Sigma Alpha Epsilon Announces Historic Change for membership experience

[AOII Angel]

Originally Posted by MysticCat

A values-based approach and a pledge period are not mutually exclusive. A values-based approach and bidding without a promise to initiate are not mutually exclusive. And a pledge period that is, in part, a time where the chapter can determine if the pledge is truly a good fit does not have to include proving oneself by physical and mental challenges. It is possible to have a pledge period that is values-based, that builds bonds, that is respectful, that doesn't haze and that still enables pledges to come to initiation feeling like they have accomplished something and have earned the right to be called "brother."

But apparently they haven't been able to enforce a pledge period free of serious hazing at a large number of their chapters. We obviously know that these concepts don't have to be mutually exclusively nor is it mandatory to have a pledge program to have a good member experience. Just like everyone has been arguing that this program sounds great in THEORY but won't work in practice, your statement is the same. It works at a group of chapters that uphold the ideal of non hazing, but the rest practice a spectrum of hazing that ranges from harmless depending on who is judging to deadly. I worry about the numbers that practice serious hazing. Not only does it risk the lives of students, it risks the entire Greek system. I query whether SAE is moving towards an unsustainable risk management and liability position and took at desperate act to mitigate those issues.

[33girl]

But as everyone has said, this does nothing to change a hazing culture. The most recent brothers will be the ones who get the brunt, as full membership doesn't mean you can't be hazed. Unless they're hoping this weeds those members out. The problem is, there are plenty of GOOD members who will leave as well.

[SOM]

My jaw dropped when I first heard of this. This is so far out of dumb, dumber and dumbest. Down right stupid and so unnecessary. Why did one of our Chapters get involved with a Sorority hazing? http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/l...249127751.html

[LillyPhi]

SOM: My jaw dropped when I first heard of this. This is so far out of dumb, dumber and dumbest. Down right stupid and so unnecessary. Why did one of our Chapters get involved with a Sorority hazing? http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/UConn-Investigating-Possible-Hazing-at-Sorority-249127751.html[/QUOTE]

This adds more fuel to the fire. Now I see why SAE National made their decision to eliminate pledging. It just gets snowballing semester for SAE. When will this stop!!! I hope all SAE chapters/Colonies start realizing that it does NOT pay to haze or get involved with any hazing activities and why your National made their bold decision.

[SAEalumnus]

Speaking as a past chapter president, graduate of our national leadership school (twice), and current chapter advisor, hazing and similar examples of lack of maturity, intelligence, respect, or spine have very real consequences to all involved. It's a major problem that can't be left unaddressed. This new program has some bold -- though not completely original -- ideas. I am happy to see some action taken to contend with this, but am ashamed of our national leadership's decision to disenfranchise the undergraduate chapters of their inalienable right to vote as members of the Convention. The Supreme Council's claim of authority is a smokescreen and an unconscionable work of fiction.

[AOII Angel]

Originally Posted by SAEalumnus

Speaking as a past chapter president, graduate of our national leadership school (twice), and current chapter advisor, hazing and similar examples of lack of maturity, intelligence, respect, or spine have very real consequences to all involved. It's a major problem that can't be left unaddressed. This new program has some bold -- though not completely original -- ideas. I am happy to see some action taken to contend with this, but am ashamed of our national leadership's decision to disenfranchise the undergraduate chapters of their inalienable right to vote as members of the Convention. The Supreme Council's claim of authority is a smokescreen and an unconscionable work of fiction.

I know that my organization would not be happy if XB made such a huge change without going through council. I wish SAE the best of luck finding their way through all of this considering the serious issues at play.