Crescent On the Yard - Spring 2023 Issue

CONCLAVE READY!

SPRING

All throughout the year, we celebrate Black Joy.

Its beauty. Its brilliance. Its variety. Its tenacity. Its resilience. Its ability to thrive despite everything.

The power of Black Joy truly knows no bounds... it’s A Joy Supreme. Celebrate A Joy Supreme with us at aarp.org/blackcommunity

BELIEVE IN OUR POWER

Greetings Brothers!

I’m truly excited to greet you on behalf of your fraternity leadership. As we prepare to gather in the City of Houston for our International conference, my pride is overflowing as I think of the many milestones we will celebrate when we get to Houston.

After visiting all seven regions (in-person and virtually), I’ve seen first-hand your excitement as you’ve connected with the administration’s mantra: Empowering Generations of Men to Believe in Advocacy, Community Service and Engagement. My collegiate Sigma Brothers are taking their rightful place as efficient and dedicated armor bearers of the mission. Congratulations to those collegiate chapters and individual brothers who were recognized for your excellent service during your region’s conference. I hope you can see and recognize your power in representing this great fraternity.

Now I encourage you to utilize that same energy in promoting our Conclave theme “Believe in Our Power, Leading the Movement.” As Sigma Men, alumni and collegians, we’re elevating our brand to show ourselves as the rightful leaders advancing causes that impact the communities we serve. We have been intentional in affecting change on campuses, in our communities, in the courtroom and the boardrooms.

Your conclave experience will hopefully help to position you for future leadership. We’re planning a week of worthwhile programs, events, activities and sessions that will assist you in achieving your fraternal, professional, and academic goals. This issue is also designed to assist you in preparing for Conclave. We want you to be Conclave-Ready!

Read and absorb these pages thoroughly. Use this issue as a support document to the Chapter Planning Toolkit and the upcoming Everything You Need to Know Guide.

Anticipating a great time will be had by all. See you in Houston!

Fraternally,

Hon. Chris V. Rey, JD International President

FIRED UP & READY TO GO!

Greetings to my fellow Collegian Brothers,

I’m fired up and ready to go to Houston, Texas! I cannot wait to greet each of you at Conclave Houston 2023. Your International Collegiate Affairs Committee (ICAC) has been working very hard with the Conclave Executive Planning Team and International Headquarters staff to develop a Conclave Experience you will be proud to participate in.

Each day of the Conference is loaded with interesting activities and programs, with special events planned solely for collegians. Don’t miss the Morning Fitness Booster, Alain Leroy Locke Honors Chapter Induction, Oratorical & Debate Competition, Billboard Jackson Business Competition, STEM Competition, Model Chapter Award Finals, Collegiate Luncheon, International Step Show Competition, Miss International Phi Beta Sigma Pageant, Collegiate Connection, and All-White Pool Party & Cookout.

For graduating seniors or juniors transitioning into your final year, check out the Sigma Exposition where several vendors and recruiters representing government agencies and corporations will have booths to discuss potential employment

opportunities. More than anything, I look forward to hanging out with my bros, strolling and turning Houston Blue!

This issue will help you prepare to be “Conclave Ready!” Take your time and read it thoroughly – it’s designed with you in mind.

Let me see you there!

G.O.M.A.B.

Brother Maxwell McDaniel International Second Vice President

EPSILON CHI CHAPTER REPS SIGMA AT

International and local Chicago leaders of the National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC) were recently honored during the Bulls City Edition Halftime Show on Friday, February 24, 2023 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, home of the NBA’s Chicago Bulls. Representing Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. was Brother David A. Turner, International First Vice President and resident of Chicago, while Dr. Stacie N.C. Grant, International President & CEO, represented our sisters of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

The tribute to Black Greeklettered fraternities and sororities was conceived by Frater Derrick Christian of the Chicago Bulls organization and member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Although the halftime show has been replicated by other NBA teams, Frater Christian’s vision was to showcase the unity of the NPHC – how nine organizations come together as one. The Halftime Show took place during this season’s game between the Chicago Bulls vs. the Long Island Nets. The brothers of Epsilon Chi Chapter at Illinois State University (Normal, Illinois) represented Phi Beta Sigma for the performance.

