Chapters succeed when expectations are clear. When a group of intelligent people know what is expected of them, and given the resources to achieve these expectations, they can always find the end zone. 

When expectations aren’t clear, each brother is left on his own to figure out where the goal posts are. There’s confusion and disorder, and inevitably chapters lose steam or lose their way.

That’s why SigEp has standards boards. 

Contrary to popular belief, the purpose of standards boards isn’t to punish brothers who fail to make grades. It’s true that standards board members are responsible for holding the line—and that’s a good thing. When brothers consistently fail to meet chapter standards, sometimes the best thing for them and your chapter is to let them go. However, rather than standing by until a brother needs to be “dealt with,” standards board members can play an active role in helping every brother stay far ahead of the curve. 

Here’s how to take your standards board from a review committee to a powerhouse team of mentors. 

1.  Invite the standards board to part of your officer transition retreat

Standards board members are responsible for upholding whatever expectations you establish as an executive board, so why not include them in the discussion about what those expectations should be? Whether they weigh in on setting those expectations or just be there to see them formed, bringing them closer to the process will help them fully understand and communicate the vision for the chapter. 

2. Empower them to do more than punish—give them tools to reward excellence

Standards board members can play a role in communicating the standards, developing enforcement mechanisms and rewarding members that exceed the baseline expectations. A properly functioning standards board can generate excitement by recognizing members that meet expectations and rewarding members that exceed them. They can create awards for those who improve their GPA by hosting a recognition dinner, or keep the chapter energized by selected a “Brother of Week” who exemplifies SigEp’s standards. 

3. Involve them in the member development process

Ultimately, the goal of the standards board is to help brothers, not just punish them. By giving standards board members opportunities to help lead member development activities, you empower them to actively aid their brothers. A Guard might take responsibility for chapter grades and work with officers to hold study sessions. Or a Junior Marshall might take responsibility for social behavior and work with the university’s Title IX coordinator to host sexual assault prevention workshops. Whatever route you choose, you can make your standards board members stronger by empowering them with new, proactive responsibilities. 

4. Talk about standards

We shouldn’t keep our bylaws hidden until we need them. Make sure your bylaws are available in a shared space, like Google Drive, and are accessible to members at all times. Standards board members can actively hold “Standards Discussions” much in the same way we hold Ritual discussions to reinforce the teachings of the Ritual. The chaplain or one of the board members should hold regular discussions during chapter meetings, as part of challenge requirements or during chapter retreats to reinforce expectations. These standards should be spelled out in a regularly updated and signed membership agreement so everyone is aware of their duties to the chapter. 

5. Recruit a steady volunteer to sustain their momentum

As with any chapter leadership position, continuity is key. Ask your AVC, mentor committee or regional director for help finding someone, or reach out to a recent graduate that served on the standards board. A volunteer experienced with chapter standards can help ensure each generation of standards board members is set up for success—effectively keeping your chapter on track and helping brothers excel. 

As SigEps, we believe in more than just passively living our lives. We believe in leading others and working together to achieve greatness. Don’t let your standards board be passive bystanders—empower them to serve the chapter by giving them the tools to do more.  

Check out the officer transition guide to look for more opportunities to help your chapter excel.

John L. Dougherty is a SigEp alumnus and current AVC president for the Pennsylvania Beta Beta Chapter at Drexel University. He is also a key volunteer and mentor with the Pennsylvania Delta Chapter at the University of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Gamma Chapter at the University of Pittsburgh. In 2011 he won the Volunteer of the Year award and in 2014 was honored as a Distinguished Alumnus. He can be reached at jldougherty@gmail.com.