Congratulations! You're a new Phi Theta Kappa officer....now what?

Changing of the Guard

Congratulations! You're a new Phi Theta Kappa officer...now what? The "Congratulations, now you're on your own" syndrome has caused a great deal of worry for many new chapter officers, as well as problems for the chapter.

Ease the minds of your newly elected chapter officers and provide a solid foundation for your chapter by making sure your new team is trained and ready for the new academic year. Below are ten ideas, garnered from successful chapters, to help your chapter make a smooth and informed transition from one officer team to the next:

Retreat! Get away from campus so that everyone can concentrate on the task at hand. Plan a weekend if possible, or at least a full day. Take along outgoing officers, incoming officers, an advisor or two, and your chapter's materials. If possible, go to a park or campsite. If not, the neighborhood McDonald's will do just fine -- just as long as you avoid "campus brainlock."

Make Sure They're Well-Equipped for the Job. Ask all outgoing officers to bring along all of their materials to turn over to the new officers. You may wish to turn this into a ceremony. Update any necessary materials, and add materials specifically relevant to your campus along with International publications and resources. (More)