergraduate who most nearly exemplifies the outstanding attributes of Brother Clark — perseverance, integrity, foresight, loyalty, devotion, wisdom and leadership. It is the highest undergraduate honor an Acacian can hope to attain.

Numerous individual award winners are recognized in the back of this Pythagoras.

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THE FOUNDERS ACHIEVEMENT AWARD. Instituted in 1956, the Founders Achievement Award (commonly referred to as the “Malcolm Award”) has been given biennially to the chapter that best meets an exhaustive list of criteria, including scholarship, activities, programs and exemplification of the traditions established by Acacia’s Founding Fathers.

The recipient of the Malcolm Award is considered to be the preeminent chapter of Acacia Fraternity during the preceding biennium.

1958 1960 1962 1964 1966 1968 1970 1972 1974 1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986

Oklahoma State Indiana Purdue Iowa State Purdue Oregon State Penn State Penn State Purdue Louisiana State Penn State Penn State Purdue Nebraska Penn State

1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014

Purdue Oregon State Indiana Indiana Miami (Ohio) Indiana & California (tie) Indiana Penn State Indiana & Central Oklahoma (tie) Penn State Illinois Iowa State Kansas State Iowa State

Awards for Superior Chapter and Outstanding Chapter are also granted to top-performing chapters each biennium.

CHAPTER EXCELLENCE AWARDS. These awards are presented at each Conclave to chapters that are deserving of special recognition for excellence in specific areas of operations. The President’s Award is given to recognize the most membership growth in a chapter, while the Executive Director’s Award (previously the Harvey L. Logan Award) is bestowed upon the most improved Acacia chapter. Other awards are given for excellence in the following areas: Academic Excellence, Alumni Relations, Chapter Programming, Campus Leadership, Best Chapter Publication, Dining Operations, Financial Efficiency, House Management, Human Service, Pledge Education, Officer Organization, Risk Management, and Ritual Exemplification.

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THE CHAPTER

The chapter is the basic component unit of Acacia Fraternity. Each chapter receives its authority by virtue of the charter granted by the International Council. Its basic organization and policies are defined by the Laws of Acacia. Within the broad guidelines established by the International Fraternity, each chapter of Acacia enjoys a large degree of autonomy in tailoring its programs and policies to best meet the particular needs of its own members and campus.

The Charter

Charters for new Acacia chapters are granted to petitioning groups of 30

or more students by a majority vote of the International Council after the petition has been approved by four-fifths of the Acacia chapters in good standing. Each of these groups must demonstrate its potential as a chapter by operating for at least six months as a recognized Acacia colony before petitioning for a charter.

The charter of a chapter may be suspended or revoked for any one of four reasons: violation of the Laws of Acacia, ritual or other official regulation of Acacia; disregard for the authority of the International Conclave, Council, international officer, international staff member, or Chapter Advisor; violation of law or any other conduct tending to bring discredit on the chapter of Acacia; failure to function properly as a chapter, including failure to meet financial obligations, to maintain sufficient membership, or to maintain a respectable scholastic standing.

The suspension or revocation of a chapter’s charter does not affect the standing of any chapter member as a member of Acacia. Details concerning the granting, suspension, revocation and reinstatement of charters and the procedures and appeals available are given in the Laws of Acacia.

Chapter Organization

Each chapter is composed of two groups — undergraduate members and alumni. Each of these complementary groups is structured in a way designed to best meet the chapter’s needs and functions.

The affairs of the undergraduate chapter are administered by a series of elected and/or appointed personnel, referred to as the Chapter Council or Executive Council (or similar), including: Venerable Dean, Senior Dean, Junior Dean, Treasurer, Secretary, Risk Manager, Recruitment Chairman, additional officers, assistants and committees. Elected officers are chosen 30

annually by secret ballot and are installed no later than the first regular chapter meeting in April.

While every chapter member, in recognition of his obligations to Acacia, should accept the responsibilities of some office (great or small) at some time during his active career, no one should seek an office solely for the sake of having the title or exercising authority. Every officer — whatever the size of his job — must make his best contribution. No chapter can achieve its full potential if it must depend on the leadership and hard work of only one or a few of its members.

Selecting Capable Leadership

Every active member exerts at least a minimum of influence on the success of his chapter and the direction of its efforts when officers are elected.

Even if you do not make any other contribution to your chapter’s operations, it is imperative that you exercise the fundamental decision-making device of selecting those members who will largely set the tone and pace of chapter activity.

This is an important responsibility. Every candidate worthy of your vote should be assessed against the following guidelines before being entrusted with responsibility for the chapter’s success: Understanding of Acacia. A good candidate has a thorough knowledge of the fraternity, its purpose, goals, regulations and policies, acquired through participation in chapter activities Desire to serve. No candidate, whatever his qualifications, will do justice to an office if he does not wish to serve in a position of leadership and give it first priority over other commitments.

Personal qualities of leadership. The candidate must have the ability to pass on his enthusiasm to others and motivate them to enjoyable and productive work.

Available time and energy. The candidate must be able to perform all the duties of the office without impairing his scholastic standing, social life, or other important commitments, and to perform all the duties with maximum energy and ability, not the minimum needed to meet requirements.

Desire to accept responsibility. The candidate must demonstrate a willingness to accept all the responsibilities of the office, not just those he is interested in.

Willingness to work with others. Whatever a candidate’s qualifications for 31

a particular office, he must be willing to work with the other officers, be able to delegate responsibilities effectively, and demonstrate a flexibility in accepting advice and making decisions.

Ability to get the job done. A candidate must not only be able to visualize a job and develop methods to accomplish it, but must also have the patience and persistence needed to see a task through to completion.

Team spirit. However great a candidate’s personal qualities of leadership, he must he able to accept a role as part of the total chapter rather than as a one-man operation.

Popularity. It goes without saying that a candidate should not be elected solely because of his popularity in the chapter. It should be recognized, however, that a reasonably qualified brother who is also popular may accomplish more than a highly qualified brother who is not, because he will generate and sustain more enthusiasm, cooperation and goodwill. These factors are just as important in achieving goals as sharp intelligence, inventiveness, and strong determination. The best candidate has all of these characteristics.

Chapter Council

The chapter’s prime committee is the chapter council, composed of all

the major elected and appointed officers. Presided over by the Venerable Dean, the chapter council brings together and coordinates all areas of chapter operations.

The council should meet at least once a week, ideally the day before the weekly chapter meeting, to allow time to gather and discuss relevant information to present to the entire chapter. Each officer informs the others of current activities and plans in his area of responsibility, and each is therefore able to take into account the activities of the others in his own plans and, where appropriate, can divide responsibilities. In addition, the chapter council should continuously review the policies, programs and activities of the chapter, pinpoint areas for improvement, and plan for the future. The chapter council is particularly responsible for the chapter’s financial management.

Venerable Dean

The Venerable Dean is the executive head of the chapter with whom rests final chapter authority and responsibility. He may serve for only one year, except in emergencies and with the Chapter Advisor’s approval. Upon his 32

judgment and ability, more than any other’s, depends the success of the chapter. The demands of the office will require that the Venerable Dean be fair, reasonable, considerate, honest, loyal to the ideals and regulations of Acacia, and unselfish of his convenience, time and energy. No chapter will rise above mediocrity without a capable and energetic Venerable Dean.

As the chief executive officer, the Venerable Dean is the chapter’s representative to the International Fraternity, chapter alumni, school administration and other campus organizations, and the community. He presides over the chapter council. He is charged with keeping the copies of the Ritual and seeing that reports and remittances are sent to the Executive Director when due. He is responsible for seeing that the chapter’s scholastic standing is maintained and improved. And finally, he is responsible for seeing that all other officers and committees are performing their duties satisfactorily.

The Venerable Dean also assumes responsibility for pinpointing areas of chapter operations in need of improvement, establishing goals and new activities for which the entire chapter can strive, and ensuring the morale, harmony, and spirit of brotherhood that pervades a good fraternity.

Senior Dean

The Senior Dean is the Venerable Dean’s chief assistant and assumes all

of his responsibilities in his absence or disability. Many chapters consider the Senior Dean to be the “internal vice president” of the chapter. In addition, the Senior Dean is usually responsible for the chapter’s pledge education program. In this capacity he must ensure that the chapter’s new members receive the type of information and guidance that will enable them to become productive members, good brothers and tomorrow’s chapter leaders.

Junior Dean The Junior Dean functions as the chapter’s social chairman. Acacia

is fundamentally a social fraternity, and the Junior Dean has the chief responsibility for organizing and directing the social life of the chapter.

Some chapters consider the Junior Dean to be the “external vice president” of the chapter. The Junior Dean has the obligation of providing the members with not only a number of dances and parties, but with a wide range of extracurricular activities designed to fulfill the needs of the brotherhood for varied and interesting entertainment, recreation, social development and campus and community service.

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As administrator of the social budget, the Junior Dean is responsible for the allocation of funds in order to meet the needs of the chapter with the greatest possible economy and imagination. Inventiveness and imagination are especially important in this role. A Junior Dean does not meet all the responsibilities of his office by expending his budget on a few widely-spaced, elaborate and expensive parties. He must provide opportunities for the chapter to enjoy a continuous and varied social life.

Secretary

The council Secretary is charged with keeping the minutes of chapter

and chapter council meetings, the membership roll and records, and conducting chapter correspondence. He is responsible for keeping all of this information in physical and electronic formats, to the extent possible, and for passing the information along to his successor. He also prepares the regular reports and remittances to the Executive Director, and orders pins, cards, shingles and other membership items.

The matter of correspondence is especially important. When an alumnus inquires about the address of another member or reports that his nephew is coming to school and is interested in Acacia, the Secretary must see that a response is made. Prompt replies to all communications will impress correspondents with the chapter’s efficiency and interest. The office of Secretary is more work than glory, but its good management contributes to chapter success.

Treasurer

As the responsible administrator for the collection and disbursement of

all the chapter’s funds, the Treasurer must be a strong example of reliability, accuracy and careful management. In support of the Treasurer, every chapter must establish a rigid, permanent financial policy. The Treasurer and the chapter council must establish a realistic budget with carefully set priorities, and the Treasurer must see that all expenditures are both necessary and in keeping with this budget.

It is a matter of primary importance to Acacia that its chapters maintain a good financial reputation and pay all of their obligations promptly and in full. By enforcing sound financial policies the Treasurer contributes immensely to a chapter’s strength, morale and the success of all of its activities.

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Risk Manager

Fraternities and fraternal activities are receiving increased attention in

today’s society. Part of this attention is the result of the increased tendency to litigate personal injury and/or civil claims against individuals and organizations. However, more importantly, fraternity membership is more frequently being associated with physical and sexual abuse, alcohol abuse and inappropriate public behavior. Consequently, fraternity operations are being subjected to more stringent institutional regulations and, due to litigation, increased financial losses.

Therefore, it has become critical to the existence of Acacia Fraternity that each chapter, its members and its leaders gain awareness of the risks that are present in fraternity operations. With this awareness, the members and leaders can develop better procedures and practices within the organization to reduce and/or eliminate the opportunities for injury to members and guests of the Fraternity and damage to property. A thorough understanding of Fraternity policies of risk management and the ability to articulate and enforce this policy at the chapter level is the primary responsibility of the chapter’s Risk Manager.

The office of Risk Manager should be a regularly elected position in the chapter and should be an active member of the executive council. The Venerable Dean should also designate a Risk Management Task Force, which should become a permanent subcommittee of the executive council. The Risk Management Task Force should be composed of those chapter officers most critically involved in the risk areas of chapter operations: the Risk Manager, Venerable Dean, Senior Dean, Junior Dean, House Manager, Ritual Chairperson and Chapter Advisor.

The Risk Manager should coordinate all Risk Management Task Force Activities as well as take responsibility for the following: • • • • • • • • •

Implement risk management education program for all members Develop a written chapter policy on risk management Enforce Acacia Fraternity’s Risk Management Policy Hold Risk Management Task Force meetings weekly to review upcoming chapter activities and review areas of liability Implementation of Chapter Standards for Risk Management Implement Emergency/Crisis Management procedures at the chapter level and execute when necessary Coordinate preparation of accident reports Inform all necessary parties should litigation occur Actively represent the chapter in all risk management discussions 35

Recruitment Chairman

The Recruitment Chairman, who may be elected or appointed, is responsible for maintaining the chapter’s membership at full strength. However, the Recruitment Chairman does not do this alone; he directs the chapter in seeking out and pledging the best available men.

A strong and vigorous recruitment program must be the first priority of every chapter. Obviously, without new members to replace the old, a chapter cannot survive. The Recruitment Chairman must be able to motivate every member to exert his fullest efforts in selling Acacia to prospective members and in drawing the most desirable men into the chapter.

It is the responsibility of every chapter member to participate in the recruitment process. Relying on one or a few brothers to recruit a new pledge class, or thinking that the campus Interfraternity Council will provide quality new members though a formal recruitment process, is a recipe for disaster. Every man in the chapter should have a vested interest in which men are pledged and initiated, as they will be the brothers and alumni of the future. Recruitment is the lifeblood of any fraternity and should be treated as such.

The Recruitment Chairman also has the responsibility to see that the widest range of compatible men is pledged. A good fraternity benefits from a well-rounded membership representing a variety of talents, interests and backgrounds.

Membership Development Chairman

The Membership Development Chairman is responsible for facilitating the Cornerstones program and personal development programming within the chapter, and promoting extra-curricular learning opportunities on campus and in the community.

Committees

While each of the above officers, as well as others that may be appointed to perform needed functions, is responsible for a particular area of chapter operations, good committees can assist in planning and share the work involved in each area.

A rational committee system should be limited to only as many committees as are necessary to perform definitely needed and well-defined tasks.

The size of each committee should be limited to the number of persons who can actually contribute something to its deliberations and assume a 36

meaningful share of its work.

The careful appointment of committees is as important as the careful selection of officers. Once appointed, committees should be held accountable for the work entrusted to them and should make regular reports on their progress. The officer charged with responsibility for the work that the committee is appointed to perform should meet with the committee in an advisory capacity, but should not usurp the role of the chairman.

A committee should not be appointed unless it is sincerely intended to function and to accomplish its designated purpose. Once this purpose is achieved, the committee should be given other meaningful work or be dissolved.

By establishing effective committees to perform needed tasks, the chapter is able to distribute its decision-making functions among more members and thus draw upon the talents and energy of a larger percentage of its membership than can hold major offices at any one time. Committee work is also an excellent testing ground for emerging leadership.

The Chapter Meeting

The chapter meeting is the supreme decision-making authority of the

chapter, and every member should recognize his responsibility for its good function. The agenda includes the reading of the minutes, reports of the officers and committees, old business and new business. The meeting is concluded with a tradition known as “for the good of the fraternity” or “pass the gavel” — a period in which each member is entitled to express anything on his mind for the benefit of the chapter and its members.

Chapter meetings can be reduced to a minimum if each member gives his attention to the business at hand and each speaker limits his comments strictly to the question under consideration. Those who wish to support a position that has already been stated can simply say so and avoid pointless repetition.

Cornerstones

Acacia encourages personal and professional development of its un-

dergraduate members through the Cornerstones program. With a focus on goal-setting and experiential learning, the Cornerstones Personal Development Program provides a framework for individual success and personal growth. At the chapter level, Cornerstones fosters a values-based membership that encourages mental, physical, social, and spiritual 37

growth through educational seminars, guest speakers, and experiential learning opportunities. Further information can be found on the Cornerstones website at www.acacia.org/cornerstones.

Parliamentary Procedure

Chapter meetings are conducted under the rules of parliamentary law,

except when procedures are governed by the chapter’s constitution and bylaws or by the Laws of Acacia. The Parliamentarian, who is selected for his knowledge of these rules, is the final authority when correct procedure is in doubt.

The fundamentals of parliamentary procedure are to: • • • • • •

Provide courtesy and justice to all Do only one thing at a time Allow the majority to rule Permit the minority to be heard Give free and full debate to every proposal Facilitate action, not obstruct it

To move a motion, a member is recognized by the presiding officer, stands and states his proposal. It is “seconded” by another member. The presiding officer restates the motion to ensure that it is clearly understood, and discussion follows.

