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On the 4th "article," point taken - people on here tend to be over-the-top on these things, and I didn't recognize the humor. That's my fault.
I understand what you're saying, and I appreciate your point of view on the subject. I agree that the Northeast hasn't been a priority within the fraternity, as you noted. I think it's been more of a part of the general expansion plan, without any special emphasis towards expanding in the region. At least, that's been my impression...
My issue, so to speak, is that I think we tend to overlook some parts of the expansion process. I think it's great that the fraternity is expanding into new areas, and I agree that growth is necessary to keep the Order going. At the same time, there should be a recognition of what happens when things go wrong. If a colony fails at a school, it's not just a cost of doing business: it may be a better environment in a year or two, but we'll have lost our opportunity by having a failed colony. Plus, you have a group of guys who worked really hard to start a chapter, and they're left without a fraternity. Now, that doesn't necessarily account for risk management issues, but it's something to think about.
I also get the argument that a lack of university support, or university non-recognition, isn't in and of itself a complete barrier towards establishing a chapter. At the same time, it's a HUGE hurdle. It's not just a matter of saying to guys "Hey, it will be tough, but it's worth it! Work hard and recruit, and the rest will take care of itself!" There are some serious challenges that come with starting a chapter at a school where there is no university recognition. You can't use school funds, you don't have IFC/Greek Life office resources to supplement your efforts, etc. I won't say that it's an impossible enterprise, but I think there has to be a LOT of support in place (alumni and otherwise) for it to work.
Like you said, I don't think we're far apart in how we feel about all of this. It will be interesting to see how the new SEC (and other leadership) addresses this over the next 2 years, and beyond.
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