Sigma Chi Jordan Standard: Your Complete Guide

The Sigma Chi Fraternity, a brotherhood founded on principles of friendship, justice, and learning, emphasizes character development among its members. Norman Shield, the fraternity’s membership manual, details the expectations for initiates and brothers alike. One foundational element within this manual is the Sigma Chi Jordan Standard, a guiding principle articulating a specific benchmark for the type of man the fraternity seeks to attract, retain, and develop. This article provides a comprehensive examination of the Sigma Chi Jordan Standard, exploring its meaning, interpretation, and practical application within chapters located across North America.

Understanding the Enduring Legacy of the Jordan Standard

The Sigma Chi Fraternity, a brotherhood built on enduring friendships and high ideals, stands as a testament to the power of shared values. At its core lies a profound mission: to cultivate principled leaders, foster lifelong bonds, and engage in service to humanity.

The Sigma Chi Fraternity and Its Mission

Founded in 1855 at Miami University, Ohio, Sigma Chi emerged from a quest for a more inclusive and value-driven fraternity experience. Its founders, driven by a desire for something more than the status quo, established principles that have guided generations of members.

The fraternity’s mission extends far beyond social gatherings. It is about shaping men of character and integrity. Sigma Chi strives to instill a sense of responsibility, leadership, and commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

The Jordan Standard: A Foundation of Excellence

Central to Sigma Chi’s identity is the Jordan Standard, a concise yet powerful statement of ideals crafted by Isaac M. Jordan. This standard serves as the moral compass for every brother. It defines the qualities that the fraternity seeks to cultivate in its members.

The Jordan Standard transcends mere rules or regulations. It is a living philosophy that challenges members to strive for excellence in all aspects of their lives. This Standard promotes brotherhood, character, integrity, honor, moral rectitude, and high ambition.

It emphasizes the importance of inner character over outward appearances. The Standard provides a framework for evaluating individuals based on their actions, motivations, and commitment to ethical principles.

Thesis: The Pervasive Influence of the Jordan Standard

The Jordan Standard’s influence permeates every facet of Sigma Chi. It shapes the fraternity’s values, leadership, and member development.

This influence is realized through key individuals who champion its principles. This influence is also seen through carefully designed concepts that reinforce ethical behavior. The Jordan Standard continues to shape the lives of Sigma Chi brothers worldwide.

The enduring legacy of the Jordan Standard lies in its ability to transform young men into leaders of character. It inspires a lifelong commitment to the values that define the Sigma Chi Fraternity.

Key Figures: The Architects and Guardians of the Jordan Standard

Having established the significance of the Jordan Standard, it is imperative to recognize the individuals who have served as its architects and guardians. From its conceptualization to its ongoing implementation, key figures have shaped, upheld, and promoted this guiding principle. Their contributions are essential to understanding its enduring influence on Sigma Chi.

Isaac M. Jordan: The Visionary Behind the Standard

Isaac M. Jordan, one of the seven founders of Sigma Chi, is rightfully credited as the author of the Jordan Standard. His vision for the fraternity extended beyond mere fraternal bonds. He sought to establish a framework for ethical conduct and moral development.

His words were not simply a statement, but a call to action. The Jordan Standard outlines the qualities of a man worthy of membership: a man of good character, high ambition, and honorable conduct.

Jordan’s own life exemplified these tenets. His successful legal career and commitment to public service reflected a dedication to integrity and excellence.

His legacy is not only the Standard itself but also the embodiment of its principles in his actions.

The Founders: Shaping the Foundation

While Isaac M. Jordan articulated the Standard, the collective vision of all seven founders shaped its underlying values. Each founder brought unique perspectives and ideals that contributed to the fraternity’s moral compass.

Harry St. John Dixon

Dixon’s emphasis on friendship and loyalty fostered a sense of brotherhood that remains central to the Sigma Chi experience. His dedication to unity and support among members laid the groundwork for a cohesive and principled fraternity.

Benjamin Piatt Runkle

Runkle’s courage and unwavering commitment to his convictions set a precedent for standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. His rebellious spirit and advocacy for justice resonate deeply with the values enshrined in the Jordan Standard.