Only one person speaks at a time and only after being recognized by the presiding officer. During discussion, the motion may be amended or withdrawn. When all viewpoints have been heard, the question is called and debate ended. The presiding officer restates the motion in its final form, a vote is taken, and the result is announced.

Chapter Advisor

The closest point of contact and communication between the active

chapter and the alumni is the Chapter Advisor. He is also the direct representative of the International Council to the chapter and, in the absence of an international officer, has the authority of an International Council member within the chapter. With the Venerable Dean, the Chapter Advisor represents the chapter (both actives and alumni) at the International Conclave.

Chapter Advisors are usually Acacia alumni and are nominated and elected in the spring of each odd-numbered year. A joint meeting of active and alumnus members nominates a candidate for the position by a majority 38

vote. This nomination is sent to the Executive Director and forwarded to the members of the International Council, who ratify the election by their own majority vote.

The Chapter Advisor attends meetings of the chapter and chapter council when possible, and submits reports to the Executive Director on the chapter’s general operations and financial position. He performs a valuable service by providing a continuity factor to the changing undergraduate membership, and the chapter can benefit by drawing upon his advice and experience.

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FRATERNITY LIVING

One of the first things we discover in life and one of the last things that many of us accept is the fact that people and situations are never exactly the way we would like them to be. A fraternity is no exception to this circumstance, and neither hard wishing nor cynical withdrawal will lead to improvement. Only patience, understanding, a willingness to compromise, and an objective assessment of the possible can help to narrow the gap between expectations and reality.

Balance and Priorities

A fraternity is many things. A fraternity is a brotherhood: its members

have assumed special obligations to each other and to the organization. A fraternity is a social group: it is intended to provide fellowship and recreation for its members. A fraternity is an academic group: all of its active members are students who should be committed to scholastic achievement. And a fraternity is a business: in providing services and activities for its members it must manage a large budget and operate within its means.

The responsible fraternity man must be constantly aware of all of these facets in the operation of a successful chapter. Of course, members who focus their attention on only one or two of these factors can still contribute substantially to the fraternity. A good brother is always welcomed, whatever his special interests or talents. While few individuals can be all things equally well, every fraternity member must appreciate each of these factors and give them equal weight in decisions if the fraternity is to realize its full potential.

Brotherhood

A fratneritiy is a brotherhood, yet, the most difficult question to answer

for a prospective member is: What is brotherhood?

More importantly, if a fraternity member is to be a brother, he must answer this question for himself. There are a thousand possible answers to this question and none of them is completely adequate.

Brotherhood is treating others as you would have them treat you. Brotherhood is meeting the other member at least half way. In a brotherhood, individuals help each other at all times. In a brotherhood the individual feels free to face his problems because others are concerned. In a brotherhood each individual is treated as a unique and creative person, not as 40

just another member being forced to conform to standards of mediocrity.

However, one thing should be clearly understood — brotherhood is not synonymous with friendship. Many people find this concept difficult to grasp. It is natural to assume that a fraternity member’s best friends on campus will most likely be found among his fraternity brothers. But this does not mean that all of your brothers will be your best friends, or that you will have no friends outside of the chapter. Friendship is a one-to-one relationship, individual and personal in nature. Fraternal brotherhood derives its meaning from the obligations that an individual assumes as a member of the organization. Ideally, brotherhood and friendship coexist equally. However, fraternity men can be good brothers without being good friends.

A practical, though minimum, definition of brotherhood for fraternity life might be: A willingness to accept the fact that the wishes and needs of others are just as important to them as ours are to ourselves; and a consequent willingness to work together to create a common ground for action will satisfy some of the needs and wishes of both brothers.

Individuality and Conformity

One of the stock rationalizations used by non-fraternity students to

explain why they do not choose to join a Greek organization — and why others shouldn’t as well — is that fraternity membership strips away individuality and forces conformity to the collective mediocrity of the group.

In reality, one of the primary purposes of a fraternity is to maximize individual potential, not suppress it. A good fraternity provides a framework within which each member can exercise his particular abilities to the fullest and acquire some additional talents as well.

Some men do join fraternities because they want an organization to supply them with the motivation and direction they lack as individuals. For these men, the fraternity is a catalyst and as such it is of great value. But for men with ideals, character and energy, the fraternity is a foundation upon which they can grow and develop and become more than what they were before.

Fraternity membership represents an addition to each member’s responsibilities, not a loss of them. As such it is a challenge to greater effort, not an escape from it.

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Fraternity Dynamics

Two of the most commonly cited factors contributing to a poor fraternal environment are apathy and cliques. Terms such as “sophomore slump” and “senior apathy” are frequently encountered in fraternity vocabulary.

Everyone has an occasional down day, and it seems that many brothers even pass through down years during their undergraduate fraternity life.

Positive group morale is as fragile as it is important, and the factors that influence it are so complex and subjective that a few sentences here will not materially illuminate the subject. But it is true that enthusiasm can be contagious. It is incumbent upon each member to see that those who want to work are given the fullest opportunity to do so in the areas where they have a real interest. Potential leaders must be encouraged in their first efforts, and recognition should always be given to those who achieve positive results.

The fraternity clique is a product of an anthropological phenomenon that is observed in every group larger than about a dozen individuals. Every such group will spontaneously form subgroups according to the interests, personalities and philosophies of its members.

Since every fraternity is composed of these subgroups, from a practical point of view the only real question is whether or not these subgroups are hindering the chapter from achieving its objectives. Every fraternity member will find that he naturally identifies more closely with some of his brothers than with others, and it is essential that he never permits these individual bonds to receive greater emphasis than his overriding allegiance to the fraternity as a whole.

A primary organizational policy that will minimize the effects of member apathy and counterproductive cliques is to determine specific chapter goals for each year, semester, or quarter and officer goals for every major office. If an organization is to progress, it must have one or more objectives that all of its members can appreciate and work toward. And a minimum requirement for any officer candidate is to have some definite goal that he wishes to attain during his term in office.

Setting specific, realistic goals and then achieving them can have a profound effect on fraternity spirit. To make the most of a goal-oriented program the goals should be written down, and progress reports should be periodically made by the responsible officer or committee chairman.

When the year, or other specified time period, is concluded, the success or failure of the effort should be reported and analyzed so that the experience will be available for the future.

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Chapter Reputation and Interfraternalism

There’s an old saying that says, “One bad apple spoils the barrel.” In other words, a single bad influence can ruin what would otherwise remain good. The same is true for a fraternity’s reputation.

Unless a chapter continuously presents a commendable public image, a single ill-conceived stunt or unsavory incident can diminish its reputation regardless of how much good it has done in the past. This applies not only to the group as a whole, but also to each of its individual members. Every Acacian is identified with his Fraternity, and his personal reputation will reflect on the organization as a whole, whether he likes it or not.

Critics are always available to put down fraternities, and rebuttal is rarely available when they do so. Contempt for such people does not diminish their influence, and one or two service projects each year cannot make up for an indifference to public opinion the rest of the time.

A chapter’s reputations also hinges on the relationship it has with the university and the other Greek fraternity chapters which reside on its campus. Friendly rivalry with other fraternities on the intramural fields is a fine way to build chapter support and loyalty, but when this rivalry is carried off the playing field and onto campus, incidents can occur which affect the reputation of Acacia, as well as the entire fraternity and sorority community. When individuals from the campus or the community see or hear about fraternity pranks, fights or disrespect, they often do not associate the act with one particular chapter — they only see Greek letters. This weakens the respect and reputation of all fraternities and sororities from campus officials, professors and members of the community. The best and only way for any fraternity to establish and maintain an excellent reputation is for it to be in reality just what it claims to be in its ideals.

Personal Conduct

Acacia Fraternity does not attempt to legislate the personal ideals, morals or beliefs of its members. The process of membership selection should ensure that persons with vicious or destructive characters are not invited for membership, and when errors occur they should be promptly corrected. But the obligations to which each member subscribes do demand a reasonable standard of personal conduct. When a member’s behavior exceeds the limits of his private life and affects the life of the chapter, the Fraternity has every right to take corrective action.

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Every member has his personal standards with regard to the use of alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling and respectable behavior. The nature of the college environment is such that everyone will be exposed to influences in all of these areas. Each of these areas has led to serious difficulties for one or more chapters in the past, and the International Fraternity has developed guidelines based on its practical experience.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. The possession, use, and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages by any Fraternity member or guest, while on chapter premises, or in any situation sponsored by or endorsed by the chapter, must be in compliance with any and all applicable laws of the state, province, county, city and university, in addition to the Acacia Fraternity Risk Management Policy.

Open parties — those with unrestricted access by non-members of the fraternity without specific invitation — are prohibited. No member will permit, tolerate, encourage or participate in drinking games.

No alcoholic beverages may be purchased through the chapter treasury.

No chapter members, collectively or individually, may purchase for, serve, or sell alcoholic beverages to any individual under the legal drinking age.

No chapter shall co-sponsor an event with an alcohol distributor, charitable organization or tavern (tavern defined as an establishment generating more than half its annual gross sales from alcohol) where alcohol is given away, sold or otherwise provided to those present. No chapter shall co-sponsor or co-finance a function where alcohol is purchased by any of the host chapter, groups or organizations.

All recruitment activities associated with any chapter must be alcohol-free functions. No alcohol shall be present at any pledge/associate member/novice program or activity of the chapter.

Casualties indeed can occur when alcohol is mixed with driving an automobile. There is no excuse for letting a fraternity brother get behind the wheel of a car if he has been drinking. Drinking and driving is one of the major killers of college age students, and fraternity men as leaders should be at the forefront of setting an example of responsibility.

ILLEGAL DRUGS & CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES. The possession, sale, and/or use of any illegal drugs or controlled substances on the premises of the chapter house, at any sponsored event or at any event that an observer would associate with the Fraternity, is strictly prohibited. As a condition of obtaining recognition by the International Council of Acacia Fraternity, it is required that all new colonies, including reinstated former 44

chapters, adopt and implement a written policy on substance-free housing and living that is acceptable to the International Council.

The sale or furnishing of drugs is illegal and endangers the Fraternity and its members. As a result, this activity will not be tolerated by the Fraternity. The policy of Acacia with respect to drugs is therefore simple: any member involved in the trafficking or use of illegal drugs within the chapter house can expect to be suspended or expelled from Acacia.

GAMBLING. The Fraternity’s initiation obligation specifically prohibits gambling. This regulation need not be so narrowly interpreted as to prohibit a card game for pennies or a pool on the NCAA Basketball Tournament, but gambling as such is not conducive to brotherhood.

SOCIAL MEDIA. The ability to express yourself online can be an exciting social and creative outlet, and it can also prove to be detrimental when used in a crude and inappropriate fashion. Content published to the Internet is never permanently deleted, even if “removed” from your account after the fact; this reality has proven the downfall of countless job candidates whose online activity has come back to haunt them. Act wisely.

FINAL WORDS. While respecting the personal views and private rights of each individual on these subjects, it is the responsibility of the chapter to ensure all members are able to enjoy the benefits of fraternity equally.

Fraternity men may or may not be wiser, fairer, more idealistic, or upstanding than other men, but Acacians should at least try to be. Fraternity membership is an experience in living, and two summations of ancient Greek wisdom can serve as practical guides: “Know Thyself ” and “Moderation in All Things.”

Visiting other Acacia Chapters

Visiting another chapter of Acacia, sometimes referred to as a “walk-

out,” is a common activity for groups of brothers or a pledge class.

While activities which promote brotherhood and provide for the useful exchange of ideas between members are encouraged, the Fraternity only supports such events when there is compliance with the guidelines outlined below.

Preparation for the Visit The visiting chapter must designate at least two elected officers to assume leadership and authority of the event, at least one of whom must travel with the group and remain involved from the function’s start to finish.

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It is the responsibility of the visiting chapter or colony to contact the chapter or colony to be visited at least three weeks (21 days) in advance of the projected date of the visit.

Approval of the host chapter or colony must be received, ideally at least ten days in advance of the visit. It is the right of the chapter or colony or chapter selected for the visit to deny permission to the inquiring group.

The chapter or colony wishing to travel must also seek approval from its own elected officers who will ultimately be held responsible for the behavior of the visiting group.

Responsibilities of the Host Chapter/Colony: Policies regarding lodging, including the availability of floor space and bed space, should be determined and communicated ahead of the visit.

Areas of the house considered off-limits should also be stated.

The host chapter or colony may choose to incur the costs of providing meals for its guests, but is in no way required to do so. The host should prepare a report outlining potential expenses based on the proposal supplied by the visiting group. This may permit the visiting group to bring sufficient payment with them.

Damages or effects of unacceptable behavior are the responsibility of the guest group. The officer in charge of the visiting chapter or colony should review all problems with the host chapter/colony.

Travel Arrangements Sufficient travel arrangements are imperative. The following guidelines must be adhered to as indicated: • Trips must use safe modes of transportation for all passengers, including a seat and functioning seatbelt for each traveling member.

• Alcohol may not be consumed before or during the trip, either by the drivers or other vehicle passengers.

• Only those members who maintain valid driver’s licenses may operate the vehicle(s) involved in the trip.

• Each vehicle used during the trip should have been sufficiently maintained and serviced prior to departure. In addition, each vehicle should be properly insured so as to cover all occupants in the event of a mishap.

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THE ESSENCE OF GOOD TASTE

The college fraternity is the center of the social life of the fraternity

member. As such it seeks to develop the social graces, the art of good living, and the development of courtesy and kindness. Good manners, good taste, and good companionship are a part of the training of every fraternity member.

Introductions

Introductions are simple if you know the system. The most important

thing to remember about introducing people is to do it, even if you forget names.

• Introduce a younger person to an older person.

• Introduce a member of Acacia to a member of another fraternity.

• Introduce a nonofficial person to an official person • Introduce a lower classman to an upper classman.

• Introduce a fraternity brother to a house guest.

As with most rules, there are exceptions, of which you must be the judge.

Example: “Senator Jones, I would like you to meet my date, Sue Smith.”

(Older male of distinction first younger female second.) “Grandmother Smith, I would like you to meet Senator Jones.” (Older female first… younger male, even though distinguished, second.)

Shaking Hands

Many people feel they can “take measure” of another person by his or

her handshake. A good, vigorous handshake can be the difference between a successful first impression and an unsuccessful one. Men stand up when shaking hands while women remain seated. A good handshake is one that: • Is made with a firm, but not bone crushing or “fish-limp,” grip.

• Is held for about three or four seconds.

This asset will be invaluable to all your relationships and especially so in recruitment.

Arriving at a Restaurant

If valet parking is available, let the attendant park the car. He will hand

you a ticket that you will give back to him when leaving, along with a tip of $1 to $2. If you park your own car, stop the engine and walk around to help your date exit the car. When returning to the car, open the passenger side door before walking around the car and opening your own door.

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Entering and Being Seated

Arriving at the restaurant, knowing who leads to the table, seating wom-

en (and yourself), proper ordering, and tipping all have a practical reason, which is to help keep you and your guest at ease. Check in advance for the restaurant hours, reservations, costs, dress requirements and parking.

• If there is a head waiter who comes forward to seat you, the man steps back and lets the woman go first. Otherwise, the man goes first.

• Everyone is seated from the left side of his/her chair unless something prevents it.

• The man should assist the woman and then seat himself to her left.

• It is courteous to allow the woman to order first. At more formal or traditional restaurants, it is even considered courteous to order for your date before ordering for yourself. If so, it is prudent to ask for her permission to order on her behalf, and it is perfectly acceptable if she chooses to order for herself.

Table Manners

Recognize that the three things we eat with today - the knife, fork and spoon - each have a specific use, purpose, and proper way to be handled.

Normally, they are placed on the table in order of use, starting from the outside and working to the plate. A good guideline is to use a fork on a flat plate and a spoon in a bowl. It is important to also hold a knife, fork and spoon properly.

Pass food to your left. Pass the salt and pepper together. Don’t reach across the table or over another person, ask that the dish be passed to you.

• Eat fruit cocktail with a spoon. Don’t use a fork.

• Eat pie - even à la mode - with a fork. Don’t use a spoon.

• Cut one bite of meat or vegetable at a time. Don’t cut numerous bites.

