Probation

A. Definition: Probation is defined as the denial for a definite, specified period of time, not less than one month nor longer than four consecutive months, of certain usual and customary rights and privileges of membership of the Fraternity, which shall be stated in the terms of probation. A member on probation remains on the Chapter roll and responsible for Annual Council Dues and her share of any capita fees assessed to the Chapter.
B. Reasons for Probation: A collegiate member may be placed on probation as hereinafter provided for any of the following reasons:
a. Violation of the Fraternity Constitution, Bylaws, and Standing Rules or Book of Policies.
b. Conduct which renders a member’s presence in her Chapter detrimental to the harmony, standing, and best interests of the Chapter and the Fraternity.
c. Obvious and persistent refusal to cooperate with the Chapter.
d. Failure to meet chapter, lease, or fraternal financial obligations.
e. Financial inability.
f. Failure to live in Chapter housing when required.
g. Failure to perform her duties of office.
h. Failure to achieve a 2.0 GPA for one semester and/or cumulatively.
i. Any action or omission, which may jeopardize the health, safety, or welfare of any other member(s).
C. Probation Methods: Probation may be provided in one of two ways:
a. The Chapter has the authority to place an initiated or affiliated member on probation by a two-thirds vote of the Chapter members present and eligible to vote at a regularly scheduled Chapter meeting, with the approval of a majority of the Alumnae Advisory Committee, for any reason listed above. The probation under this subsection shall become effective upon approval of the Alumnae Advisory Committee.
b. The Alumnae Advisory Committee shall have the power to place a member of the collegiate Chapter on probation by a two-thirds vote. The probation under this subsection shall become effective upon approval by the Chapter Network Specialist assigned to this chapter.
c. If suspended member resides in the AOΠ living quarters, she will have 24 hours to leave the premises. An escort will be appointed.
D. Upon arrival of the probation, the Chapter Advisor shall, within ten days of said approval, send a notice containing the terms of probation, the conditions and length of probation and the member’s right to appeal by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the member concerning whom such action is taken. Copies shall be sent by First Class Mail to the Chapter President, the Chapter Network Specialist, and the International Headquarters.
E. Appeal: Within 14 days of receipt of the notice of probation, the member may appeal the decision of the terms of probation. She shall notify the Chapter Network Specialist and two additional specialist from other Networks mutually assigned to that chapter. The notice of appeal shall contain the reasons why the probation should be rejected of its terms modified. If an appeal is not received within 14 days, the appeal is in default and the probation stands. Notice in writing of the decision of the body hearing the appeal shall be sent within 14 days of the receipt on probation. The Chapter Network Specialist shall be responsible for sending notice of the decision to the member with copies by first class mail to the Chapter President, the Chapter Advisor, the Chapter Network Director and the International Headquarters. The decision of the body hearing the appeal is final.
F. Extension: At least 14 days prior to the scheduled termination of a probation, the probating body shall review the member’s situation and determine whether to extend the probation or allow it to terminate. Decisions to extend a probation shall be subject to the same procedure as the original decision to probate. Notice of the extension of probation shall be sent to the member and the Chapter Network Specialist by certified mail, return receipt requested, by the probating body, with copies by first class mail to the Chapter President, Chapter Advisor, and the International Headquarters. The member may appeal the extension of probation within 14 days of receipt of the notice of extension. She shall notify the Chapter Network Specialist by certified mail, return receipt requested, of her decision to appeal. The appeal shall be heard by the Chapter Network Specialist and two additional Specialists from other Networks mutually assigned to that Chapter. All notices referred to in this section shall be effective on mailing.
G. Termination: Probation shall not extend beyond withdrawal or graduation from the college or university. Probation may be terminated automatically by a successful appeal or by satisfaction of their terms of probation by the member during the probation period.