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CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL UPDATED NOVEMBER 2026

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL Congratulations on your election or appointment to serve as a Chapter or Alumni Advisor! This manual will give you an overview of the role, including its main responsibilities, expectations, required training, and the resources available to you. The Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, a Fraternal Association (“Fraternal Association”), is comprised of two cooperating constituencies which form the Fraternal Association: Chapters Collegiate and Alumni Associations (individually “Fraternal Entity,” collectively “Fraternal Entities”). Within the Fraternal Association each Province, Chapter Collegiate, and Alumni Association operates a little differently; some are more established than others with different traditions and history. The information in this manual was created to assist Chapter Collegiate, Chapter Advisors, and Alumni Advisors in their beginning stages, advanced stages, or those needing additional education.

WELCOME & INTRODUCTION FRATERNITY GOVERNANCE ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES ADVISOR ORIENTATION & ANNUAL CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSE FRATERNITY RESOURCE AWARENESS

MISSION, VISION, & THE TRUE GENTLEMAN THE FRATERNITY SERVICE CENTER CHECKLISTS & TIMELINES THE THREE C’S OF ADVISING

REPORTS

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES WHO TO CONTACT

APPENDIX

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WELCOME & INTRODUCTION Chapter and Alumni Advisors are important volunteers in the success of Chapters Collegiate, their members, and Alumni Associations. Volunteers who serve in this role are elected by Chapters Collegiate, their members, and Alumni Associations within their respective Province. In either case, you were selected because of your dedication to the ideals of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Chapter and Alumni Advisors serve as volunteers and operate under the Fraternity Laws and receive education, guidance, and governance from the ESR. While Chapter and Alumni Advisors are elected or appointed within the Chapter Collegiate, their roles, responsibilities, and authority are governed by applicable law, Fraternity Laws, and the Volunteer Agreement. All volunteer actions must align with these governing authorities. When questions arise regarding the application of the Fraternity Laws, the scope of a volunteer’s authority, or the application of policy, guidance should be exclusively sought from the Office of the ESR. The role of the Chapter and Alumni Advisor is straightforward. You will counsel the Chapter in the Fraternity Laws, Minerva’s Shield, and help educate the Chapter regarding the administrative standards and policies published by the Fraternity Service Center. You will not be alone in these efforts, and support will be provided. There are high expectations of each Chapter and Alumni Advisor, and meaningful rewards for those who serve successfully. If you are new to the role, you can be paired with a Chapter or Alumni Advisor from another chapter to help guide you through your first few months upon your request. With their experience, they will be available to answer questions, provide advice, and share best practices. This manual and the other resources provided are tools to help guide you and help you succeed in this role. Remember that the best Chapter and Alumni Advisors create a dynamic team and collaborate with one another to advance the mission and vision of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. This manual should be used in conjunction with the Policy and Procedures Governing All Volunteers, included in Appendix A.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

MISSION, VISION, & THE TRUE GENTLEMAN The Fraternal Association’s mission and vision are meant to act as a guide for chapters and their members in everything they do. Mission Advancing the highest standards of friendship, scholarship, leadership, and service for all Chapter Collegiate members and Alumni Association members throughout their fraternal journey. Vision True Gentlemen making our global community better. The True Gentleman The creed of Sigma Alpha Epsilon is The True Gentleman. It is important to exemplify the traits and values found within the TG in everyday life. The True Gentleman is the man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an acute sense of propriety, and whose self-control is equal to all emergencies; who does not make the poor man conscious of his poverty, the obscure man of his obscurity, or any man of his inferiority or deformity; who is himself humbled if necessity compels him to humble another; who does not flatter wealth, cringe before power, or boast of his own possessions or achievements; who speaks with frankness but always with sincerity and sympathy; whose deed follows his word; who thinks of the rights and feelings of others, rather than his own; and who appears well in any company, a man with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe. -John Walter Wayland The vision, mission, and the True Gentleman are guiding tools that make the Fraternity great. Think of the mission as your why –who are you here to serve as a volunteer? The vision gives us direction in our actions. Like you, we believe it is our duty to better ourselves and everyone around us by holding true to our beliefs while taking the next steps in our collective fraternal journey. Your journey as a Chapter or Alumni Advisor is just beginning, and you will be paving the way for the future members of each Chapter Collegiate across the Realm. Now more than ever, the world needs True Gentlemen.

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FRATERNITY GOVERNANCE THE FRATERNITY LAWS The Fraternal Association governs itself by its Fraternity Laws. The Fraternity Laws serve as the official governing document for Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, a Fraternal Association. Broken down into articles and further into sections, the Fraternity Laws are not determined by any one individual. Instead, they are proposed, voted upon by delegates, and adopted by the Fraternity Convention either in person or by electronic direct vote. Delegates are comprised of Chapter Collegiate and Alumni Association representatives, Province Archons, and Officers of the Fraternity, including the Eminent Supreme Archon and Honorary Eminent Supreme Archon. While the Fraternal Association is governed by its legislative bodies, all volunteers operate under the administrative authority of the ESR. Volunteers are required to follow the policies and procedures established by the ESR, seek guidance from the ESR when applying the Fraternity Laws, and are prohibited from independently interpreting or waiving any provision of the Fraternity Laws. You should review the Fraternity Laws prior to the start of each academic year. The Fraternity Laws are available in The SAE Portal under “SAE Governing & Financial Documents.”

ORGANIZATIONAL GOVERNANCE & LEGAL STRUCTURES SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON FRATERNITY, INC. A/K/A FRATERNITY SERVICE CENTER

THE SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON FRATERNITY, A FRATERNAL ASSOCIATION A/K/A THE “FRATERNITY”

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Biennial Fraternity Association Convention Supreme Authority of the Fraternal Association

CEO

Voting Members: Past full-term ESAs, Fraternity Officers, one delegate from each Province Council, Chapter Collegiate, and Alumni Association.

CEO serves as the Fraternity’s custodian of records, editorial supervisor of the Fraternity’s publications, financial custodian, general administrator, supervises the administration of the general business of the Fraternity, is responsible for any duties prescribed by the Fraternity Laws, CEO of Fraternity Service Center, governance of Association Volunteers, responsible for hosting and organizing John O. Moseley Leadership School, DeVotie Ritual Institute and Fraternity Convention.

INDEPENDENT, DISTINCT, AND SEPARATE LEGAL ENTITIES

Fraternity Service Center provides direct administrative services and general resources, education and guidance to Fraternal Entities and their members in exchange for fees. Legal Custodian of all Property, IP, Assets, etc.

Vote for: Fraternity Officers and Amendments to Fraternity Laws. The Supreme Council represents the Fraternal Association between Conventions.

FRATERNAL ENTITIES GOVERNED BY FRATERNITY LAWS STUDENT ORG. CHAPTER COLLEGIATE, INC. EACH AN INDEPENDENT, DISTINCT SEPARATE LEGAL ENTITY

CHAPTER ALUMNUS

ALUMNI ASSOC.

