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Western Region Chapter Roster: Alpha Nu, University of North Texas Beta Theta, Sam Houston State University Gamma Iota, University of Colorado Denver Delta Mu, University of Texas at Austin Delta Chi, California State University-Chico

Alumni: Dallas Alumni Denver Alumni Houston Alumni

2014 National Officers

National President Gary Hodge

Policy Board Chair Mary Ellen Lewis

VP of Internal Affairs Abby Lieberman

VP of Expansion Katie Griffin

Central Regional Director Russell Hoskin

Eastern Regional Director Melissa Hall King

Southern Regional Director Justin Petty

Western Regional Director Missy Bolin

July 2014

Asst. Regional Director

Monica Connor

Executive Director

Saundra Finley

Western Regional Newsletter

It is a bittersweet time of the year for the national officers. It is with excitement that we look forward to the national meeting, but also with a little sadness: this is the time of year that new national officers are elected, and though some of us may run again, the group will certainly not be the same next year. I would like to take this opportunity to commend the national officers of the Fraternity and the Foundation for all of their hard work this biennium. We have made significant changes to the Fraternity at the national level: rolling out the new risk management policy and forms, disconnecting from Groopt and connecting with Dropbox for national forms, and dealing with day-to-day operational issues with individual chapters. Not only that, every chapter in every region was visited in the last biennium! The Foundation has selected another round of worthy scholarship recipients to be announced at the national meeting. It has also come up with a nice alternative to the annual silent auction fundraiser: this year it is all about raffles! Individuals planning to attend the national meeting are welcome to donate items for a tax deduction: $25 gift cards or small electronics are the preferred items this year—just bring them to the meeting! If you are not able to make the national meeting, please consider a financial donation or mailing gift cards to the educational foundation. Contact me for more information: westerndirector@phichitheta.org. It has been two years of hard work, but it has been so fulfilling from the perspective of this national officer. I hope you are as excited for the national meeting as I am! It will be held from August 6-10th at the DoubleTree Hotel, close to Universal Studios. Please see the end of this newsletter for registration forms. In case I don’t get re-elected as Western Regional Director, good luck to you all in your future endeavors! I will look forward to seeing you at future Phi Chi Theta events.

Regional Director Updates Missy Bolin – A Note from the Western Regional Director

Monica Connor – A Note from the Assistant Regional Director

To those of you who attended the Western Regional Meeting, Monica Connor is a familiar face. She spoke about goal setting and passed on useful information to members. Monica has been a member of Phi Chi Theta for over 8 years and she is always happy to answer any questions or give advice about chapter operations or career planning. She currently lives in a suburb of Dallas, Texas and is happy to be a resource to the chapters in the area. Please feel free to contact her at monica.pct.connor@gmail.com for assistance.

Western Region Update Business, IT and SAP Career Fair Fundraiser Delta Chi, California State University, Chico Submitted by Marissa Arruda, Delta Chi Delta Chi Chapter holds a biannual Business, IT, and SAP career fair for all students to attend. Each year Delta Chi appoints a marketing director and logistics director to work side by side with the College of Business and Career Center to implement a successful event. This year our Career Fair Directors were seniors Alexis Bkhitar and Sulie Garcia. They did an exceptional job at preparing the chapter for the day’s event. Arrangements included tabling, promotional posters, and assigning positions for students to work the event. Our career fair directors also put together resume books for each company that compiles our member’s resumes, allowing for an upper hand amongst the student body. Every semester over 70 recruiters from various companies and industries attend and return year after year because of the high quality of students. Some of the companies who attend repeatedly are Workday, Gallo, HP, DHL, Southern Wine and Spirits, Chevron, and many more. This career fair helps members improve networking and interview skills, and a majority of members walk away with at least one job offer. This is not only a profitable event for the chapter (which charges fees for companies to attend) it also helps PCT members develop job prospects and career connections. It is an annual event that is widely attended by students and employers alike.

Have you submitted your national meeting registration? Even if your chapter already has a delegate in attendance, we encourage you to come learn, see and experience the national meeting for yourself! The more

people from your chapter that attend, the more important information you can bring back. It has been my experience that chapters who remain engaged with the national chapter tend to have less operational issues

and rules violations, as well as smoother operations after the training. Come, reconnect with us!