Thomas Cowan Bell

Bell’s wisdom and dedication to education emphasized the importance of intellectual growth and the pursuit of knowledge. He served as a mentor to many early members, guiding them toward personal and academic excellence, reflecting the Standard’s emphasis on high ambition and moral rectitude.

William Lewis Lockwood

Lockwood’s organizational skills and business acumen helped establish a strong foundation for the fraternity’s operations. His commitment to efficiency and responsible management reflects the importance of integrity and sound judgment, essential components of the Jordan Standard.

Daniel William Cooper

Cooper’s strong moral compass and unwavering commitment to ethical behavior influenced the fraternity’s emphasis on integrity and character. His devout faith and dedication to serving others exemplified the principles of moral rectitude and honorable conduct.

Franklin Howard Scobey

Scobey’s gentle nature and emphasis on compassion contributed to the fraternity’s commitment to serving others and making a positive impact on the world. His ideals of empathy and understanding reflect the importance of character and brotherhood within Sigma Chi.

Collectively, the Founders established a culture of excellence, integrity, and service that continues to define Sigma Chi today.

Grand Pro Consuls: Leadership at the Helm

The Grand Pro Consul (GPC) serves as the international president of Sigma Chi, bearing the ultimate responsibility for upholding and promoting the Jordan Standard at the fraternity’s highest level.

They act as the public face of the fraternity and strive to foster a culture that aligns with the Standard.

Through their actions and messaging, the GPC reinforces the importance of ethical leadership and moral development, influencing the behavior of chapters and individual members worldwide. Their leadership ensures that the Jordan Standard remains a living document, guiding the fraternity through changing times.

Chapter Advisors: Guiding the Next Generation

Chapter Advisors play a critical role in guiding local chapters and ensuring adherence to the Jordan Standard. These alumni volunteers work closely with undergraduate members, providing mentorship, guidance, and oversight.

They help to instill the values of the Standard in new members and ensure that chapter activities align with the fraternity’s principles.

By fostering a culture of accountability and ethical behavior, Chapter Advisors help to shape the next generation of Sigma Chi leaders.

Sigma Chi International Fraternity Leadership: Stewards of the Standard

The Sigma Chi International Fraternity Leadership is entrusted with enforcing and promoting the Jordan Standard across all chapters. This involves developing policies, programs, and resources that support the Standard’s implementation.

They conduct workshops, provide training, and offer guidance to chapters on how to live out the values of the Jordan Standard in their daily lives.

Through their collective efforts, the international leadership ensures that the Jordan Standard remains a vital and relevant part of the Sigma Chi experience. They serve as stewards of the Standard, preserving its legacy for future generations of Sigma Chi brothers.

The Pillars of Sigma Chi: Core Concepts Embodied in the Jordan Standard

Having explored the key figures who shaped and upheld the Jordan Standard, it is essential to delve into the core values and principles that constitute its very essence. These pillars form the bedrock upon which Sigma Chi builds its identity and guides the conduct of its members. Understanding these concepts is crucial to grasping the true significance of the Jordan Standard.

Brotherhood: The Foundation of Unity

At the heart of the Jordan Standard lies the concept of brotherhood. This is more than mere camaraderie; it is a deep and abiding commitment to mutual support, respect, and understanding.

Brotherhood within Sigma Chi implies a willingness to stand by one’s brothers in times of need.

It cultivates an environment where members can grow and develop, both personally and professionally. The implications of brotherhood extend to all facets of member interaction, creating a strong support system that endures long after college.

Character: The Essence of Integrity

Character, a cornerstone of the Jordan Standard, defines the moral fiber of a Sigma Chi man. It is not simply about avoiding wrongdoing.

Character encompasses honesty, courage, and a commitment to doing what is right, even when it is difficult.

This foundational element is critical for personal development, guiding members to make ethical decisions in all aspects of their lives. Cultivating strong character ensures that Sigma Chi men act with integrity and honor.

Integrity: The Moral Compass

Integrity serves as the moral compass for members of Sigma Chi.

It is the unwavering adherence to ethical principles and a commitment to honesty in all dealings.

The Jordan Standard emphasizes integrity as a crucial aspect of ethical conduct, promoting trustworthiness and reliability among its members. It compels members to remain true to their values, even under pressure.

