IMPACT AWARD

Delta Sigma Pi has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in transforming its member experience and organizational culture. Faced with rising attrition rates and inconsistent pledge retention, the Fraternity’s Board of Directors launched a bold initiative in 2019 to overhaul two foundational programs: the Pledge Education Program and the Individual Discipline Policy. These efforts were not only aimed at improving retention but also at enhancing the overall quality of membership and aligning practices with modern standards of fairness, inclusion, and accountability.

The redesigned Pledge Education Program, fully implemented in the 2024–25 academic year, replaced inconsistent chapter-specific approaches with a standardized hybrid model. Online modules now deliver foundational content, while in-person sessions foster discussion and experiential learning. The program was streamlined to fit within a four-to-five-week timeframe, allowing for extended recruitment and deeper engagement. The results speak volumes: pledge retention rose from 89.2% in 2019–20 to 95.3% in 2023–24, with more than 95% of pledges initiating — the highest rate in recent history.

Complementing this was the rollout of a modernized Individual Discipline Policy, which introduced restorative justice principles and established Chapter Standards Committees. Terminology was updated to be less punitive, and a comprehensive training program ensured consistent application across chapters. The policy was shaped through a nationwide Listening Tour, allowing member feedback to directly influence its structure and implementation. These changes have not only reduced attrition by nearly half but have also fostered a more supportive and transparent culture.

Delta Sigma Pi’s commitment to education and accountability has yielded measurable results: a 17% increase in event participation, a 22% rise in member persistence in chapters using full retention supports, and a 13% boost in national member satisfaction. LEAD Summit attendance continues to grow, further strengthening early member engagement.

Through strategic innovation, member-centered design, and a deep commitment to its values, Delta Sigma Pi has set a new standard for fraternal excellence. The Fraternity’s efforts have not only improved retention and satisfaction but have also created a more inclusive, empowering, and impactful experience for all members. For these reasons and more, Delta Sigma Pi is a deserving recipient of the Outstanding Organizational Impact Award.