Initiation Voting

Voting on Prospective Members

Each prospective member is to be considered and voted on individually, on their merits as a potential member. Brothers should remember that the initiation program is not a personality or popularity contest; rather, it is about preparing the future members of the chapter. A helpful way to approach this voting process is to set aside the question, “Are they a good person?”, and instead ask, “Will they make a good brother?”

Voting on Prospective Initiates

Voting on prospective initiates is commonly referred to as a “bid vote” or “rush vote.” The minimum vote for a prospective member to be promoted to initiate is a simple Majority, UNLESS the chapter includes in its chapter by-laws a requirement that a higher level is needed, such as two-thirds.

If any of the prospective member motions fail, the brothers should be consulted as to why. Additional motions to reconsider individual prospective members may be necessary (so long as they follow the guidelines for reconsideration), or other actions may be needed. For no reason should the list of prospective members be approved or accepted without a chapter vote.
Example of voting on prospective initiates

Voting on Initiates for Induction

Voting on initiates is commonly referred to as a "final vote." The minimum vote for a initiate is a 3/4 vote of Active members of the chapter.

Any initiate who has not met the national and local requirements for initiation is not eligible for induction. Therefore, he or she should not be considered or voted on.

Additionally, always bear in mind the 48-hour rule laid out in the National Constitution, which requires that all voting on initiates be completed at least 48 hours prior to the Formal Induction. Example of voting on initiates for induction