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Values of Sigma Pi Fraternity

 

Our Mission:

 

The ideals of Sigma Pi, which constitute the underlying reason for the Fraternity's rise, development, and continued existence, are plainly set forth in the Constitution, and are in essence as follows:

• To establish a brotherhood.
• To establish and maintain an aristocracy of learning.
• To raise the standards of morality and develop character.
• To diffuse culture and encourage chivalry.
• To promote the spirit of civic righteousness and quicken the national conscience.

It will be observed that these five objects touch upon three different phases of a man's life: namely, his Contacts, his Concepts, and his Controls.

 

Our Creed:

 

I Believe In Sigma Pi...

A Fellowship of Kindred Minds, United in Brotherhood

Though we attend different colleges and universities, in different regions of North America, we are bound by ritual as men of Sigma Pi. It is in this ritual that we have taken several oaths (discussed in the Creed) which make us desire to be a cut above the average college man. Our fellowship in brotherhood helps us all through the mutual supports of like minded individuals who strive to be the best as we prepare to be the new generation of leaders.

To Advance Truth and Justice

History has shown that a majority of tomorrow's leaders in business and politics have come from the ranks of college students who belong to fraternities and sororities. Success in business began for over one-third of the CEOs of Fortune 500 companies with the experiences and knowledge they learned as part of a Greek organization.

In all three branches of our Government, the leaders of today were the undergraduate Greeks of yester-year. In the legislative branch there has been great consistency as at least one-third of all Congressional Representatives in the last few decades are Greek members. The Executive Branch has also been dominated by fraternal members as 19 of the last 26 United States Presidents, including current President George W. Bush, have been Greek men. Thousands of men and women who work in the judicial system are proud members of Greek organizations, who learned their skills for discerning truth from the discipline and ethics taught by all fraternal orders.

One of the most famous Judges in World War II history was Judge Curtis Shake, who presided over the Nuremburg Trials; making war criminals responsible for their crimes. Undoubtedly the tough decisions he helped to make were based on truth and justice which had been a practiced part of his daily life since he joined Sigma Pi Fraternity.

Truth and justice are a major part of our Creed, and our philosophy as members of Sigma Pi Fraternity. They are listed first in our Creed because all values are based on these principles which must be held in highest regard and diligently adhered. Truth and justice must be the principles most often practiced in our own chapters as we learn to perfect our skills as the new generation of leaders, because they will emerge from our membership.

Sen. Barry Goldwater stated many years ago, "The Fraternity system is the last form of true democracy in our nation." The esteemed legislator and Greek member was right as we have historically held these classical characteristics to govern ourselves not only at the chapter, but also at the international level of our organization.

To Promote Scholarship

Any man of Sigma Pi Fraternity decided first to attend a college or university for the purpose of attaining a higher level of education to help him become a success in the future. The drive for excellence in scholarship is an essential part of our Creed, and thus is set high in our list of ideals. As a Fraternity, our first order of business is to provide the type of environment and support which will help all members succeed academically, (Bylaw 19, Section 1 (b), Bylaws of Sigma Pi Fraternity, International, 2004.)

Each chapter should assist each member and pledge with study areas and allotted study hours within the brotherhood. Collectively through council and academic assistance, our elder members can assist the younger ones with guidance in all matters of collegiate life. From course selection to financial aid, our membership will prosper with the internal support for academic success.

The Constitution of Sigma Pi Fraternity mirrors the Creed as it states that members have the obligation, "To establish and maintain an aristocracy of learning, consisting of the ablest men in all branches of the Liberal Arts, Sciences, Philosophy, Theology, Law, Commerce, Agriculture, Engineering and Administration," (Article II (b), Constitution of Sigma Pi Fraternity, International, 2004.)

In fact, our Fraternity holds the promotion of scholarship in such importance that Bylaw 19, of the Bylaws of Sigma Pi Fraternity, was created to outline academic excellence. In Bylaw 19, provisions have been made so each chapter must have a scholarship committee, and must adhere to minimum grade point averages to be successful. Academic Excellence is expected of each member and the, "Chapter overall GPA goals should be greater than the all-men's or all-fraternity GPA at their institution," (Bylaw 19, Section 2, d (1); Bylaws of Sigma Pi Fraternity, International, 2004.)

The Bylaws and the Constitution of the Fraternity have been established, and voted on by the undergraduate members at each Convocation as the Sigma Pi has progressed though the last 109 years. In that time we have never faltered in our ambition to have the best members, and the best academic standings on campus. Historically, members of Sigma Pi Fraternity have collectively held a higher grade point average than the all-men's GPA on campus; which speaks volumes on behalf of the necessity of our existence for all of those in opposition of the existence of Greek organizations on campuses across North America.

