Chapter Expansion Process

Chapter Establishment Process Overview

Beta Delta Mu welcomes inquiries from universities with STEM programs interested in establishing a chapter. Our expansion process is designed to ensure successful chapter launches while maintaining the high standards of our organization.

The Five-Phase Process

Phase 1: Initial Interest and Inquiry

• Submit an interest form through our website or contact expansion@betadeltamu.org

• Receive preliminary information PDF packet within 5 business days

• Schedule an informational meeting with BÎM National Board representatives

• Timeline: 2-4 weeks

Phase 2: Formal Application

• Complete comprehensive application including university demographics, STEM program information, and existing campus Greek life structure

• Identify faculty advisor (tenured or tenure-track faculty member in STEM field preferred)

• Secure preliminary approval from university Greek Life office or Student Activities office

• Submit letter of support from department chair or dean

• Timeline: 4-6 weeks

Phase 3: Candidate Chapter Formation

• Recruit minimum of 10 founding members (15-20 recommended for sustainability)

• All founding members must complete membership education program

• Establish interim chapter leadership structure

• Participate in virtual training sessions with National Board

• Complete candidate chapter activities and service project

• Timeline: 6-12 months

Phase 4: Charter Petition

• Submit formal charter petition documenting candidate chapter activities

• Undergo evaluation by National Board including virtual site visit

• Address any concerns or requirements identified during evaluation

• Board vote on charter approval

• Timeline: 1-2 months

Phase 5: Installation and Activation

• Schedule charter ceremony (virtual or in-person based on logistics)

• Receive official charter, ceremonial materials, and chapter designation

• Transition from candidate to active chapter status

• Begin first year as chartered chapter with enhanced National support

• Timeline: 1-2 months

Requirements for Founding Members

Academic Requirements

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale

• Enrolled full-time in a STEM degree program (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics)

• Completed at least one full semester at the university

• At least sophomore standing (30+ credit hours completed)

Personal Qualifications

• Demonstrated commitment to academic excellence and professional development

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively

• Alignment with Beta Delta Mu's mission and values

• Good judicial standing with the university

• Available time commitment for chapter activities (estimated 6-8 hours per month)

University Requirements

• Institution must be accredited four-year college or university

• University must have established STEM programs with at least 100 female students in STEM majors

• Greek Life office or Student Activities office approval required

• Faculty advisor from STEM department must be identified and committed

• University must provide meeting space and basic organizational support

Support Provided by Beta Delta Mu National

During Candidate Chapter Phase

• Dedicated Expansion Coordinator: Assigned National Board member serves as primary contact and mentor throughout the process

• Comprehensive Training Program: Virtual workshops covering chapter operations, recruitment, financial management, event planning, and risk management

• Resource Library Access: Templates, guides, promotional materials, and organizational documents

• Membership Education Curriculum: Complete program materials for new member orientation and development

• Technology Platform: Access to member portal for communication, document management, and collaboration

• Financial Planning Assistance: Guidance on budgeting, fundraising, and establishing financial systems

After Charter Activation

• First-Year Intensive Support: Monthly check-ins with National Board, priority access to resources

• Leadership Development: Officer training programs, leadership workshops, and mentorship opportunities

• Marketing Materials: Branded recruitment materials, social media templates, and promotional items

• Event Planning Support: Guidance for signature events, professional development programming, and social activities

• Risk Management Consultation: Policies, insurance information, and crisis response protocols

• Connection to Alpha Chapter: Mentorship relationships with founding chapter members