Theta Chi will be awarding eight scholarships to attend the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI), widely regarded as one of the top collegiate leadership programs in the nation.
This is the most scholarships that Theta Chi has awarded for UIFI in recent years, due in large part to increased interest in the program.
Hosted by the North-American Interfraternity Conference, UIFI brings together men and women from fraternities and sororities across the country to enhance leadership skills, personal awareness, and organizational commitment. Participants will discuss how fraternity and sorority leaders live their rituals, what it means to have courage, character and commitment in order to do what is right, and how to devise a plan for positive change when change becomes necessary.
UIFI is challenging and intense, but interactive and fun as well. Many sessions take place in a small group format and will involve problem-solving and teamwork in order to take on the values-based issues that many undergraduate fraternity and sorority leaders face each year. Participants will focus on the positive aspects of fraternities and sororities, participate in discussions about important issues, experience hands-on interaction, and process what they’ve learned during personal reflection periods.
Brandon Younkin (Eta Pi/East Stroudsburg 2013), who attended last year’s UIFI on a Theta Chi scholarship, said that the conference opened his eyes to the power of the Ritual and to the challenges shared by Greeks everywhere.
“Hearing stories from across the country made me realize that not only did we share the same problems at times, but together we could create a similar success,” he said. “I currently still remain in close connection with my UIFI session friends.”
Each scholarship is funded by The Foundation Chapter, which designates recipients via application process. Each award covers the cost of registration for UIFI (valued at approximately $400); scholarship recipients will be responsible for their own transportation to and from the event.
All undergraduate Theta Chi members (including initiated brothers, new members/pledges, and colony members) are encouraged to apply. The ideal candidates will demonstrate leadership experience or at least a sincere desire to take on a greater level of responsibility within his chapter. Candidates should be motivated to succeed and want to help others do the same.
To apply, candidates must e-mail their resume and cover letter to JD Ford (jdford@thetachi.org). In the cover letter, candidates should indicate why they feel they deserve a scholarship to attend this conference.
Questions about UIFI can also be directed to JD; for more information, click here.