New Member Education Plan - Spring 2020Kappa Alpha Theta
Introduction to the New Member Education Program
Welcome to Kappa Alpha Theta! We are delighted that you have chosen to become part of our sisterhood. This New Member Education Plan has been carefully designed to introduce you to the values, traditions, and expectations of our organization. Throughout the Spring 2020 semester, you will participate in a structured program that will help you develop a deeper understanding of what it means to be a Theta.
Our mission is to provide personal and intellectual growth for our members through a values-based experience. This education plan aligns with that mission and aims to help you:
- Learn the founding principles and history of Kappa Alpha Theta
- Develop meaningful relationships with your new sisters
- Understand Theta's values and how they apply to your life
- Prepare for active engagement within the chapter
- Grow personally and intellectually through structured activities
Program Goals and Objectives
The primary goal of our New Member Education Program is to facilitate your transition to membership while preparing you to be an engaged, responsible, and knowledgeable Theta. By the completion of this program, new members will be able to:
- Articulate the Core Values of Kappa Alpha Theta: Scholarship, Personal Excellence, Friendship/Sisterhood, and Service
- Identify key Theta symbols, traditions, and ritual practices
- Understand our organizational governance structure and leadership opportunities
- Demonstrate knowledge of Theta's health and safety policies
- Build relationships with chapter members across all class years
- Develop a personal plan for academic success
- Create a foundation for lifelong engagement with Kappa Alpha Theta
Spring 2020 Timeline
Week 1: Orientation & Introduction
New member orientation, welcome reception, and introduction to Theta history and values.
Week 2: Sisterhood & Values
Small group discussions on Theta values, sisterhood activities, and personal development workshop.
Week 3: Scholarship Focus
Academic expectations, study skills workshop, and meeting with academic advisor.
Week 4: Service & Philanthropy
Introduction to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), our national philanthropy, and local service opportunities.
Week 5: Ritual & Tradition
Examination of Theta symbolism, heritage, and ceremonial traditions.
Week 6: Leadership & Responsibility
Review of chapter governance, leadership opportunities, and personal responsibility.
Week 7: Big/Little Reveal
Formal introduction to your Big Sister and beginning of the mentorship relationship.
Week 8: Initiation Preparation
Final preparation for initiation, reflection on your journey, and initiation ceremony.
Education Modules
Module 1: Theta Heritage
This module covers the founding of Kappa Alpha Theta in 1870 and our place in history as the first Greek-letter fraternity for women. You will learn about founders Bettie Locke Hamilton, Alice Allen Bryant, Hannah Fitch Shaw, and Bettie Tipton Lindsay, and their vision for women's higher education.
Module 2: Theta Values
Through interactive activities and discussions, you will explore Theta's core values and how they apply to your daily life. This module includes reflection exercises, values card sorts, and group activities designed to deepen your understanding.
Module 3: Scholarship & Personal Excellence
This module focuses on academic achievement and personal growth. You will set academic goals, establish study habits, and learn about Theta scholastic requirements and support systems.
Module 4: Philanthropy & Service
Learn about Theta's commitment to supporting CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and other service opportunities. This module includes a service project and discussion about the importance of community involvement.
Module 5: Theta Ritual & Symbols
Explore the meaning behind Theta's symbols, colors, and ritual elements. This module provides context for the ceremonial aspects of our organization while maintaining the confidentiality of initiation elements.
Module 6: Health & Safety
This essential module covers Theta's policies regarding alcohol, hazing prevention, mental health resources, and bystander intervention. You will learn about our commitment to creating a safe and positive experience for all members.
Module 7: Leadership & Involvement
Discover opportunities for leadership within Theta and develop skills for effective teamwork. This module includes exercises to identify your strengths and how they can contribute to the chapter.
New Member Expectations
Attendance: New members are expected to attend all scheduled new member education activities and chapter meetings. If an absence is unavoidable, the New Member Educator must be notified in advance.
Academic Performance: New members must maintain the academic standards set by the chapter and demonstrate commitment to their educational responsibilities.
Financial Responsibility: All new member fees and initiation fees must be paid in accordance with the payment schedule provided during orientation.
Conduct: New members are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with Theta's values and principles at all times.
Engagement: Active participation in education activities, chapter events, and new member discussions is essential for the successful completion of the program.
Mentorship: Establish a positive relationship with assigned Big Sister and engage in mentorship activities throughout the new member period.
Resources for New Members
We are committed to supporting you throughout your new member experience. The following resources are available to you:
New Member Educator
The New Member Educator serves as your primary resource and guide throughout this process. They are available to answer questions, provide support, and ensure your new member experience is positive and meaningful.
New Member Handbook
A comprehensive handbook containing information about Theta history, values, policies, and practical information will be provided to all new members at orientation.
Theta Website and Member Portal
Online resources through the Kappa Alpha Theta website and member portal provide additional information, educational materials, and connection opportunities.
Chapter Officers
Various chapter officers are available to assist with specific areas of membership:
- Scholarship Chair - Academic resources and support
- Philanthropy Chair - Service opportunities and information about CASA
- Risk Management Chair - Safety policies and resources
- Panhellenic Delegate - Inter-sorority relations and Panhellenic information
- Mental Health/Wellness Chair - Health and wellness resources
Mentorship
In addition to your Big Sister, you will have access to chapter leadership and alumni mentors who can provide guidance and support throughout your college experience.
Big Sister Program
The Big Sister program is one of the most meaningful aspects of Theta membership. Each new member will be paired with an older member who serves as a mentor, friend, and guide throughout your new member experience and beyond.
Big Sister Responsibilities
- Provide support, guidance, and friendship
- Explain chapter practices and help navigate membership
- Model Theta values and ethical behavior
- Create a positive and meaningful mentorship experience
- Respect boundaries and maintain appropriate mentoring relationships
Little Sister Expectations
- Communicate openly and honestly with your Big Sister
- Attend planned Big/Little activities
- Ask questions about Theta and membership
- Respect the time and effort your Big Sister invests in the relationship
- Contribute to building a positive mentorship experience
Scholarship Expectations
Kappa Alpha Theta places highest value on scholarship and academic achievement. As new members, you will be expected to:
- Maintain the chapter's minimum GPA requirement
- Attend chapter study hours as required
- Develop an academic plan and goals for the semester
- Communicate with the Scholarship Chair about academic challenges
- Utilize academic resources available through the university and chapter
- Support fellow members in their academic pursuits
Theta offers various academic support systems including study groups, tutoring resources, and recognition for academic achievement. The Scholarship Chair and officers are available to help you develop strategies for academic success.
Initiation Preparation
The culmination of the new member education period is initiation into Kappa Alpha Theta. This ceremony is a meaningful and significant milestone in your Theta journey. Leading up to initiation, you will:
- Participate in reflection activities about your new member experience
- Complete all education module requirements
- Meet with the New Member Educator to discuss your experience
- Learn appropriate attire and preparation for the ceremony
- Attend the initiation banquet following the ceremony
Initiation marks your transition from new member to full initiate, opening opportunities for deeper engagement with Theta's ritual and governance. Following initiation, you will be eligible to hold officer positions, attend our ritual ceremonies, and vote on chapter matters.
Questions and Support
We are excited to welcome you into our Theta sisterhood! If you have any questions or concerns about the New Member Education Program, please contact:
New Member Educator: [Name], [Email], [Phone]
Chapter President: [Name], [Email], [Phone]
For additional information about Kappa Alpha Theta at the international level, please visit www.kappaalphatheta.org.
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