• Keep the salad and bread plates to your left. Don’t move them around.

• Never leave a spoon in a bowl, cup, glass, or dessert dish.

• Place the knife and fork on the edge of the plate while eating and in the center of the plate when finished.

• Keep your napkin folded in half on your lap throughout the meal except when using it to wipe your mouth.

• Eat noiselessly.

• Never speak when your mouth contains food. Avoid mention of unpleasant subjects at the table. Talk only with those seated close to you.

• If forced to leave the table, ask to be excused.

• Don’t stack your dishes. Don’t assist the waiter unless an unusual situation seems to require it.

Tipping

We must remember that tips are part of the employee’s salary (unless

there is a service charge on you bill) and part of what we pay for the overall service.

• The wine steward (if his services were enlisted) receives ten percent of the bill.

• Bartenders receive ten percent.

• A waiter receives 15 to 20 percent (depending on the service).

Conduct in the House

Living together in a fraternity house, sometimes in close quarters, may

present problems that are new to you. Respect the other fellow’s feelings and property. Remember that your own actions bear an important relation to collective and individual reaction of others. If you see that something you are doing disturbs someone, let up, as there may be a more appropriate time and place.

Everyone must do his share on maintaining the appearance of the rooms in the house which are common to all. See that your own use of furniture and furnishings is not a detriment to further and future use by others.

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When you get through with a newspaper, the playing cards, or whatever, put it back where it belongs - whether you found it there or not.

Even if you are the only one assigned to your room, you can hardly do as you please with its furniture and your belongings. That room is part of the rest of the house where others live. When two or more people share a room it becomes even more important to keep everything as orderly as possible.

Above all, do not get into the habit of using somebody else’s property without permission, just because it’s handy. Borrowing and lending things are a way of life in a fraternity house… just taking things is not. No one likes to be an unconsulted lender.

Chapter Hospitality

The fraternity house is a home and the members, individually and col-

lectively, are responsible for the comfort and pleasure of all guests.

• Greet guests with genuine interest and enthusiasm at the door. Don’t force them to make out for themselves until “someone” introduces you. That “someone” should be you.

• Inconspicuously arrange to introduce guests to all others present. They will not feel at home until this is done. Introductions on a large scale are sometimes difficult but courtesy demands that they be performed.

• Everyone knows to rise when a woman enters the room. However, some variations to this rule may be necessary on special occasions.

Learn these from the older members.

• Cater to your guests. Anticipate their desires. Make sure that when they leave they’ll remember and talk about their visit as a pleasant and enjoyable occasion. No better opportunity exists for bringing favorable publicity to the chapter.

• When you have overnight guests, see that they have a comfortable room in which to dress and make sure they have clean sheets on their beds.

Personal Cleanliness

It may seem unnecessary to mention body odor, dirty necks, unkempt

hair, black fingernails, dirty teeth and bad breath, but no one can be careless or thoughtless about these details if he hopes to be regarded as a well-groomed gentleman.

Your fingernails and hair deserve careful attention. Fingernails should be 50

short and clean. You can avoid ragged looking skin around the fingernails by pushing back the cuticles with a towel every time you shower or wash your hands. Your hair can be in style, but regardless of the style, the way you have it cut it should look good on you.

Avoid excessive use of cologne and aftershaves. A slight fragrance is fine, but an overwhelming smell of cologne can be offensive.

Dress for Success

The standard for dress varies to campus, climate, geographical region,

and, of course, the situation. Certainly “cut-offs” and sweatshirts have a place washing the car or playing catch on the lawn, but neither have a place in the more formal aspects of fraternity life. It is indeed impossible to look appropriate, whatever the climate, wearing shorts and high-tops with a blazer and tie.

The definition of a “good wardrobe” is debatable. By leaning towards the more traditional styles and relying on what have become men’s fashion classics, you’ll end up with a selection of clothes that can survive fashion’s shifting trends.

The following list is a guideline to clothing that can form the foundation of a man’s wardrobe. It is not intended to be all-inclusive, but the list is a basic guide to correct dress and will assure those who follow it the knowledge that he is dressed properly for almost any social occasion.

The Basic Dress Wardrobe 1. The Suit A. Color - Conservative ranges of navy or grey. Solids or soft stripes.

B. Fabric - All wool or dacron/wool blends.

C. Style - Single vented, single breasted 2 or 3 piece with standard lapels.

2. The Sports Jacket A. Color - Navy Blue.

B. Fabric - Wool or dacron/wool blend.

C. Style - Single vented - single breasted blazer with gold buttons.

3. Slacks (worn with blazer) A. Color - Gray, tan or khaki B. Fabric - All cotton, wool or dacron/wool blend.

C. Style - Plain front or pleated.

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4. The Shirt A. Color - White, pink, blue, gray, ecru, maize or subtle stripe.

B. Fabric - 100% cotton or cotton blends. Oxford cloth or Pinpoint.

C. Style - Solid, subtle stripe, Tattersall.

5. The Neck Tie A. Color - Should compliment suit/sports jacket.

B. Fabric - All silk or polyester/silk blends.

C. Style - Solid, subtle stripe or small print.

6. Socks A. Color - Black, dark navy or medium gray B. Fabric - Natural fiber blends, wool or silk.

C. Style - Socks should be high enough so skin does not show when sitting or crossing legs.

7. Shoes A. Color - Black, brown, oxblood or dark cordovan B. Style - Dress lace or dress loafer (suit). Dress or casual loafer (sports jacket).

8. Belts A. Color - To match shoes.

B. Fabric - All leather with brass buckle.

C. Size - 1 inch to 1.25 inches wide.

Buying ties is relatively simple once you know the rules. The first thing you should do before buying ties is to determine what length they should be. There is nothing worse on a man than a tie that is either too long or too short. When tied properly, the tip of the tie should come just to your belt buckle, no more, no less.

Next, it is important that the tie make a good knot. To do so, it must have substance, which is provided by a lining of coarse material sewn into the tie, as well as the material from which the tie itself is made.

Finally, it should harmonize in color with the outfit, and the pattern should not conflict with the pattern of the suit or sports coat. For instance, combining a plaid suit or sports coat with a strongly patterned tie seldom works.

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How to Tie a Tie

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THE GREEK ALPHABET

Α, α

Η, η

Ν, ν

Τ, τ

Β, β

Θ, θ

Ξ, ξ Xi

Υ, υ

Upsilon

Γ, γ

Ι, ι Iota

Ο, ο

Omicron

Φ, φ

Δ, δ Delta

Κ, κ

Kappa

Π, π

Χ, χ

Ε, ε

Epsilon

Λ, λ

Lambda

Ρ, ρ

Ψ, ψ

Ζ, ζ

Μ, μ

Σ, σ

Ω, ω

Alpha

Beta

Gamma

Zeta

Eta

Nu

Theta

Pi

Rho

Mu

Sigma

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Tau

Phi

Chi

Psi

Omega

PYTHAGORAS, ACACIA’S MENTOR

To provide an example of the ideals of scholarship, wisdom, and broth-

erhood that the Founding Fathers wished to embody in Acacia, they selected Pythagoras to serve as Acacia’s mentor. Much of the tradition, symbolism, and Ritual of the fraternity is based on the life and teachings of Pythagoras, and knowledge of this remarkable man’s life will assist you in understanding Acacia.

Pythagoras was born on the Greek island of Samos off the coast of Asia Minor about 582 BC. His father, Mnesarchus, was a wealthy and widely travelled merchant who traded with Samos and received the rights of citizenship there. Pythagoras’ mother, Pythia, was a prophetess of Apollo, whose particular shrine at Delphi is famous in history.

Pythagoras received his first teaching in his native city from Creophilus, and he then went to the island of Scyros where he was taught by Pherecydes. Also among Pythagoras’ teachers during these early years were Hermodamas, Anaximander, and Thales. Then, having absorbed the elements of Greek philosophy and science, Pythagoras set out to discover and study the knowledge and wisdom of other lands. His travels eventually took him to Phoenicia, Egypt, Arabia, Chaldea, Persia, India, Crete, and Gaul.

Pythagoras was recommended by Polycrates, tyrant of Samos, to Amasis, King of Egypt, and he was admitted to the entire range of Egyptian learning by the high priests of that land. He remained at Memphis and Thebes 55

for the full 22 years required to pass through all the Egyptian Mysteries and was still in the country when it was conquered by the Persian King Cambyses. Along with the other learned men of Egypt, he was carried away in captivity to Babylon. While in the Persian realm he conversed with the Persian and Chaldean Magi and travelled as far as India, where he visited the Gymnosophists.

In each of the lands through which he travelled Pythagoras sought out the wisest men and was initiated by them into the secret Mysteries of their particular schools of science and thought. When he finally returned to Samos he had spent the first 50 years of his life in the search for wisdom and learning and was ready to begin his life’s great work.

Driven from Samos by the persecution of Polycrates, Pythagoras migrated to the flourishing city of Crotona, one of the Dorian colonies in southern Italy. There he founded the Pythagorean Society and brotherhood, a secret philosophical order whose members were selected from among young men of the best families. This brotherhood was sworn to the pursuit of knowledge, including study and research in mathematics, geometry, astronomy, music, philosophy and ethics.

The citizens of Crotona established for him the Pythagorean Institute which became at the same time the world’s first university and a model city. To this school the worthy of every class were admitted, but not one could enter before passing a period of rigorous testing designed to reveal each student’s talents and disposition. Both men and women were permitted to become members of the Society, and in fact several later female Pythagoreans became famous philosophers. In their ethical practices, they were famous for their mutual friendship, unselfishness and honesty.

The students were divided into two main classes, the “Acusmatici” and the “Esoterics.” The Acusmatici, or listeners only, were probationers who had to remain silent for a period of five years, until Pythagoras considered them informed enough to enter into a worthwhile discussion. These probationary students received initiation into the degree, that of Preparation.

The Esoterics, or advanced students, all lived in the same house and were therefore known as “cenobites.” They donated all their worldly goods to the school and received the second and third degrees of initiation, Purification and Perfection, under the personal tutelage of Pythagoras. Their instruction was esoteric and given only under an oath of secrecy.

Those students who completed the entire course of instruction were received into the Pythagorean brotherhood and given the fourth degree of initiation, dealing with the application of divine wisdom to the conduct 56

of life. The mind was prepared with discerning knowledge so that the will might be directed toward virtuous living.

Pythagoras’ teachings included all the elements of science and philosophy known at the time. He was the discoverer of the 47th Proposition of Euclid, that the square of the hypotenuse of a right angled triangle is equal to the sum of the squares on the other two sides. In music, it was Pythagoras who discovered the harmonic intervals that underlie the production of musical sounds. Pythagoras taught that the Earth is round, and Copernicus later acknowledged his indebtedness to the ancient Greek for this theory. In a larger sense, however, Pythagoras was not primarily a scientist in the limited modern sense, but a philosopher who pursued scientific truth in an effort to reveal the underlying divine nature of reality. Thus, for example, he saw the base of the right triangle representing the divine and the altitude representing the human. The hypotenuse, forming the connecting link between the human and the divine with mathematical perfection, represented philosophy.

Pythagoras believed that: • • • • •

At its deepest level, reality is mathematical in nature.

Philosophy can be used for spiritual purification.

The soul can rise to union with the divine.

Certain symbols have a mystical significance.

All brothers of the order should observe strict loyalty and secrecy.

Pythagoras was interested in the principles of mathematics, the concept of number, the concept of a triangle or other mathematical figure and the abstract idea of a proof. It is hard for us today, familiar as we are with pure mathematical abstraction and with the mental act of generalization, to appreciate the originality of this Pythagorean contribution.

Pythagoras believed that all relations could be reduced to number relations. As Aristotle wrote: “The Pythagorean…having been brought up in the study of mathematics, thought that things are numbers… and that the whole cosmos is a scale and a number.”

This generalization stemmed from Pythagoras’s observations in music, mathematics and astronomy. Pythagoras noticed that vibrating strings produce harmonious tones when the ratios of the lengths of the strings are whole numbers, and that these ratios could be extended to other instruments. In fact, Pythagoras made remarkable contributions to the mathematical theory of music. He was a fine musician, playing the lyre, 57

and he used music as a means to help those who were ill.

Pythagoras was primarily a philosopher. In addition to his beliefs about numbers, geometry and astronomy described above, he held the following philosophical and ethical teachings: • The dependence of the dynamics of world structure on the interaction of contraries, or pairs of opposites • The viewing of the soul as a self-moving number experiencing a form of metempsychosis, or successive reincarnation in different species until its eventual purification (particularly through the intellectual life of the ethically rigorous Pythagoreans) • The understanding that all existing objects were fundamentally composed of form and not of material substance • The identification of the human brain as the locus of the soul The Pythagorean brotherhood soon attained great influence and power in the Greek colonies of southern Italy. Crotona at that time was governed by an oligarchy of the wealthy, opposed by the plebeian classes. Pythagoras realized that this situation was fatal to the state and that an ideal government should be neither a plutocracy nor a mobocracy, but should be entrusted to the wise and the enlightened. Consequently, a governing body of Pythagorean initiates was established as the supreme power in Crotona, and the political influence of the brotherhood soon spread to the other Greek cities of southern Italy in a similar way.

Later, in a political controversy, revolution broke out in Crotona. Cylon, who had been denied admission to the Pythagorean brotherhood because of his unworthiness, took advantage of the situation and led a mob to the house of Milon where forty of the leading Pythagoreans were gathered.

The house was burned and most of the occupants were killed, but historians have been unable to establish whether Pythagoras himself was killed or escaped. Most authorities believe that he escaped from Crotona and fled to the Locrians, and that when they refused to receive him he went on to Metapontum where he died of hunger in 507 BC. The example of Pythagoras has obvious parallels with the nature and ideals of The Acacia Fraternity. Like each new member of Acacia, Pythagoras began his career as a student seeking knowledge. In each of the lands he visited, Pythagoras was initiated into the secret and select societies of the wise and learned. The Pythagorean Society that he founded at Crotona was sworn to the pursuit of scholarship and wisdom, and the classes of membership were similar to those of Acacia today. The Acusmatici were candidates for initiation preparing for full membership and proving 58

themselves worthy pledge members. The Esoterics, who had completed the course of initial instruction, received further insight under an oath of secrecy and lived together in the same house. Those who completed the full course of instruction and had received the three degrees of Preparation, Purification, and Perfection went on to apply the teachings of their brotherhood to the conduct of life. And, like fraternity men today, the Pythagoreans discovered that it was essential to guard their brotherhood against the ill will of the ignorant and the unworthy.

While many of the details of Pythagoras’ teachings are now outdated, his lifelong pursuit of learning, his search for truth and wisdom, and the example of fraternal brotherhood that he established are standards worthy of every student and fraternity man today.

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FRATERNITY HISTORY

Acacia is one of nearly 100 national and international Greek-letter fra-

ternities found on college and university campuses across North America. These groups - in addition to dozens of national and international women’s fraternities and sororities, and numerous local fraternities - have arisen in response to a universal human need for special associations with others who share the same ideals, interests or goals. Every age has had its fraternities, and these groups have played an important part in the life and development of every generation.

Fraternal orders and rites played a very large part in the societies of the ancient world. The Eleusianian Mysteries were well established in Greece as early as 1427 BC, and seem to have sprung from similar secret orders in Egypt and the Near East at least a thousand years older. Initiation into the Eleusinian Mysteries consisted of two degrees a year apart and composed of lectures, solemn pageant, and religious drama. Some of these orders had probationary periods of as many as eight years, and seven or more degrees. All involved secret ceremonies, signs, passwords and grips to distinguish their initiates.

Most of the ancient philosophers and teachers — not only Pythagoras but also Sophocles, Solon, Plato, Cicero, Heraclitus, Pindar, admit or hint that they were initiates of the ancient Mysteries.

The Masonic Fraternity

The great bridge that spans the centuries and ties the ancient Mysteries

to modern fraternal orders is Freemasonry, and in its rituals and traditions we can catch a glimpse of the rites and teachings that are now lost to the scholar and historian. The modern day Masonic Lodge traces its history back through the operative stone masons’ guilds of the middle ages to the men who designed and built the monuments of Rome, Greece, Egypt and the Near East.