CHAPTER QUIESCENT

ALUMNI VOLUNTEERS

CHAPTER ETERNAL

UNDERGRAD STUDENT

STRUCTURE OF THE FRATERNITY The Fraternity Service Center The Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, Inc. (“Fraternity Service Center”) is an Illinois non-profit corporation operating as a national fraternal educational and administrative support corporation. The Fraternity Service Center works with over 220 independent Fraternal Association Chapters Collegiate who, in turn, collectively have over 13,500 undergraduate members across the United States. The Fraternity Service Center furthers its non-profit mission by providing resources, CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

education, policies, and guidance to assist the Fraternal Association’s Chapters Collegiate with educational programs to assist Chapters Collegiate develop their individual members into True Gentlemen and student leaders. National events put on by the Fraternity Service Center include the Fraternity’s biennial Convention, its annual John O. Mosley Leadership School, and the DeVotie Ritual Institute. The Fraternity Service Center provides the Fraternal Association’s Chapters Collegiate with administrative services such as use of intellectual property, educational materials, financial services, insurance procurement, and other resources in exchange for administrative fees. As a member of a Chapter Collegiate, the Fraternity Service Center may provide the member with generalized resources, education, and guidance to assist him in his Chapter Collegiate membership journey. These resources, guidance, and education are available to all Chapter Collegiate members at the Fraternity Service Center website, its online educational programs, its publications, and at its in-person seminars and educational programs. The Fraternity Service Center has no members. Instead, it provides generalized resources, education, and guidance to the members of the Fraternal Association’s Chapters Collegiate. Chapters Collegiate Members are invited to join a Chapter Collegiate by invitation of that Chapter Collegiate, and throughout a member’s undergraduate career, the member is exclusively a member of the Chapter Collegiate he joined unless he transfers to and is accepted as a member of another Chapter Collegiate. Chapters Collegiate are located at various academic host institutions. Each Chapter Collegiate is an independent, separate legal entity, separate and apart from other Chapters Collegiate, the Fraternity Service Center, and the Fraternal Association. No Chapter Collegiate or its members have any authority to act for or bind the Fraternity, and none of the Chapters Collegiate is a subsidiary of the Fraternity Service Center or the Fraternal Association. Neither the Fraternity Service Center nor the Fraternal Association owes a legal duty of care to a Chapter Collegiate or its members. Each Chapter Collegiate makes its own arrangements as to Chapter Collegiate housing or other living quarters; fixes its own dues, assessments, and charges; elects its own officers; and has complete control of its own day-to-day activities. Neither the Fraternity Service Center nor the Fraternal Association monitors or controls the day-to-day activities or operations of individual Chapters Collegiate and their members. Each Chapter Collegiate has its own history, traditions, and associated activities such as intrafraternity and inter-fraternity sports leagues, brotherhood events, social events, philanthropy events, travel events, etc. It is each individual’s personal and legal responsibility to determine whether a Chapter Collegiate and/or its associated activities and dues are appropriate for him to join with and participate in. The member assumes all legal responsibility and assumes any risk associated with his participation in a Chapter Collegiate’s activities. Convention On a national level, the Fraternity Service Center hosts the Fraternity Convention, held biennially, where delegates from across the Realm gather to consider amendments to the Fraternity Laws, updates to the Ritual, and to elect national Fraternal Association officers. The Fraternity Convention is the supreme authority of the Fraternal Association. It consists of the following: ●

Past Eminent Supreme Archons who have served for a full term of office

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Each Province, represented by its Province Archon or, in the absence of such Province Archon, the Province Deputy Archon or another Province officer designated by the Province Archon

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The Fraternity Officers

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Each Chapter Collegiate, represented by one delegate

Each Alumni Association, represented by one delegate

Chapters Collegiate that do not send at least one delegate to Convention are fined $1,500 for nonrepresentation as per Fraternity Laws. Supreme Council Between conventions, Fraternity Law governance is carried out by the all-volunteer Supreme Council composed of the Eminent Supreme Archon, Eminent Supreme Deputy Archon, Eminent Supreme Warden, Eminent Supreme Herald, and Eminent Supreme Chronicler. Other Fraternity Officers include the Honorary Eminent Supreme Archon. The members of the Supreme Council, independent, separate, and distinct from their Fraternal Association duties, also serve as the Board of Directors for the Fraternity Service Center. Eminent Supreme Recorder The ESR is the Fraternal Association’s Chief Executive Officer. Independent, separate and distinct from his Fraternal Association duties, he also serves as the Chief Executive Officer for the Fraternity Service Center and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Fraternity Service Center. This includes governance over the Fraternity Service Center (“FSC”) as well as planning, staffing, developing, programming, hosting, and executing all national-level educational and administrative operations and events. These national events include, but are not limited to, the John O. Mosley Leadership School, the DeVotie Ritual Institute, and the Fraternity Convention. Province Volunteers

A Province is comprised of chapters, emerging chapters, and Alumni Associations within a geographical district. The Province Council performs the duties required by the Fraternity Laws, enforcing the orders of the Fraternity and Province Conventions, and managing the affairs of the Province. Each of the 30 Provinces is led by a Province Archon, who is a regional alumni volunteer supported by a Province Council. As prescribed in the Fraternity Laws, the Province Council, including the Province Archon, should be elected at the Province Convention held every two years.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

District There are four districts across the Realm, with a Supreme Council member serving as a district liaison: Central, East, South, and West. You can find the most up-to-date list of Province Archons, Chapter Service Consultants in each district, and Supreme Council district liaison assignments through the Leadership page of sae.net.

Organization Structure

Chapter/Alumni Advisors ● The most essential role a Chapter or Alumni Advisor has is ensuring that consistent educational and administrative support is provided to the Chapter Collegiate. As you may know, there is a high correlation between the success of a Chapter Collegiate and positive alumni involvement. ●

You may also contact the Fraternity Service Center Volunteer Engagement team at any time to help you identify alumni volunteers in your Province. You can email alumni@sae.net with the information you need, and they can send you the report.

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As part of your onboarding process, the Volunteer Engagement team will provide you with the following lists: ○

A list of Officers for the Chapter Collegiate.

○

Open and Closed House Corporations with a list of Officers for all House Corporations, whether they are open or closed.

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Open and Closed Alumni Associations (Chapter- and Area-based) with a list of Officers for each of the open Alumni Associations.

List of all Chapter-associated alumni.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

THE FRATERNITY SERVICE CENTER The Fraternity Service Center (FSC) is based out of the Levere Memorial Temple. The Fraternity Service Center provides general resources, education, and guidance to the Fraternal Association’s Chapters Collegiate, their members, volunteers, and Alumni Associations. Nine teams make up the Fraternity Staff: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

The Eminent Supreme Recorder acting in his corporate role as the CEO of the Fraternity Service Center. Chapter Services

Communications & Creative Media Finance

Information Technology

Learning & Development Risk Management

Strategic Operations

Volunteer Engagement

The Fraternity Service Center Staff is a vital resource to you as a Chapter or Alumni Advisor. Various staff members will keep you informed of events in the Realm and will ask you to share relevant educational and administrative support information with the Chapter Collegiate. The Fraternity Service Center staff provides leadership guidelines and staff contact information on the Leadership page of sae.net.

SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON FOUNDATION The Foundation was established in 1927 as a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation separate from both the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternal Association and the Fraternity Service Center. The Foundation was created primarily to generate funds for the construction and maintenance of the Levere Memorial Temple. Its secondary functions were providing for the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Foundation Collection, the Fraternity Service Center archives, and museum holdings, and establishing and funding scholarships to deserving collegiate and graduate members. It receives donations, bequests, legacies, and estate gifts to further the Foundation’s objectives. Over the years, the Foundation has expanded its mission to include funding for educational programs of the Fraternity. The Foundation gives out scholarships annually. Applications open in the fall. Learn more about the process and the various scholarships on sae.net/sae-foundation/scholarships. The Foundation also maintains Chapter Education Funds (CEF), which are special chapter accounts that can be used toward educational expenses and scholarships. To find out if a chapter has a CEF, who their fund administrators are, or what this fiscal year’s spendable amount may be, contact the Foundation at foundation@sae.net. Supporting the Foundation is critical for the success of the Fraternity and educational endeavors. To donate, visit the SAE website and select the “Donate” button in the menu or through the SAE Foundation pages.

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The Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees that sets the vision and strategic priorities for the SAE Foundation. You can find a list of the Board of Trustees on the Leadership page of sae.net. You can find contact information for the Foundation staff on the Leadership page of sae.net.

SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON FINANCIAL & HOUSING (F&H) F&H has a rich legacy that has evolved over 100 years by responding to the ever-changing needs of the Fraternity. F&H’s origins begin with the National Endowment Fund, created by the 1920 St. Louis Convention delegates. Like the Foundation, F&H is a separate entity from the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternal Association and the Fraternity Service Center. F&H collaborates with chapters, alumni, and house corporations in four distinct offering areas. These areas include housing development, management, loans, and housing services. As of 2023, F&H owns 13 houses and continues to grow and offer services to more chapters and chapter house corporations. F&H is governed by a Board of Directors that sets the vision and strategic priorities. A list of the F&H Board of Directors can be found on the Leadership page of sae.net. F&H staff manage the day-to-day operations of F&H. To learn more, visit their website. You can find contact information for the F&H staff on the Leadership page of sae.net.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES ALUMNI INVOLVEMENT With more than 250,000 living alumni, the engagement of post-graduate Chapter Collegiate members is essential to the long-term success of the Fraternal Association’s Alumni Associations. The Fraternity Service Center instills in all post-graduate Chapter Collegiate members the opportunities they have within the Fraternal Association as alumni members once their collegiate experience ends. It is equally important that all Fraternity volunteers continuously interact with alumni members and keep them involved with various forms of alumni engagement opportunities.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR INVOLVEMENT Province Leadership This leadership usually consists of Province Officers. Generally, these positions are elected at Province Conventions. However, it is within the interest of the Province Archon to make appointments as necessary, especially if there are vacancies between conventions. One particular area of emphasis is a Province Alumni Secretary who could be invaluable in assisting you in promoting alumni involvement. Chapter/Alumni Advisors, Advisory Boards, & Alumni Commissions Every chapter or emerging chapter needs a Chapter or Alumni Advisor. Chapters that have the support and guidance of Chapter and Alumni Advisors perform better in areas such as chapter management. It is highly recommended that chapters and emerging chapters have multiple advisors to serve as the chapter’s Advisory Board. Advisory Boards can provide education, resources, and guidance on a variety of issues, including, but not limited to, leadership, time management, chapter operations, member education, recruitment, finances, etc. Having an Advisory Board creates opportunities to disperse the amount of work among each advisor. It allows them to focus on specific areas that can benefit the chapter. This prevents burnout of Chapter and Alumni Advisors and promotes more alumni engagement within the chapter and emerging chapters. In some cases, the Supreme Council will place a chapter under the control of an Advisory Board or Alumni Commission if it needs additional support. This is outlined in the Fraternity Laws. You can provide recommendations to the Supreme Council for members on the Advisory Board or Alumni Commission. The Fraternity Service Center has created a Chapter & Alumni Advisor Manual, Advisor Onboarding/Training modules, and other resources that would help volunteers educate and guide Chapters Collegiate and their members. Please ensure all Chapter and Alumni Advisors in the Chapter Collegiate know about these resources. These are available through The SAE Portal Resource Library and on sae.net. Alumni Associations Alumni Associations serve as a connection for brothers to Sigma Alpha Epsilon beyond the collegiate experience. There are two types of Alumni Associations: chapter-based, which exist for alumni to support their collegiate chapter and build community, and geographic-based, which exist to build a community of brothers within a specific region. Alumni who join Alumni Associations find great value in broadening personal and professional connections and deepening the Bonds of Our Beloved Order.

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Alumni Associations, if they are in good standing by the payment of annual dues and presentation of an annual report, are entitled to a delegate vote at a Fraternity Convention. This means that alumni have a direct voice in the governance of the Fraternal Association. Please review the Fraternity Laws section on Alumni Associations. Review the Establishing Alumni Associations & Affinity Groups resource for more information on starting an Alumni Association. Review the Reactivating Alumni Association Existing Charter resource for more information on reactivating an Alumni Association. Expectations for an Alumni Association: ●

Elect a president and such other officers as deemed necessary

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Submit an annual report to the Eminent Supreme Recorder of its current officers and activities for the preceding year by August 1st

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● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Pay $100 annual dues to remain as a voting member of the Official Family

Prepare or have prepared the appropriate IRS Form 990 at the close of the Alumni Association’s fiscal year as required by applicable law and IRS regulations, and a copy of this form must be sent to the Fraternity Service Center Have a presence on various social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram

Host at least one (1) social gathering every three months, such as an SAE Third Thursday Host at least one (1) collegian recruitment event annually

Host at least one (1) community service activity annually with local nonprofit organization(s) Host an annual Founders’ Day celebration

Participate in Province Leadership School and other educational program opportunities Attend the Biennial National Anniversary Convention

House Corporations If a chapter has a house, it should have a House Corporation. They provide independent leadership in maintenance, renovations, collections, food service, taxes, and other regulatory measures for chapter houses and facilities. The House Corporation board is typically composed of alumni volunteers who can assist with state, university, and local community expectations. For more information about House Corporations and liability issues, contact the Fraternity Service Center. It is essential to have a diverse network of House Corporation Officers. Some examples include, but are not limited to: ●

Alumni Members

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Fundraiser

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Banker, Finance, or Investment Banker

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Law Enforcement/EMS

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Attorney

Architect

Accountant Contractor

Public Servant

● ● ● ●

Food Services Employee University Administrator Engineer

Real Estate Broker

You may be asked to choose or recommend Alumni members to serve as House Corporation Officers to promote more alumni engagement. CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

More information regarding the development and rules of a House Corporation can be found in the Fraternity Laws. The Fraternity Service Center has created a House Corporation Manual, House Corporation Onboarding/Training modules, and other resources that would help manage the chapter. Please ensure that the House Corporation Officers in the Chapter Collegiate know about these resources. These are available through The SAE Portal Resource Library and on sae.net. Alumni Leadership Academy It’s important that alumni volunteers have a greater proficiency and understanding of many aspects and elements of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternal Association, especially at the collegiate chapter level. Throughout the academic year, the Volunteer Engagement Team hosts a series of virtual workshops to enhance alumni engagement and volunteer experience, as well as provide tips and helpful information for successful and efficient chapter operations. SAE Third Thursdays SAE Third Thursdays is an alumni engagement initiative to gather Brothers together on the third Thursday of each month in locales and cities throughout the Realm. Whether you are new to your city, a long-time resident, seeking to build your professional network, or simply enjoy meeting other local SAEs, Sigma Alpha Epsilon wants you to have a place to celebrate brotherhood on the third Thursday of each month. Brothers attending these informal gatherings will find great value in broadening personal and professional connections and deepening the Bonds of Our Beloved Order. Visit the Stay Connected page of sae.net for updated locations and news about Third Thursdays. Some well-established alumni gatherings that have been in place before the Third Thursday initiative was launched in October 2022 have monthly events on other days of the month, and many of those are listed as part of the monthly Third Thursday map. Interested in hosting a Third Thursday gathering and being added to the Third Thursday map? Fill out the Event Publication Request Form. SAE Career Connect SAE Career Connect is a set of national initiatives and resources tapping into the national network of Brothers! In today’s diverse and inclusive workplace, it’s important that SAEs continue to build important life skills in accountability, teamwork, resilience, responsibility, self-awareness, problemsolving, and communication. This initiative includes the following: ●

True Gentleman Mentor Program

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TG Talk

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Backpack to Briefcase SAE Job Board

You can learn more about each of these initiatives on the Careers & Networking page of sae.net. When working with alumni from the Chapter Collegiate, it is vital that you advocate for these initiatives and educate alumni members on the importance of becoming a Career Mentor and keeping up to date with these initiatives.

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Short-Term FSC Volunteer Opportunities Finding time for volunteer roles can be challenging for some members due to their schedules. The Fraternity Service Center is always looking for volunteers to review Award applications or to facilitate Educational Programs. These volunteer roles do not have a long-term commitment, which is perfect for alumni members who want to volunteer but do not have enough time to hold a longterm volunteer role! Award Reviewers for the Fraternity Awards Competition ●

SAE’s annual awards program for chapters, individuals, and Alumni Associations is designed to give members greater recognition for their chapters’ hard work.

Facilitating Educational Programs ●

Alumni members can volunteer to be accepted as facilitators at the John O. Moseley Leadership School and DeVotie Ritual Institute, hosted annually in the Chicago/Evanston, IL, area.

A new application comes out each year and is shared with alumni via email, so look out for that and be sure to apply by the appropriate rolling deadline(s). They can also sign up through the Volunteer Interest Form. If you or any alumni members have any questions regarding the Fraternity Awards or becoming a facilitator, please contact the Learning & Development team at education@sae.net. Ways to Give Some chapters have a Chapter Education Fund (CEF) that can be used to benefit the educational needs of a chapter’s undergraduate or graduate school members. A CEF can be established with a tax-deductible contribution or combined contributions totaling $5,000. Anyone can donate directly to the fund by selecting the chapter designation on the CEF donation page. All donations to a CEF are 100% tax-deductible and included in the donor’s lifetime giving record with the Foundation. Directly donating to the Foundation can be a great way to recommit to the brotherhood. There are many ways to donate and how to donate and invest in Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Visit the Ways to Give page of sae.net to learn more about the different donation options available.