Honor: Guiding Principles for Action

Honor, as a guiding principle, shapes the decision-making process and behavior of Sigma Chi members. It goes beyond simply following rules.

Honor is a deep-seated sense of respect for oneself and others, coupled with a commitment to duty.

This principle compels members to act with dignity and integrity, upholding the values of the Fraternity in all their interactions.

Moral Rectitude: The Pursuit of Uprightness

Moral rectitude represents the pursuit of uprightness and ethical behavior, a central theme within the Jordan Standard. It is not merely the absence of wrongdoing.

Moral rectitude is an active commitment to doing what is just and right. It requires constant self-reflection and a willingness to hold oneself to the highest ethical standards.

This pillar serves as a measure of ethical behavior, guiding members towards a life of integrity and uprightness.

High Ambition: Striving for Excellence

The Jordan Standard recognizes high ambition as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

It encourages members to strive for excellence in all their endeavors, pushing them to reach their full potential.

High ambition is not simply about achieving success. It is about setting meaningful goals and working diligently to achieve them, while adhering to the ethical principles of the Fraternity.

Ideals: Aspirational Goals

Ideals serve as the aspirational goals that drive the behavior of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. These are the high standards and values that members continually strive to embody.

These ideals provide a framework for ethical decision-making and guide members toward a life of purpose and meaning. The continuous pursuit of these ideals defines the Sigma Chi experience.

Judgement of a Man: Evaluation Criteria

The Jordan Standard provides a framework for how a man should be judged.

It emphasizes that true worth is not measured by material possessions or social status, but by character, integrity, and commitment to the values of the Fraternity.

This provides criteria in which one can find a guiding pathway for self-reflection, improvement, and living out the Jordan Standard in the fraternity.

These pillars of the Jordan Standard collectively define what it means to be a Sigma Chi, shaping the character, values, and actions of its members. They serve as a constant reminder of the high ideals to which every Sigma Chi should aspire.

Organizational Integration: Implementing the Jordan Standard Across Sigma Chi

Having explored the key figures who shaped and upheld the Jordan Standard, it is essential to delve into the core values and principles that constitute its very essence. These pillars form the bedrock upon which Sigma Chi builds its identity and guides the conduct of its members. Now, we turn our attention to how the fraternity ensures these high ideals are not merely aspirational, but actively integrated into its structure and daily operations, both at the international level and within each individual chapter.

From Principles to Practice: The success of the Jordan Standard lies not only in its elegant articulation but also in its effective implementation. The fraternity’s organizational framework is deliberately designed to translate these principles into tangible actions and policies.

Sigma Chi International Fraternity: Policy and Practice

The Sigma Chi International Fraternity serves as the guiding force for all chapters, ensuring that the Jordan Standard permeates every facet of the organization.

Its policies and programs are carefully crafted to reflect the Standard’s core tenets.

Governance Reflecting the Standard

The International Fraternity’s governance structure prioritizes ethical leadership and responsible decision-making, reflecting the high standards of character and moral rectitude.

For example, the processes for electing and training Grand Officers are designed to identify and cultivate leaders who embody the Jordan Standard.

Their actions and decisions serve as examples for the entire brotherhood.

Initiatives Guided by Fraternity Values

Many of the Fraternity’s initiatives are directly aligned with the principles of the Jordan Standard.

Educational programs, leadership development workshops, and philanthropic endeavors are all platforms for reinforcing the values of brotherhood, honor, and high ambition.

For instance, the Horizons leadership program aims to cultivate ethical leaders equipped to make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

The Sigma Chi Foundation’s scholarship programs also promote the pursuit of excellence and support members in achieving their academic and professional aspirations.

Upholding Accountability

The International Fraternity also plays a crucial role in upholding accountability and ensuring that all chapters adhere to the Jordan Standard.

Through its risk management policies and standards of conduct, the Fraternity provides a framework for ethical behavior and responsible decision-making.

Chapters are expected to adhere to these standards, and violations are subject to disciplinary action.

This commitment to accountability helps to maintain the integrity of the Fraternity and ensures that all members are held to the highest ethical standards.

Individual Sigma Chi Chapters: Living the Standard Locally

While the International Fraternity provides the overarching framework, the true embodiment of the Jordan Standard occurs at the chapter level.

