FIVE STEPS TO CHAPTER FORMATION
STEP 1: SELECT A FACULTY SPONSOR
The sponsor should be a full time faculty member in the Department of Theatre or Speech (unless the academic and production activities are in some other discipline). All correspondence is sent to the advisor, unless the advisor elects to do otherwise.
STEP 2: SELECT NEW CANDIDATES
The theatre staff and/or advisor will supply the sponsor with records of new candidates. Most chapters operate by point guide-lines. A suggested point system is outlined in the constitution and can be adjusted to each chapter’s needs.
STEP 3: CONDUCT AN INDUCTION CEREMONY
The National Office will, upon request, make the faculty sponsor an honorary member and authorize him/her to induct the new members and elect officers. In order to do so, 4 copies of the ceremonies book where the initiation ceremony is explained will be needed.
Once an initiation ceremony has been conducted send the initiation report to the National Office with each individual’s dues. (These are paid only one time per member.) Membership cards for each person on the report will be mailed. Faculty sponsors become honorary members and are not required to pay dues.
STEP 4: ADOPT A SET OF LOCAL BY-LAWS BY WHICH YOU OPERATE
The by-laws should include qualifications for membership and anything else that is relevant to your chapter. In most institutions, the administration requires that the constitution and by-laws of student organizations be deposited in the office of student affairs. The National Constitution can be used as a guideline in developing your by-laws. The constitution may be ordered from the National Office.
STEP 5: READ THIS GENERAL INFORMATION
Charter – If you have lost your chapter’s charter, you may purchase another one for $35.00. This is not required since you already have a chapter and charter at your school.
Supplies – Supplies are ordered from the National Office. Supplies available include: pledge cards, membership cards, pin order forms, scroll, charter, constitution and ceremonies book, membership certificates, and a banner. Costs of each are printed on the Order Supplies Form.
Honorary – Alpha Psi Omega chapters are not normally producing organizations, but are honorary and run simultaneously with the regular producing organization. Close cooperation and motivation for succeeding are essential for a smooth running and meaningful Alpha Psi Omega chapter. Most chapters establish Alpha Psi awards to keep students active and motivated.