SUPPORT PROGRAMS FROM THE VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT TEAM ●

Counsel Sessions / Best Practices with Volunteer Engagement team members

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Event promotion via the monthly SAE Alumni Newsletter

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Updated alumni contact lists

Event promotion via targeted email and social media Event promotion on the SAE website Invitation and Program Templates

If you have any additional questions or need support, contact the Volunteer Engagement Team at alumni@sae.net.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

CHECKLISTS & TIMELINES CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR CHECKLIST Below is a suggested checklist of items to help prepare you for your role. ●

Review this Manual.

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Schedule a meeting with the previous Chapter or Alumni Advisor to transition, including discussing goals and future ideas.

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● ● ● ● ● ●

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Review your Chapter Collegiate’s and Province’s Bylaws.

Meet with your Province Archon, other Alumni Advisors, and Chapter Collegiate leadership to get to know them, review expectations of your role, and set communication expectations. Ensure your contact information is up-to-date in your profile on The SAE Portal.

Reach out to the Fraternity Service Center at membershiprecords@sae.net to ensure you are listed as Chapter or Alumni Advisor on The SAE Portal.

Review the Fraternity Laws (they are available in The SAE Portal under “SAE Governing & Financial Documents”). Review and understand Minerva’s Shield.

Review and understand the Phoenix Member Education Program (the unblurred version containing Ritual can be found in The SAE Portal through the ”Learning Modules” tile) and ensure the chapter complies with the Member Onboarding process (initiating Candidates for Membership within 96 hours of receiving their bid; three-week post-initiation education). Review all Policies and Position Statements on the Wellness & Values page of sae.net and in The SAE Portal.

Review Forms & Reports on the Alumni Resources page of sae.net and in The SAE Portal.

TIPS TO HELP START A SUCCESSFUL TERM: ●

Ensure that the Ritual is the centerpiece of all your work with the Chapter Collegiate. To remain a credible volunteer leader, you must always model the principles and obligations of the Fraternity when interacting with the Fraternal Association’s Chapter Collegiate, their members, and constituents. ○

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There is a “Volunteer Ritualist Training” module via The SAE Portal. Please contact Volunteer Engagement (alumni@sae.net) to get access to this module, which includes several downloadable resources to assist you.

Establish collaborative working relationships with your Province Archon, Chapter Collegiate, Alumni Association (if applicable), advisory teams, and FSC staff. The stronger your working relationships, the more positive influence you can exert. Focus on building the support infrastructure for the Chapter Collegiate and Alumni Association (if applicable). Find a healthy balance of challenging and supporting the Chapter Collegiate. Set short-term and long-term goals for the Chapter Collegiate.

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Lean on the Fraternity Service Center staff and your Province Archon to guide long-term success. Enjoy this experience. Don’t forget to take time to savor the relationships you form. These can be as strong (or stronger) as those you had during your collegiate experience.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR TIMELINE RECOMMENDATION Weekly: ● ●

Serve as a resource for the Eminent Archon or any other officer you mentor and provide counsel and guidance as needed. Encourage the chapter to hold chapter meetings, executive board meetings, and encourage them to use the Opening and Closing Ceremony of Ritual.

Monthly: ●

Facilitate/Attend at least one meeting (in-person or virtual) with the Advisory Board.

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Communicate with the officer(s) you advise at least twice.

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Encourage any advisor to attend at least two chapter meetings and two executive board meetings. Meet with the House Director and/or the House Corporation at least twice (if applicable). Attend at least one event outside of a chapter meeting (brotherhood, service/ philanthropy; not social events or mixers).

Quarterly: ●

Submit Advisor Report (One submission per semester, per advisory board).

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Meet with the university’s Fraternity/Sorority staff member (“FSA”) assigned to the chapter.

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Meet with each newly initiated brother one-on-one.

Communicate with the Province Archon at least twice.

Meet with the chapter’s assigned Chapter Services Consultant from the Fraternity Service Center. If you do not know who your Chapter Services Consultant is, please view this map. Attend the Initiation Ceremony, officer transition ceremony, and graduation ceremony (if applicable each quarter) each time they are held.

Facilitate a Planning Retreat for the chapter’s leadership that helps them create a calendar, budgets, roster/officer updates, officer transitions, goals, recruitment plan, leadership/ education plan, service/ philanthropy plan, and scholarship plan. Facilitate a meeting for the Executive Council, Advisory Board, and House Corporation (if applicable).

Annually: ●

Try to meet with each brother one-on-one.

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Recruit, onboard, and maintain a Chapter Advisory Board with at least three advisors.

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Encourage the chapter to review and utilize officer onboarding, training, and transition resources on The SAE Portal under “Learning Modules” and the “Resource Library”. AS NEEDED: Communicate with chapter officers and members when appropriate and as necessary to provide education, resources, and guidance.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Fraternity Law Outlines the Following as Chapter and Alumni Advisor Duties & Responsibilities The role of the Advisor is to be accessible, engaged, and informed. Advisors can guide and continue conversations with the individual and chapter. Advisors can spend as much time with members as they choose, but advisors do not control or operate the chapter. The day-to-day operation of the chapter is exclusively the responsibility of the undergraduate officers and members. Advisors serve as a resource by providing guidance, sharing experience, and helping members understand available resources, policies, and best practices. Effective advising includes engagement, communication, and care for the individual and the chapter’s success. While advisors may offer recommendations and perspectives, chapter decisions remain the exclusive responsibility of the undergraduate members. The collegiate experience allows undergraduate members to develop leadership skills, exercise judgment, and learn from their experiences. When advisors become aware of conduct, actions, or activities that may be inconsistent with Fraternity policies, university requirements, or applicable city and state laws, they encourage members to resolve problems and work collaboratively with chapter members. If unresolved, they should contact local law enforcement (if applicable), contact the host university, and then communicate with the Fraternity Service Center. An effective advisor understands their role responsibilities, stays informed with the chapter members, and is aware of university and Fraternity Service Center guidance and education. Advisors are encouraged to maintain regular communication with chapter members and offer guidance regarding chapter operations. The Advisor works with chapter officers and members, committees, Fraternity Service Center staff members, other volunteers, and host institutions to encourage the chapter to make calculated, fair, and reasonable decisions within the boundaries of the chapter bylaws, Fraternity Laws, local, state, and federal laws, as well as any relevant policies of the host institution. 1.

Provide coaching and mentorship to chapter leaders as they set and pursue goals.

Maintain contact with and solicit advice from the Province Archon and Fraternity Service Center as needed.

4. 5. 6.

Attend chapter meetings, chapter elections, Executive Council meetings, and other assemblies of the chapter as scheduling permits.

Maintain a current email address and phone number with the Fraternity Service Center.

Notify the Eminent Archon, Chapter Advisory Board, Province Archon, and Fraternity Service Center of any extended periods of absence or availability.

Serve as the liaison of the chapter advisory board with the Province and the Fraternity Service Center (Chapter Advisors only).

The Advisor should consider the following components towards achieving the role outlined above. 1.

Residency and Accessibility – Reside in or near the collegiate chapter to maintain consistent availability and support.

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2. 3.

5. 6.

Chapter Leadership Support – Meet with chapter officers at least every two weeks to provide counsel on administration and operations, ensuring alignment with Minerva’s Shield. Meeting Attendance – Verify that chapters hold chapter meetings and attend chapter meetings, executive board meetings (minimum once per month), all Ritual ceremonies, and other chapter assemblies as necessary.

Chapter Advisory Board Coordination (If applicable) – Chapter Advisors are able to act as the chief representative of the Chapter Advisory Board (CAB), submitting updates and necessary documentation to the Province Archon and the Eminent Supreme Recorder. This does not apply to Alumni Advisors. Board Collaboration (If applicable) – Participate in monthly alumni advisory board (AAB) meetings to review chapter goals, progress, and updates.

