Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc.

Chapter Sweethearts

Iota Sweethearts

Iota Phi Theta Sweethearts are a recognized, respected and honored tradition of the Fraternity and have a long history of affiliation with Iota. This history harkens back to the days of our Founding and the circumstances of the day.

In the early 1960's at Morgan State University, Iota Phi Theta was blessed to have an invaluable ally in the person of the late Ms. Audrey Brooks. Ms. Brooks was a member of the Morgan State University staff and in this capacity, she played a crucial "behind the scenes" role for the Fraternity. In many instances, her actions and influence prevented the fledgling organization from being victimized by those who would have seen Iota fail.

It is interesting to note that Ms. Brooks also had a vested interest in Iota Phi Theta's success because her son, Bro. Wesley Jennings (4 Alpha 64), was a member of Iota Phi Theta's first Pledge line!

In recognition of her efforts, Ms. Brooks was granted the title of "Eternal Sweetheart", an honor she wore proudly until the day she passed. A feisty, yet gracious lady in her 80's (she never told us her exact age - when asked, she told us she was "99 years old!"), Ms. Brooks supported Iota Phi Theta and was a frequent guest at Iota Conclaves and workshops. More importantly, she served as a "Surrogate Mom" to Iota Phi Theta. She considered all Iota Men to be her sons and all Iota Sweethearts to be her daughters!

The spirit and dedication of Ms. Brooks lives today through the Iota Phi Theta Sweetheart Organization and with good reason. As Iota Phi Theta navigated the rocky waters of our early years, the Brotherhood could always count on the support of our Sweetheart organization. Be it serving as hostesses for a national meeting or as a support team at a stepshow, our Hearts have always been there ... on the front lines ... providing vocal and moral support for the Brothers of Iota. Today, Iota Sweethearts (many of whom are wives of Iota Men) continue to support the organization in a major way.

Like many things about Iota Phi Theta, our Sweetheart organization represents a departure from the norm as practiced by other groups. Most notably, Iota Phi Theta Sweethearts do not "pledge." They are selected through a specific set of criteria as defined in our Official Sweetheart Directive below.

Additionally, the Iota Sweetheart organization is not to be seen or construed as a substitute for a Sorority. In fact, thousands of Iota Sweethearts have gone on to join NPHC sororities. Iota Phi Theta is an avid supporter of these sororities and their activities. In keeping with this support and respect, we frown upon any activities undertaken by our Sweetheart Organization that might be seen as competitive to, or disrespectful of, these organizations.

In a Sweetheart Workshop held during the 1999 Iota Phi Theta Conclave, Ms. Brooks stated, "The Purpose of Iota Sweethearts is to smile and be gracious on behalf of Iota. Anything else is inappropriate." As in all things, we endorse Ms. Brooks' view on this subject wholeheartedly.

Iota Sweethearts hold a special place in the hearts and minds of the Brotherhood and we are dedicated to their uplift, support, and respect!

Policy Directive Regarding Iota Sweethearts

June, 1999

Iota Sweethearts are an informal auxiliary entity consisting of women whose purpose is to assist the Brothers of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. This shall be the sole name of any female auxiliary associated with Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

This entity is in no way meant to function as, or be a substitute for, a Sorority. This entity shall not exist or be organized as a separate organization from the local chapter of Iota Phi Theta and exists solely at the discretion of the Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

There are four methods for becoming a member of the Iota Sweetheart Auxiliary:

1. As a member of an "Iota Sweetheart Court" in conjunction with an "Iota Phi Theta Sweetheart Pageant" (or "Coronation Ball" or other similar event.)

2. In conjunction with a group of gentlemen who are candidates for membership in Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. While these gentlemen are in "intake" status, they may select a number of young ladies that they choose to honor. (During this period, these ladies are referred to as "potential sweethearts." The number of potential sweethearts shall not exceed the number of intakees. When the candidates are initiated into the Brotherhood of Iota, the Potential Sweethearts become Iota Sweethearts.)

3. To marry a Brother of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

4. To be recognized by the Grand Council of Iota Phi Theta for outstanding service to the Fraternity.

A Sweetheart can disassociate herself from the organization by submitting a letter to the Chapter Polaris. The Brothers of the chapter can terminate a Sweetheart's affiliation with the Fraternity, if the conditions warrant.

Iota Sweethearts do not:

ó	Have a requirement to learn fraternity history.
ó	Have initiation ceremonies, intake requirements, intake sessions, or intake responsibilities.
ó	Learn Fraternity secrets, oaths, grips or other esoteric information
ó	Participate in fraternity meetings or intake sessions.
ó	Have lines, line numbers, ships, crossing times, crossing dates, or other terms connoting pledging.
ó	Have "Big Sisters", "Big Brothers", "Line Sisters", or "Line Brothers."
ó	Have an official shield, crest, oath, grip, or other paraphernalia or activity connoting a sorority.
ó	Participate in activities that are seen as competitive or disrespectful to other Fraternities or Sororities.

At no time will a Sweetheart have the full name "Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc." displayed on her paraphernalia. No Sweetheart paraphernalia will contain the Greek-letters "Iota Phi Theta", symbols and/or the Fraternity shield. Acceptable paraphernalia includes the words "Iota Sweetheart" spelled out or the single word (or Greek symbol) "Iota" and a heart symbol.

It shall be incumbent upon the local chapter to ensure compliance with this policy. The Grand Council will have final determination regarding interpretations of this policy. Deviations from this policy will result in disciplinary action against the local chapter from the Grand Council of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.