Like all other professions in ancient and medieval times, the masons protected their knowledge and skills by transmitting them only to initiates of their order. A man accepted into the mason’s craft began as an “entered apprentice” who was qualified for the heavier and rougher aspects of the work. As he improved in skill and knowledge he was passed to the second degree and became a “fellowcraft” qualified to supervise others and perform finer work. Finally, after having mastered all the skills and required learning, the fellowcraft was raised to the third degree and became a 60

“master mason” qualified to plan and direct all the work of the craft.

Because of the importance of great works of architecture in the religious and civic life of ancient and medieval civilization, and the fact that almost all the elements of mathematics and science of the time were involved, master masons commanded the highest honor and esteem.

The Masonic degrees included a great deal of philosophical teachings in addition to the operative secrets of the craft. Each tool of the trade and operation of the work was imbued with a symbolic meaning as well as a practical application. In addition to actual practicing masons, other worthy persons were occasionally honored and admitted to the degrees to share this speculative or philosophical content.

With the decline of the Middle Ages, the operative masons guild lost much of its importance along with the other trade guilds. But while the operative importance of the degrees faded, the speculative content remained vital and the Masonic lodges continued to thrive, evolving into fraternal orders composed more and more of non-operative, speculative Masons.

Finally, in 1711 the first Grand Lodge of Masons was organized in England and a formal division was made between operative and speculative Masonry. The initiates of the reorganized order came to be known as “Free” or “Accepted” Masons in recognition of their non-operative, ritualistic membership in the craft.

With the founding of the American colonies, Freemasonry spread to our shores, and the high regard paid to its ideals and teachings is indicated by the overwhelming number of our nation’s founders who were active in Masonic Lodges. George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and in fact almost all the signers of the Declaration of Independence and leading figures of the Revolution were Masons. Recognition of the role of Freemasonry in our history is paid in the design of the one-dollar bill, with the Masonic symbols of the pyramid and all-seeing eye.

The Masonic Lodge followed the frontier west, and men such as Andrew Jackson and Sam Houston shared a common brotherhood in the Masonic degrees. In the latter half of the nineteenth century, building on the foundation of the Masonic Lodge, additional Masonic organizations were established and grew. The Scottish and York Rites draw their members exclusively from the initiates of the Master Mason degree, and the wellknown Shrine is open to initiates of the Scottish or York Rites.

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The Greek Letter Fraternities

Unique among the educational institutions of the world, American

college fraternities are as old as the nation itself. They arose in response to a need for close personal relationships among students, and they have provided an opportunity for supplemental education beyond the formal curriculum of the college.

In the early days of our country, college studies centered around Greek and Latin. Electives were unknown, and classics rather than current events dominated discussion. It was a trying time for a teenager, as most were, having been sent to college by parents to acquire discipline as much as an education. And a harsh discipline it was. Student dress and conduct were strictly defined as many colonial colleges were affiliated with strict religious orders. Travel was difficult. Athletic and social events were few and far between.

It was indeed all work and no play for colonial college students. But students, then as now, found a way when there was a need. The need was to be able to relax and recuperate, to enjoy the friendships and fun that make life bearable, to learn those things that can’t be taught in the classroom, to put purpose and perspective into a personal way of life, to belong. In Williamsburg, Virginia, in 1750, the way was to gather in an upper room of the Raleigh Tavern with College of William and Mary classmates.

Over a bowl of punch, a small group of students talked and laughed and called themselves the Flat Hat Club. These students didn’t know it, but they had organized the first general college fraternity.

Good things are soon copied, but old habits are hard to break. Other groups appeared but they were concerned with faculty approval and that meant being more like a literary society; meeting to debate or critique compositions, staging an oratorical contest, or engaging in a form of early campus politics with rival groups. The note of the times was sounded in their names: Ciceronian, Calliopian, and Philopeuthion.

One group, PDA, ejected a student who was a superior Greek scholar.

The rejected student, John Heath, took three Greek letters, gathered four friends, and held the first secret meeting of Phi Beta Kappa, the first Greek-letter society or fraternity, on December 5, 1776. It was secret because it had to be. The William and Mary faculty, all designates of the Anglican Church, didn’t approve of its students discussing the pressing issues of the day and possibly straying too far from accepted beliefs. So Phi Beta Kappa developed secret signals of challenge and recognition as 62

they met weekly in the Raleigh Tavern’s Apollo Room.

The secret grip and mottos and ritual, the distinctive badge, the code of laws and the use of Greek letters all were used by Phi Beta Kappa and later adopted by subsequent fraternities. But the important legacies of Phi Beta Kappa are these: high moral ideas; scholastic advancement, and the friendship of one brother with another.

Phi Beta Kappa felt that other campuses should share its good idea that higher education experience give proper consideration to prepare the student for his future responsibilities by preparing him socially. In 1780 the Alpha of Connecticut was founded at Yale, and in 1781 the Alpha of Massachusetts at Harvard, and more followed. As time went on, Phi Beta Kappa became purely intellectual in its aims, though the original cardinal principles were “literature, morality and friendship.” During the anti-secret society movement of the 1830s, the society voluntarily revealed its name meant “Philosophy, the Guide (or Helmsman) of Life.” Since that time it has become strictly an honorary organization and today recognizes undergraduate men and women who show superior achievements in academics on more than 225 North American campuses.

Meanwhile, four Phi Beta Kappa men at the University of North Carolina in 1812 organized Kappa Alpha, which expanded in informal fashion to more than 20 campuses throughout the South. Unfortunately, it would not survive the Civil War. To the north, on the campus of Union College, Schenectady, New York, the decline of a military marching club left a void in student life in the fall of 1825. So a group of students, including several members of Phi Beta Kappa, organized Kappa Alpha Society (not to be confused with either the 1812 Kappa Alpha or the current Kappa Alpha Order) on November 26, 1825. Remaining conservative throughout its existence with only nine chapters and a total of less than 8,000 alumni as of 1990, Kappa Alpha Society enjoys the distinction of being the first Greek-letter general college fraternity with continuous existence to date.

Due to its secrecy, students and faculty alike opposed Kappa Alpha Society. But other students admired the concept of the organization and formed Sigma Phi on March 4, 1827, and Delta Phi on November 17, 1827. Kappa Alpha Society, Sigma Phi, and Delta Phi formed the “Union Triad” and set the pattern for the American fraternity system. Eventually, Union students founded six fraternities, which is why the college is recognized as the “Mother of Fraternities.”

Some think the college fraternity is uniquely American; certainly such an 63

expanded and developed system exists nowhere else. Alexis de Tocqueville, a much-traveled Frenchman, wrote Democracy in America following a trip to the United States in the 1830s. In it he commented: “Americans of all ages, all conditions, and all dispositions constantly form associations. They are the most fraternal people in the world.” He was as prophetic as he was observant.

Sigma Phi later founded a second chapter at Hamilton College, Clinton, New York. Seeking an alternative to two bitterly fighting literary societies, some Hamilton students took inspiration from the local Sigma Phi Chapter and founded another Greek-letter society, Alpha Delta Phi, in 1832.

Fraternities were on the move. A year later, Alpha Delta Phi established its second chapter not in New York, but west of the Alleghenies at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio.

John Reily Knox had been prominent, as a member of a Miami University literary society, in a “rather bitter fight” against Alpha Delta Phi. He admired the organization and spirit of the Alpha Delta Phi members, but imagined a society of “good without the ingredient of evil” and in 1839 founded Beta Theta Pi, the first fraternity founded in the “West” and the first member of what was to become the “Miami Triad.”

Faculties were still highly suspicious of fraternities, so both Alpha Delta Phi and Beta Theta Pi existed in secret, with members not even wearing their badges publicly. Then in 1847, members of both organizations were found to have participated in a student revolt against the Miami University administration. The so-called “snow rebellion” involved heaping great quantities of snow in the entrances of the college buildings, thus preventing the faculty from entering the classrooms for two days. All the members of Alpha Delta Phi and all but two members of Beta Theta Pi were expelled. Both fraternities went inactive until 1852. In 1848, Phi Delta Theta was founded to fill the void, and, in 1855, Sigma Chi was formed by six men who split from the Delta Kappa Epsilon Chapter, which had been founded in 1852. The Miami Triad was complete.

Sororities had their beginnings at Wesleyan Female College, Macon, Georgia. The Adelphean Society was organized May 15, 1851, and followed a year later by the Philomathean Society. They remained strictly local sororities for more than 50 years before adopting Greek names and expanding as Alpha Delta Pi and Phi Mu, respectively.

By 1860 the fraternity system was firmly established, with 22 of the present day general fraternities having already been founded. The Civil War, pitting brother against brother in a familial as well as a fraternal sense, 64

resulted in the closing of many colleges and the temporary interruption in the development of new fraternities. The only fraternity founded during the War was Theta Xi at Renssalaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, the first professional fraternity (later becoming a general fraternity).

It was not uncommon for whole fraternity chapters in the South to enlist as a body to defend the Confederacy. In a few cases, chapters tried to hold together as military units. Afterwards the persistence of bitter sectional feeling worked to keep open the wounds that needed healing. To promote the healing process was a task particularly suited to fraternities.

Responding to the urgency of the need was Alpha Tau Omega, the fist fraternity founded after the Civil War in 1865; Kappa Alpha Order, 1865; Kappa Sigma Kappa, (merging with Theta Xi in 1962) 1867; Pi Kappa Alpha, 1868; Sigma Nu, 1869; and Kappa Sigma, 1869; all in Virginia.

The nation and its campuses were not to be the same after the Civil War. One significant change was the increased entrance of women into higher education. “Aware of the condescending and frequently scornful activities of the male students,” writes one historian, women “wanted nothing more than to prove their capabilities and to achieve an equally important position” on their campuses.

Noting the advantages of fraternity group living, I.C. Sorosis (now Pi Beta Phi) was founded April 28, 1867, at Monmouth College, Monmouth, Illinois as the first national sorority, and Kappa Alpha Theta was founded January 27, 1870, at DePauw University, Greencastle, Indiana, as the first women’s Greek-letter society.

In the early days, most educational institutions existed primarily to prepare young men for the learned professions and the clergy. Emphasis was placed upon the classical studies, especially Greek and Latin. When fraternities came along, it was natural for them to draw on those teachings.

Literary exercises were a common part of all chapter meetings, where the presentation of essays and debates were customary. At first, meetings were held in rented rooms but soon the chapters acquired halls, which they furnished as club rooms. Eventually, chapter houses became common.

Gradually, more and more men began to enter college. The curriculum expanded. Many colleges became universities. The church relationship of many schools weakened and, in many cases, was dropped altogether. New institutions and the state-supported institutions grew to fill the need for mass education. Several states in the late 1890s dropped anti-fraternity legislation. As the chapters grew larger, they found it possible and desirable to provide living quarters. Soon the fraternity house became a com65

mon sight in college towns. Those organizations which lacked sufficient leadership soon passed out of existence; those which had expanded at a rapid rate and encouraged the formation of many new fraternities flourished. Into such an atmosphere Acacia Fraternity was born in 1904.

The First World War again saw a plunge in college enrollments, but fraternities were so well established that they were able to continue operating and also contribute to the war effort. In many cases chapter houses served as barracks for officer training candidates, and the women’s organizations took up relief work. While some functions were abandoned for the duration, the fraternity system survived unharmed.

The 1920’s saw an enormous increase in college enrollment and a huge expansion in fraternity membership, and with the economic boom came large scale building projects to house the unprecedented flood of members. Then came the stock market crash of 1929, and fraternities were hit with paralyzing force. Enrollments fell, building virtually ceased, and some chapters died outright. Some entire national fraternities disappeared and others merged their memberships.

Coming immediately on the heels of the depression, the Second World War forced a suspension of activity in most chapters across the country.

Chapter houses again served as barracks, many chapters struggled along with a mere handful of members, and others simply closed their doors for the duration of the war. Surprisingly, however, few fraternities lost any chapters permanently as a result of the war.

The end of the war brought another rush of first generation college students to the campuses thanks to the new G.I. Bill. Chapter rolls grew until in some cases membership stood as high as 150, and during the 1950’s many fraternities again undertook large building programs and expanded the number of chapters as never before.

The 1960’s introduced a new challenge to fraternities, however. The rapidly changing social climate, especially felt on college campuses, led to a decline in interest in fraternity membership, at least on some of the older, larger urban campuses. At the same time the continued growth of higher education led to expanding graduate programs on some college campuses at the expense of undergraduate enrollment. From either and both causes, fraternities began to lose some of their oldest and formerly strongest chapters. On a few campuses almost entire fraternity communities slowly withered as chapter after chapter closed because of declining membership and inability to support their large housing facilities.

At the same time, however, the demand for fraternities on many new col66

leges founded each year, and those that were upgrading their curriculum to become full four-year institutions, grew stronger than ever. While losing some of their oldest chapters, fraternities that pursued a vigorous expansion program were still able to maintain or increase their number of chapters.

Reflecting this paradoxical trend, in 1971 Tau Kappa Epsilon became the first college fraternity to charter its 300th chapter.

While the loss of old-line chapters was painful, one benefit was gained by fraternities from the changing campus climate of the 1960’s. Established chapters that had formerly been able to coast on their local traditions and prestige were forced to re-examine their programs and attitudes in the competition for members. As a result, many unproductive and immature practices, after surviving from the 1890’s, were found wanting and scrapped. Faced with a struggle for survival, most fraternities have divested themselves of outworn practices and have sought a new image and a new role in campus life while preserving the true ideals and traditions that inspired their founding.

The decade of the 1970’s continued to be a time of challenge and change for fraternities. Almost every fraternity had to examine its needs and try new concepts in organization, housing and activities to best meet the needs of a new generation of college men, and it fell to the undergraduate fraternity members of the 1970’s to implement these changes and to create programs designed to meet the needs of their individual campuses.

The decade of the 1980’s saw a shift back to more traditional attitudes on many college campuses. College men and women rediscovered the ties of brotherhood and sisterhood that fraternities have to offer. The 1980’s saw a rise in chapter membership numbers not seen since the mid-1950’s.

The 1990s proved to be another time of challenge and change as the number of traditional college aged students was declining. Also, record numbers of college students needed to balance their academics and social life with a position in the workforce. Opponents to fraternities were vocal once again, pointing to issues of lack of diversity, elitism, alcohol abuse, risk management, and hazing as reasons for the abolition of fraternities.

The early 2000s have proven to be a time of both success and challenge.

While fraternity membership rebounded to record levels, the number of behavioral incidents have been a constant struggle for local chapters and for inter/national fraternities. Many large, historic chapters have been closed, and while most usually have a timeline established for a return to campus, the energy and resources required to successfully restart chapters have proven to be significant and a hindrance to overall growth.

All fraternity men must take up the charge to clarify and redefine the meaning of fraternal brotherhood in the context of the times to ensure the benefits of a fraternal experience for generations to come.

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Preamble We, students, faculty, and alumni of various universities and colleges, do hereby adopt this Constitution; to strengthen the ties of friendship, one with another; to prepare ourselves as educated men to take a more active part and to have a greater influence in the affairs of the community in which we may reside; and, above all, to seek the truth, and knowing it, to give light to those with whom we may be associated as we travel along life’s pathway. “Laws of Acacia�

1965

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THE SIX MEANINGS OF ACACIA ACACIA IS THE NAME OF MY FRATERNITY

AKAKIA is a Greek word which, according to earliest known history, has been used to designate Distinctiveness and Leadership among Mankind.

The original and Greek spelling of Acacia is with the letter kappa (K) instead of C, due to the fact that the Greek alphabet does not contain a C. AKAKIA has also been used to designate the Spirit of Immortality or Survival of the Soul, and reminds us of the need to live a life always mindful of the Immortality of the Soul.

AKAKIA is the name of a Far Eastern evergreen which survived the seasons, and grew and thrived in barren lands, ever standing out as a symbol of Strength and Ruggedness. It reminds us that we too, as individuals, should be lastingly mindful of the inspiration to be strong and rugged; to face the problems of life as Acacians and representatives of our Fraternity and our college.