Policy Knowledge & Compliance – Maintain a proficient understanding of The Fraternity Laws, Minerva’s Shield, the Phoenix Member Education program, chapter bylaws, and applicable campus policies related to fraternities.

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THE THREE C’S OF ADVISING The C’s of advising are a set of criteria that draw attention to the purpose and why of a good advisor. Anyone can be listed on paper as an advisor, but only those who seek to make an impact are the ones truly deserving of the title. The Three C’s of Advising are: 1.

Coaching

Consistency

Counsel

Fundamentally, these three elements are what advising is about. As an advisor, you invest and guide the members in developing leadership skills and add value to the Fraternity. As an advisor, please educate and inspire these young men with the skills and qualities that extend beyond the walls of a chapter house. This is arguably where the most reward comes from as an advisor. The opportunity to guide young men as they navigate life. To provide counsel means you give informed advice on operations and policies and help these young men navigate challenges by serving as a trusted advisor. That also means that you should always be informed. The Fraternity Service Center encourages you to take advantage of all that is available to advisors, including SAE’s library of resources. Some examples of these include: ●

The Chapter & Alumni Advisor Manual

●

The Fraternity Laws

● ● ● ● ● ●

Minerva’s Shield

The Phoenix Member Education Manual The Advisor Advantage Webinar Series The Advisor Advantage Annual Summit The Advisor Bulletin And much more

The more you know about the happenings of SAE, the better equipped you are to guide and mentor your chapter leaders effectively. Above all, if you are asked a question by a collegian that you do not know the answer to, never guess. Always tell the collegian that you will find out for him and then follow through. Lastly, consistency is essential because while collegians come and go, advisors are the one constant in every chapter. They serve as the bridge between alumni wisdom and collegiate energy. The best advisors are the ones who are able to show the growth of a chapter over time through accomplished goals and successful projects. Many chapter leaders who are new to their roles will be tempted to measure their success by simply maintaining the status quo. While not detrimental, this is a losing attitude. An advisor can improve this by helping new officers set goals that elevate them further than the previous officer. This is also valuable to a Chapter Services Consultant who has more backing to encourage more of the chapters he works with. More involved advisors make his job less strenuous and allow him to focus on having a greater impact than simply getting a chapter back to fundamentals.

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ADVISOR ORIENTATION & ANNUAL CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSE Advisor development includes both a new advisor orientation and an annual continuing education course, ensuring advisors remain informed of updates and equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfill their responsibilities. Once an advisor has signed his Volunteer Scope of Association Agreement through the SAE Portal, he is officially considered an advisor. Unless there is a signed Volunteer Scope of Association, no one may serve as an advisor, and anyone found operating outside of this agreement does so at his own risk and may be held accountable by the Fraternity.

ADVISOR ORIENTATION Once the Volunteer Scope of Association Agreement is signed, the advisor is placed, and they gain access to the learning modules on The SAE Portal. These modules cover the basics of advising. All new advisors should complete these modules early in their placement period. Please note that in order to complete the module, you must take the feedback survey at the end of each session. New advisors should also take advantage of the provided onboarding timeline. While not mandatory, it is designed to acclimate a new advisor to have an early impact without leading to burnout. Any new advisors should complete the following timeline alongside other advisors. Week 1 – Introduction and Relationship Building Goal: Understanding the chapter and its structure ●

Introduce yourself to fellow advisors

●

Introductory meeting with chapter leaders (EA, EDA, etc.)

● ● ●

○

Ask where they best need your services

Introductory with Province Archon and Chapter Services Consultant Attend Chapter Meeting (Observe Only) Review: ○

Minerva’s Shield

○

The SAE Portal

○

Chapter & Alumni Advisor Manual

Week 2 – Understanding Operations Goal: Understand the roles of chapter officers ●

Meet with the Greek Life Office

●

Attend an Executive Board meeting (light participation if appropriate)

● ●

1:1 small group meeting with executive officers Review: ○

Budget/Finances

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○ ○

Recruitment Plan

Health and Safety Plan

Week 3 – Engagement and Early Support Goal: Begin contributing in a low-risk, supportive manner ● ●

● ● ●

Follow up with any officers on 1-2 specific areas where guidance is needed Offer input on: ○ ○

Goal Setting

Planning (events, recruitment operations, etc.)

Establish a cadence ○

Weekly/bi-weekly check-in with Eminent Archon (or assigned officer)

Attend a chapter or executive meeting Review: ○ ○

Chapter Bylaws

Recent Chapter Services Visit Reports

Week 4 – Ownership and Rhythm Goal: Step into the role with confidence ●

Co-create priorities with fellow advisors and chapter leaders

●

Set ongoing rhythms (standing meetings, communication expectations, etc.)

● ● ● ●

Define your role with your officer mentee Provide initial feedback

Communicate areas of concern to chapter leadership Review ○

Complete all Advisor Orientation Modules

ANNUAL ADVISOR CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSE Each year, advisors can complete their annual advisor continuing education course in The SAE Portal under “Learning Modules”. This training is a more condensed module that refreshes advisors on their role, responsibilities, and best practices. In addition to this annual training, ongoing educational support is provided to all advisors, Province Archons, and Housing Corporation members during the academic year. The Fraternity Service Center encourages your participation in these impactful learning experiences, where best practices are shared to help equip you with the tools, insights, and strategies needed to effectively lead, support, and strengthen chapters.

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ADVISOR ADVANTAGE WEBINARS Hosted throughout the school year, these webinars focus on topics most important to advisors. They spend less time training on subjects and spend more time on the theory behind advising. For instance, an Advisor Advantage on Ritual won’t educate advisors on the Ritual, but rather, how to coach your officers to value Ritual. A webinar on recruitment won’t teach you recruitment practices, but will give you ideas on how to motivate your members to give recruitment their all. These webinars, therefore, offer coaching, conversation, and collaboration designed to strengthen your leadership and impact. These sessions also provide an opportunity to learn from one another, sharing experiences and strategies that help us guide Chapter Collegiate members more effectively.

ONLINE MODULES THROUGH THE SAE PORTAL The SAE Portal offers a suite of educational modules designed specifically for advisors, covering essential topics such as the fundamentals of the advisor role, health and safety, accountability processes, and additional areas critical to effective chapter support. These self-paced modules are flexible and can be completed at your convenience, allowing you to engage with the content on a schedule that best fits your availability. Advisors can also take advantage of the modules available to collegian officers to better understand their roles and support them most effectively. These modules can be revisited anytime.

ADVISOR SUMMIT The Advisor Summit is a multi-hour, interactive virtual training experience designed to equip advisors with the knowledge, tools, and best practices needed to effectively support and strengthen their chapters. Led by the Fraternity Service Center, Province Archons, and distinguished advisors, this immersive program features small-group discussions, panel conversations, and large-group informational sessions focused on mentoring members, growing and retaining chapters, overseeing financial responsibilities, promoting health and safety, and enhancing overall chapter operations. The Advisor Summit is designed to foster collaboration, share proven strategies, and empower advisors to make a lasting impact.

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REPORTS The following report is required to be completed and submitted on behalf of the Chapter and Alumni Advisors on a semesterly basis. Chapter or Alumni Advisor Semesterly Report The Advisor Activity Log is a feature located in The SAE Portal as part of the updated Advisor Support Model. The Advisor Activity Log is designed to strengthen communication among chapter and alumni advisors and province officers. Only one advisor per chapter is asked to complete the log, although any advisor may submit it, and additional submissions are welcome. We ask that each chapter have an advisor complete the Advisor Activity Log by September 15th and again by January 15th. Responses will be viewable in The SAE Portal by only the chapter’s advisors, province officers, and Chapter Services Consultants. This shared visibility is intended to help advisors and province officers continue conversations about the chapter, identify areas where additional support may be helpful, and stay connected throughout the academic year. The Advisor Activity Log is not an evaluation tool or performance metric. It is a communication tool intended to encourage ongoing dialogue and provide greater continuity in advisor support.

