My College of Chapters Journal (Georgia)
College of Chapters
Editor's Note - Over the duration of the 2019 College of Chapters, we enlisted several attendees to journal their four-day experience through Sigma Nu's premier leadership training program. Participants chose from several prompts provided and answered their selections at the end of each day.
This journal comes from Mu Chapter (Georgia) Commander, Riley Bishop.
Day 1 - Arrival
What was your journey like to Roanoke for College of Chapters?
My journey to College of Chapters was easy. My day started with a flight out of Houston, Tx. to Atlanta, Ga. and then to Roanoke, Va. I ran into other Commanders on my flights and I was eager to start the weekend ahead.
Coming into College of Chapters, what are some of the challenges that your chapter faces? What do you want to improve on this semester?
One of the challeges our chapter is currently facing is alumni involvement. We want to focus on increased participation at alumni events and improve our communication. Another goal of mine is to increase brotherhood development, and our social reputation.
What was your first chapter meeting like at College of Chapters? What chapters were represented in your chapter group?
My first chapter meeting was very welcoming and showed me that College of Chapters was going to be a great experience. I was fortunate enough to be with other SEC schools, like Ole Miss, Auburn, Alabama, South Carolina, and LSU. Being with them allowed me to gain some knowledge on ways that we can continue to improve our chapter.
Day 2 - Curriculum
What were your core sessions today? Which breakout sessions did you attend? What sessions stood out to you and what were your takeaways?
My core sessions today were Vision to Strategy, Roster and Finances, and Goals and Delegation. The breakout sessions I attended were Beyond Excellence and Motivating Your Chapter. Motivating Your Chapter was the most influential session for me because I was able to learn different ways in which I can motivate my brothers.
What do you want to see your chapter become? How did the session on vision help you create a compelling vision for the chapter?
I want Mu chapter to be THE best example of fraternity on UGA’s campus. To me, that means showing our dedication to brotherhood, helping our brothers realize their potential, outstanding alumni involvement and social reputation. The session allowed me to clearly breakdown my ideas so I can present them in a concise manner when returning to the chapter.
Day 3 - Pilgrimage to Lexington, Va.
What was it like to visit Sigma Nu Headquarters and VMI?
Visiting Sigma Nu Headquarters and VMI was very inspiring. It was very cool to be able to experience such a rich history of our fraternity. It meant a lot to see where we were founded and where it all began.
What is one thing you didn't know coming into College of Chapters that you feel will make an impact on the success of the chapter in the upcoming semester/quarter?
I always had the feeling that Nationals is our enemy, but coming here has showed me first hand that is not the case at all. They have our best interest in mind and want us to succeed. They want to give us all the tools to be the best chapter we can be and continue to excel.
What are a few words that you would use to describe your College of Chapters experience?
Returning to the Rock was empowering and motivating to keep the name of the fraternity long lasting.
Day 4 - Departure
What have you realized about your role as Commander from your time at College of Chapters? What have you learned about yourself?
I have realized that as Commander, I have one of the most important positions in the chapter. The buck starts and stops with you. As a Commander, you are charged with leading your chapter in honor no matter the circumstances.
What kind of network did you build from attending College of Chapters?
Attending College of Chapters allowed me to connect with other Commanders and be able to have brothers in the same role to bounce ideas off of throughout my term. I also met many alumni who all expressed their willingness to help me in my role and assist Mu Chapter in any way possible.
How do you view Sigma Nu Headquarters staff after coming to College of Chapters?
The headquarters staff were approachable and definitely interested in how they can help me and Mu Chapter move forward. I realized the number of tools that are available either through the chapter leadership consultant that visits Mu chapter or staff members that focus on finances, alumni engagement or LEAD.