“This was an amazing experience,” says Brother Damon Turner, chapter president. “It was great to perform with one of my neos and more brothers this year, and to showcase our talents and hard work for the organization.” Performing with Bro. Turner were

EX brothers Kenyetta Williams, Tylen Webb, Lamitrius Watson and Kendall Keller, a transfer to EX from Iota

This is the fourth year that EX has represented Phi Beta Sigma during the Bulls Halftime Show. Frater Christian first reached out to Brothers Watson and Webb in 2019 and selected the two to perform. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 the show was cancelled along with in-person games. Brothers Turner and Keller performed in ‘21 and ’22. “We had the opportunity to present International President Chris Rey last year and this year we met International First Vice President David Turner and Zeta Phi Beta’s Grand Basileus, Dr. Stacie N.C. Grant. Also, this year, to support the look of unity, they provided us with similar jackets.”

In expressing his appreciation for the opportunity, Bro. Turner said “I’m not sure how and why EX was first chosen, but I’m really happy that we were. I love this experience – it’s the best opportunity.”

Side Note: Epsilon Chi Chapter will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary jointly with the alumni sorors of Lambda Epsilon Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority from May 26 – 29, 2023 at Illinois State University.

Chi Chapter at Western Illinois University.

GOAL SETTING IN FOUR STEPS FOR FIRST-GEN COLLEGE STUDENTS

By Jarrod D. Benjamin

A new year has begun, and everywhere I turn, there’s messaging regarding resolutions. The truth is many people fail the resolutions before the first quarter concludes. That’s why I prefer to set specific goals rather than resolutions. I’ve always been an ambitious individual. However, it wasn’t until I became aware of the power of goal setting that the things I desired began to come into view. Looking back, I wonder how much sooner I’d have accomplished things if I’d had someone intentionally pouring into me about how to set goals. As a leader and mentor in the higher education space, a lot of my work is driven by compassion and service: “How can I be to students and staff what I needed earlier in my career?” This is part of why I have dedicated my first thoughts of the year to showing the community that I champion most the why and specific how when it comes to goal setting. Setting others up for success from the outset puts achievement closer within reach.

Goal setting is an essential aspect of success in college and beyond. For African American first-generation college students, setting and achieving goals can be particularly challenging due to the unique challenges and obstacles they face. With the right mindset and strategies, you can overcome these challenges and achieve your goals.

STEP 1: IDENTIFY YOUR VALUES

One of the first steps in goal setting is identifying your values, i.e. what is most important to you. This will help you determine your goals in college and life. For many students, the primary goal may be to earn a degree and provide for their families. Other goals may include career advancement, financial stability, and personal growth.

STEP 2: SET SMART GOALS

Once you have identified your goals, it is crucial to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timebound (SMART) goals. Your goals should be clear, realistic and have specific deadlines for completion. For example, instead of “earning a degree,” set a specific goal of “earning a bachelor’s degree in business within four years.”

STEP 3: CREATE A CLEAR PLAN OF ACTION

Creating a plan of action includes breaking down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks and setting deadlines for completion. It also includes identifying potential obstacles or challenges and developing strategies to overcome them.

STEP 4: PREPARE FOR OBSTACLES

African American first-generation college students often face unique challenges such as cultural barriers, financial constraints, and lack of support from family and friends. To overcome these challenges, seek out support and resources such as mentorship, tutoring, and financial aid. Joining clubs or organizations that align with your interests and goals can also provide valuable support and networking opportunities.

“ONE WORD CREATES A LASER-LIKE FOCUS THAT LASTS.”

As I think of goal setting in my life, I think about Jon Gordon’s One Word That Will Change Your Life. “One Word creates a laser-like focus that lasts.” Once I identify my one word, I use it to guide me through the four steps of goal setting. And I repeat the process to set goals for specific areas in my life. The word that reinforces my goal setting is complete. I ask myself specific questions related to the word. What do I want to complete in my spiritual life? What do I want to complete in my career life? What do I want to complete in my personal life? What will be able to accomplish when I complete the goals attached to my mental and physical health? The idea is that using one word to guide my goal setting will create a lasting result in the area.

In conclusion, goal setting is necessary for the of success for African American first-generation college students. By identifying your values, setting SMART goals, creating a plan of action, and preparing for obstacles, you can overcome the unique challenges that may arise and achieve your goals. Processing your goals through the lens of “one word” will intensify your focus in those areas. So, what’s your one word? And what are your goals?