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FRATERNITY RESOURCE AWARENESS The Fraternity Service Center staff is always available to answer any questions or needs. There are a number of resources available to you through The SAE Portal Resource Library and on sae.net. These are important resources you may need to reference regularly. Learn more about initiatives, programs, and more below.

NATIONAL EVENTS/PROGRAMS Each year, the Fraternity Service Center facilitates multiple educational programs for Fraternal Association Chapter Collegiate members. Learn more about each of the Fraternity Service Center’s National Events and programs on sae.net. John O. Moseley Leadership School Leadership School provides collegians with an immersive learning and brotherhood-building experience. The program focuses on building leadership skills and competencies needed to lead within their Chapter Collegiate, local community, and future professional roles. This program is open to all active Chapter Collegiate members. Alumni have the opportunity to participate as volunteer approved facilitators alongside National Ambassadors, who serve as peer facilitators. DeVotie Ritual Institute DeVotie Ritual Institute provides initiated Chapter Collegiate members and alumni with the experience of learning about the Ritual of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and its application in both chapter and individual life. This weekend event provides attendees with knowledge of the application, history, and use of Ritual in daily life and chapter settings. In addition, DeVotie Ritual Institute gives brothers a memorable experience by using the Fraternity Service Center’s historic headquarters at 1856 Sheridan Road as a backdrop. This program is open to all initiated brothers. Inner Circle The Inner Circle is an all-expense-paid weekend for a select group of Fraternal Association Chapter Collegiate leaders to meet and be mentored by some of Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s most powerful, accomplished, and influential leaders. Fraternal Association’s Convention The Fraternal Association’s Convention is the largest business meeting of the organization. More than 400 delegates who represent chapters and Alumni Associations in good standing vote upon board candidates and proposals for the Fraternity Laws. Although each Chapter Collegiate and Alumni Association gets only one vote and may only designate one main delegate, groups may elect to send multiple delegates. National Ambassador Program The National Ambassador Program provides support for all educational programs and events sponsored by the Fraternity Service Center and is an opportunity for undergraduate members to make an impact on the Fraternity. Those selected to be ambassadors will take part in brotherhood building, professional growth, and personal development. Ambassadors participate in monthly calls, educational events, capstone projects, and personal and professional development experiences.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

Ambassadors attend one educational event throughout the year hosted by the Fraternity Service Center. They are an essential part of the operation of the program, assisting with logistical support, facilitation of curriculum, and operational support of the program. Phoenix Member Education Program The Phoenix Member Education (PME) Program, as outlined in The Phoenix Member Education Manual, is for use by Chapters Collegiate in the education of their members. The PME Manual is meant to serve as a resource for Member Educators and other chapter leaders as they plan and facilitate their member education. There are two versions of the manual — one for Chartered Chapters and one for Emerging Chapters. The unblurred version containing Ritual can be found in The SAE Portal through the “Learning Modules” tile. The Fraternity Laws do not allow for any division of “classes,” “pledge classes,” etc., and Candidates for Membership and newly initiated members should not be separated from the other chapter members unless it is indicated in the onboarding process for the PME Program. The Phoenix Member Education Program is for every member, not just new initiates. This means that the Member Educator should be called “Member Educator,” not “New Member Educator.” The Phoenix Member Education Program has two main parts: Member Onboarding and Brother-toBrother Lessons. Member Onboarding is a four-week experience that includes the 96-hour bid-to-initiation period for all chapter members plus a three-week post-initiation period for new initiates. The Brother-to-Brother Lessons are lessons on personal and professional development topics that are meant for every member of the chapter. Officer Onboarding & Training Modules Officer-specific onboarding modules are available on The SAE Portal (under Learning Modules) for nearly all collegiate officers and chair positions. These modules are designed to provide rolespecific training that promotes strong leadership, enhances chapter operations, and mitigates risk. Completion of these modules is essential for the success of all chapters and the long-term sustainability of the organization. All chapters are required to ensure the following officers complete their officer onboarding module by the specified semiannual date: ●

Eminent Archon

●

Member Educator

● ● ● ●

Eminent Deputy Archon Health & Safety Officer Eminent Treasurer Eminent Recorder

Additional officer-specific training modules are included for most officers and chairs on applicable topics. All officers and chairs are encouraged to complete their onboarding module and all the available role-specific training. If a collegiate officer does not see their assigned modules in The SAE Portal, it is likely due to that role not being updated on the chapter’s officer roster. Please help the Chapter Collegiate ensure their officer roster is current so that modules populate accordingly. The Updating Officer Roles resource offers a step-by-step guide to this process.

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This initiative underscores a commitment to equipping all chapter leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to foster value-driven, high-performing chapters across the Realm. QPR Training QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer — the three simple steps anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide. This program aims to equip participants with the skills to recognize signs of crisis, respond to someone in crisis, and how to get help and save a life. The Fraternity Service Center provides the Online QPR Gatekeeper Training, a self-paced online module, to all collegiate members. It is interactive and taught in a clear, concise format using the latest in educational technology and practices. Service and Philanthropy Initiatives TG Day of Service ● Service is a core principle of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, helping to strengthen brotherhood while giving back to the community. Hosting a True Gentleman Day of Service is a great way to demonstrate this value and for Chapters Collegiate to make a positive impact on their campus or in their local area. ●

A TG Day of Service can be any service project or event organized by a group of SAEs, whether it’s Chartered or Emerging Chapters, Alumni Associations, or any group of members. Chapters are encouraged to host multiple TG Days of Service throughout the year, at any time.

Paddy Murphy ● For years, the brothers of Sigma Alpha Epsilon have embraced the spirit of philanthropy through one of its most celebrated and anticipated events: Paddy Murphy. A successful Paddy Murphy event can highlight the chapter’s year, building lasting traditions and creating unforgettable memories. More importantly, Paddy Murphy is an opportunity to give back and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others while fostering excitement and friendly competition on their campus. ●

The mission is to inspire chapters and their communities in the spirit of generosity, while creating enthusiasm and energy on every campus.

Service and Philanthropy Partners NMDP ● Every three to four minutes, someone is diagnosed with blood cancer; this could be a stranger, a brother, or a family member. Becoming a donor is a direct way to help—you could be someone’s cure. Young, healthy male donors have the best medical outcomes for patients, making SAE brothers ideal donors. ●

As partners, SAE can help grow the donor registry and save more lives. More than 26,000 registry members have been added, more than 95 of whom went on to donate lifesaving blood stem cells to a patient in need. To save more lives, SAE launched a national partnership with NMDP in July 2021.

Movember ● As a men’s organization, men’s health is a top priority for SAE. The statistics are alarming: three out of four suicides are men, one in nine men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, and testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men. Movember is working hard to raise awareness and support research on these critical issues. By partnering with Movember, Chapter Collegiate can make a lasting impact on the well-being of brothers, campus communities, and beyond.

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●

Since 2003, Movember has funded over 1,250 men’s health projects worldwide, challenging the status quo, advancing research, and motivating men to prioritize their health. While many SAE chapters have partnered with Movember for years, a national partnership was officially launched in July 2021, expanding the reach and efforts in promoting men’s health across the Fraternity.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace ● SHP offers brothers a rewarding way to make a direct impact in their local community. Through hands-on service opportunities, brothers can experience the tangible results of their efforts. Nothing compares to the joy of seeing a child receive their new bed. All beds remain within your community, ensuring that your contributions have a truly local effect. By supporting children in need, you not only help improve their futures but also strengthen schools, local organizations, and the community as a whole. ●

The Colorado Phi Chapter has been partnering with SHP since 2018, building beds, donating bedding, and delivering beds in the Colorado Springs area. SAE established a national partnership with SHP in July 2021, expanding the opportunity for brothers nationwide to get involved in this impactful work.

