179th Psi Upsilon Convention and 2023 Leadership Institute
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at Convention and the Leadership Institute?
The Psi Upsilon Convention is a unique opportunity for brothers of all ages and from around to world to meet in the true spirit of Psi U. Psi Upsilon was the first fraternity to gather all of its chapters and hold a convention in 1841. Today the Convention has become the legislative body of our fraternity. Among other important work the Convention decides any changes or updates to the Psi Upsilon Constitution, Elects Executive Council Members, Reviews the work of the Executive Council and International Office and approves Chapter Awards. Every full attendee is placed on a committee so they can participate in the process, and can speak on matters at the Convention floor.
The Leadership Institute takes place between the opening and closing sections of the Convention and covers different topics each year based on the needs and the feedback of the chapters. Prior institutes have included sessions on Mental Health, Bystander Intervention, Organizational Leadership, Inclusive Practices, and Community Service – the agenda changes and offers opportunities for both undergraduates and alumni.
In the evenings we host events to encourage attendees to socialize with one another and local alumni.
Who can attend Convention?
Brothers with all levels of engagement can attend the convention and have a great fraternal experience! Whether you are an alumni advisor, a new initiate, or haven’t been engaged with the fraternity for some time. The Convention weekend is filled with opportunities to network with brothers from all chapters and walks of life – if you love Psi Upsilon you will have a great experience attending Convention!
While the business sessions and leadership institute are meant for only members of the fraternity, the evening events and meals are appropriate for spouses and significant others.
Who should the chapter send to Convention as its delegates?
The Constitution requires two (2) undergraduate and one (1) alumni delegate from every chapter, but not who those brothers are. Those actual delegates are at the discretion of the chapter and alumni association, respectively. We do ask that you are thoughtful with your decision, as attendees will be making important decisions for the fraternity and representing your chapter.
What does the Chapter Service Fee cover?
The Chapter Service Fee covers a hotel room for Friday July 28, Saturday July 29, and Sunday July 30 (departing Monday, July 31) as well as the convention registration fees for two undergraduate delegates. The Chapter Services Fee DOES NOT include travel expenses, additional nights, or any out-of-pocket meals or activities.
Why was Atlanta chosen as the Convention Location?
Originally Atlanta was going to be the location of the 177th Convention in 2020 to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Gamma Tau Chapter at Georgia Tech. Due to Covid-19 the Executive Council of Psi Upsilon postponed the 177th Convention to 2021, and prior hotel arrangements caused us to not be able to return to Atlanta until this summer. The Psi Upsilon Society of Georgia has been gracious with these changes and we look forward to celebrating the Gamma Tau’s anniversary this summer!
What safety precautions will be in place?
The Psi Upsilon Convention will be following all health and safety requirements of the state of Georgia at the time of our event, due to the evolving nature of Covid-19 we recommend reviewing the hotel website and Georgia Department of Public Health website. We highly encourage all participants to be up to date on their vaccinations including any recommended boosters.
Will there be virtual options for Convention?
Currently, we are planning Convention to consist of in-person opportunities with enhanced health and safety precautions. We are looking into having portions of the event streamed to the Fraternities social media accounts or recorded for a later viewing, but voting delegates will need to be in attendance.
Will black tie be required for the Sunday Evening Awards Banquet?
While not required, black tie is always special, and certainly appropriate, at an occasion with such a long history and high ideals.