AKAKIA trees indicate a truly masculine state having the power to pollenize or perpetuate life. We too, as Acacians, should impart strength and protection to the weaker, and use our Education and Associations for the good of all.

AKAKIA has ritualistic significance in the Age-Old Order to which the Fraternity owes its Heritage. This order has ever held for the Freedom of the Individual to commune with his God and to Him alone be accountable. As mortal men we are reminded to live our lives so that when called before God, we can without a qualm account for our conduct as Men among those with whom we have traveled along life’s pathway.

AKAKIA our Fraternity, ever reminds us of our duty to its age-honored symbolic meanings, and our responsibilities as Acacians toward those with whom we associate.

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THE EPIC OF ACACIA

The Acacia Fraternity is not the oldest, or the largest, or the most widely

known of college fraternities, but its origin is distinctive and its record distinguished. While the history of Acacia has often closely paralleled that of the other Greek-letter fraternities, in other respects the heritage and development of Acacia have been unique, and a knowledge of these important factors is essential if members are to understand and appreciate the influences that have led to the fraternity that we have today.

The Founding of Acacia

Charles A. Sink, Acacia’s last living founder, describes the events that led to the formation of a new and different fraternity:

The scene opens shortly after college began in the fall of 1903 at the University of Michigan. I was at work in the university library when a good looking, bewhiskered gentleman approached me and said, ‘Hello, Sink.’ It took me some little time to recognize my old friend, William J. Marshall, beneath this disguise, for he had been out of college for two years. But the reunion was all the more hearty for those few moments of suspense.

Marshall immediately began, in the spirit of a first-class lawyer, to ply questions regarding the demise of the old Masonic Club in which he had been a moving spirit. During his absence from college he had learned of the infant’s ill health, but had not learned until his return that it had so nearly died.

I gave him as much information as possible and, to be frank, tried to carry on an air of interest. Marshall was all enthusiasm. Several times within the next few days I met him, and each time the Masonic Club was the burden of our conversation. He talked it, he ate it, and evidently slept it.

“We’ve got to organize on a fraternity basis,” he said, “We will take only those who are interested and will work, rather than keep it open to all Masons of the university.”

Thus Acacia was conceived in the library of the University of Michigan, and thanks to the enthusiasm and insight of one man it was fanned into life from the dying embers of the moribund, undiscriminating Masonic Club.

The work necessary to change this concept into reality took place in a small room occupied by Benjamin DeRoy, at 236 South Thayer Street in a house owned by Edward Gallup in Ann Arbor. During the winter and 70

spring of 1903-04 a little group of kindred spirits led mainly by Marshall and Walter S. Wheeler met there each week. On January 31, 1904, a committee was formed “to ascertain the legal requirements for forming a fraternal organization to be national in scope.”

This investigation was made, and Masonic authorities were informed about the group’s plans so that there would be no misunderstanding regarding the nature of the organization. Both of these matters were concluded satisfactorily, and on May 12, 1904, articles of incorporation were filed with the clerk of Washtenaw County. In the minutes of the first meeting, held on May 14, it was recorded: “In as much as that organization known by the name of ‘The University of Michigan Masonic Club’ having served its purpose, we the members of the said ‘Club’ have met for the purpose of organizing a fraternity to be known in law as ‘The Aleph Chapter of the Acacia Fraternity,’ adopting its articles of incorporation and electing its officers for the ensuing year.”

The fourteen founding members were: James M. Cooper Benjamin E. DeRoy Edward E. Gallup Jared W. Hawkins Clarence G. Hill

Harvey J. Howard George A. Malcolm William J. Marshall Ernest R. Ringo Harlan P. Rowe

Ralph B. Scatterday Charles A. Sink Harry B. Washburn Walter S. Wheeler

The Founding Fathers of Acacia Fraternity — Back Row (l-r): E. E. Gallup, R. B. Scatterday, E. R. Ringo, R.W. Bunting (pledge), C.C. Van Valkenburgh (pledge), C. G. Hill, and B. E. Deroy — Middle Row (l-r): H. J. Howard, H. B. Washburn, W. J. Marshall, H. P. Rowe, W. S. Wheeler, G. A. Malcolm, and J. W. Hawkins — Front Row (l-r): C. A. Sink and J. M. Cooper.

All of these men were enthusiastic Masons. About half were studying law and the others were equally divided between medicine and the other schools of the university. Rowe served as the first president, Malcolm as vice-president, Marshall as secretary, and Howard as treasurer during Acacia’s first year.

Before the end of the spring semester of 1904 the fraternity adopted its constitution, colors, and badge. The colors were originally dark blue and old gold, only later changed to black and old gold.

DeRoy was chairman of the committee appointed to select the badge.

One morning Sink was walking past the post office when DeRoy came out with a small package. “The pins are here,” DeRoy said, and the two men eagerly opened the package. “We had to pay five dollars apiece for the pins,” Sink recalls, “and I picked the first one out. Both DeRoy and I thought them to be rather handsome for the price.”

Thus Acacia’s founders established a fraternity on a new basis. Membership was restricted to those who had already taken the Masonic obligations, and organization was to be built on the ideals and principles inculcated by the vows already taken in the lodge room. The members were to be motivated by a desire for high scholarship and of such character that the fraternity house would be free of the social vices and unbecoming activities that for years had been a blot on the fraternity life of the nation.

Newspaper stories about the new fraternity for Masons brought Acacia to the attention of other campus Masonic clubs across the country, and within a year Acacia chapters were chartered at Stanford, Kansas, Nebraska, and California. In June of 1905 the first National Conclave was held at Ann Arbor, and during the second year Ohio State, Dartmouth, Harvard, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and Wisconsin were added to the chapter roll. Originally chapters were named in Hebrew nomenclature but this designation was dropped at the 1913 Conclave in Madison, Wisconsin.

The following is a list of the first 26 chartered chapters and their original Hebrew names: Michigan – Aleph Stanford – Beth Kansas – Gimel Nebraska – Daleth California – He Ohio State – Waw Dartmouth – Zayin Harvard – Teth Illinois – Heth

Franklin (U. of PA) – Yodh Minnesota – Kaph Wisconsin – Lamedth Missouri – Mem Cornell – Nun Purdue – Samekh Chicago – Ayin Yale – Pe Columbia – Tsadhe 72

Iowa State – Koph Iowa – Resh Penn State – Shin Oregon – Tav Washington – Aleph-Aleph Northwestern – Aleph-Beth Colorado – Aleph-Gimel Syracuse – Aleph-Daleth

The Dual Membership Question

William S. Dye Jr., author of Acacia Fraternity, the First Half Century,

continues the story:

The surest sign of growth in any organism or organization is to be found in its ability to adapt itself to new conditions; the surest sign of its disintegration and probably early demise is its insistence of maintaining its original form in a changing world. Acacia has proved itself not only a living organism, but a constantly developing force within its sphere of usefulness.

The membership of those early chapters was in some sense a conglomerate group held together mainly by their love of and veneration for the Masonic institution. The idea that the organization should be separate and distinct from all other college fraternities was not considered essential. Consequently, the chapters were composed not only of men whose sole allegiance was to Acacia but also of those who already had Greek affiliations.

It was this condition that led to the first great conflict of the fraternity, and by the time that the Missouri Conclave convened in 1910 the fight was in full swing. The younger men who had no Greek allegiance waged unceasing warfare on the older idea.

Meanwhile the Interfraternity Conference (now the North-American Interfraternity Conference, or NIC) had been organized in 1909. When Acacia was asked to become a member of that organization, one of the stipulations laid down by that body was that membership would be accorded only to those national fraternities that had no dual membership.

Many of the older fraternities had already ruled against permitting their members to assume other fraternity affiliations. Acacia’s desire to have a part in this association of fraternities, together with the unceasing cry within the fraternity and succinctly stated by the Michigan chapter that “No man can serve two masters!� led to the first break with the traditional principles of the founders.

Finally, after sixteen years of violent debate the dual membership question was brought to an end. In 1921 Acacia determined that it would no longer accept as a member anyone connected with another Greek fraternity. The dual membership debate was to be succeeded by another series of debates on membership policy that almost wrecked that fraternity. We had, however, learned our first lesson in adapting ourselves to changing conditions.

While the debate over dual membership raged, Acacia continued to grow.

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Between 1906 and 1916 another sixteen chapters were added to the roll.

The United States’ entry into the First World War brought a brief halt to fraternity activity as Acacians responded to the call to the colors. Every chapter house was practically emptied, and the fraternity was organized on a standby basis for the duration of the war.

At the conclusion of hostilities, however, Acacians returned to take up their studies and the chapter houses opened again. During the three or four years immediately following the war Acacia flourished as never before. In addition to the returning initiates, campuses were crowded with older students who had taken the Masonic degrees during the war or immediately after discharge, and the government sent many rehabilitation students to college as partial compensation for the sacrifices they had made during the War. Membership material was plentiful, and in the five years that succeeded the war another six chapters were added to the roll.

The Pre-Pledge Era

The war and its aftermath was both a blessing and a curse to Acacia. By

1922 the bubble of prosperity, caused by the coming to college of so many older men, burst. The war veterans and the “rehabs” were graduated, and younger men, most of them not yet twenty, took their places in the colleges. To exist, some of the chapters were forced to the expedient of taking every available Mason on the campus. The element of choice so necessary for a real fraternity was no longer possible. No one who knows the fraternity system will deny that some choice is necessary, for it does not follow that one who may make a desirable lodge member will also make a good fraternity man and house companion.

This the chapter soon learned and resorted to pledging men who were not technically qualified because they were not members of the Masonic Order. In order to fill the houses with men, the chapters pledged persons who stated that they intended at some future date to petition for the Masonic degrees.

It serves to remind all Acacians that when changing conditions and tradition conflict, the tradition must go if Acacia is to remain a living organism. Rumbling indications of this unsavory period were heard as long ago as 1906 when the Wisconsin chapter asked, “What is the material difference to Acacia whether a man is actually a member of the Masons; may I inquire for a moment why such a move (admitting non-Masons) would destroy the Masonic principles of Acacia?”

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The question raised its head from time to time thereafter and burst into an unsavory period of dispute, recriminations, trials, and drastic actions.

It is a story of ten years of struggle on the part of some chapters to keep going and on the national organization to preserve the integrity of the fraternity and its fundamental law.

But the time for a change had come. Investigations that some Acacians had made were convincing: the average age of students in colleges and universities was actually lower than it had been in former years. Besides this, Masonic Lodges were ascertaining that the number of their initiations was steadily decreasing. Finally came the Conclave at Estes Park, Colorado, in 1931, which settled the matter insofar as it pointed out the way that the fraternity was to go.

An official investigation had preceded the Conclave and the committee in charge of the investigation fought out the problem during the three days before the delegates arrived. On the floor, as in the committee, the struggle was then continued. There was the old guard who, as one expressed it, preferred to go down if necessary with colors flying. Then there were those who wished to continue the policy of pre-pledging, to continue a semblance of strict Masonic requirements and at the same time evade those requirements. Finally there were those who felt that the only defensible ground to take was to face facts and acknowledge that a strict adherence to the traditional requirements could no longer be maintained.

Though the position of the committee of allowing a percentage of the members to be sons of Masons was a compromise, and not a particularly satisfactory one, it was the only action that stood the chance of being adopted. The debate on the proposition was prolonged and often caustic, but the proposal passed the Conclave and the chapter referendum.

Two years later the chapters voted to dispense with the Masonic prerequisite altogether. The internal conflict over this requirement had resulted in the deactivation of several chapters and severe weakening of many others.

The immediate problem after this momentous action was that of rehabilitation and reactivation of lost chapters and binding up the wounds of alumni interest. But Acacia had taken a step that it hoped would give the chapters a chance to compete on common ground with the chapters of other fraternities on each campus.

Depression & War

Following the turmoil and membership losses experienced in the prepledge era, it might be supposed that the economic depression and the 75

Second World War that followed would have been blows that the fraternity could not survive. But, while many chapters were lost in the depression, Acacia continued to struggle on, and in fact made progress in some areas. A pledge manual was published for the first time in 1933. The need for such a manual had not been felt before, because Acacians had all been older students and Masons who didn’t need the training and social polishing found in other fraternities’ pledge programs. Also, Acacians had never before faced the competition of formal Greek recruitment. To fill the needs of chapter officers who now lacked the training of the Masonic institution, regional leadership training conferences were organized and a greatly revised chapter manual was issued.

As the severe effects of the depression waned, the National Council decided that it was time to place the fraternity operations on a business-like basis and begin a conservative program of expansion. In 1942 the first National Headquarters was set up in Chicago and the positions of Executive Secretary and Field Secretary were created. But the new programs were barely begun when World War Two struck. Again chapters closed temporarily across the country and emphasis shifted to keeping contact with actives and alumni in service overseas through the war issues of The TRIAD. But, while most of the chapters were forced to become inactive, the National Council became more active than ever and plans were made for a vigorous program of reactivation and expansion for the postwar years.

Aided now by a competent National Staff, with the coming of peace these plans were quickly put into practice. Between the beginning of the depression in 1929 and the end of the war only one new chapter had joined the fraternity. In the fall of 1946, eighteen chapters were returned to active status, and from 1947 to 1951 a further twelve chapters were added by colonization.

The Post-War Era

The postwar generation of Americans that flooded the college campus-

es brought renewed health and vigor to Acacia, and growth continued.

Changes in the American social climate following the depression and war also brought changes to the fraternity. Since 1904 Acacia had prohibited the use of alcoholic beverages in the chapter houses. At the time the founders adopted this rule, drinking and the behavior that went with it had been a stain on the reputation of college fraternities. But while this was true in 1904, the new social climate of the 1950s led many colleges and universities to relax their policies prohibiting drinking, and Acacia 76

liberalized to the extent of permitting each chapter to govern itself according to the regulations or customs of its own campus.

The 1954 Supreme Court decision on discrimination led to a broadening of Acacia’s membership policy. The only restrictive feature of Acacia membership was a clause barring “adherents of organizations that prohibited their membership from affiliation with Masonic organizations,” and in 1960 this “adherence clause” was repealed.

Acacia continued to grow steadily, and between 1955 and 1965 about one new chapter per year was added to the fraternity on average. Traditionally, Acacia had been primarily found on larger university campuses, but in the late 1950s an effort was begun to colonize at smaller institutions as well.

Between 1965 and 1970, however, this slow but steady growth came to a sudden halt, at least on the larger metropolitan campuses. Along with the other Greek-letter fraternities, Acacia found chapter memberships diminishing as a period of student disinterest in fraternity affiliation developed.

By 1970 at least half a dozen old-line chapters were forced to close their doors, and many others were weakened. At the same time, Acacia found interest strong in Greek affiliation at smaller campuses and among the rapidly growing new state institutions that mushroomed across the country, and new chapters continued to be added. And while some old chapters on large campuses failed, others remained strong. Illinois, Purdue, and Indiana initiated their 1,000th members during this period.

In spite of the problems of the late 1960s the National Fraternity expanded its staff and programs. In 1968 the position of Assistant Executive Secretary with particular responsibility for the expansion program was created. In 1969 Acacia left its rented quarters in Evanston, Illinois, and moved to its own National Headquarters building in Boulder, Colorado.

In response to a resolution of the National Conclave at Estes Park in 1970, undergraduate delegates were appointed to the National Council for the first time, with Donald W. Solanas Jr., Louisiana State, and Barry S. Hurt, Mississippi State. serving as the first such representatives. The Council also began to schedule its meetings at different chapter houses to ensure that it would keep in close touch with the rapid changes that were taking place in campus life and fraternity chapters. The decade of the 1970s was seen as a period offering potential for great growth and progress for Acacia, as it made positive responses to the new demands of fraternity life.

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The 1970s and ‘80s

Starting in the 1970s, small groups of fraternity and sorority executives

got together to discuss key issues facing the fraternity community at an annual Fraternity Executives Association (FEA) meeting with Acacia joining the FEA in ____. For several years, executives discussed the need for a unilateral policy on hazing and alcohol for their undergraduate chapters. At the Vail, Colorado, FEA meeting in 1987, such a concept for a policy was introduced, debated, and approved by the delegates and the foundation was laid for what would later be known as the FIPG, Inc. (Fraternity Information & Programming Group).