Individual chapters are expected to translate these values into their daily activities, recruitment processes, and member conduct.

Fostering Brotherhood and Character

Chapters play a vital role in fostering a strong sense of brotherhood among their members.

This includes creating a supportive and inclusive environment where members can connect, learn, and grow together.

Chapters also provide opportunities for members to develop their character and cultivate their leadership skills through community service projects, philanthropic events, and leadership roles within the chapter.

Recruitment Aligned with Ideals

The recruitment process is a critical opportunity for chapters to identify potential members who embody the values of the Jordan Standard.

Chapters are encouraged to look beyond superficial qualities and focus on character, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.

The selection process should be rigorous and objective, ensuring that new members are carefully chosen based on their potential to uphold the ideals of the Fraternity.

Setting an Example

Ultimately, the success of the Jordan Standard depends on the commitment of each individual member to live up to its high ideals.

Chapters must create a culture of accountability where members are encouraged to hold each other to high standards of conduct.

By consistently demonstrating the values of brotherhood, character, integrity, honor, and high ambition, chapters can serve as a shining example for their universities and communities.

Tools for Transformation: Resources for Upholding the Jordan Standard

Having seen how the Jordan Standard integrates into the organizational structures of Sigma Chi, from the international fraternity to individual chapters, it is critical to examine the tangible tools and resources available to members. These resources are specifically designed to foster a deep understanding, internalization, and consistent application of the Jordan Standard in their daily lives. By providing educational materials and comprehensive leadership programs, Sigma Chi ensures that its members are well-equipped to embody the fraternity’s core values.

The Norman Shield serves as the foundational text for new Sigma Chi members. It is their initial introduction to the fraternity’s rich history, core principles, and, most importantly, the Jordan Standard.

This manual is not merely a collection of facts and figures; it is a carefully crafted guide designed to instill the values of Sigma Chi from the very beginning of a member’s journey. It provides context, explanations, and practical examples of how the Jordan Standard translates into everyday actions and decisions.

A Deep Dive into Values

The Norman Shield meticulously unpacks each component of the Jordan Standard. It offers insightful commentary and encourages self-reflection.

New members are prompted to consider how these values resonate with their own personal beliefs and how they can actively integrate them into their lives as Sigma Chi brothers. This process helps ensure a solid foundation rooted in the fraternity’s ethical framework.

Setting Expectations and Fostering Understanding

Beyond simply defining the Jordan Standard, The Norman Shield sets clear expectations for new members. It outlines the responsibilities and obligations that come with being a Sigma Chi.

It provides a framework for understanding how individual actions contribute to the overall reputation and integrity of the fraternity. This understanding is crucial for fostering a sense of shared responsibility and accountability among all members.

Leadership Training Programs: Cultivating Ethical Leaders Grounded in the Standard

Sigma Chi’s commitment to developing ethical leaders extends beyond initial orientation. The fraternity offers a robust suite of leadership training programs designed to reinforce and promote the Jordan Standard throughout a member’s collegiate and alumni experience. These programs aim to equip members with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead with integrity in all aspects of their lives.

The Core Curriculum

These leadership programs are not generic leadership courses; they are specifically tailored to the values of Sigma Chi. They directly address the principles of the Jordan Standard.

Modules often include case studies, group discussions, and interactive exercises designed to challenge participants to apply the Standard to real-world scenarios. This hands-on approach ensures that the lessons learned are not just theoretical, but practical and actionable.

Developing Practical Skills

Through these training programs, members develop essential leadership skills, such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and ethical decision-making. These skills are vital for success in both their personal and professional lives.

By emphasizing the importance of integrity and moral rectitude, Sigma Chi instills a sense of responsibility in its members. They are taught to lead by example, making ethical choices that reflect the values of the fraternity.

Reinforcing Core Values

These programs serve as a constant reminder of the importance of the Jordan Standard. They foster a culture of accountability.

They encourage members to hold themselves and their brothers to the highest ethical standards. By consistently reinforcing these values, Sigma Chi ensures that the Jordan Standard remains a guiding force throughout a member’s lifetime.

So, whether you’re a new pledge or a seasoned brother, hopefully, this guide has given you a clearer understanding of the Sigma Chi Jordan Standard and its vital role in shaping our brotherhood. Now go out there and live it!