A Moment to Remember: Unforgettable Inductions
Many Phi Theta Kappa alumni still have fond memories of their induction ceremonies - the white roses, the candles, reciting the oath of membership, and the presence of proud family members. These special touches make the ceremony memorable for incoming members. For best results, assign a chapter officer or appoint an induction ceremony committee to cover the little details before your big event.
Speaker Savvy
Set the appropriate tone by choosing the right guest speaker. Invite
successful alumni back to share how Phi Theta Kappa impacted
their lives or have a faculty member or guest address the Honors
Study Topic. A motivational speaker can inspire new members
- ask for recommendations of good motivational speakers on your
campus and in your local community. Many regional officers are
also willing to attend and/or speak at local induction ceremonies.
Take it from the Top
Build relationships by inviting your college president, other campus
officials, faculty, and influential members of the community to
the ceremony. These VIPs may serve as guest speakers or
simply be your guests. Invite and thank college faculty or local
business owners who have helped make your ceremony
a success. Consider inviting community leaders to the
ceremony that you may be working alongside during the year
ahead in efforts such as Operation Green and Voice Your
Vote. Assign chapter officers knowledgeable in these areas
to serve as escorts for special guests.
Put it in Writing
Professionally printed or professional-looking computer
generated invitations and induction ceremony programs
will give your event a special look and serve as keepsakes
for new inductees. Your campus print-shop or a local
business may be able to help with these items.
Food, Glorious Food
While refreshments are not essential for an induction
ceremony, many inductees and their guests are
impressed if a simple, but nice reception follows the
event. If your chapter budget doesn't leave room for
refreshments, ask local restaurants or grocery stores
for donations in exchange for advertising in the printed
program. If your campus doesn't have a food services
department, borrow white tablecloths and pretty
serving utensils from members to use for the reception.
Decorate with Style
In addition to traditional white roses and candles,
the right décor can lend a festive mood to your
chapter induction ceremony and reception. Check
to see if a member might have a hidden talent of
arranging flowers since wholesale flowers are less expensive
than finished arrangements. If there is another event on campus
during the same week, share the cost of floral arrangements with
the other group. Simple ferns and other green plants your college
might have already will also look attractive when positioned in the
ceremony and reception areas. Balloons provide another festive,
affordable decorating alternative.
Hit the Right Note
While the spoken word is a central part of the induction, well chosen
music can add polish to the ceremony and reception. Does
your campus have an orchestra willing to loan a quartet
or individual players for your event? Is there a campus
choir or singing group that performs at no charge
during campus events? Are there talented members in
your chapter who might sing or play an instrument?
Even a single flutist, harpist or violinist playing at
the ceremony or reception provides wonderful
background music. If live musicians are not available,
appropriate pre-recorded music is another option.
Give Something Back
While the spotlight should be on the new
inductees, the induction ceremony can also be
an outstanding opportunity to showcase how Phi
Theta Kappa gives back to the local community.
Add a Project Graduation collection box and in
your invitations encourage induction honorees and
guests to bring along a book or canned goods to
be shared with local charities.
Celebrate Two Events at Once
Many chapters enjoy planning induction
ceremonies on or near Phi Theta Kappa's
Founders Day. What better way to celebrate Phi
Theta Kappa's heritage than to welcome new
members? Design a display with information
about Phi Theta Kappa's history and your
chapter's activities. Consider inviting faculty
members to the event and recognize them in
a special way. Or include a birthday cake on
the reception menu. For more information on
celebrating Founders Day on your campus, see
www.ptk.org/society/foundersday.htm.
Learn more online about planning your chapter's induction ceremony for new members at www.ptk.org/chapters/resources/members/induct/.