The field of medicine is changing at an unprecedented pace, driven by the advancing of social, technological and scientific achievements. Changes in this healthcare revolution are affecting the role of physicians in the coming decades. The practice of medicine is constantly required to adapt to the needs of current and future populations. Flexible working patterns, virtual wards and clinics, machine learning aids in diagnostics, enhanced patient monitoring and machine-assisted procedures are just a few aspects of a changing health environment. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity is proud to have amongst its members future physicians currently in training, preparing to enter the workforce to meet the ever-changing challenges ahead.

The Crescent on The Yard is proud to introduce five phenomenal future doctors;

BROTHER JOEY BRECKINRIDGE, JR.

Bro. Joey Breckenridge, Jr. is a 2nd year Ph.D. candidate at the University of Cincinnati Immunology. He was initiated in Fall 2017 at Tau Chapter at the University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering in 2020 and Master of Engineering in 2021.

BROTHER BOBBY CAVETT, JR. & BROTHER TEVIN TILLMAN

Bro. Bobby Cavett Jr. and Bro. Tevin Tillman are 1st year medical students at Ross University School of Medicine, both planning to be anesthesiologists. They were initiated in Theta Beta Chapter at The University of Southern Mississippi and are currently members of Mu Sigma in Jackson, Mississippi in the Southern Region.

BROTHER

DANTE HAIR

Bro. Danté Hair is a member of Kappa Iota Chapter at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC in the Southeastern Region. He is a Biology major.

BROTHER BRIAN JORDAN

Bro. Brian Jordan working on dual degrees as a Senior at Tougaloo College and P1 at Xavier University of Louisiana College of Pharmacy. He’s a member of Beta Rho Chapter at Tougaloo College. He is working toward the Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

A LONGSTANDING LEGACY STILL HOLDING STRONG:

THE LARGEST COLLEGIATE CHAPTER

CONSISTENTLY RUNS THE YARD AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS

Throughout Phi Beta Sigma’s history there have always been chapters that have made significant contributions on the life of the fraternity. Chapters reaching international notoriety includes, but is not limited to, Alpha at Howard University, Eta at North Carolina A&T State University, Chi at Morehouse College, Delta Theta at Prairie View A&M University and many others.

In this issue, we pause to recognize a consistent leader amongst collegiate chapters: Delta Nu at the University of Memphis in Memphis, TN. Delta Nu continues to rank high on the list of chapters with large memberships, ending 2022 with the title of the Largest Collegiate Chapter.

But large numbers aren’t the only reason Delta Nu celebrates consistent recognition, the chapter has maintained a spirit of leadership that’s become a legacy extremely well known throughout Phi Beta Sigma. Sigma leaders are born in Delta Nu and operate in a well-rounded organization based on results-driven community service, campus involvement and fraternitywide participation. The Blue & White Family has developed into a dynasty-like atmosphere in the City of Memphis.

Founded in 1963, the “Devastating” Delta Nu Chapter has initiated a stellar roll of decorated Sigma leaders over the last five decades. DN initiates have served and currently serve the fraternity on all levels, including Hon. Bro. Daryl A. Anderson, Sr., current International Executive Director, Bro. Brandon Hill, Southwestern Regional Director and LaDarius Millen, President of Tau Iota Sigma Chapter. Others include Bro. Dane Norvell, II, past International 2nd Vice President, Bro. Darian Hayes, past Collegiate Member-at-Large, Bro. Elton Nichols past Southwestern Region Collegiate Memberat-Large, Hon. Bro. T.J. Lewis and Hon. Bro. Martin Currie, both past Southwestern Regional Directors,

General Board officers and DSC members.

What’s the overall motivation that keeps Delta Nu operating at such a high level? What’s in the water? “It’s the legacy Delta Nu holds,” says Brother Amir Asaya Embry, newly elected chapter president. “Delta Nu has brought many illustrious and honorable brothers to Phi Beta Sigma and everyone wants to continue the legacy that they’ve created.”

Spoken and unspoken, when members join Delta Nu they learn of the legacy that must be upheld. For most, that indoctrination develops a mindset of improving the chapter and causing it to continually flourish.

Brother Daryl Anderson, Jr., current chapter advisor can attest to the chapter’s continued commitment to its historic reputation. “As a former student, initiated in Delta Nu, I do believe that the current chapter is continuing the reputation established by its alumni by continually being the largest chapter in the fraternity, model chapter in the region, participating in the Southwestern Region’s pageant and winning the regional step shows.”

