In 1996 members began to use the Internet to expand connections between Beta Sigma Phi sisters. They talked and shared ideas then asked International if they could try to create chapters online. International agreed to have Online chapters formed as an experiment to determine if Online chapters could really work and what formats the members preferred. The Online chapters operated for nearly 10 years in an experimental form.

In 2005, Online chapters were recognized officially, allowing members who belonged to them but were not members of an existing “land” chapter to receive degree credit for their online participation. International also allowed each Online chapter to decide if they wished to be an official chapter or just a social chapter. At this time we have a mix of both officially recognized Online chapters and social Online chapters. By being official, Online chapters follow the rules and regulations of Beta Sigma Phi. However, due to their uniqueness of having members from all over the world participating in these chapters, additional rules have been set up to cover their special needs.

1. Full members of Online chapters are those who belong only to an Online chapter.
2. Members who are active with “land” chapters shall be virtual members of their Online chapters. They do not receive degree credit for their Online chapter participation however these meetings will count as a make up meeting for their “land” chapter.
3. Online chapters must hold programs in order to be accredited chapters. They should have 18 programs per year if possible but no fewer than 12 per year.
4. Rituals may be held online but whenever possible, formal and in person Rituals should be held.
5. Online chapters may pledge members directly into their chapters and pledge train those members through online meetings.
6. Online chapters are held to the same rules as all chapters of Beta Sigma Phi with the addition of those necessary to cover their special online circumstances.
7. Online chapters will send their chapter minutes and chapter monthly reports to International by mail or fax as any other Beta Sigma Phi Chapter.
8. Online chapters will not have degree designation but will be multi degree chapters. Members wanting to use jewelry designating their chapters should pick their own degree unless a special Online chapter form is available.
9. We strongly urge Online chapters not to hold treasuries due to possible oversight. If chapters wish to do large service projects, we suggest members send the money directly to the entity with the notation that it is part of the Online chapter project.

The addition of Online chapters has been a wonderful experience for our members and one we feel will only grow in the future.

From the 2004 edition of “The Book of Beta Sigma Phi” Page 53 & Courtesy of Beta Sigma Phi International

Contact Sheila Brown if you have any questions about this website

A local member participated in this trip. Please click on the image that opens to read the documents, which are presented as images.

Introduction
Introduction part 2
China
India
Vietnam & Thailand

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