Encourage Chivalry:

Despite an atrophy of moral standards in contemporary society, a Sigma Pi man will stand apart, even if alone, in conduct concerning women. We hold ourselves and each other to a higher standing concerning the opposite sex, and are bound to treat each woman with the respect, dignity and honor that we would bestow on our own mother, sister.

Success within the Greek community requires not only a close and friendly working relationship with other fraternities, but also the numerous sororities on our campuses. To become the leaders of tomorrow, we must conduct ourselves properly as gentlemen and scholars.

As members of Sigma Pi Fraternity, we will not condone, nor promote printed items (such as t-shirts, posters, banners, websites) which promote the degradation of womankind in any manner. Obscene and sexually explicit material will not be published by anyone, especially within our organization which contains our name or our logos (protected by copy write) which would cause dishonor for the Fraternity or any of its members.

Demeaning even one woman, let alone many, is absolutely asinine for a man. We know that each man understands the principles of chivalry, and we expect the conduct becoming a gentleman to be apparent in the daily actions from each of our members.

Diffuse Culture:

Diffusing culture is more than just abstaining from participation in racial slurs, generalizations about groups of people and prejudice; a renaissance man will gain knowledge of many cultures and people to set himself up for success in a global marketplace.

Each man who attends college will join a new and diverse community of people who are different than the family and friends he is accustomed to in his primary education. Through learning about others by interacting and supporting them, a man will not only make a large number of friends and contacts, but also become prone to greater success in the future.

A Sigma Pi man recognizes early in his college career that he is in a continual evolution to make himself a better man socially and professionally. By learning other cultures and experiencing new concepts which are foreign to him, a man becomes better prepared no matter where he will go after his collegiate study. This is imperative for every man who wants to evolve beyond his level of maturity in his life prior to joining Sigma Pi Fraternity.

Do not be confused by differences in your chapter and others, either. Though the culture in the north is different than the south, just as the west is far different then the natural instincts in Canada… all chapter members are the same in ideals and Creed.

Develop Character:

One of the fundamental objectives of the Fraternity is the development of character in each of its members. While the true essence of character is difficult to define, it can be exemplified by a man's standard of conduct, his acceptance of responsibility and his own self-image. The true fraternity man strives to attain the highest level possible in each of these areas.

In formulating his standards of conduct, the fraternity man is conscious of those around him. His speech and actions should be constructed to make his company enjoyable without embarrassment. Where possible, he offers to help others and shows a sincere concern for their well being. He accepts criticism, angers slowly, and is ready to forgive. In short, he displays the manners which mark the educated man.

Throughout the Fraternity experience, there are numerous opportunities to get involved. The first step would be as a member of a committee or intramural team. The next step would involve progressing to that of chairman. Finally, the step of holding an elected office may be presented to a member. As each man progresses through the steps of involvement his success will be determined by not only his contribution level, but also the development of his leadership skills.

Essential to the competent leader is the development of a strong character. The further it is developed, the more he will progress in his leadership responsibilities.

In the Service of God and Man:

Yes, God is in the Creed, and even if you are an agnostic or atheist, if you are a Sigma Pi man you say the whole Creed and do your best to live it. It is the oath you have taken and repeated since you pledged. The ideal of service to God is not an archaic concept. An active pursuit of becoming a better man starts with a belief in something greater than one's self. Everyone serves their God in different ways, and each individual member of the Fraternity must discover and develop the way that it is best for him.

Service to man is clearly outlined in the Constitution of Sigma Pi, International, 2004. It states that "all chapters of Sigma Pi Fraternity will conduct at least one philanthropic event to benefit their fellow man." As we become the leaders of tomorrow, we must not forget the people we will not only guide, but also represent. In our world there are many who are less fortunate than we are, and we are bound by duty as gentlemen to show compassion and charity to help those in need.

This service is not only to be directed groups outside of our communities. Often groups will have greater success if they can identify personally who they are working for. Do not be afraid to contact local charities as well as the Red Cross when you set up next year's benefit calendar. Look for a person or cause to help locally to make the biggest impact in not only the local community, but also your chapter. Community service should be personal, with emotion attached to drive the project forward to achieve bold goals.