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals ● CMNH raises funds that support the health of 10 million kids each year. Their network represents the premier children’s hospitals in their respective communities, providing the best health care possible. As True Gentlemen looking to make their communities better, CMN Hospitals provides SAE members with the opportunity by serving children and their families during some of the most troublesome times imaginable. The partnership also increases CMNH’s public exposure, thereby increasing the likelihood of reaching and serving the children most in need. Their founding pledge to keep 100% of donations in the area in which they were raised and to put children first in all they do also means SAE chapters can make a direct impact on their local hospital and local community. ●

CMN Hospitals has been a partner of Sigma Alpha Epsilon since 2001. Since then, True Gentlemen have contributed over $1.6 million to support kids and families in their most vulnerable times and have left a lasting impact on the lives of families to remind them that the brothers of SAE stand with them.

SAE Career Connect SAE Career Connect is a set of initiatives and resources tapping into the Fraternal Association’s national network of Brothers! In today’s diverse and inclusive workplace, it’s important that SAEs continue to build important life skills in accountability, teamwork, resilience, responsibility, selfawareness, problem-solving, and communication. This initiative includes the following: ●

True Gentleman Mentor Program

●

TG Talk

● ●

Backpack to Briefcase SAE Job Board

You can learn more about each of these initiatives on the Careers & Networking page of sae.net. When working with the Chapter Collegiate, it is vital that you advocate for these initiatives and educate collegiate members on the importance of signing up for a Career Mentor, viewing the Job Board, and taking advantage of all these initiatives.

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RISK MANAGEMENT/MINERVA’S SHIELD Minerva’s Shield is the Fraternity Service Center’s official health-and-safety guide, which details expectations, protocols, and crisis procedures that all Chapter Collegiate members, alumni, and volunteers are expected to understand and follow. The Fraternal Association maintains a zerotolerance policy for behaviors and actions that violate its Fraternity Laws. This guide provides a foundation for risk prevention throughout Chapters Collegiate nationwide. The topics included in this guide are Chapter Collegiate Association Agreement, Reducing Risk, Event Planning, Crisis Management, and Amnesty Policy. Please ensure you understand the policies in this guide. Please review these additional policies, procedures, and plans in The SAE Portal’s Resource Library: ●

Amnesty Policy

●

Sexual Assault & Misconduct Response Plan

● ● ● ●

Crisis Management Protocol Good Samaritan Policy Incident Report Form

Social Event Planning Guide

FRATERNITY AWARDS Fraternity Awards Competition The Fraternity Awards Competition is SAE’s annual awards program for chapters, individuals, and Alumni Associations. The Fraternity Awards Competition is designed to provide members with greater recognition for chapters’ and members’ hard work. You can review all of the Fraternity Awards on sae.net/fraternity-awards-competition. Recognition Awards Recognition of achievement and dedication to the Fraternity is important. Members who have distinguished themselves on various levels of the Fraternity or within their professions bring honor to themselves and Sigma Alpha Epsilon. The organization realizes the value of acknowledging exceptional service, and the presentation of an award of recognition is a primary way to show that appreciation. Recognition awards and certificates are given to individual members. You can review the Fraternity Recognition Awards on sae.net/recognition-awards-nomination-form.

THE SAE PORTAL The SAE Portal is a central hub designed to streamline chapter operations and enhance engagement for both undergraduate and alumni members. It serves as a comprehensive tool for managing chapter rosters, tracking data, and overseeing important chapter functions. Through The SAE Portal, members can access vital fraternity documents and resources, Slack, chapter calendars, and navigate the Learning Management System (LMS) for member education and officer and volunteer leadership onboarding and training. It also makes it easy to report service and philanthropy events, track service hours, and monitor dollars raised for philanthropic activity. It simplifies adding potential new members, recommending prospects, and managing financial statements. CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

Whether it’s managing chapter roles, keeping contact information up-to-date, or accessing important fraternity materials, The SAE Portal ensures that members have the tools they need to foster growth, stay organized, and strengthen their chapter’s impact. The SAE Portal Resources provide a step-by-step guide on how to use different features in The SAE Portal. Access these guides on sae.net/alumni-resources.

SAE.NET The website is the central hub for the latest news, stories, events, programs, and resources. It serves as the primary source of information for collegiate and alumni members, parents, campus partners, and more. Below, you’ll find additional pages not yet covered in this manual. ●

Alumni

●

Housing

●

Campus Partners

●

Digital Archives

● ● ●

Parents

Alumni Resources SAE Foundation

● ● ●

Publication Library SAE Store

SAE Marketplace

INSURANCE COVERAGE Chapter and Alumni Advisors are included as insureds under the Fraternity’s general liability insurance program so long as they are acting in their official capacity, within the scope of their role as a volunteer, and are following the applicable Fraternity Laws and policies, including but not limited to the health-and-safety policies set out in Minerva’s Shield. Review the General Liability Insurance Program through The SAE Portal under “SAE Governing & Financial Documents.” If you have questions regarding the Fraternity’s insurance program, please contact the Fraternity Service Center at contact@sae.net.

VOLUNTEER SCOPE OF ASSOCIATION This agreement outlines defined responsibilities, legal protections, confidentiality expectations, risk management protocols, and a commitment to the Standards of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. The primary benefit of this agreement is the protection it provides volunteers. Federal and state laws offer limited immunity from civil liability for those serving nonprofit organizations. This agreement clearly defines the scope of a volunteer’s role in accordance with Fraternity Laws and policies. This agreement must be signed once by all volunteers. New Chapter and Alumni Advisors must sign the current year’s Volunteer Scope of Association prior to being officially seated. The VSOA can be signed through The SAE Portal.

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CONFLICT OF INTEREST Conflict of Interest Volunteers must act in the best interest of the Fraternal Association and its Fraternal Entities at all times, including when exercising voting privileges or influence. If a potential conflict exists, the volunteer should seek guidance from the Office of the Eminent Supreme Recorder (ESR) prior to taking action. In all instances, whether through day-to-day decision making or voting upon a proposed Fraternity Law amendment, a volunteer shall not place his personal interests before the best interests of a Chapter Collegiate and its members. No volunteer shall derive any personal profit or gain, directly or indirectly, by reason of his participation as a volunteer. Each individual shall disclose to the ESR any personal interest in any matter pending before the organization and shall refrain from participation in any decision on such matter pending a final decision. Any volunteer shall identify his affiliation with any organization, company, or agency doing business with SAE. Additionally, with regard to any committee or board action specifically directed to that organization, the volunteer shall not participate in the decision affecting that organization, and the decision must be made and/or ratified by the remainder of the board while the involved board member remains recused. Any volunteer of SAE shall refrain from obtaining any list of members and/or clients for personal or private solicitation purposes at any time during their term.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES There are many important dates and deadlines that the Chapter and Alumni Advisor should know. You can find this year’s event dates, fee deadlines, and more through the “Important Dates & Deadlines” link on sae.net/alumni-resources. There are a number of resources available to you through The SAE Portal Resource Library and on sae.net.

WHO TO CONTACT The Who To Contact resource outlines the various SAE stakeholders and the topic areas they can support you on. You may want to bookmark this for when you have questions or concerns.

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APPENDIX A

THE FRATERNITY’S POLICY & PROCEDURES GOVERNING ALL VOLUNTEERS The Fraternity Laws provide a framework for Fraternity volunteers. However, the policies and procedures of the Fraternity, as directed by the Eminent Supreme Recorder/CEO (“ESR”), constitute the sole process by which volunteers fulfill their various duties and responsibilities to Chapters Collegiate and their members as set forth in the Fraternity Laws. While this manual is directed to a specific volunteer group, i.e., Chapter and Alumni Advisors, its content is universally applicable to all volunteers as a standard operating process. 1.

Governance. Volunteers are governed by the following laws, offices, and agreements ranked in order: a. The laws of the State of Illinois governing corporations, b.

the Fraternity Laws,

the express terms of the Fraternity’s Volunteer Agreement, and

the Office of the ESR,

these Policies and Procedures.

Volunteering. The act of volunteering is separate and apart from membership.

Volunteer Agreement. Execution of the volunteer agreement is mandatory for all Chapter and Alumni Advisors, Province Officers, as well as any volunteer who comes in contact with the Fraternal Association’s Chapters Collegiate and their members. Failure to execute a volunteer agreement when requested will result in the immediate suspension of the volunteer.