To better service the undergraduate chapters, Acacia moved its National Headquarters from Boulder, Colorado to Indianapolis, Indiana in December of 1981. The reasons for the move were many with perhaps the most compelling being the distribution of our active and alumni membership.

The 1980s saw a revitalization of fraternity life paralleled only by the post war years of the 1920s and 1950s. A conservative political climate and a return to traditional values and ethics after the experimentation of the ‘60s and ‘70s provided a catalyst for fraternities and sororities nationwide to flourish. During these years Acacia re-chartered many of the old-line chapters that had faltered during the ‘60s and ‘70s. Wisconsin, Washington, Ohio State, Colorado, Miami (OH), Georgia, Minnesota, and California all reopened their doors while chapters which survived the ‘60s and ‘70s found new strength in membership and prestige.

The 1980s also witnessed Acacia become international in scope as chapters were chartered at the University of Western Ontario and Carleton University in Canada. At the 45th Conclave in 1988, the delegates voted to henceforth use international rather than national when referring to Acacia Fraternity.

1990s to Present Day

The 1990s ushered in a truly new era for the Acacia Fraternity. A few of

the most significant changes in the Fraternity include: the first Acacia risk management policy, new chapters & re-charterings, far-reaching effects of the Internet and the Age of Information, Acacia Fraternity celebrating its 100th anniversary, and the development of the Cornerstones membership development program.

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Acacia’s first Risk Management policy appeared during the August 1990 International Council meeting. In line with requirements established by the Fraternity Insurance Purchasing Group, Acacia took a firm stance against alcohol abuse, hazing, and illegal drugs, as well including a section on fire safety. The International Conclave amended the Laws of Acacia to add the position of Risk Manager as an executive officer on the Chapter Council. During Acacia’s first Conclave held outside of the United States in Toronto in 1992, the “little sister program” was abolished by all Acacia chapters. In July 2000, the Council mandated that as a condition of obtaining recognition by the International Fraternity, it is required that all new colonies, including reinstated former chapters, adopt and implement a written policy on substance free housing and living, that is acceptable to the Council.

The 1990s and 2000s have seen Acacia expand onto new campuses and return to universities which previously had been home to Acacia chapters that had since closed: Illinois Wesleyan, Iowa State, Kansas State, Texas, Colorado, Washington State, Trine (formerly Tri-State), Illinois State, Iowa, and Arizona State.

The Internet and the Information Age

The idea of “Acacia on the World Wide Web” was first suggested formal-

ly in the International Council meeting minutes in July 1994. The main goal of the first proposal was to allow for greater communication between chapters, International Headquarters, and alumni utilizing a system of computers, electronic mail and fax machines. By February 1996, the Internet was coming into its own. In a letter to the Council, Brother David C. Lemons, Indiana ’93, makes his case for an Acacia website: “I’m proposing that Acacia be one of the first fraternities to be established on the web, since the Internet is here to stay and only going to get bigger.

Some sources say that surfing the net may surpass the television as the leading form of information technology and entertainment.”

Acacia’s website (www.acacia.org) was first launched just before the St. Louis Conclave in 1996, thanks in part to the efforts of Brother Ronald Handley Jr., Carleton ’89. Acacia’s website today continues to evolve as a resource for active Acacians, alumni, and potential new members.

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Cornerstones

During the 56th Biennial Conclave in 2006, much dialogue and debate

was centered around what our fraternity would focus on as the most important priorities for the second hundred years of our history. The prevailing attitude spoke for the need to not only educate our members during pledgeship, but also to formally extend that education and development process to include a member’s entire undergraduate career.

The Conclave body passed a resolution to “create & implement a membership development program.” The International Council hired its first ever Director of Membership Development, and shortly thereafter, Acacia’s Membership Development Program was born, later named Cornerstones.

With a focus on goal-setting and experiential learning, Cornerstones is both a framework for personal growth and a platform for educational chapter programming.

Cornerstones represents Acacia’s vision of Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders and encourages lifelong learning. While Acacia maintains a core set of values including virtue, knowledge, truth, leadership, and Human Service, the program does not prescribe a specific value system for individual members or chapters.

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An Acacian’s Code “So live, that when thy summons comes to join the innumerable caravan, which moves to that mysterious realm, where each shall take his chamber in the silent halls of death, thou go not like the quarry-slave at night, scourged to his dungeon, but, sustained and soothed by an unfaltering trust; approach thy grave, like one who wraps the drapery of his couch about him, and lies down to pleasant dreams.”

“Thanatopsis” William Cullen Bryant

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ACACIA SINGS

Acacia Sings is a collection of popular Acacia songs enjoyed by brothers

throughout our Fraternity’s history. Though singing is not as commonplace in the chapter house as in days gone by, you may still find the Men from Acacia gathered around a piano or serenading a sorority with any of these classics. Digital audio files are available on the Acacia website.

Bless Now, Acacia (Doxology) Bless now Acacia Oh God above, Strengthen the tie that binds Our hearts in love.

Teach us in service sweet, To live a right, Guide us to seek the truth, To Give the light.

A-men.

Here’s a Health Here’s a health to old Acacia, Here’s to black and gold.

Here’s to brotherhood and friendship Here’s to hearts so bold.

May our love for our fraternity, Live on forever true.

So fill up the cup for old Acacia, Here’s a health to you.

Sweetheart of Acacia Sweetheart of Acacia, I love you.

I love you, sweetheart, just you, Oh, flow’r of Acacia so pure.

Like leaves ever green, And roots sunken deep, My love dear forever will endure, So take my heart, we’ll never part, However the fates our lots construe.

Here’s my pin, black and gold, The triangle known of old; Darling Sweetheart of Acacia, I love you.

We’re All Good Brothers We’re all good brothers, Each one the other’s friend; And we’ll be good brothers ‘Til all the world shall end; So while we’re together Let’s give a rousing cheer To Acacia, good brothers The ones we love so dear.

Drink, Drink, Drink To A-C-A-C-I-A-ca-cia Drink, drink, drink.

Our glasses we’ll fill And we’ll pledge with a will, As they clink, clink, clink; Let A-C-A-C-I-A-ca-cia Be our toast; Long live in blessed unity, Our dear fraternity, Ev’ry Acacian’s boast. (clink, clink)

Beneath Our Jeweled Pin Beneath our jeweled pin, dear.

Our hearts beat strong and true, For friends we love so well dear, For friends who are true blue; But of you we’re ever thinking, Acacia sweetheart true; Our love we’ll pledge forever, To you sweetheart to you.

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We’re The Men From Acacia We’re the men from Acacia We’re here to embrace ya, We are the best lovers On campus, ya-ya.

We love all the redheads The blondes and the brunettes, The tall ones, the short ones And the housemothers too.

Acacia Boys, Come Join The Song Acacia boys come join the song A song of college days, For we are here in college Just to learn the college ways.

From East to West give honor to The jeweled pin we wear, For when we meet a brother boys We meet him on the square.

(Chorus) Singing oom-ya-ya, oom-ya-ya Oom-ya-ya, oom-ya-ya, Oom-ya-ya, oom-ya-ya Oom-ya-ya-ya

We are a band of jolly good fellows, As free as the winds that blow, Our hearts beat true to each other Wherever we may go.

So here’s my hand — My bro-ther dear, And may it ever be; A grip as strong and lasting As the Acacia Fraternity.

We’re the black the gold boys, We’re the socially right boys, For the wine and the women We have such a yen.

We study but little We’d much rather fiddle We’re typical college Fraternity men.

There’s A Song In My Heart There’s a song in my heart That always will remain.

It’s a cheer for our dear fraternity. (clap, clap) As the years roll along, Our hearts will sing a song To Acacia, our dear fraterity.

(Repeat chorus) We’re the men from Acacia Our teams sure will lace ya, The other fraternities Bow down to us.

We’re out here to beat ya, We’ll surely defeat ya, We’re typical young men Of Pythagoras.

Drink A Toast Drink a toast to Old Acacia, Pass the cup around.

Here’s to fellowship forever, Loud our praise resound.

Gather all ye as a brother In Fra-ter-nity.

Here’s to thee beloved Acacia Best of all to thee.

(Repeat chorus twice)

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CHAPTER ROLL Chapter: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Michigan* (1991) Stanford (1916) Kansas (1992) Nebraska California

6.

Ohio State

7.

8.

9.

10.

Dartmouth (1908) Harvard (1934) Illinois Franklin

11.

12.

Minnesota (1992) Wisconsin

13.

Missouri

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

Cornell Purdue Chicago (1933) Yale (1928) Columbia (1933) Iowa State

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

Iowa** Penn State Oregon Washington** Northwestern (1990) Colorado

26.

Syracuse

27.

Kansas State

28.

Texas

29.

30.

Oklahoma (1971) Indiana**

Date Chartered: May 12, 1904 Nov. 12, 1904 Nov. 14, 1904 Feb. 14, 1904 Apr. 15, 1905 [Mar. 30, 1980] Mar. 25, 1906 [Feb. 11, 1984] Mar. 31, 1906 Apr. 13, 1906 Apr. 28, 1906 May 3, 1906 [Apr. 15 1989] May 22, 1906 May 22, 1906 [Feb. 6, 1988] May 17, 1907 [Apr. 9, 2005] May 30, 1907 Oct. 11, 1907 Mar. 20, 1909 June 15, 1909 Mar. 20, 1909 Mar 20, 1909 [Oct. 20, 2001] Apr. 17, 1909 June 9, 1909 June 9, 1909 Mar. 5, 1910 Feb. 5, 1911 Jan 27, 1911 [May 5, 1990] [Aug. 7, 2010] June 10, 1911 [Aug. 12, 2006] Dec. 6, 1913 [Aug. 23, 2001] Apr. 6, 1916 [May 6, 2006] May 1, 1920 May 22, 1920 90

Initiates: 838 121 1118 1331 1133 1180 23 405 2458 711 874 1093 1000 1209 2013 290 226 259 1141 876 1921 43 819 993 1223 716 1234 1463 880 2477

Chapter: 31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

36.

37.

38.

39.

40.

41.

42.

George Washington (1960) North Carolina (1932) Oklahoma State (1989) Carnegie Tech (1933) Oregon State Denver (1958) Cincinnati (1971) Washington State Southern California (1961) Wyoming (1997) UCLA (1989) Ohio

43.

Miami (OH) (2015)

44.

45.

Rensselaer New Hampshire (1994)

46.

47.

48.

49.

50.

51.

52.

53.

54.

Colorado State (1971) Evansville (1958) Vermont (1997)** Arizona (1971) Arkansas (1974) Long Beach (1993) Louisiana State (2015) Northern Colorado (1974) Illinois Wesleyan

55.

56.

57.

58.

59.

60.

61.

Central Missouri State (1971) Missouri School of Mines (2003) Mississippi State (1980) Luther A. Smith (1968) Memphis State (1971) Boston University (1971) Central Oklahoma

62.

63.

64.

65.

66.

67.

Shippensburg (2006) San Jose State (1971) Alabama (1970) Georgia (1989) Tennessee (1993) Trine (Formerly known as Tri-State)

68.

69.

Houston (1971) Northeast Louisiana (1981)

Date Chartered: Apr. 2, 1920 Apr. 4, 1923 May 12, 1923 May 12, 1923 Apr. 19, 1924 May 12, 1925 May 12, 1929 Dec. 7, 1935 Mar. 8, 1947 Apr. 19, 1947 Nov. 27, 1948 Feb. 13, 1949 [Feb. 3, 1989] May 22, 1949 [Oct. 9, 1986] Apr. 10, 1949 Dec. 3, 1949 [Oct. 9, 1982] Apr. 30, 1950 May 14, 1950 Dec. 9, 1950 Dec. 17, 1950 Apr. 14, 1951 Sept. 10, 1955 Feb. 11, 1956 Mar. 18, 1956 Nov. 9, 1957 [May 4, 1991] Dec. 8, 1957 Nov. 16, 1958 Feb. 18, 1961 Mar. 5, 1961 Apr. 28, 1962 May 5, 1962 Apr. 25, 1964 [Dec. 11, 1993] Apr. 17, 1966 Apr. 24, 1966 May 1, 1966 May 15, 1966 Nov. 20, 1966 Jan. 29, 1967 [Sept. 28, 2013] Feb. 23, 1969 Apr. 20, 1969

Initiates: 320 119 914 79 1145 168 428 916 238 585 458 756 843 856 1273 285 138 530 211 389 361 1725 262 569 217 263 166 120 100 132 781 645 56 72 177 272 198 38 154

Date Chartered:

Chapter: 70.

71.

72.

73.

East Texas State (1976) Kansas State Teachers College (1976) Kearney State (1974) Illinois State

74.

75.

76.

77.

78.

79.

80.

81.

82.

83.

84.

85.

86.

87.

88.

89.

90.

91.

92.

93.

94.

Eastern Illinois (1977) Northeastern State (1989) Pittsburgh-Johnstown (2015) Upper Iowa (1984) Stephen F. Austin (1984) Nebraska at Omaha (1979) Saint Cloud State Cal Poly/Pomona (1995) Western Ontario (2006) California (PA) Millersville Carleton Johns Hopkins (1996) Central Florida (2000) Bloomsburg (PA) Indiana (PA) Morningside Penn State/Altuna (2013) East Stroudsburg (2004)# NW Oklahoma State (2011) Louisiana Tech (2014)

Initiates:

May 29, 1970 May 2, 1971 Apr. 9, 1972 Apr. 16, 1972 [July 31, 2014] Apr. 30, 1972 Apr. 29, 1973 Dec. 2, 1973 Apr. 28, 1974 Apr. 27 1975 Jan. 22, 1977 Mar. 13, 1977 Dec. 12, 1981 Nov. 23, 1985 April 7, 1990 April 23, 1988 Feb. 11, 1989 Mar. 9, 1994 Mar. 26, 1994 Apr. 24, 1998 Apr. 12, 1996 Apr. 24, 1997 Apr. 25, 1998 Nov. 14, 2004 Aug. 7, 2010

82 49 27 110 66 199 542 73 92 24 359 191 195 298 253 403 75 89 246 203 166 235 58 87 53 51,363 â€

* Date the Masonic Club established in 1894, took the name Acacia and initiated the policy of expansion. ** Currently a colony. # Did not receive charter. †Total initiates as of August 2015, including those initiated into colonies not listed here that never chartered.

Dates in parentheses indicate year chapter closed.

Dates in brackets indicate year chapter rechartered.

Chapters in italics are inactive.

92

INTERNATIONAL OFFICERS National and International President 1904-1906 1906-1907 1907-1908 1908-1910 1910-1914 1914-1916 1916-1918 1918-1919 1919-1920 1920-1922 1922-1929 1929-1939 1939-1946 1946-1954

Harlan P. Rowe, Michigan Earl E. Miller, Stanford J. H. Tilton, Ohio State Joseph R. Wilson, Franklin Francis W. Shepardson, Chicago George E. Frazer, Wisconsin Harry L. Brown, Michigan W. Elmer Ekblaw, Illinois James F. Groves, Chicago Harry L. Brown, Michigan William S. Dye Jr., Penn State Robert C. Lewis, Colorado Walter W. Kolbe, Northwestern Lloyd H. Ruppenthal, Kansas

1954-1962 William E. Krieger, Illinois 1962-1970 1970-1974 1974-1978 1978-1982 1982-1986 1986-1992 1992-1998 1998-2002 2002-2009 2009-2014 2014-

George F. Patterson Jr., Cincinnati L. W. “Pete� Knapp, Cornell Irving M. Field, Missouri Joseph F. Reed, Long Beach John F. Hoffner, Purdue W. Martin Wingren, California Donald W. Solanas Jr., Louisiana St. Gerald C. Cook, Shippensburg David J. Allen, Indiana Robert E. Roberson, Ill. Wesleyan Jeremy N. Davis, Iowa State

National and International First Vice President 1951-1956 1956-1960 1960-1967 1967-1968 1968-1978 1978-1982 1982-1986

Christopher K. Gabriel, Oregon John A. Lunsford, Colorado Harvey Amos, So. California Martin W. Logan, Iowa Calvin O. Hultman, Iowa State John F. Hoffner, Purdue W. Martin Wingren, California

1986-1992 1992-1996 2000-2004 2004-2008 2008-2012 2012-

Ronald D. Hill, Washington John J. Zentgraf Jr., Shippensburg J. Scott Cleland, Ohio Barry F. Baxter, Texas J. Scott Cleland, Ohio Scott H. Meyer, Saint Cloud State

National and International Second Vice President 1951-1956 1956-1960 1960-1967 1967-1974 1974-1980 1980-1982 1982-1992

John A. Lunsford, Colorado Harvey Amos, So. California Marvin W. Logan, Iowa Irving M. Field, Missouri Thomas E. Bolman, Miami Norman C. Saatjian, Long Beach St. Donald W. Solanas Jr., Louisiana St.