And I will strive to make real the fraternities ideals in my own daily life:

Benjamin Franklin kept a journal of everything he did wrong on a nightly basis before he retired for the evening, not for the purpose of demeaning his self-confidence, but instead in an effort to make himself a better man through what he called the relentless pursuit of perfection. None of us are perfect, and we do not expect you to keep a journal to become a successful leader and statesman like Mr. Franklin; but each member is bound by his word in this oath to try to do all of these things… in a way to find our own path to the pursuit of perfection as the new generation of leaders.

 

The Ten Obligations of Sigma Pi:

 

In all chapters there should be pledge organizations for the purpose of acquainting the pledges with each other, familiarizing them with the procedures of the organizations, and of instructing them about Sigma Pi through a regular course of education. Usually pledges elect their own officers and, to considerable extent, manage their own affairs. At pledge meetings it is appropriate for any pledge to ask the chairman or pledge educator for permission to be heard and then, after being given the floor, to express himself on matters which may interest him. He may obtain backing for his ideas by introducing a resolution favoring his point for acceptance by the pledge organization. This resolution, if adopted, may then be presented for consideration by active members at a regular chapter meeting.

Not every man who joins a fraternity is going to become a devout member. It is only natural some will develop a greater interest than others. Sigma Pi expects from every member and pledge a reasonable amount of interest and participation in its affairs; in other words membership involves obligations. These obligations can be grouped under ten general headings and, although considered from the standpoint of a pledge, they apply to active and alumni brothers as well.

1) Give proper attention to the interests of Sigma Pi

Ordinarily a man should not become a pledge to a fraternity unless he can give a reasonable amount of time to its affairs. Let us say not less than three or four hours a week to serious thought and real work contributions toward the improvement of the organization.

Every pledge should look forward to holding at least one major chapter office. A pledge should make certain he will be able to attend chapter meetings and social affairs, and should not permit social engagements or interests without the chapter to interfere with fraternity meetings and functions. Upon becoming an alumnus, a member should endeavor to affiliate with an alumni group, to give both moral and general support to his chapter and to return to the campus for reunions, etc.

2) Regard the Fraternity with a Spirit of Sincerity and Respect and Give Earnest Consideration to its Teachings and Ideals

It is absurd to attempt to control another's thoughts; nor would it be desirable or in harmony with the ideals of Sigma Pi to suppress individuality or freedom of mind. When a pledge accepts the offer of membership, he obligates himself to regard the Fraternity with a spirit of sincerity and respect and to give its teachings his sincere consideration. Of course, he is expected to live up to his obligations. A disrespectful attitude toward the Fraternity is uncalled for and out of place and constitutes sufficient grounds for reprimand or other punishment, so long as the Fraternity continues to be motivated by its ideals.

3) Meet Financial Obligations Promptly and Fully

Every pledge and member is expected to assume not only his share of financial obligations in the Fraternity but also to pay all house bills, dues, and assessments when due. A chapter must have income to operate just the same as any commercial institution. Because of the mutual character of Sigma Pi and the fact a chapter is maintained by students whose finances are sometimes limited, it is even more necessary bills be paid promptly to the Fraternity. No one should ever become a pledge to a fraternity without first being informed specifically about all financial obligations. A pledge should withdraw if at any time he finds he cannot meet his fraternity obligations in full and with promptness. A chapter is thoroughly justified and, in accordance with the regulations of the Grand Chapter of Sigma Pi, is in fact required to sever relations with any pledge or member who does not pay his bills promptly.

4) Cheerfully Perform Taks that may be Assigned for the Good of the Fraternity

No man wants to belong to a fraternity he cannot respect. Before initiation the pledge is not in a position to know or appreciate fully the significance and importance of Sigma Pi ideals and influences. A pledge is expected to join in with active members in performing duties necessary to the chapter's well-being. In addition to insuring their respect, this method of service offers the satisfaction of utilizing their labor toward the progress of an institution in which they have a vital interest. Sometimes members do not discharge their duties and responsibilities with efficiency and dispatch. This sets a very poor example for the pledges. No member, whether an undergraduate or an alumnus, should assume an office or accept appointment on any committee in his chapter or in the Grand Chapter unless he has both the time and the intention to perform to the very best of his ability all tasks connected with the office.

5) At All Times Be a Gentleman and Use Moderation in All Things

Courtesy and consideration, the foundation of manners and major ingredients or morals, should be the guiding principles in a pledge's or member's behavior not only in the chapter house and among fraternity brothers but everywhere. Neither pledges nor initiated members should show disrespect in any way whatsoever to the name of Sigma Pi.

