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While I agree that alum are a very important part of chapter existance, I do believe that there should be some type of separation between active collegiate members and alumnae members.
Alumnae members' opinions and views are valuable, but sometimes they are expected to be followed even though the active membership sees things differently. The comments about "we never did that before" or "you should do it THIS way" are sometimes not necessary. Alumnae sometimes forget that with each new member group the chapter dynamic changes to some extent. Inclusiveness and diversity are the goals...Right? Well that means that you will have people from all walks of life with their own opinions and beliefs in the active collegiate membership.
One of my personal beliefs is that just because something is different that doesn't make it wrong. This is not the impression that some alumnae members give.
As far as voting the alumnae members in a meeting, that isn't always necessary; however, some ground rules should be established. I do think the chapter should be notified if they are coming so that the chapter can prepare for them. The chapter may be participating in an activity and the alumnae member needs some supplies. Well if the chapter isn't aware that she is coming, they won't know to bring enough of whatever it is that is needed. Or on the other side, if the chapter has been asked to bring whatever to a meeting, the alumnae should be notified of the activity so that she can prepare and be an active part of the meeting rather than watching over and passing judgement.
An earlier post stated that if the alumnae member attends a meeting she has "voice." Well sometimes the "voice" of the alumnae can be too influential to other members. This can put newer members at a disadvantage. Her voice may not be as loud anymore since the more veteran members may feel obligated to side with the alumnae out of some since of duty or obligation because "she's an alum."
Collegiates should run the chapter and make the decisions. The collegiates are obligated to attend meetings and philanthropies and fundraisers and be in two extra curricular activities and maintain academic excellence and most of all collegiates pay dues. Is it fair for the alumnae to reap all of the same benifits without the same obligations all of the time? There should be some things that make being active, attractive. I suppose I feel this way because my chapter is slightly different from most. Many of the women in my chapter can initiate today and apply for alumnae status tomorrow. Many of the women are married, have children, are graduate students, etc.
Alumnae support is always welcome as well as their advice. But that's what it is...advice - not do this because this is how we did it when...
Events to enhance the relationship between the alumnae and the actives should be scheduled. All chapter celebrations should be open to alumnae. Actives should show off all of the good things that they are doing to the alumnae.
Sorry for the long post, but I suppose I'm passionate about this and wanted to express a slightly different point of view.
Scooby
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