1992-1994 1994-2000 2000-2004 2004-2008 2008-2014 2014-

93

Scott T. Fowler, Illinois J. Scott Cleland, Ohio Craig S. Johnson, Louisiana State Brian S. Downs, Central Oklahoma Jeremy N. Davis, Iowa State Justin M. M. Kaplan, Carleton

National and International Treasurer 1904-1905 1905-1906 1906-1907 1907-1908 1908-1909 1909-1910 1910-1912 1912-1913 1913-1914 1914-1916 1916-1916 1916-1925 1925-1935 1935-1939

Harvey J. Howard, Michigan Earl E. Miller, Stanford Snowden Parlette, Harvard C. D. Ise, Kansas Maurice C. Tanquary, Illinois Elting H. Comstock, Minnesota Arthur R. Keith, Cornell George E. Frazer, Wisconsin R. Cecil Fay, California John A. Woodward, Michigan John W. Shera, Purdue Carroll S. Huntington, Illinois William R. Hockenberry, Franklin Roy C. Clark, Northwestern

1939-1946 1946-1950 1950-1953 1953-1954 1954-1962 1962-1970 1970-1982 1982-1985 1985-1990 1990-1998 1998-2001 2001-2009 2009-2014 2014-

William A. Knapp, Purdue Marion H. Huber, Cincinnati Frank M. Halloway, Texas William E. Kreiger, Illinois George F. Patterson Jr., Cininnati L. W. “Pete” Knapp, Cornell G. Kenneth Nelson, Penn State Dan A. Hildebrand, Nebraska Ronald T. Hopkins, Syracuse Michael P. Fillman, Western Ontario Gene O. Ambroson, Morningside Robert E. Roberson, Ill. Wesleyan Anthony D. J. Phillips, Carleton Robert W. Mickam, Texas

National and International Counselor 1935-1939 1939-1941 1941-1946 1946-1950 1950-1954 1954-1956 1956-1956 1956-1970 1970-1978

Robert L. Norris, Michigan J. Arthur Thompson, Denver Clarence E. Tobias Jr., Franklin Ray C. Thomas, Indiana W. Martin Delbrouck, New Hampshire John Paynter, Oklahoma Frank M. Holloway, Texas Raymond E. Bivert, Oklahoma State Joseph F. Reed, Long Beach State

1978-1980 1980-1982 1982-1990 1990-1994 1994-1998 1998-2004 2006-2010 2010-2014 2014-

Norman C. Saatjian, Long Beach St. L. Patrick McTee, Nebraska David B. Williams, Ill. Wesleyan José R. Sánchez Jr., UCLA Robert J. Hampe, Washington St. George A. Levesque Jr., Carleton Gregory J. Owen, Carleton Brian S. Downs, Central Oklahoma George A. “Chip” Ray, Penn State

National and International Judge Advocate 1927-1936 1936-1938 1960-1962 1962-1972 1972-1978

David. A. Embury, Columbia John J. Hervey, Oklahoma C. Lenton Sartain, Lousiana State J. B. Baird, Oklahoma Steve W. Harris, Texas

1978-1986 1986-1992 1992-2002 2002-2010 2010-

94

David J. Allen, Indiana Jed W. Morris, Washington State David J. Allen, Indiana Christopher B. Carpentier, Indiana Maximilian J. B. Hopkins, California

National and International Undergraduate Counselors 1971-1972 Donald W. Solanas Jr., Louisiana State Barry S. Hurt, Mississippi State 1972-1974 James F. Hendricks, Illinois Wesleyan Charles W. Sartain, Lousiana State 1974-1976 C. F. K. Cole, Texas Gilbert W. Douglas Jr., Ill. Wesleyan 1978-1980 Mik Jones, Washington State Richard A. Bush, Indiana 1980-1982 Clifford J. Monlux, Washington State William M. Mullineaux, Shippensburg 1982-1984 Jeffrey A. Springer, Indiana Von T. Friesen, Kansas State 1984-1986 Jeffrey Farren, Indiana Alexander Taylor, Iowa 1986-1988 Carl A. Scott, Oklahoma State William C. Boor, Penn State 1988-1990 Destry Hood, Nebraska Sean W. Valley, Washington State 1990-1992 John F. Beering, Purdue Richard J. Saad, Franklin 1992-1994 Craig S. Johnson, Louisiana State Kris R. Lutt, Nebraska

1994-1996 Christopher B. Carpentier, Indiana Mark A. Gentile, Ill. Wesleyan 1996-1998 Aaron P. Darcy, Indiana Richard D. Spencer, Kansas State 1998-2000 Jason B. Archer, Kansas State Dominic A. Nelson, Saint Cloud St. 2000-2002 Jacob E. Yackenovich, Ohio State Bryk J. Lancaster, Iowa 2002-2004 Brian S. Downs, Central Oklahoma Ryan S. Morris, Purdue 2004-2006 Justin E. Cardisco, Nebraska Shaun E. Clair, Penn State 2006-2008 Stefan R. McIntyre, Ohio State Cody M. Peczkowski, Purdue 2008-2010 Joshua J. Gannon, Oregon State Joseph N. Psyk, Saint Cloud State 2010-2012 Justin M. M. Kaplan, Carleton Michael A. Weber, Iowa State 2012-2014 George A. “Chip” Ray, Penn State Joel A. Zeni, Oregon State 2014-2016 Jonathan C. Veres, California (PA) Andrew K. Sherman, Iowa State † Jackson R. Wolfe, Colorado †

† Andrew K. Sherman, Iowa State, resigned his position as Undergraduate Counselor in 2015 to take a position on the Acacia Headquarters staff. Jackson R. Wolfe, Colorado, was appointed for the remainder of his term.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The eight preceding officers are those of the International Council as it exists today. Various other designations have been given to the officers of the National Council during the course of Acacia history. The title of National Vice-President existed from 1904-1936, at which time this office was changed to that of National Counselor. The office of National Secretary, which existed from 1904-1951, was changed to National First Vice-President at the latter date, and the office of National Editor, which was begun in 1914, was changed to National Second Vice-President in 1951. From 1927-1938, there existed an office of Judge Advocate General. In 1938 this office was done away with and a standing committee, The Jurisprudence Committee, was appointed. The Chairman and members of this committee were not Council members, but provided legal counsel to the National Council. However, the 1960 Conclave saw fit to reinstitute the title and office of Judge Advocate. The positions of Chairman and the Jurisprudence Committee were eliminated. Persons who have served on the National Council in offices in which the title has been changed are listed as follows.

95

National Vice-President 1904-1905 George A. Malcom, Michigan 1905-1906 (1) O. Q. Clafin, Kansas (2) John Westover, Nebraska 1906-1909 H. C. Pierce, Cornell 1909-1910 J. F. Pullen, California 1910-1912 Elting H. Comstock, Minnesota 1912-1913 W. Elmer Ekblaw, Illinois 1913-1914 George E. Frazer, Wisconsin

1914-1916 1916-1918 1918-1919 1919-1920 1920-1925 1925-1927 1927-1929 1929-1936

R. Cecil Ray, California John A. Woodward, Michigan Harry E. Kilmer, Michigan Harry L. Kent Sr., Kansas State Howard T. Hill, Kansas Welch Pogue, Nebraska Arthur A. Neu, Northwestern Frank Jenks, Wisconsin

National Editor 1914-1918 1918-1918 1918-1919 1919-1920

William G. Mann, Iowa State Wallace Meyer, Wisconsin Francis W. Shepardson, Chicago W. Elmer Ekblaw, Illinois

1920-1927 T. Hawley Tapping, Michigan 1927-1948 Herschel L. Washington, Kansas 1948-1951 John A. Lundsford, Colorado

TRIAD Editor EDITOR’S NOTE: From 1914 to 1951 one of the National Officers served on the Council under the title of National Editor. The office of National Editor was later changed to National Second Vice-President in 1951. Those who have served as Triad editor are:

1947-1952 1952-1958 1959-1961 1964-1965

William E. Ross, Northwestern Edgar R. Kelley, Illinois E. Alan Olson, Minnesota Philip Wayne Cramer, Ohio

1966-1967 Barry John Lyerly, Colorado 1967-1971 John W. Hartman, Central Oklahoma 1971-1978 Mrs. Mary J. Gleason

National Secretary 1904-1905 1905-1907 1907-1908 1908-1916 1916-1918 1918-1919

William J. Marshall, Michigan Clarence G. Hill, Michigan G. W. Cheney, Nebraska Harry E. Kilmer, Missouri A. A. Jenkins, Harvard James F. Groves, Chicago

1919-1937 1937-1941 1941-1948 1948-1949 1949-1951

Chairman, Jurisprudence Committee 1938-1947 Lloyd H. Ruppenthal, Kansas 1947-1949 C. Paul Brown, Oklahoma 1949-1957 Herschel L. Washington, Kansas

96

W. Elmer Ekblaw, Illinois J. K. Tuthill, Illinois Cecil H. Brite, Oklahoma Bancroft A. Nelson, California Christopher K. Gabriel, Oregon State

HEADQUARTERS STAFF Executive Director 1942-1947 John Colby Erwin, Northwestern 1947-1966 Roy Cecil Clark, Northwestern 1966-1978 Harvey L. Logan, Long Beach 1978-1983 W. Thomas Nelson, Purdue

1983-1987 Scott M. Valley, Washington State 1987-2011 Darold W. Larson, Washington State 2011-2013 Keith M. Bushey, Indiana 2013Patrick W. McGovern, Indiana

Assistant Executive Director 1959-1961 1965-1966 1968-1969 1969-1972

Robert E. Jepson, Kansas State Harvey L. Logan, Long Beach Barry J. Lyerly, Colorado Thomas E. Bolman, Miami

Director of Communications 1997-1998 James N. Katsaounis, Ohio 2007-2015 Michael A. Pastko, Purdue

1980-1981 1986-1987 2001-2011 2012-2013

JosĂŠ R. SĂĄnchez Jr., UCLA Darold W. Larson, Washington State Keith M. Bushey, Indiana Patrick W. McGovern, Indiana

Communications Specialist 2003-2004 Christopher J. Kavan, Nebraska

Director of Expansion and Recruitment 2005-2006 Robert P. Kameen, Penn State 2008-2008 Anthony D.J. Phillips, Carleton 2011-2013 Joseph N. Psyk, Saint Cloud St.

2013-2014 Michael S. Weber, Iowa State 2015Jerod K. Miles, Central Oklahoma

Director of Membership Development 2006-2013 Patrick W. McGovern, Indiana

Director of Operations 2013-

Michael S. Weber, Iowa State

Associate Director of Operations 2015-

Benjamin B. Turconi, California

Director of Fundraising 1986-1989 Scott J. Houston, Indiana

Office Manager

Bookkeeper

1942-1958 Edith A. May 1958-1969 Audra B. Eikost 1984Gretchen C. Mathews

1985-2010 Patricia Henshaw

Membership Services

1982-1997 Joan Busenbarrick

Leadership Consultants 1941-46 1946-48 1947-53 1948-54

John C. Erwin, Northwestern Charles W. Jarrett, Indiana George Croyle, California Edgar R. Kelly, Illinois

1949-49 1949-52 1951-55 1954-54

97

Donald Bengard, Illinois Edwin L. Lemmon, Illinois Walter E. Dahl, Ohio Richard D. Poppel, Northwestern

1954-56 1955-58 1956-61 1957-58 1958-58 1958-59 1958-59 1959-61 1959-61 1961-63 1961-62 1962-63 1962-63 1962-65 1963-66 1965-66 1965-67 1966-68 1967-69 1967-69 1969-70 1970-71 1970-73 1971-72 1971-74 1972-74 1974-75 1974-75 1975-76 1976-77 1977-79 1979-80 1979-80 1980-81 1980-81 1981-83 1981-83 1982-83 1983-85 1983-84 1984-86 1984-85 1985-87 1986-87 1987-88

Dudley C. Johnson, Vermont Roger W. Pearson, Iowa Robert E. Jepson, Kansas State Thomas D. Cox, Louisiana State Jay M. Humbug, Kansas State Larry J. Kelly, Indiana Stanley A. Shaw, Southern California Vernon L. Garrison, Oklahoma State Norman C. Saatjian, Long Beach St. Edwin P. Kohler II, Penn State David J. Bolger, Texas John O. Bronson Jr., Mississippi State Williard L. Fuller, New Hampshire Phillip W. Cramer, Ohio State Harvey L. Logan, Long Beach Calvin O. Hultman, Iowa State Willard L. Fuller, New Hampshire Barry L. Lyerly, Colorado Ronald D. Hill, Washington State Thomas E. Bolman, Miami (OH) Charles R. Stewart, Kansas Thomas Unternahrer, Oregon State W. Thomas Nelson, Purdue Dallas M. Gandy, Central Oklahoma Richard G. Shiffer, Penn State Rodney K. Gangwish, Nebraska James L. Bifano, Pitt/Johnstown Stuart L. Warren, Illinois Kenneth B. Harwood, Kansas Kevin T. Ryan, NE Oklahoma Jed W. Morris, Washington State Thomas E. Piernik, Penn State R. Allen Gilstrap, Kansas John W. Swisher, Penn State José R. Sánchez, UCLA Douglas D. Schmidt, Iowa State Scott M. Valley, Washington State Brett C. Thomas, Washington State Bradley D. Colerick, Nebraska H. Price Mounger III, Louisiana St. Darold W. Larson, Washington State Scott J. Houston, Indiana Jeffrey J. Eller, Washington State Alexander Taylor, Iowa George R. White, New Hampshire

1987-89 Jeffrey A. McQuarrie, Washington State 1988-89 S. Kreg K. McCollum, Oregon State 1988-89 Michael D. Bolinger, California 1989-90 Eric C. M. Chirch, Carleton 1989-90 Barrett K. Byrne, Washington State 1989-90 Christopher G. Martin, Carleton 1990-91 George M. Masswohl, Western Ontario 1990-91 Doug G. MacCraw, Nebraska 1990-92 George A. Levesque Jr., Carleton 1991-92 Andrew Jee, Oregon State 1992-94 David M. Lemke, Wisonsin 1992-94 Martin T. McKnight, Oregon State 1993-93 Mark R. Zerba, New Hampshire 1994-95 Gary J. Haag, Kansas State 1994-96 Patrick A. Smith, Colorado 1995-97 Danny R. Beagle Jr., Shippensburg 1996-97 Matthew O’Doherty, Indiana (PA) 1997-98 Michael O’Brien Keating, Indiana 1998-99 J. Matthew Warnock, Indiana (PA) 1999-2000 Robert R. Gallagher, Indiana (PA) 2001-02 Chad L. Dimmick, Central Oklahoma 2002-03 Blake J. Hutchison, Wisconsin 2002-03 Nicholas J. Churchill, Indiana 2002-03 Samuel J. Warner, Miami (OH) 2003-04 Patrick W. McGovern, Indiana 2004-05 Devin E. Johnson, Iowa 2004-05 Timothy R. Phillips, California (PA) 2005-06 Steven D. Meyer, Central Oklahoma 2005-06 Jarrod N. VanZant, Central Oklahoma 2006-07 Daniel G. Ross, Central Oklahoma 2006-08 Matthew L. Hamrick, Central Oklahoma 2008-09 Eric D. Wheeler, NW Oklahoma State 2008-09 Ryan M. Allen, Central Oklahoma 2008-10 Benjamin T. Monson, Saint Cloud State 2009-09 Jonathan A. Janoski, California (PA) 2011-12 Joshua J. Gannon, Oregon State 2011-12 Benjamin J. Haddad, Ohio 2012-13 Michael S. Weber, Iowa State 2013-13 Nicholas M. Montanari, Washington St. 2013-14 Gregory J. Lary, Ohio 2013-15 Nathaniel D. McKee, Missouri 2014-15 Jerod K. Miles, Central Oklahoma 2015- Jackson H. Aaberg, Missouri 2015- Michael J. Moore, Central Oklahoma