The Founders of Phi Beta Sigma thought it mandatory to recruit campus leaders from all facets of the university to assure a diverse band of leaders. That vision is reflected in the success of Delta Nu. “The current membership makeup is the most diverse group that I’ve seen in my time in Memphis,” says Brother Embry. “This is a true testament to our motto: inclusion rather than exclusion.”

Prior to joining Phi Beta Sigma, Brother Embry was impacted greatly by Delta Nu. “I was sheltered growing up and never really got to go out and spend time with kids my age, unless I was at school. Nor did I have any siblings. So, in college, I wanted to break out of my shell and have fun with the students around me. Fortunately, I met the Delta Nu Chapter and the members, at that

time, made me feel welcomed despite my difference. They also saw the potential in me to become something great. The brothers inspired me to join the chapter.”

For Brother Brian Robert Gordon, immediate past chapter vice president, “It all started when I saw Brother Darian Hayes become a member. He was the president of an organization that we both were members of, called E.M.O.C. (Empowered Men of Color). I saw the Sigmas on campus in various leadership positions. The Sigmas would always throw fun events and community service programs. I did research on the organization and decided at the time that this is something I wanted to be a part of.”

There’s always one organization on campus who can garner the support of everyone. A skill of the chapter that’s most loved by Delta Nu’s chapter president is its ability to bring the campus together despite differing personalities, backgrounds and upbringings. “We will bring forth a good time and extend a level of support that most organizations thrive to achieve.”

The chapter has various events and activities that brings with them special attention. Amongst them, the Miss Delta Nu Pageant is the most anticipated on the campus. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet more University of Memphis students and affords them the chance to provide pageant participants with scholarships and stipends.

It’s also the development of strong, attention-grabbing programs and activities that helps the chapter continue achieving its membership goals. The primary responsibility rests on the first vice president. “I always strive to throw events on campus that shine a light on Sigma and positively impacts the community,” shared Brother Gordon. “You have to provide fun events for the community and instill a greater purpose behind it,

such as Dodgeball, the Miss Delta Nu Pageant, and Talent Shows. I also encourage brothers to pay their membership dues as early as possible.”

The future of Delta Nu remains bright because of the strong relationship, support and involvement with their sponsoring and advising alumni chapter. Tau Iota Sigma Chapter, Memphis, TN has a program in place, where collegiate members are paired with a mentor in the alumni chapter based on his major. The collegians also attend the alumni chapter’s meetings and service events. Bro. Anderson lends, “I think the commitment is successfully maintained by being advised by advisors who are knowledgeable and committed to teaching the collegians how to be men about business in all walks of life.”

The Blue & White Family is a strong brand on the campus as noted by Brother Gordon. “We love our sisters to death! They know that if they ever have a problem, they can call one of us and we’ll be on the way. We also have great relationships with the other NPHC organizations on campus. We have collaborated with almost all of them at least once.” Brother Anderson agrees with Gordon’s assessment, “Delta Nu is known by students and considered the most personable and friendly Greek organization on campus. They’re perceived as a role model fraternity that leads the way when it comes to campus involvement and scholarship. The administration knows them as innovators who are always ready to volunteer and participate in events, even when others cannot.

“We will continue to demonstrate excellence for the community of the University of Memphis and the City of Memphis.”

CONCLAVE READY!

By Honorable Bro. Daryl A. Anderson, Bro. Steve Ballard and Bro. Joshua A. Busby

Conclave planning takes the concerted and committed involvement of many people, beginning with the overall vision of the International President, which is crafted into segmented parts with specific demographics in mind. The ultimate goal is to create a week-long experience that meets a variety of needs. The collegian Sigma Brother is unique in that his experience is a new experience in the Brotherhood. Activities, programs and events must consider the needs of collegians with regard to understanding fraternity business and policy making, personal, professional and leadership development, and just plain having fun in meeting brothers from across the country.

Key to planning the collegiate brothers’ Conclave experience is the International Collegiate Affairs Committee. I bring you greetings on behalf of the ICAC, which consists of our International Second Vice President Bro. Maxwell McDaniel, International Collegiate Members-at-Large Bro. Shawn Adams and Esteemed Bro. Jared Jackson, as well as myself, Bro. Joshua A. Busby, International Director of Collegiate Affairs. We are gearing up for a Conclave experience like no other for our collegiate brothers! Be on the lookout for special marketing that will highlight all of the events that are collegiate-focused.

