180th Psi Upsilon Convention and 2024 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.
When should I plan to arrive?
If you are a member of the Executive Council or the Foundation Board of Directors please plan to arrive on Thursday evening. There is a dinner to honor members of the Pillar Society at 6PM. If you are a convention delegate the opening session begins at 4PM. We ask that everyone arrive by then, if you are flying in to Boston we recommend that your plane arrives before 1PM to give you plenty of time to get to the hotel, check in, and change clothing if you need to.
I only want to attend certain events, do I have to register for everything?
If you would just like to attend the award banquet on Saturday evening, we do have a separate registration for that event as a stand alone. Sadly, because of some logistics and space limitations this year to attend our Sunday evening event, or our reception on Friday, you must be registered for the entire Convention. Likewise, to participate in a committee, or attend the General Sessions, you must be fully registered for Convention.
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 is the Undergraduate Advisory Board (UAB)?
The Undergraduate Advisory Board (UAB) are two delegates who are elected by the convention to attend Executive Council meetings for the academic year. The serve as a liaison between the undergraduate members and report to the Archons about the work of the Executive Council as well as serve as a voice of the undergraduate body at meetings. They are invited to participate in committees and other Town Hall events.
The UAB can be a great opportunity to get more involved with Psi Upsilon at an international level and be a part of the important decision making that directs our fraternity.
What does the Chapter Service Fee cover?
The Chapter Service Fee covers a hotel room for Friday July 26, Saturday July 27, and Sunday July 28 (departing Monday, July 29) 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.
How will Breakfast be served?
When you check in to the hotel you’ll be given breakfast vouchers to be used at the Tradewinds Breakfast Buffet for each day of convention (and Monday if you are checking out on the 29th). If you are not staying at the Doubletree we can get you breakfast tickets at the registration table when you register. For the breakfast to be covered by the Convention you must present your voucher to your server, we cannot add meals to our master account after you eat – so please be sure to register or check in to the hotel before your meal. Breakfast is served from 6:30 to 10am on weekdays and 7 to 11:00 am on weekends. You must finish your meal before convention sessions begin, so we recommend arriving early.
Why was Boston chosen as the Convention Location?
In an attempt to create a larger and more interactive Leadership Institute we decided to look at a challenge course or similar experiential leadership curriculum. After researching multiple venues, and from recommendations for our alumni, we decided to choose Project Adventure where which hosted our 2007 Leadership Institute previously.
Will black tie be required for the Saturday 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.