98

NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL CONCLAVES 1) Ann Arbor, Michigan

June 17 - 19, 1905

30) Stillwater, Oklahoma

Aug. 29 - Sept. 2, 1958

2) Chicago, Illinois

June 20 - 22, 1906

31) Bloomington, Indiana

Aug. 29 - Sept 1, 1960

3) Lawrence, Kansas

July 1 - 4, 1907

32) Austin, Texas

Aug. 27 - 30, 1962

4) Champaign, Illinois

June 24 - 26, 1908

33) Memphis, Tennessee

Aug. 24 - 27, 1964

5) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Sept. 15 - 17, 1909

34) New Orleans, Lousiana

Aug. 21 - 26, 1966

6) Columbia, Missouri

Sept. 13 - 16, 1910

35) Kansas City, Missouri

Aug. 19 - 22, 1968

7) Chicago, Illinois

Sept. 10 - 13, 1912

36) Estes Park, Colorado

Aug. 23 - 28, 1970

8) Madison, Wisconsin

June 24 - 26, 1914

37) New Orleans, Louisiana

June 15 -18, 1972

38) Chicago, Illinois

June 12 - 16, 1974

9) Ann Arbor, Michigan 10) San Francisco, California

Sept. 1 - 3, 1915 Sept. 12 - 14, 1916

11) West Lafayette, Indiana War Conference/Chicago, Illinois

39) New Orleans, Louisiana 40) Snowmass, Colorado

May 31st, 1918

41) Lincoln, Nebraska

Aug. 2 - 8, 1976 Aug. 13 - 17, 1978 Aug. 6 - 10, 1980

12) Champaign, Illinois

Sept. 16 -19, 1919

42) New Orleans, Louisiana

Aug. 11 - 14, 1982

13) Minneapolis, Minnesota

Sept. 20 - 26, 1920

43) Kansas City, Missouri

Aug. 15 - 18, 1984

14) Lawrence, Kansas

Sept. 4 - 6. 1922

44) Dallas, Texas

Aug. 13 - 16,1986

15) Plum Lake, Wisconsin

Sept. 4 - 7, 1923

45) New Orleans, Louisiana

Aug. 3 - 6, 1988

46) Indianapolis, Indiana

Aug. 1 - 4, 1990

16) Ocean City, New Jersey 17) Estes Park, Colorado 18) Ithaca, New York 19) Estes Park, Colorado 20) Chicago, Illinois 21) Ann Arbor, Michigan 22) Madison, Wisconsin

Aug. 31 - Sept. 4, 1925 Sept. 6-10, 1927 Aug. 19 - 25, 1929 Sept. 6 - 10, 1927

47) Toronto, Ontario, Canada 48) New Orleans, Louisiana 49) St. Louis, Missouri

Sept. 1 - 4, 1935

50) Cleveland, Ohio

Sept. 6 - 9, 1937

51) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Aug. 29 - Sept. 1, 1939

Aug. 5 - 8, 1992 July 27 - 30, 1994 Aug 14 - 17, 1996 July 29 - Aug. 1, 1998 July 26 - 29, 2000

52) New Orleans, Louisiana

July 31 - Aug. 4, 2002 July 21 - July 24, 2004

23) West Lafayette, Indiana

Aug. 25 - 29, 1941

53) Indianapolis, Indiana

24) Chicago, Illinois

Aug. 28 - 31, 1946

54) St. Louis, Missouri

Aug. 9 -13, 2006

25) Chicago, Illinois

Aug. 26 - 28, 1948

55) Louisville, Kentucky

Aug. 6 -10, 2007

26) Boulder, Colorado

Aug. 27 - 29, 1950

56) New Orleans, Louisiana

Aug. 4 - 8, 2010

27) Chicago, Illinois

Aug. 31 - Sept. 3, 1952

28) Ann Arbor, Michigan

Aug. 22 - 26, 1954

29) Stillwater, Oklahoma

Aug. 26 - 30, 1956

99

57) St.Louis, Missouri 58) Nashville, Tennessee

Aug. 1 - 5, 2012 July 30 - Aug. 3, 2014

AWARD OF MERIT RECIPIENTS The Award of Merit is one of Acacia’s highest honors. It is given to “brothers who have given of their time and substance unstintingly for the promotion and furtherance of Acacia, both nationally and locally, and brothers who have rendered outstanding service in their chosen fields, and have attained high position therein, thus exemplifying the motto of Acacia, Human Service, and the teachings of the fraternity, which constantly admonish our members to prepare themselves as educated men to take a more active part in their communities.”

Michigan

George A. Malcolm Ernest R. Ringo Charles A. Sink Theodore H. Tapping Thomas M. Herman Herbert P. Wagner Harvey A. Miller Bern B. Hughes

Kansas

Herschel L. Washington Lloyd H. Ruppenthal

Nebraska

George E. Condra Harold E. Edgerton Oliver T. Joy Harry A. Spencer Clifton K. Hillegass William C. Hastings Orval M. Conner William L. Walker Dan A. Hildebrand Dewayne E. Ullsperger

California

Joseph A. Lowe Otto W. Schrader George C. Woolsey Duncan McPherson W. Martin Wingren Richard S. Rasmussen Maximilian J. B. Hopkins

Ohio State

John H. Nourse Marvin E. Rothhaar Philip W. Cramer Jeffrey H. Jordan

Harvard

Roscoe Pound

Illinois

Pembroke H. Brown William E. Krieger George E. Ekblaw Ralph V. Hoffman Melvin W. Rapp Clive A. Follmer Fredrick C. Garrott Daniel V. Albano Michael A. Duncan Daniel D. Bayston Arthur E. Mertes

Steven L. Stein David R. Fischell William A. Utic Thomas J. Balcerski

Purdue

George E. Nitzsche William R. Hockenberry James L. Ernette

Willard A. Knapp Keller E. Beeson Paul M. Vos Arland T. Stein John C. Barber, MD John W. Wedgwood John F. Hoffner W. Thomas Nelson Jr. Jay H. Geshay John F. Beering Michael A. Pastko

Minnesota

Chicago

Franklin

Delmer M. Goode Lloyd V. Berkner Jon S. Fuerstneau Larry B. Forsland Edward A. Cunnington

Wisconsin

Edward B. Meriwether

Columbia

David A. Embury Ned H. Dearborn

Iowa State

Nugent E. Fitzgerald Irving M. Field

Frank H. Mendell Robert L. Carstens John B. Pugh Darrel S. Metcalfe Walter R. Kolbe H. Keith Sawyers Calvin O. Hultman Harold D. Zarr Jr. Jeremy N. Davis

Cornell

Iowa

George E. Frazer Ray S. Erlandson Thomas W. Ayton Brian R. Durst James L. McFarland

Missouri

Fred B. Morris Robert C. Bradley James C. Showacre Lafayette W. Knapp Jr. Stewart L. Burger

Everet F. Lindquist Marvin W. Logan Jacob P. Wegmuller Byron A. Tabor Robert D. Wilkes

Penn State

William S. Dye Jr. G. Kenneth Nelson C. Thomas Lechner Edwin P. Kohler II John W. Black George B. Jackson Douglas F. Trumbower Kevin R. Cheesebrough Joseph J. Lundy

Washington

David J. Williams Paul P. Ashley Bertram D. Thomas Roy F. Miller William B. Dexter Donald W. Sabo

Northwestern

Francis H. Case Roy C. Clark Harry A. Finney Walter W. Kolbe Wayne H. Holtzman

Colorado

Robert C. Lewis John A. Lunsford Dean R. Blanken

Syracuse

Ronald T. Hopkins

Kansas State

Dr. Nathan D. Harwood Audrey A. Potter Vernon D. Foltz Laurence L. Wisdom Leonard E. Wood Robert E. Jepson James D. Bassett Samuel G. Unger William M. Riley Jr. Brian C. Nelson Bradon S. Nelson Gary J. Haag Lucas D. Shivers

Texas

Oliver N. Bruck Judge H. Thornberry Frank M. Holloway

Wroe W. Owens Zilmon F. Smith John H. Peper Edward S. Knight C. F. K. Cole Barry F. Baxter Robert W. Mickam

Oklahoma

Jesse B. Beaird Jr.

Indiana

Markham C. Wakefield Lester G. Ruch Ray C. Thomas Henry L. Kibler Thomas E. Warring Arthur D. Lautzenheiser James H. Ferguson Larry J. Kelly L. Dennis Smith David J. Allen Max F. Spaulding Richard E. Ford W. George Pinnell David S. Baum L. Craig Fulmer Ronald E. Carter Hal D. Hanes Roger A. Nealis Phillip M. Zook Christ Drossos Jr. James O. Richardson Scott J. Houston Keith M. Bushey Matheau P. Luers Christopher B. Carpentier Frank D. Staley Jr. Thomas J. DeRue Jr. Patrick W. McGovern

North Carolina James E. Webb

Oklahoma State

Raymond E. Bivert Stanley C. Acree

Oregon State

Christopher K. Gabriel Leonard W. Kearney Martin T. McKnight

Cincinnati

Marion H. Huber George F. Patterson Jr. R. Earl Snapp

Washington State Lester N. Liebel William J. Gammie Jed W. Morris Scott M. Valley Darold W. Larson Robert K. Hampe

Southern California Harvey R. Amos Wallace N. Jamie

Wyoming

Richard L. Heino

UCLA

Frank H. Reinsch

Ohio

Edwin J. Taylor Carl J. Denbow J. Scott Cleland Dean A. Huprich David L. Day Cory S. Oakley

Miami (OH)

Robert L. Marshall Nolan G. Crawford John R. Moser Vonus L. Ellis Thomas E. Bolman Brian C. Montgomer David A. Luecke

Rensselaer

Richard T. Albagli

New Hampshire Paul A. Gilman Henry L. Stevens James E. Bieber

Vermont

John B. Lane James T. Hall George C. Crooks

Long Beach State Joseph F. Reed Norman C. Saatjian Harvey L. Logan

Louisiana State

Charles Lenton Sartain Jr. Mark R. Guidry Jr. Donald W. Solanas Jr. William J. Mollere James N. Reichard Jr. Stephen J. Scalise Craig S. Johnson

Illinois Wesleyan

David B. Williams Daniel F. Bassill Michael A. Blood, MD Phillip T. Wilson Robert E. Roberson

Missouri School of Mines Herbert R. Alcorn

Mississippi State

John O. Bronson Jr.

Luther A. Smith Luther A. Smith

Central Oklahoma Dallas M. Gandy Brian S. Downs

Fred W. McPeake

Saint Cloud State John R. Stevenson Kevin M. Renslow Scott H. Meyer

Cal Poly/Pomona Andrew J. Stout

Shippensburg

Clarence R. Jacoby Gerald C. Cook John J. Zentgraf Jr.

Georgia

Tennessee

Steven A. Gamble Larry E. Schroeder

Western Ontario Michael P. Fillman

Carleton

Gregory J. Owen George A. Levesque Jr. Anthony D. J. Phillips

GEORGE F. PATTERSON JR. AWARD RECIPIENTS The George F. Patterson Jr. Award is Acacia’s most prestigious individual award and is given annually in honor of Brother Patterson’s many years of service to Acacia and the Interfraternity movement. It recognizes Acacia alumni whose contributions to the fraternity are both sustained and outstanding.

1980 George F. Patterson Jr., Cincinnati 1981 Delmer M. Goode, Minnesota 1982 Oliver N. Bruck, Texas 1983 Wroe W. Owens, Texas 1984 Leonard E. Wood, Kansas State 1985 Lester N. Leibel, Washington State 1986 Roy F. Miller, Washington 1987 G. Kenneth Nelson, Penn State 1988 Arthur D. Lautzenheiser, Indiana 1989 Joseph F. Reed, Long Beach 1990 C. Lenton Sartain, Louisiana State 1991 Irving M. Field, Missouri 1988 David J. Allen, Indiana 1993 H. Keith Sawyers, Iowa State 1994 L. Craig Fulmer, Indiana 1995 Duncan McPherson, California 1996 William A. Utic, Cornell 1997 Richard E. Ford, Indiana

1998 John F. Hoffner, Purdue 1999 Donald W. Solanas Jr. Louisiana State 2000 Jed W. Morris, Washington State 2001 James H. Ferguson, Indiana 2002 Darold W. Larson, Washington State 2003 Marvin Rothaar, Ohio State 2004 Gerald C. Cook, Shippensburg 2005 Dewayne E. Ullsperger, Nebraska 2006 Robert E. Roberson, Illinois Wesleyan 2007 Kevin R. Cheesebrough, Penn State 2008 Leonard W. Kearney, Oregon State 2009 Larry E. Schroeder, Georgia 2010 Keith M. Bushey, Indiana 2011 Ronald T. Hopkins, Syracuse 2012 Melvin W. Rapp, Illinois Chapter 2013 Harold D. Zarr Jr., Iowa State 2014 William M. Riley Jr., Kansas State

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ROY C. CLARK AWARD RECIPIENTS Presented to the undergraduate Acacian who most exemplifies the outstanding attributes of Brother Clark ~ Perseverance, Integrity, Foresight, Loyalty, Devotion, Wisdom, and Leadership.

1967 Richard F. Allen, Rensselaer

1993 Gary J. Haag, Kansas State

1968 William C. Wolford, Iowa State

1994 Joshua D. Herrenkohl, Miami (OH)

1969 Robert D. Paine, Washington State

1995 Nelson L. Jacobus, Purdue

1970 Thomas J. Neis, Illinois Wesleyan

1996 Michael C. Kovacs, Indiana (PA)

1971 Robert A. Schlomann, Purdue

1997 Gregory M. Quebe, Purdue

1972 V. Sandy Cain, Illinois State

1997 Anthony D. Prettyman, Kansas State

1973 Bruce E. Frazey, Kansas

1998 Aaron P. Darcy, Indiana

1971 Charles F. Martin III, Purdue

1999 Ali M. Azim, Indiana

1975 Carroll E. Delacroix, Louisiana State

1999 Jarrett E. Jobe, Central Oklahoma

1976 Gary F. Smith, Penn State

2000 Dominick F. Impastato III, Louisiana State

1977 Lawrence H. Hoskins, Louisiana State

2001 Bradley S. Schmidt, Cornell

1978 Barry F. Baxter, Texas

2002 Patrick W. McGovern, Indiana

1979 Robert J. Jones, Oklahoma State

2003 Ian E. Finn, California (PA)

1980 Robert M. Jarvis, Northwestern

2004 Matthew E. Foss, Indiana

1981 Joel V. Anderson, Nebraska

2005 Christopher B. Bader, Illinois

1982 Joseph A. Homans, Washington State

2006 Joseph W. Butler, Penn State

1983 W. Jeffrey Neal, Kansas State

2007 Shaun E. Clair, Penn State

1984 David E. Conner, Purdue

2008 Jacob L. Sloan, Texas

1985 Dewayne E. Ullsperger, Nebraska

2009 Brett A. Eakin, Kansas State

1986 Steven F. Carlson, Washington State

2010 Brandon J. Behrens, Iowa State

1987 Timothy M. Conlin. Louisiana State

2011 Joshua J. Gannon, Oregon State

1988 F. Howard Halderman, Purdue

2011 Justin M. M. Kaplan, Carleton

1989 Robert G. Mooth, Indiana

2011 Michael S. Weber, Iowa State

1990 Cory M. Bowman, Franklin

2012 Nicholas M. Montanari, Washington State

1991 Addison J. Hillard, Louisiana State

2013 Sean C. Keenan, Nebraska

1992 Frank J. Liggs, Indiana

2014 Mitchell Oldenberg, Louisiana State

1993 Ryan M. Johnston, Indiana

2014 Sabarinath Sankaranarayanan, Ohio State

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NOTES

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