Activities for our collegiate brothers will commence on Tuesday, July 11th as we invite our young brothers for the first time to participate in the Demetrius C. Newton Golf Classic. We are fortunate that a corporate partner has agreed to sponsor a collegiate team of four players. Collegiate brothers who golf bring your “A” Game! Collegiate brothers will have an opportunity to participate over the course of the week with our national partner, the American Red Cross by donating blood during one of the official Conclave service projects, a Blood Drive, on site in Houston.

New to this year’s schedule is a series of General Sessions to which the entire brotherhood is invited to attend. Stay tuned for more information on the General Sessions.

partners will be available in the Sigma Exposition area throughout the week to engage as well. Please bring your resumes as there will be internships and jobs offered on the spot!

On Thursday evening we will host the All-White Pool Party, which brothers are already talking about!!! On Saturday afternoon will be a video game tournament to determine who is the top gamer in the frat! The remaining programs are traditional events including the Miss International PBS Pageant, featuring the seven regional queens competing for the title of Miss International Phi Beta Sigma. Immediately following the pageant will be the International Step Show Competition, where the regions battle for the title of International Step Show Champions. The Southeastern Region swept both competitions in Conclave Myrtle Beach 2021 and are planning to do the same again this year; we know the other regions have something to say about that! More information on how to enter your Regional queen and your Step team can be found in the Conclave Chapter Toolkit, downloadable from the Conclave Houston Landing Page in BluPrint.

First and foremost brothers, we come to the Conclave to handle the business of the fraternity. Our first Plenary Session will be held Thursday afternoon, second Plenary session on Friday morning and the last Plenary Session will be Saturday morning. Please ensure that your Chapter Delegate is present and accounted for at every Plenary Session.

On Saturday we feature the Collegiate Luncheon, hosted by one of our corporate partners. Last but not least, Saturday night is the culmination of it all as we celebrate at the Grand Orchid Gala, a longstanding tradition of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity.

We look forward to seeing you in Houston, as this will be a Conclave for the ages!

There are events planned specifically for collegiate brothers, including the Collegiate Connection Reception which allows for our collegiate brothers in attendance to engage with our Corporate Partners. Our Corporate

I’m Hon. Brother Daryl A. Anderson, Sr., International Executive Director, I’m responsible for the overall management of the Conclave Planning Team and International Headquarters Staff and cultivating the Conclave Experience for all brothers.

The Conclave provides a chance to introduce all attendees, but especially collegians, to effect ongoing change in the culture of fraternization. As young Men of Sigma, we start our Sigma lives by interacting with our immediate chapter/campus members. Then, we branch out to work with the Alumni brothers in the sponsoring area. We may eventually attend state and regional Sigma meetings. Conclaves introduce collegians to Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated in its entirety. We come to understand what the term “international” means for our organization. We see the value in connecting and networking with Fraternity brothers who have already launched successful careers in areas that may interest newer brothers. We engage in a structured mentorship process that benefits new members.

First Time attendees and collegians will see Phi Beta Sigma in a larger scope of operation; seeing this “Sigma” creates a joyful noise within each brother! It is one thing to hear about your International officers, read social media posts from various yet anonymous Brothers, see photos of celebrity honorary members, and to see international officers’ signatures on your documents. It is quite different to converse with these same officers and find that they are quite “human” and care for other Brothers!!

Conclaves are an opportunity to inherit what is rightfully yours as a member of the Fraternity, but also to learn

how to manage your inheritance in the best way!! How do collegians handle the business of the organization while participating at the Conclave and appropriately representing their chapters? The answers to these ten frequently asked questions will help to understand how it all works:

1) What is the role of the Chapter Delegate? What is Primary versus Alternate status?

Delegates are the official representatives for their respective chapters. They represent their chapters at all sanctioned events and speak on issues as directed by their respective chapters. They are the “voice” of their chapter and are seated during the legislative (Plenary) sessions. Delegates have the right to ask questions and provide opinions as authorized by the Conclave rules and regulations in the plenary sessions. They have assigned chapter seats during the legislative sessions under the name of their chapter.

