Practice (v): to perform or do repeatedly in order to acquire a skill.

Ritual (n): a prescribed code of behavior regulating social conduct.

The Outer Mysteries inform us we live in the society of man-that Delts must interpret the word "social" in its broader meaning. Our Fraternity's initiatory rite is more than just a once per semester necessity or a means to completing accreditation paperwork. It is a way to acquire the skills of social conduct by deeply reflecting upon our four fundamental principles-Truth, Courage, Faith, and Power. When your chapter practices the Ritual, it practices the ideals of a manly life.

But as you advance into that society of man, the formality and regalia of initiation is unnecessary. For as you can practice an occupation or religion anytime anywhere, so can you practice the Ritual. Therefore, whether in the chapter hall or the halls of Congress, let the badge over your heart be a silent witness to a Delt practicing his Ritual with selflessness and nobility.

VM: What Chapter do you advise?

JP: Beta Phi at Ohio State University

VM: How long have you been advising?

JP: I served as the university chapter advocate for two years, and am in my fifth year as the chapter advisor.

Share a Meal with the New Executive Committee

Brotherhood Sustains Us

• The meal/meeting should be at a site other than the shelter.
• Explain your expectations of truth, integrity and open communication to the committee and encourage the men to take advantage of this opportunity to grow as Delts and as leaders.
• Encourage the committee members to share their expectations of you.
• Emphasize your role is to serve as advisor and counselor. Work to build bridges and help them understand the chapter's direction rests in their hands.

Attend a Finance Committee Meeting

We Are a Financially Vital Organization

• Review the annual/semester budget.
• Review the progress of accounts receivable and accounts payable.
• Determine if a smooth officer transition has taken place. Is the new finance committee aware of receivables, payables and policies?

Meet With New Members and Pledges

Brotherhood Sustains Us

• Welcome them into Delta Tau Delta Fraternity.
• Review the Member Responsibility Guidelines with new member and pledges.
• Discuss pledge activities to date and scheduled activities. Are they useful?

Review/Approve Academic Affairs Plan

We Are an Academic Leader in the Fraternity World

• Discuss the chapter's assistance to members below a 2.25 G.P.A. for last semester. How are they going to help the members move beyond academic probation?

Attend a Recruitment Committee meeting.

We Are a Growing Organization

• Discuss the chapter's plans regarding recruiting quality men.
• Facilitate the development of a timeline of events and due dates for actions to be taken.
• Ensure someone is accountable for reviewing the plan with the entire chapter.
• Ensure someone is accountable for obtaining a list of prospective rushees.

 Click here for the Vital Tasks for Advisors.