What we try to do at our exec retreats (it works well it whoever is in charge remembers to do it) is to set goal for the whole year - what are strengths, weaknesses, etc. What is the goal for the WHOLE year (not just the rest of their term). Right out the goals, use the criteria from an award you're aiming for, or just think them up on your own.
From the goals, see where your chapter needs to concentrate their work, or change focus. It is then the exec's job to set the tone and example, how does this fit into their position? How can they provide motivation and opportunities for the women to reach these goals?
I like the idea of each exec member preparing a list of their ideas for the chapter ahead of time, and not just for their own position/department, but for every aspect of the chapter. That way you have more heads thinking, and reminds exec that they are leaders of the sorority, not only their deparment.
Since the officer's term ends part way through the school year, help brainstorm ways they can set up for the incoming person. I remind my officers how daunting it was to come in and then have events they needed to have planned for the next week. Set up the whole years calendar in advance, and have exec work on initial plans for later events. That way they are "paving the way" for the next group, and helping the younger members become confident and successful leaders (vital for continued strength).
Anyways, that's just a few ideas. Goal setting, calendar planning, strengths/weaknesses, brainstorm brainstorm brainstorm, then choose from the ideas so that you are focused, setting up a clear plan with accountability. The best retreats/meetings I've been to is where every officers is on the agenda for the business-y part, with a list of topics, and the whole group participates in the conversation. That way they feel more invested in all the workings, and that they are a team united with shared goals.
Finally, there are a lot of really interesting team and business activities on the internet. We did one where we eached learned what our leadership style was through a questionnaire, and put them all up on a chart where we could see and talk about how we could use everyone's strengths and see how we might relate to each other.
Alright, I'm rambling, but I seriously love meetings and exec retreats! Hope that's a least a start.
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