6) Strive At All Times to Cooperate for the Good of the Fraternity

When a pledge agrees to support the interests of the Brotherhood, he pledges himself to stand by Sigma Pi, not according to any precisely stated formula, but on general principles and in a broad way. This obligation means he will defend the name of Sigma Pi even at the temporary expense of some personal prestige, if such a sacrifice be necessary; he will work for it until he knows fatigue; and he will be ever loyal and true in acknowledgment of the trust vested in him by his associates in the Fraternity. It means he will not discuss fraternity matters of a confidential, personal, or secret nature among non-members. It means he will be constantly on the alert to learn about Sigma Pi in order that he may serve it more capably. It means he will never shun an opportunity to give his best efforts toward advancing its ideals and good reputation. It means he will attend meetings and chapter functions, he will accept appointments, and he will contribute willingly his time, thought, energy and funds, within reason, toward the advancement of the Fraternity.

7) Work Diligently to Maintain Good Scholarship

Application to academic work and studies is a college man's first duty to his alma mater, his fraternity and himself. He comes to college primarily to acquire knowledge, and this is accomplished by intelligent and conscientious study. Nothing is more fundamental. Scholarship is the most important of all college activities. Nothing should be permitted to interfere with it to such an extent that the student defeats his own purpose in coming to college. It is honorable and directly in harmony with Sigma Pi ideals and standards to study hard, and to be proud of a good scholastic record. Neither a pledge nor an active brother should ever forget: one of the first objectives of the Fraternity is "to establish and maintain and aristocracy of learning," and that second, industry in selecting college graduates for employment, looks upon good grades as an indication of a man's capabilities.

8) Participate in Worthy College Activities

A freshman soon learns that the term "activities" embraces all extra-curricular interests at college and covers a multitude of the most varied occupations and diversions and, in some cases, a "multitude of sins." Participation in college is good and is encouraged pro-vided: it does not interfere with scholarship; it does no injury through physical overexertion; the activities are in themselves worthwhile; and those participating are reasonably well fitted to do so.

Pledges are urged to become involved in constructive activities for which they have a particular bent, if doing so does not overtax their energies or interfere with studies. Pledges and members are cautioned about taking on too many different activities. It is far better to devote one's energies to a few sound and worthy interests, to contribute the most to these, and to derive the most from them than to be a promiscuous joiner. Pledges and members are urged to take part in some outside activities but to use discretion in selecting them.

9) Profit By Associations With Men in a Spirit of Fraternalism

Every pledge is more or less bewildered during his early days of pledgeship. If he has lived in a college town and "knows the ropes" of fraternity organization, he will at least be astonished by the assemblage of personalities. There are a thousand distinct species, and all are different and a bit hard to understand. But it is by living and knowing how to get along with all kinds of people that a man can profit the most from his personal contacts and associations while a college student. Living in intimate contact with interesting personalities, some of whom are likely to be a bit uncongenial at times, offers an opportunity granted to only a few. Most college men never fully appreciate the definite knowledge of human nature which they gain from seeing their fraternity brothers and fellow students at close range.

This opportunity for a life of such intimacy may never again come to them. Few also appreciate how their own characters are molded by this experience, and how tolerance and understanding grow through democratic living in a diversity of personalities.

10) Be an Exemplary Sigma Pi and Citizen

A good pledge and a good fraternity man will respect and abide by the laws and regulations of his fraternity and college, as well as the laws of state. Laws are not intended to restrict personal freedom but are designed for the protection and welfare of all. The more complicated society becomes, the more each individual has to consider his relationships with and responsibilities to others. It is important for a fraternity chapter to promote goodwill on the campus among the affiliated and non-fraternity students. Someone has said that the membership of a chapter is made up of four kinds of bones. There are the wishbones that spend all their time wishing someone else would do the work. Then there are the jaw bones who do all the talking, but very little of anything else. Next comes the knuckle bones who knock everything that everybody else tries to do. And finally there are the backbones who get under the load and do the work. What kind of member will you be? Remember, apathy constitutes the death of a fraternity and an individual.

In general, it can be said Sigma Pi Fraternity hopes and strives to bring out the best in every one of its members. In this hope, however, the Fraternity is doomed to failure unless each member is willing to put forth his best. It should be the personal ambition of every Sigma Pi to conduct himself and to realize the Fraternity's ideals in his own daily life, so that those, both in and out of the Fraternity will want to emulate his character and accomplishments in advancing truth and justice. As long as you have the honor and privilege of doing so, wear with pride your pledge pin and the Sigma Pi badge. Be proud of being a Sigma Pi. Be proud of being a fraternity man.