Is simply reaching a set number of initiates really all that is required for the granting of a charter???
It can be very different for each GLO. For Beta Theta Pi, the power to grant charters is solely vested in the quorom of delegates at our annual national convention. Requirements include having a certain number of positions filled on alumni boards, writing the bylaws and constitution for the colony, and becoming a part of the campus. Usually, the founding fathers will go through a pledge period where they, like everyone else are taught the songs, lore and history of Beta. After completion of this they will be initiated by members of a nearby chapter, or alot of times they will (if feasible) road trip to our Administrative Office and Hall of Chapters in Oxford, Ohio, and be initiated by our Alpha Chapter and Educational Consultants.
Colonies usually take about 2-3 years to get their charter, however if they are in an area with a lot of Beta alums, they may meet the requirements earlier.