Standardization of the Undergraduate Member Experience. The ESR is focused on continually enhancing, through standardization, the resources, education, and guidance provided by volunteers for the benefit of each Chapter Collegiate and their members. The ESR seeks to ensure that all Chapters Collegiate and their members, regardless of their geographic location, have access to and receive the same Fraternity Service Center resources, education, and guidance as Chapters Collegiate and their members in other Provinces. This standardization of content shall occur at both Province Conventions and Province visits of various Chapters Collegiate. At these events, all volunteers will provide consistent and standardized resources, education, and guidance to Chapters Collegiate and their members as approved by the office of the ESR. Thus, prior to planning any Province event, the office of the ESR shall be contacted for guidance and instruction.

Province Finances. All financial interests owned, governed, or subject to control by any Fraternal Entity are under the ESR’s direct authority, governance, and control. This necessarily includes all Province funds. The Province Archon must ensure that the “handling of funds” by all Province Treasurers shall be done in strict accordance with the directions provided by the office of the ESR for the benefit of Chapters Collegiate and their members. Thus, regarding all financial aspects associated with the “handling of funds” by all Province Treasurers, the office of the ESR shall be contacted for guidance and instruction.

Conflict of Interest. The typical conflict of interest is a financial one. However, all volunteers, at all times, must place the best interest of the Chapters Collegiate and their members before themselves and their personal interests.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

Strict Adherence to the Fraternity Laws. All volunteers must strictly and consistently adhere to and apply the Fraternity Laws. No volunteer has the authority to waive any requirement imposed by a Fraternity Law. Further, no volunteer has the authority to “self-interpret” the Fraternity Laws. If a volunteer is ever in doubt about the correct application and interpretation of a Fraternity Law, he shall contact the ESR for guidance and instruction.

Duties and Responsibilities. All volunteers are expected to strictly follow and fulfill the enumerated duties and responsibilities as set forth in the Fraternity Laws. These enumerated duties represent the full extent of the duties and responsibilities of volunteers. Volunteers are not to take upon themselves greater duties and responsibilities than those set forth in the Fraternity Laws. If a volunteer is ever in doubt about his enumerated duties and responsibilities, he shall contact the ESR for guidance and instruction.

Courtesy and Respect. At all times, a volunteer while acting in his volunteer capacity shall scrupulously afford all Chapters Collegiate, their members, alumni, and Fraternity Service Center employees the highest level of professional courtesy and respect.

10. Misuse of Volunteer Position. A volunteer shall never use his position or title to imply, direct, or require that a Chapter Collegiate or its members act in conformity with the personal directives of a volunteer. The volunteer has no right to control the day-to-day activities or operations of a Chapter Collegiate or its members. This necessarily prohibits the volunteer from engaging in any conduct or activity which would in any way coerce, instruct, direct, or otherwise attempt to control a Chapter Collegiate delegate vote in any manner. If a volunteer is ever in doubt about the potential misuse of his volunteer position, he shall contact the ESR for guidance and instruction. 11. Communications. While acting in his capacity as a volunteer, all volunteers shall ensure that their volunteer-related communications regarding Chapters Collegiate and their members shall be readily available to the office of the ESR upon request. 12. Relationship of a Chapter Collegiate to the Fraternity. It is important that every volunteer understands the structure and governance of the Fraternity Section one of the Fraternity Laws contains the correct application of the legal structure of the Fraternity in general and the relationship between the Fraternity Service Center, the Fraternal Association and its Fraternal Entities, i.e. Chapters Collegiate and Alumni Associations. Additionally, an article in the record can be found on these relationships. Further, as a summary of these concepts, Chapter and Alumni Advisors are reminded to remember that: a.

Each Chapter Collegiate is an independent legal entity separate and distinct from the Fraternity Service Center and the Fraternal Association.

Neither the Fraternity Service Center nor the Fraternal Association possesses any legal duty or right to control, monitor, direct, or supervise the day-to-day activities and operations of independent Chapters Collegiate and their members.

Neither the Fraternity Service Center nor the Fraternal Association controls, monitors, directs, or supervise the day-to-day activities and operations of Chapters Collegiate and their members. Neither the Fraternity Service Center nor the Fraternal Association proactively controls, monitors, directs, or supervises the ultimate actions of Chapters Collegiate or the Chapters Collegiate’s members.

No special legal relationship exists between the Fraternity Service Center, the Fraternal Association, a Chapter Collegiate and their members which would create a duty to control, monitor, direct, or supervise the day-to-day activities and operations of Chapters Collegiate and their members. SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON

j. k.

No agency relationship exists between the Fraternity Service Center, the Fraternal Association, Chapters Collegiate, and their members which would create a duty to control, monitor, direct, or supervise the day-to-day activities and operations of Chapters Collegiate and their members. Selection of members by each Chapter Collegiate is the sole prerogative of the individual Chapters Collegiate and not the Fraternity Service Center or the Fraternal Association. Each local undergraduate Chapter Collegiate is permitted to recruit and extend invitations for membership to registered undergraduate male students as they see fit, and the organizational structure and day-to-day operations of each Chapter Collegiate are exclusively in the hands of its members, so long as those governing rules do not contravene the Fraternity Laws and are in line with the rules and regulations of the Chapter’s host university or college. Each Chapter Collegiate has its own governing board and is ultimately free to organize in any manner and to develop its own constitution, bylaws, rules, and culture so long as those governing rules do not contravene the Fraternity Laws and are in line with the rules and regulations of the Chapter Collegiate’s host university or college.

No officer, employee, representative, or alumnus volunteer of the Fraternity Service Center or the Fraternal Association is to ever participate in the planning or organization of a Chapter Collegiate event. Neither the Fraternity Service Center nor the Fraternal Association controls, monitors, directs, or supervises a Chapter Collegiate’s social or member activities and functions.

No officer, employee, representative, or alumnus volunteer of the Fraternity Service Center or Fraternal Association is to ever promise or offer they will be present to supervise and protect individuals who join a Chapter Collegiate or interact with a Chapter Collegiate or its members. Providing educational resources to a Chapter Collegiate to discourage hazing and underage consumption of alcohol and disciplining a Chapter Collegiate and their members for violations of the Fraternity Laws does not give rise to any assumed duty on the part of any officer, employee, representative, or alumnus volunteer of the Fraternity Service Center or Fraternal Association to control, monitor, direct or supervise the day to day behaviors of a Chapter Collegiate or their members.

m. The Fraternity is not a custodial institution, and no care-taking function of the Chapter Collegiate and its members is involved. Each Chapter Collegiate’s members, as adults, are free to make choices about their individual actions. n.

The Fraternal Association’s ability to discipline a Chapter Collegiate and its members after the fact under the Fraternity Laws does not constitute a right to control a member or a Chapter Collegiate’s day-to-day activities or operations by the Fraternity Service Center or Fraternal Association. Rather, the ability to discipline a Chapter Collegiate and its members under the Fraternity Laws is a post-conduct activity which does not establish the right to control Chapters Collegiate and their members’ day-to-day activities or operations. The enforcement of the Fraternity Laws, Minerva’s Shield, or ability to discipline its Chapters Collegiate and their members does not constitute a duty, right, or ability on the part of the Fraternity Service Center or Fraternal Association to supervise, monitor, or control the day-to-day activities or operations of Chapters Collegiate and their members. All guests of each Chapter Collegiate and their members are exclusively invitees of the Chapter Collegiate and their members and not the Fraternity Service Center or Fraternal Association.

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL

At all times, a Chapter Collegiate and their members, and not the Fraternity Service Center or Fraternal Association, are in the best position to protect a Chapter Collegiate, its members, and their guests against any risk of harm. Neither the Fraternity Service Center nor the Fraternal Association own, control, maintain, or possess any property occupied by Chapters Collegiate and their members, or the right to control any such property utilized by a Chapter Collegiate for its events.

The Fraternity Service Center procures liability insurance for Chapters Collegiate and their members. The procurement of such insurance does not establish or constitute control by the Fraternity Service Center over Chapters Collegiate and their members, or any premises occupied by Chapters Collegiate and their members.

SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON

CHAPTER & ALUMNI ADVISOR MANUAL