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Founders’ Day Banquet Alumni/Collegiate Event Gamma Iota and Denver Alumni photos, University of Colorado, Denver Submitted by Melissa Bolin, Denver Alumni On March 13th, 2014, Gamma Iota and the Denver Alumni chapter gathered at the University of Colorado Denver to celebrate Founders' Day. There were about 22 people in attendance for the taco and nacho dinner, including Mary Ellen Lewis, one of the longest active members of Phi Chi Theta. The night started out with introductions and then the dinner, followed by the Coat of Arms Ceremony with the original ceremonial Coat of Arms. Afterward, there was a shortened candlelight vigil, in which we remembered each of the founders in turn. Mary Ellen mentioned that she knew Anna E. Hall personally when she first became a member. Mary Ellen was also present at the installation of the Gamma Iota chapter, so she was one of the founders of the chapter, in a way. It was a historic night of remembrance for more reasons than one. Not only were members celebrating the founding of the national chapter, they were also celebrating the founding of the Gamma Iota chapter. The true meaning of Founders' Day was fully appreciated by everyone in attendance.

Excerpts from an Article Published in Forbes Magazine: Job Seekers: 8 Tips to Negotiate Your Starting Salary Original Article Written by Lisa Quast Submitted by Monica Connor, Dallas Alumni

As you enter a new position whether it is at a new company or a different role within the company you are currently working for, it is crucial to negotiate your compensation. It is about more than the money or benefits; it also shows your ambition and your high level of potential. Not only that, a starting salary is the basis for all future earnings, so a lower salary to begin with can result in thousands of dollars in pay reductions over a life time. Take a look at these tips and integrate them into your negotiating tactics when you’re talking to an interviewer about your compensation.

1. Fully understand the job. Make sure you understand the responsibilities, requirements, and expectations for the position.

2. Educate yourself on the company. Ensure you’ve asked and understand how the company reviews employee performance as well as the process for pay raises and promotions (which is a good discussion to have with the HR person during the telephone screening interview).

3. Arm yourself with salary information. Spend adequate time conducting research to find out average salaries and salary ranges for similar jobs in your area, industry, and geography.

4. Know your strengths and differentiators. What makes you special and unique from everyone else? Conduct a personal SWOT analysis (http://www.forbes.com/sites/lisaquast/2013/04/15/how-to-conduct-a-personal-s-w-o-t-analysis/) to understand your differentiators and the special skills or experiences that could make you a more valuable employee.

5. Determine how much you’d like to make and the appropriate range of salary, particularly the

minimum salary you would accept. Consider what you’ve made in your last few jobs, the results of your online salary research, and your strengths and differentiators. Given that information, determine the target salary you’d like to make.

6. Practice your negotiation skills. Ask a friend or family member to play the role of a hiring manager who has offered you a salary that is lower than what you want. Then practice what you’ll say and how you’ll say it to persuade the hiring manager to increase their offer.

Like any other skill, negotiation takes practice and an informed negotiator. If you are prepared with information and fully support the reasons why you deserve the wage you are asking for, many hiring managers will acquiesce because you have shown them you are worth it. You will have demonstrated special proficiencies that will be useful to the company. Sometimes, all you have to do is ask to get what you want!

National Chapter Announcements:

New Risk Management Form Added to National Calendar: In an environment of increasing lawsuits and legal challenges to fraternities, the National Chapter has responded to the ever-increasing risk by developing a new form. The form is an effort to protect the National Fraternity from liability from an individual or chapter that does not abide by the National Chapter’s clearly stated anti-hazing, anti-drug/alcohol, and risk management policies. (If you are not aware of these policies, please schedule a training session with your chapter by e-mailing the Regional Director as soon as possible.) Each chapter must have all new pledges review the risk management policy and sign a statement of compliance every semester. For questions or assistance with the new forms, please e-mail Missy at westerndirector@phichitheta.org. Groopt is out, Dropbox is in: The groopt platform is no longer in service. Chapters were originally encouraged to sign up in order to network with other chapters, get access to national forms, and make announcements to members. The National Chapter has switched over to Dropbox to make forms available on the internet securely. If you have not received the link, please e-mail your Western Regional Director: westerndirector@phichitheta.org. Partnership with Gradspring: Gradspring is a job board featuring entry level positions for recent graduates. Phi Chi Theta members will receive a 25% discount off the service subscription. It features jobs for new graduates only, with 0-2 years of experience, requiring a bachelor’s degree and no commission-only jobs. Thousands of jobs are available in hundreds of categories! More information on this valuable tool for members is provided on the National Website at www.phichitheta.org. Exclusive PCT Worldwide Car Rental Discount Program: PCT members, friends and family now have access to a worldwide inventory of car rentals at discounted rates. Whether travelling for work or pleasure, domestically or abroad, you can take advantage of savings that may exceed 35% with over 550 car rental suppliers at over 28,000 worldwide locations. Find out how much you can save at: http://cars.localhospitality.com/pct/pctcars.html. Let us negotiate the best deals and comparison price for you. Happy travels and happy savings! GEICO Insurance Discounts: PCT members can receive discounts on Geico Auto Insurance when you tell the agent that you are a Phi Chi Theta. Go online to Geico.com, or call them at 1-800-947-2886 to get a free quote! Every time you do, it benefits the national chapter. It only takes 15 minutes and you could score some savings!