The Primary Delegate is the first “voice” for each chapter and is to be present at all Conclave Plenary Sessions. If for some reason the Primary Delegate has to step away from this role, the Alternate Delegate can temporarily step in to represent their chapter. Primary and Alternate Delegates cannot speak and serve simultaneously. Only one at a time!!

2) What are Plenary Sessions?

Plenary Sessions are the legislative meetings during the Conclave. I’m Brother Steve E. Ballard, Director of Communications. Committee reports are heard and voted upon at these sessions. Votes are cast at these meetings. The election of International officers occurs at these meetings.

3) Are Plenary Sessions open for all to attend?

Plenary Sessions are open only to Conclave-registered brothers of the Fraternity.

4) Are there collegiate-specific sessions to attend at Conclave?

Collegiate Brothers (especially the Chapter Delegates) should attend EVERY session listed on the Conclave agenda/schedule.

5) What is the role of committees (elections, grievance, credentials, nominations)? Are there roles for collegians on these committees?

Committees complete their tasks as described in the Fraternity’s constitution. These committees are larger versions of the same work that should occur

on local, state and regional levels when it comes to decision-making in Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. Per the Constitution, there are a specific number of collegiate members on each functional committee serving during the Conclave

6) What is there to do that is Collegiatespecific other than the step show and pageant?

Collegiate Brothers (especially the delegates) come to the Conclave to establish a national agenda for their segment of the Sigma population. There are Collegiate task forces that create the Collegiate agenda for the incoming administration’s General Board. The Conclave planners create networking and mentoring opportunities that promote professional and fraternal growth for each Collegiate attendee. While at the Conclave, attendees determine what Collegiate members will represent them on the International Board.

7) Can we sit in on meetings, even if we are not a delegate or serving on a committee?

Some committees (programs, credentials, awards, etc.) are “open” committees and invite attendees to sit in on the meeting. Other committees (grievance, DSC, law & revisions) are “closed” to those other than the officially appointed committee members.

8) What is there to do within the surrounding area of Conclave, whether it be entertainment, shopping and dining/food?

Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States! The Conclave will take place in the Downtown area and it is continuously engaging to anyone and everyone in the city. There are many activities (Discovery Green), venues (Minute Maid Park, Toyota Center) and restaurants within walking distance of the Conclave hotels. There is a light-rail system that takes visitors around the downtown area.

9) Will collegians have designated or priority seating at certain events?

Yes, priority seating is granted based on the event that is occurring. Those specific events are listed in earlier questions that were answered. Since collegians have their own “Conclave” day on Saturday, July 15, 2023 their priority-seating will rule supreme against all other attendees at that time.

10) If a Collegiate Brother has an interest in volunteering, will there be an opportunity to do so at certain events during the Conclave?

There is ALWAYS an opportunity to volunteer during the Conclave if the brother is registered. Just review the schedule and ask the planners (the International Executive Director) how you can step in to assist.

WHAT TO WEAR TO BE CONCLAVE READY!

As you prepare to travel to Houston, knowing what to wear and when makes all the difference in packing your bags. Some events are traditional and require official brand or uniform attire, while others allow you to flow in Sigma paraphernalia. I’m Steve E. Ballard, Director of Communication and to assist you in planning and packing, we’ve assembled a pictorial guide of the garments that you’ll need to be appropriately dressed throughout the week. You can order and purchase these garments at Blu Culture Collections, the fraternity’s official online retail store.

OPENING CEREMONY & PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION • Professional or business attire is best recommended for these events; suit and tie.

PLENARY SESSION I • The fraternity’s official brand attire of Blue Blazer, blue tie, white shirt and black pants makes up the standard attire for the first Plenary Session. Plenary Sessions II and III is subject to change.

OMEGA & REDEDICATION CEREMONIES • The required attire is a black or dark suit, white shirt and blue tie. DO NOT wear a light color-shade suit. You will not be permitted entrance.

STEP SHOW COMPETITION/MISS INTERNATIONAL PHI BETA SIGMA PAGEANT • For these events and activities, sport your latest Sigma paraphernalia. Stop by the Sigma Exposition and pick up the hottest new gear from Blu Culture Collections or the various participating vendors.

GRAND ORCHID GALA • The closing event for the conference commands a white tuxedo or dinner jacket or white blazer and dark pants.