Why Come to the National Meeting?

Top 7 Reasons to Attend: 1. Network with other chapters from across the United States

2. Learn what other chapters are doing and bring back fresh ideas 3. Gain valuable “business traveling” experience before your career begins

4. Meet the faces behind the emails and conference calls 5. Experience Phi Chi Theta as a national organization – not just at your local level

6. Gain life-long friendships and references 7. Get leadership training and experience

“Once a Phi Chi Theta, Always a Phi Chi Theta.” -Gary Hodge, National President

2014 NATIONAL DELEGATE CREDENTIALS

IMPORTANT: Please type all information to complete this form and send with REGISTRATION FEE. This is to certify that , a member in good standing of the chapter of Phi Chi Theta, will represent our chapter as a voting delegate at the 2014 National Chapter Meeting of Phi Chi Theta to be held August 6-10, 2014 in Orlando, FL.

___________________________________________ _________________________________ Chapter Treasurer’s Signature Date

NATIONAL DELEGATE QUESTIONNAIRE Chapter Delegate’s Full Name: Permanent Home Address: Best Contact Phone Number: Best e-mail Address: During summer break, I will be at: Home School Dates: to Date of initiation into Phi Chi Theta: Chapter Officer Position in fall 2014? What chapter office(s) have you held previously? To get to Orlando, will you be: flying driving? Will you bring a Ship’s Log? Yes No a Display? Yes No Dietary Restrictions? Yes No If yes, Please elaborate (i.e. Vegetarian, Vegan, allergies, etc.)

_______________________________________________ _________________________________________ Signature of National Delegate Date I have read the above and certify that the same is true to the best of my knowledge.

______________________________________________ _________________________________________ Signature of Chapter Secretary Date Delegate Rate: Phi Chi Theta is offering a reduced registration fee to all chapter delegates. Each chapter is allowed one delegate. The rate is for double-occupancy and you will be assigned to room with another delegate of the same sex. DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: $225 if Postmarked by May 15th ($250 after May 15th)

Total Amount Enclosed: $ Events Included with Registration Fee: Four Nights Lodging (Aug 6-10, 2014) at the Doubletree Universal Orlando at 5780 Major Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819; Wednesday -Welcome Reception; Thursday–Breakfast & Lunch. Thursday -Alumni Reception (alumni only); Friday–Breakfast; Saturday –Breakfast, Lunch & Awards Banquet; Access to all Business Sessions; Shuttle service to and from airport.

Please make checks payable to PHI CHI THETA. Mail registration form and fees to: Phi Chi Theta * 1508 E. Belt Line Road, Suite 104 * Carrollton, TX 75006

Registration fees may also be paid by credit card through Wepay. Please contact us to make arrangements. (Note: there will be a credit card processing fee)

If you have any questions, please contact the National Office at ExecutiveDirector@phichitheta.org or (972) 245-7202

For Office Use Only: Date Rec’d: ___________ Amt Paid: $____________ Check #: ______________ Room #: _____________

2014 NATIONAL DELEGATE CREDENTIALS

IMPORTANT: Please type all information to complete this form and email a photo (headshot) of yourself. Name: Chapter: University: Major: Date of Graduation: Future Plans: Position in Chapter: One interesting fact about yourself: Committee: Delegates are assigned to various committees during the National Chapter Meeting. Please indicate which committee(s) you are interested in. Each delegate will be assigned to serve on one committee.

Nominating Committee Resolutions Committee Shiplog & Display Committee Ritual & Ceremonies Committee

PHI CHI THETA

MEMBER / VISITOR/ADVISOR REGISTRATION FORM 2014 NATIONAL CHAPTER MEETING - ORLANDO, FL

AUGUST 6-10, 2014 Name: I am a: Collegiate/Non-Delegate Alumni Member of Phi Chi Theta Advisor

Visitor / Non Member (Note: If you are the Delegate for your chapter, please complete the Delegate Registration Form) Permanent Address: E-Mail Address: Cell Phone: ( ) Work Phone: ( ) Date of Initiation into Phi Chi Theta: Chapter: Are you a chapter officer for fall 2014? Yes If yes, which office will you hold? Previous officers held: SINGLE OCCUPANCY: $745 if Postmarked by May 15th ($795 after May 15th)

DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: $500 if Postmarked by May 15th ($550 after May 15th)

TRIPLE OCCUPANCY: $420 if Postmarked by May 15th ($470 after May 15th)

QUAD OCCUPANCY: $380 if Postmarked by May 15th ($430 after May 15th)

Total Amount Enclosed: $ Roommates: List any roommates that you would like us to put you with. All efforts will be made to place you in a room with the number of roommates requested. (Note if you do not have a roommate but need one, please let us know.) Events Included with Registration Fee: Four Nights Lodging (Aug 6-10, 2014) at the Doubletree Universal Orlando at 5780 Major Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819; Wednesday -Welcome Reception; Thursday–Breakfast & Lunch. Thursday -Alumni Reception (alumni only); Friday–Breakfast; Saturday –Breakfast, Lunch & Awards Banquet; Access to all Business Sessions; Shuttle service to and from airport. If you are attending any meal functions, please list any dietary restrictions you have. (I.e. Vegetarian, Vegan, allergies)

Please make check payable to PHI CHI THETA Mail registration form and fees to:

Phi Chi Theta * 1508 E. Belt Line Road, Suite 104 * Carrollton, TX 75006 Registration fees may also be paid by credit card through Wepay. Please contact us to make arrangements. (Note: there will be

a credit card processing fee)

If you have any questions, please contact the National Office at: ExecutiveDirector@phichihtheta.org or (972) 245-7202

SEE YOU IN ORLANDO!!!!

For Office Use Only: Date Rec’d: ___________ Amt Paid: $____________ Check #: ______________ Room: 1 2 3 4 Room #: _____________

The Phi Chi Theta Education Foundation is working on the next fundraiser, with donors to be honored at the 2014 National Meeting! The campaign is called $90 for 90 years. Each chapter is encouraged to send in $90 before the National Meeting in honor of the fraternity’s existence since 1924. Not only will your donation help fund exclusive member scholarships, it will also get you award points with the National Chapter. Read the e-EdNews at this link, in order to see for yourself how much these scholarships mean to members: http://phichitheta.org/#_p.News. In order to contribute, you may visit www.justgive.org, or you can mail checks to:

Board of Trustees Phi Chi Theta Educational Foundation 1508 East Belt Line Road, Suite 104

Carrollton, TX 75006 E-mail: PCTEdScholarship@aol.com

The Educational Foundation would also appreciate any donations to help out with fundraising at the National Meeting. The Trustees are currently collecting $25 gift cards to national chain restaurants or stores that members might find useful. There is also some interest in auctioning off a big ticket electronic item of some sort, but that the Foundation has had no luck getting a business to donate such an item. If you have connections or are willing to donate something, please contact the Western Regional Director at westerndirector@phichitheta.org to get in touch with the Foundation officers.

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Phi Chi Theta“ENSURING OUR FUTURE”

2014 National Meeting T-shirt Order Form

Name: ______________________________ Chapter: ______________________________

Email: ______________________________ Cell Phone #: ____________________________

Item Size Quantity Total

T-shirt M 1 15.00

Grand Total _______

White T-shirt S-XL ..........$15.00 2XL ........$17.00 3XL-4XL ........ $19.00

Baseball Shirt S-XL ..........$19.00 2XL ........$21.00 3XL-4XL ........ $23.00

White Hoodie S-XL ..........$25.00 2XL ........$27.00 3XL-4XL ........ $29.00

White Long Sleeve T-shirt S-XL ..........$19.00 2XL ........$21.00 3XL-4XL ........ $23.00

Please bring your check made payable to Phi Chi Theta to the National Meeting. Shirts will be available for pick up at the registration table.

Additional shirts can be ordered. Please note in the email if you would like them shipped. Shipping charges will apply.

**All profits will go to the Phi Chi Theta Educational Foundation

RESERVE YOUR 2014 PHI CHI THETA T-SHIRT NOW by emailing your order to the National Office at executivedirector@phichitheta.org

DEADLINE TO ORDER YOUR SHIRT IS TUESDAY, JULY 15TH